Powerboating? Water skiing? Beach lounging? Lake Tahoe has got it!
With over 2.7 million visitors each year, shining blue water, and a sky-scraping, panoramic mountainscape, you know a visit to Lake Tahoe is a trip worth taking. But, what else do you know about Lake Tahoe?
Located on the border between California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is a favorite destination for both winter and summer getaways. Visitors to the area will find plenty of options for seasonal activities and sports, lakeside adventures, nature escapes, and vibrant nightlife. Formed over 2 million years ago, Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America.
Here are some Lake Tahoe fun facts for your entertainment!
Lake Tahoe Fun Facts
- Lake Tahoe is the second deepest lake in the U.S., clocking in at 1,645 feet deep.
- Lake Tahoe is so deep, the Empire State Building wouldn’t break the surface.
- To give you a sense of just how massive Lake Tahoe is, its waters could cover the entire state of California with 14.5 inches of water.
- Lake Tahoe is a freshwater lake and supplies drinking water to the surrounding area. Not only that, it’s been awarded for providing some of the best-tasting drinking water in the U.S.
What to Do in Lake Tahoe
Looking for a list of what to do, what to see, and where to go in Lake Tahoe? We’ve got you! From action-packed adventures to leisurely activities, Lake Tahoe is going to please all vacation types.
See the Lake from the Water
The M.S. Dixie II is known as the “best cruise in Nevada”.
Lake Tahoe has so many beautiful angles, and yet, one of the best ways to see the lake is from the water. Hop aboard the M.S. Dixie II for a daytime cruise around the lake. On the 2.5 hour tour, you’ll see Emerald Bay, learn how the lake was formed, and get plenty of photo opportunities. You can also see the lake at night on a sunset dinner cruise.
Beach Day!
Dig! Who’s up for some friendly competition?
If you’re visiting Lake Tahoe in the spring or summer, find your way down to Zephyr Cove Resort’s mile-long sandy beach. Be prepared to soak in the sun – just don’t forget your sunscreen! If beach lounging with a good book or enjoying a refreshing swim isn’t enough action, head to the beach volleyball courts for a pickup game. After the game, the winner buys drinks at Sunset Bar & Grille! Even when the air is chilly, the sun is warm!
Hit the Water
You could just view Zephyr Cove from a boat, but have you considered parasailing?
The marina at Zephyr Cove is full of fun activities for all visitors. Take your pick from jet-skis, kayaks, paddleboats, fishing, and parasailing. No matter what type of adventurer you are, there’s an adrenaline-boosting activity to suit your taste. You can also rent a powerboat or pontoon, depending on what speed you’d like out on the water. When you pick-up your powerboat, be sure to pick out a tube or wakeboard so you can have fun in the sun all day long.
Get Charged with an Adrenaline Rush
Experience different terrains and an adventure of a lifetime with Lake Tahoe Adventures.
Lake Tahoe isn’t all nature and water, there are more rugged activities for the adrenaline-seeking. Lake Tahoe Adventures offers ATV and RZR tours located in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, the Rubicon Trail in California, and the Pine Nut Mountain in Nevada. The Ridge Run Tour is great for beginner to intermediate levels. Plan for a 2-hour trip, learn the basics of vehicle operation, receive a step-by-step practice session, and hit the trails with an experienced guide. The Rubicon ATV Tours offers three options for varying experience levels. There is the Miller Lake Tour for beginner to intermediate levels, the Observation Point Tour for intermediate to advanced, and the Rubicon Springs Tour for advanced levels.
Where to Eat and Drink in Lake Tahoe
A good vacation isn’t great until you have wined and dined and Lake Tahoe does not disappoint in this department.
Here a few spots to check out!
Zephyr Cove Restaurant (A.K.A The Lodge)
Known for its local and sustainable cuisine you can find American favorites for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If you have a sweet tooth or want to get the kiddos a cool treat, their world-famous milkshakes are a must! For the adults, The Lodge also has a fully stocked bar with beer, wine. and cocktail options.
Sunset Bar & Grille
Cool down with an iced cold beer!
Open from late spring to early fall the Sunset Bar & Grille is a great spot to grab a refreshing beverage or quick bite of classic pub fare. With indoor and outdoor seating, you can either enjoy a breezy break on the outside deck or cool down inside.
Where to Play in Lake Tahoe
The stakes are high that you’ll have a great time.
Lake Tahoe is well-known for its engaging nightlife. Get a little wild and spend a little money at the casino, and catch a late-night live show. Stateline, Nevada is home to multiple casinos so you can find just the entertainment you’re looking for. Here a few nearby casinos just a few minutes away from Zephyr Cove Resort.
- Hard Rock Casino: 7-minute drive from Zephyr Cove Resort
- Dotty’s Casino: 8-minute drive from Zephyr Cove Resort
- Montbleu Casino: 8-minute drive from Zephyr Cove Resort
Lake Tahoe Hidden Gems
Want to go where all the other tourists aren’t going? Here are some lesser-known places to visit during your time at Lake Tahoe.
Vikingsholm Castle
Built in the late 1920s, Vikingsholm Castle was inspired by Scandinavian architecture and Viking lore. The home was built with locally sourced stone and wood, but also includes elements that were imported and date back to the 11th century.
Distance from Zephyr Cove Resort: 40-minute drive
Thunderbird Lodge
Another unique piece of architecture along the shores of Lake Tahoe is Thunderbird Lodge. Built by millionaire George Whittell Jr., this Tudor Revival-style architectural wonder also has the benefit of conserving 40,000 acres of the eastern shore of Lake Tahoe.
Distance from Zephyr Cove Resort: 21-minute drive
Tallac Historic Site
A favorite stop for the rich and famous of San Francisco Bay in the 1920s was Tallac. Now known as the Tallac Historic Site, you can take a tour of the restored estate and grounds.
Distance from Zephyr Cove Resort: 25-minute drive
Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe
Lake view and woodland vibes at Zephyr Cove Resort.
When planning your trip to Lake Tahoe, you’ll see that there are a number of different places that you can stay. You can book a room at Zephyr Cove Resort, stay in an airstream trailer, or have your own private cabin.
Lake Tahoe has so much history. People have been residing and visiting the area for such a long time. Get away from the city and come bask in the beauty of nature and the history surrounding this unique location.
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