Leaving South Lake Tahoe | North on I-50 Lake Tahoe Blvd
Lake Tahoe is a place that truly captures your soul. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the beauty and energy of this beautiful alpine paradise never get old. As we travel here at least twice a year, Lake Tahoe surprises us with its vastness and serenity.
It’s not just a lake; it’s an experience. Depending on the season, there are countless things do do in Lake Tahoe and surrounding areas. After you are done exploring Lake Tahoe, be sure to check out our Reno Tahoe Area Travel Guide and Road Trip info on Reno, Virginia City, and Truckee.
Lake Tahoe Best Road Trips and Walking Tours
Lake Tahoe is a magical place, the energy here is like no other location that we have visited. See the top stops around the Lake below. There’s something almost magical about Lake Tahoe and the areas around it.
See our complete Travel guide on what this area has to offer! When you’re out on the water, it feels like the horizon stretches forever, almost like floating in the ocean. Words barely do justice to how incredible this place is.
When you’re out in the middle of the lake, it feels so big, it’s like you’re floating in the ocean. It’s hard to put into words just how incredible it really is.
What Makes Lake Tahoe So Special?
Lake Tahoe is Located on the Border of California and Nevada in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, 30 minutes outside of Reno, NV, and Carson City, NV (Capital of Nevada). Just under 2 hours away from Sacramento, CA (Capital of California. It is actually really close proximity to both the capital cities of Nevada and California.
How Big is Lake Tahoe? Is it the Biggest and Deepest Lake in America? According to Keep Tahoe Blue’s Website:
Lake Tahoe is the largest Alpine lake in North America. It is 1,645 feet deep, 22 miles long, 12 miles wide with 75 miles of shoreline. It is the second deepest lake in America, next to Oregon’s Crater Lake. Eight million people live less than a half day’s drive from the Basin.
Did you know Lake Tahoe is in both California and Nevada? California is on the Left/West Side of the Lake, and Nevada is on the Right/East side. The border of the two states is in the lake. This is the map of our 2-hour drive around Lake Tahoe 4K Video. Check out the Interactive map we created below, click on the location to see the associated video tour!
Use our map of Lake Tahoe trip itinerary to all the best locations, follow the link here.
Lake Tahoe area is one of the best places for road trips. How many miles is it around Lake Tahoe by car? Lake Tahoe is a 72 Mile Drive around the lake and will take you 2-3 hours to drive around the full lake (not including stops along the way).
Featured Lake Tahoe Road Trips-
- Lake Tahoe to Truckee
- Carson City to Lake Tahoe
- Lake Tahoe to Reno – Mt Rose Highway
- [4K] 2-Hour Drive All the Way Around Lake Tahoe Video
- Leaving South Lake Tahoe | North on I-50 Lake Tahoe Blvd
- Leaving South Lake Tahoe | South on I-50 Lake Tahoe Blvd
Be forewarned, Lake Tahoe and surrounding areas are some of the most beautiful places on this earth, prepare to stop and stop often to experience all that Lake Tahoe has to offer 🙂
Starting on the border of California and Nevada in South Lake Tahoe, CA/Stateline, NV, Watch our 4K Videos highlighting both directions around the lake, 2 hours per drive, totaling 4 hours.
Leaving South Lake Tahoe | South on I-50 Lake Tahoe Blvd
All Videos and Pictures Below were created by us, Sandtastic Travels, all Videos are available on our YouTube Channel!
Best time to Visit Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit really depends on what you’re looking to do. Whether you’re chasing snowy peaks for winter sports or crystal-clear waters for summer fun, Tahoe has something special in every season.
Winter Season: A Snow Lover’s Dream 🏔️
(Video: Scenic Winter Drive through South Lake Tahoe)
For those who love winter sports, December through February is prime time. Lake Tahoe boasts 13 to 15 ski resorts (depending on who you ask), and with almost 300 inches of annual snowfall, it transforms into a snowy wonderland. Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or simply sipping hot cocoa by the fire, Tahoe’s winter magic doesn’t disappoint.
Top resorts like Heavenly, Squaw Valley, and Northstar offer something for all levels. Not a skier? No worries! There’s plenty of snowmobiling and ice skating to enjoy, too. It’s the perfect spot for a cozy winter getaway.
Spring, Summer, and Fall: The Outdoors at its Best 🌞
If snow isn’t your thing, Lake Tahoe’s warmer months—from May through October—are perfect for outdoor adventurers. As the snow melts, Tahoe’s hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and beaches take center stage. The water may be cool, but it’s crystal clear and perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, or just lounging by the shore.
Popular spots like Kings Beach, Zephyr Cove, and Sand Harbor are great for family picnics or beach days. And if you’re into hiking, trails like the Rubicon Trail or Eagle Falls offer stunning views and a true taste of Tahoe’s natural beauty. Whether you want to soak in the sun or enjoy the colors of fall, Tahoe’s got you covered.
When’s the Best Time for You?
If you’re into winter sports, plan your visit between December and February. But if hiking, swimming, and soaking up mountain views are more your style, late spring through early fall is your window. No matter where you go, Tahoe’s beauty is bound to impress.
Lake Tahoe’s Top Locations
Explore Both California and Nevada’s Lake Tahoe’s best Road Trips, Walking Tours, and Hidden Gems with us as we drive all the way around the lake highlighting the top locations in stunning 4K Video. Also, see beautiful images in the posts below highlighting each location separatley.
Lake Tahoe offers some of the most spectacular scenery and diverse activities. Join us on Lake Tahoe scenic road trips and walking tours. Begin your Lake Tahoe adventure in South Lake Tahoe, known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful beaches.
Explore Stateline, Nevada, home to Harrah’s and Harveys, where entertainment and history blend seamlessly. Don’t miss our Casino Hotel Tours in Stateline Nevada.
Relax at Zephyr Cove with its pristine waters and scenic beauty. Each spot around Lake Tahoe uniquely blends natural beauty and engaging activities.
Head to Kings Beach for a more laid-back vibe and family-friendly fun. Explore Lake Tahoe’s best Road Trips, Walking Tours, and Hidden Gems. And check out our amazing Crown Motel Tour at Kings Beach with epic Lake Tahoe sunrise and sunset timelapse.
A must visit is the iconic Emerald Bay, renowned for its stunning views and hiking trails. With historic Vikinsholm and also the only Island on Lake Tahoe, Fannette Island.
Be sure to check out our Reno Tahoe Area Travel Guide and Road Trip info on Reno, Virginia City, and Truckee.
See Full Details below on these top locations- South Lake Tahoe, Stateline, Zephyr Cove, Emerald Bay, Kings Beach, and Carnelian Bay.
South Lake Tahoe and Stateline | Lake Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe, California and Stateline, Nevada, interconnected cities but straddling the border of California and Nevada. Renowned for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment options, particularly in the Stateline area where casinos like Harrah’s and Harveys are located on the Nevada side. Ski, Snowboard, and Snowmobile during the winter and enjoy epic hikes, beautiful nature, and amazing beach life during the Summer.
South Lake Tahoe hiking and Stateline attractions. This area combines the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe with an exciting resort atmosphere, featuring numerous dining, shopping, and outdoor activity options. You can see Stateline Casino Hotels in the background in the image above.
Stateline and South Lake Tahoe is one of the best places to stay in Lake Tahoe. We usually stay at Harveys or Harrah’s on the as we are Caesars Members. For North Lake Tahoe recommendations, see our Kings Beach Crown Motel Video, such an amazing location!
The Heavenly Mountain Resort is a major draw, offering year-round activities including skiing, snowboarding, and breathtaking gondola rides.
Hotel Room Tours | Stateline Nevada/South Lake Tahoe
In Stateline, Nevada, you’ll experience the unique blend of nature and entertainment, with casinos like Harrah’s and Harveys offering top-tier dining and gaming options. See some of the hotel room tours below.
Driving Tour of Tahoe Keys, South Lake Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe and Stateline combine the best of outdoor adventures and vibrant nightlife. Start your journey with a scenic drive around the southern shore, where you’ll pass through iconic spots like the Tahoe Keys.
South Lake Tahoe to Truckee Road Trip Drive-
![[4K] South Lake Tahoe, CA to Truckee, CA Road Trip Driving Tour - Beautiful Scenic Drive #laketahoe](https://sandtastictravels.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2F6h0KYxaydV8%2F0.jpg)
Zephyr Cove | Lake Tahoe
![Lake Tahoe [4K] Boat Ride Timewarp Timelapse | Virtual Boating Tour | Happy Relaxation Video](https://sandtastictravels.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FH-xjYi_f3-4%2F0.jpg)
Located on the southeastern shore of Lake Tahoe, Zephyr Cove is a picturesque destination known for its pristine sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters: Zephyr Cove beach activities and boat tours.
It offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating, parasailing, and beach volleyball. The Zephyr Cove Resort is a popular spot, providing everything from cozy cabins to scenic cruises on the M.S. Dixie II paddlewheel boat.
Beach Volleyball in the sun with unbeatable views!
The Beach here is large and accommodates a lot of gatherings with friends and family
You can rent Jetski’s and Kayak’s here at Zephyr Cove, See our boat ride video from Zephyr Cove to Emerald Bay.
Looking for adventure? You can rent jet skis or kayaks and explore the stunning waters of Lake Tahoe. Don’t miss the Zephyr Cove Resort, where you can relax after a day of water activities with picturesque views.
Kings Beach | Lake Tahoe
Kings Beach family-friendly activities and scenic spots. Located on the north shore of Lake Tahoe, Kings Beach boasts a laid-back, family-friendly vibe with its expansive sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking.
Visit California and other sources say that Kings Beach got its name from a card shark named Joe King, who supposedly won the rights to the area in a poker game nearly a century ago.
Despite its royal name, Kings Beach is far from pretentious. Known for its laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere, this North Shore gem offers miles of sandy beaches, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and paddleboarding.
Don’t miss this Hidden Gem Kings Beach, a charming town with local shops, eateries, and vibrant street vendors. Kings Beach State Recreation Area is a popular spot for outdoor activities, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and beach volleyball.
Pictures of Crown Motel’s Private Beach at Kings Beach
Standup paddleboarding (SUP) is one of the most popular activities here, and rentals with instruction are available if you’re new to the sport. The calm waters make it an excellent place to learn or enjoy a relaxing paddle.
The Kings Beach State Recreation Area is affectionately known as the “banana belt” of Lake Tahoe’s North Shore, thanks to its almost constant sunshine. It’s a prime spot for beachgoers, particularly families and large groups who appreciate the easy access to parking and nearby grab-and-go eateries.
Whether you’re bringing a picnic, laying out a beach towel, or planning a paddleboarding adventure, Kings Beach has something for everyone.
Kings Beach’s family-run motels and quaint local shops give it a small-town charm that makes visitors feel right at home. Be sure to pick up a classic “I Heart Tahoe” t-shirt before you leave! Pictures of Kings Beach Public Beach and Boat Launch-
Emerald Bay | Lake Tahoe
Emerald Bay, often considered one of the most beautiful spots in Lake Tahoe, is renowned for its stunning panoramic views and emerald-green waters. Located on the southwestern shore, this bay is home to the historic Vikingsholm Castle and Fannette Island, the only island in Lake Tahoe.
Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and boat tours highlighting the area’s natural beauty and historical significance.
Emerald Bay, with its emerald-green waters, is one of Lake Tahoe’s most photographed spots. Start your hike on the Rubicon Trail, which offers scenic overlooks, leading you to the historic Vikingsholm Castle.
This mansion, built in the Scandinavian style, stands as a reminder of the area’s rich history and provides stunning views of Fannette Island, the only island in Lake Tahoe.
For those looking to immerse themselves in nature, boat tours of Emerald Bay are available, offering an entirely different perspective of this gorgeous area. Whether hiking or boating, Emerald Bay is a must-visit for any Lake Tahoe adventure.
Fannette Island in Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe
Fannette Island is the only island in Lake Tahoe, located within the stunning Emerald Bay on the California side of the lake. This tiny island, covering just about an acre, has had many names over the centuries, including Coquette Isle, Hermit’s Island, and even Dead Man’s Island. However, today it’s most commonly known as Fannette Island.
The island became a part of Lora Josephine Knight’s grand vision when she purchased the property surrounding Emerald Bay, including the island itself, in 1928 for $250,000.
Lora Knight is best known for building Vikingsholm Castle, a Scandinavian-inspired mansion on the nearby shore, which remains one of Lake Tahoe’s most famous historic landmarks.
Vikingsholm Castle, located on the shores of Emerald Bay Lake Tahoe
Fannette Island is easily recognizable thanks to the Tea House that sits atop its peak, a stone structure built by Knight as a whimsical addition to her grand estate. Though now in ruins, the Tea House once hosted guests who would row over from Vikingsholm for afternoon tea while enjoying panoramic views of Emerald Bay.
Today, visitors can access the island by boat or kayak. It’s a popular destination for adventurers who want to climb to the top and explore the remnants of the Tea House, all while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding bay and Lake Tahoe.
Boating Adventure from Zephyr Cove to Emerald Bay
Carnelian Bay & Garwoods Grill & Pier
One of our favorite stops on Lake Tahoe Best Road trips is Carnelian Bay. Located on Lake Tahoe’s picturesque North Shore, Carnelian Bay is a perfect stop for visitors to enjoy scenic beauty, fun beach activities, and lakeside dining.
This quiet, laid-back area offers a great retreat from the busier spots around the lake, making it an ideal hidden gem to relax and unwind.
Carnelian West Beach
One of the standout features of Carnelian Bay is Carnelian West Beach, a family-friendly location known for its calm waters and easy access. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
The beach’s sandy shore and shallow waters make it perfect for families with children, and the nearby restrooms and picnic areas provide added convenience.
For those looking to enjoy some water activities, Carnelian Bay offers opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating.
The clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding mountains make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Garwoods Grill & Pier
Our Favorite place to eat in all of Lake Tahoe and Surrounding Areas! Amazing food and epic cocktails, don’t miss the Wet Woody! After a day at the beach, head to Garwoods Grill & Pier, a well-loved lakeside restaurant just a short walk away from Carnelian West Beach.
This iconic spot is known for its beautiful views, delicious seafood, and signature cocktails like the famous Wet Woody—a refreshing rum-based drink that’s become a staple at Garwoods.
Dine on the outdoor deck overlooking Lake Tahoe, where you can watch boats dock along the pier while enjoying fresh seafood dishes, burgers, or hearty salads.
Garwoods is especially popular during the summer months, and the pier is an ideal spot for those who want to tie up their boat and grab a bite to eat. Enjoy Amazing views while you enjoy unbeatable food and custom cocktails.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the beach, an afternoon of water sports, or a delicious meal with unbeatable lake views, Garwoods and Carnelian Bay has something for everyone.
Lake Tahoe Best Road Trips
Join us on Lake Tahoe scenic road trips and walking tours. Explore Lake Tahoe’s best Road Trips, Walking Tours, and Hidden Gems. Visit South Lake Tahoe, Stateline, Zephyr Cove, Emerald Bay, Kings Beach, and Carnelian Bay.
Lake Tahoe area is one of the best places for road trips. How many miles is it around Lake Tahoe by car? Lake Tahoe is 72 Mile Drive around the lake and will take you 2-3 hours to drive around the full lake not including stops along the way.
Be forewarned, Lake Tahoe and surrounding areas are some of the most beautiful places on this earth, prepare to stop and stop often to experience all that Lake Tahoe has to offer 🙂
Below are some of the amazing Road Trips Lake Tahoe has to offer. See our complete 2 Hour Drive Around the entire lake! Also don’t miss our Reno Tahoe Area Travel Guide and Road Trip info on Reno, Virginia City, and Truckee.
2 Hour Road Trip Drive Around Lake Tahoe, Both Directions!!!
Road Trip Drive to Lake Tahoe | Carson City, Nevada to Stateline, Nevada
![Lake Tahoe [4K] Drive | Carson City, NV to Stateline, NV](https://sandtastictravels.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FAyVGraE0HsQ%2F0.jpg)
Lake Tahoe Drive to Truckee and Back | South Lake Tahoe to Truckee and Back
![[4K] Truckee, CA to South Lake Tahoe, CA Road Trip Driving Tour - Beautiful Scenic Drive #laketahoe](https://sandtastictravels.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FihsO6jjCu8o%2F0.jpg)
Lake Tahoe to Reno Road Trip Drive | Mount Rose HWY SR 431
Don’t miss our other Lake Tahoe Videos-
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Your Ultimate Lake Tahoe Journey Awaits!
Lake Tahoe is truly a destination that offers something for everyone, no matter the season. From the snowy winter months, perfect for skiing and snowboarding at world-class resorts, to the vibrant summer days ideal for hiking, swimming, and soaking up the sun on the lake’s pristine beaches, Lake Tahoe never disappoints.
Whether you’re exploring South Lake Tahoe for its lively atmosphere and nightlife, marveling at the scenic beauty of Emerald Bay, or enjoying a relaxing day at Kings Beach or Zephyr Cove, every corner of this majestic region holds unique adventures.
For those who love the outdoors, the 72-mile drive around the lake provides an unforgettable experience, with plenty of opportunities to stop at hidden gems like Sand Harbor, Carnelian Bay, and the breathtaking views from Garwoods while enjoying a Wet Woody.
Ready for Your Lake Tahoe Journey?
Now that you’ve seen just a glimpse of what Lake Tahoe has to offer, it’s time to start planning your own adventure! Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes, relax by the beach, or explore the hidden gems around the lake, Lake Tahoe is the perfect year-round destination.
Need help planning your trip? Be sure to check out our guide of this area- Historic Downtowns: Reno, Lake Tahoe, Virginia City, and Truckee for detailed itineraries, tips on where to stay, and the best spots to visit during your stay.
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