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Straddling the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is a year-round alpine escape known for its astonishing clarity, snow-capped peaks, and blue depths that stretch over 1,600 feet—deep enough to hide the Empire State Building with room to spare.
In summer, the lake transforms into a sparkling playground with kayaking at Sand Harbor, boating through Emerald Bay, and hikes along the iconic Tahoe Rim Trail. In the evening, you can be treated to live performances at the Shakespeare Festival.
Don’t miss Vikingsholm, a storybook Scandinavian mansion perched on Emerald Bay, or a cruise to Fannette Island, the lake’s only island. Come winter, Tahoe is a snow-sports haven, with elite slopes at Heavenly Mountain Resort, Palisades Tahoe, and Northstar.
South Lake Tahoe brings après-ski energy with casinos, live music venues, and fine dining—try Edgewood Restaurant for lakeside elegance with mountain views. Tahoe is also famed for its sweet-scented Ponderosa pines, which infuse the air with notes of vanilla and butterscotch. From wildflower-filled meadows to snowy peaks, Lake Tahoe offers unforgettable luxury set amidst breathtaking wilderness.
- Surface area (mi)
- 308.2
- Max depth (ft)
- 1643.7
- Elevation (ft)
- 6223.75
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 722.65
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Waterskiing
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Hiking
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Marinas on Lake Tahoe
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Tahoe has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, you should take several safety precautions when swimming in Lake Tahoe. Wear a life jacket and know your swimming limitations. Enter the water slowly to avoid cold-shock response, and swim with a buddy. Stay in designated swimming areas and be mindful of obstacles like vegetation and debris.
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Lake Tahoe is a popular destination because of its clear blue waters and scenic views. It offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and paddleboarding, making it appealing for all seasons. The area also includes attractions like Emerald Bay State Park and the Gondola at Heavenly.
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The daily catch limit for fishing in Lake Tahoe is 5 trout, but no more than 2 of these can be Mackinaw. Most other lakes and streams in the Lake Tahoe Basin also have a limit of 5 trout. Fishing hours are restricted, prohibiting fishing from two hours after sunset to one hour before sunrise.
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Sand Harbor Beach is best for families. It has two sandy beaches with gentle, shallow waters and lifeguards on duty during summer. The beach also offers picnic areas, barbecue grills, and kayak rentals, making it a comprehensive and safe spot for family activities.
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Towns on the California side of Lake Tahoe include Truckee, Tahoe City, Kings Beach, Carnelian Bay, Crystal Bay, and Tahoe Vista. These towns offer various amenities and activities such as skiing, hiking, and dining. They are part of the North Lake Tahoe region, known for its quieter and more laid-back atmosphere.
