When you think of Lake Tahoe, more than likely, its winter season comes to mind. While the Tahoe area does have some world-class skiing and is a winter sports destination, it attracts tourists from around the globe and lucky residents who enjoy all four seasons here. The Lake Tahoe area encompasses parts of California and Nevada in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. However, two-thirds of Lake Tahoe's shores lie within California's borders, and where these two states meet in the southern section is South Lake Tahoe — the area’s largest community. If the only things you think of when it comes to Lake Tahoe involve snow and skis, then keep reading and discover some top summer activities to add to the list.
Things to do during South Lake Tahoe summers
South Lake Tahoe restaurants
If there’s one thing South Lake Tahoe has no shortage of, it’s top-notch dining opportunities. When you’re done exploring all South Lake Tahoe has to offer, stop by one of the following restaurants and please your palate after a full day of activities:
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Base Camp Pizza Co. is a Heavenly Village Italian eatery specializing in gourmet pizzas. Listen to live music, take in the view from the patio, or grab a cocktail from the bar. As evidenced by consistent five-star reviews, Base Camp Pizza Co. is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
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Sprout,s located on Harrison Avenue, offers healthy fare to fuel your day's adventures. Vegans, vegetarians, and those seeking gluten-free options can rejoice in Sprouts' varied choices. You'll have an extensive menu to choose from, complete with a selection of fresh juices and satisfying breakfast selections.
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Jimmy's Restaurant is a chic, upscale dining establishment inside The Landing Lake Tahoe, a resort and spa. Offering lake-view dining, the menu boasts fresh seafood as well as seasonal, locally- grown and-sourced ingredients. Treat yourself to a selection of California cuisine and wood-fired options; dine al-fresco around one of four fire pits on the patio, or cozy up in one of several dining alcoves with private fireplaces.
South Lake Tahoe beaches
Lake Tahoe has approximately 72 miles of shoreline with many amazing beaches and crystal-clear water. Situated roughly three miles northwest of South Lake Tahoe is where you’ll find Pope Beach. There are restrooms and picnic tables available at this quiet beach surrounded by a forest of pine trees. A unique feature of this beach is that the forest comes right up to the shore, so be mindful of stepping on pine needles in the sand. Pope Beach is open from Memorial Day Weekend through mid-October, and an entry fee is required.
One popular South Lake Tahoe beach is Regan Beach. Here you'll find breathtaking views, shallow water perfect for swimming, and a playground for the little ones. The east end of Regan Beach is dog-friendly, so you're free to let Fido frolic in the water off-leash. Have a picnic, use the large grassy area, or grab a snack at the seasonal restaurant located here to make it a fun-filled day at the beach. Regan Beach is seasonal and is closed from October through March.
The next beach you won’t want to miss is El Dorado Beach. El Dorado Beach has a boat launch, barbecue pits, clean restrooms, picnic tables, and a food concession stand. Come by for the day and take your pick of various non-motorized watercraft available for you to rent such as paddleboards, kayaks, or paddle boats. El Dorado Beach is open from May to October and parking is free.
Summer concerts
Things heat up in Lake Tahoe in the summer months, and the South Lake Tahoe area hosts several summer concerts that are guaranteed to get your toes tapping. A stone’s throw from the City of South Lake Tahoe is Stateline, Nevada, where you can get your groove on under the stars at the Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena at Harveys. This annual concert series is a pop-up venue that transforms the parking lot of Harveys into an epic opportunity to catch a show and hosts world-renown acts such as Lady Gaga, Robert Plant, The Who, and Norah Jones in an unforgettable mountain setting.
For year-round live entertainment, check out the intimate South Shore Room inside Harrah's Lake Tahoe, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Lake Tahoe, or Bally’s Lake Tahoe.
World-class golf courses
Living in South Lake Tahoe means you’ll have access to some of the best golf courses in the country. If you’re looking to hit the links in style, then one course you don’t want to miss is Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course, located a stone's throw from South Lake Tahoe in Stateline. While you can stay at Edgewood Lake Tahoe year-round, its full-service golf course is seasonal and generally resumes play in May. Built in 1968 by renowned golf course architect Tom Fazio, Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course consistently ranks as one of Golf Digest's top public golf courses. Tee-off in the footsteps of golf greats such as Tiger Woods, Arnold Palmer, and Lee Trevino. Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course is also the home of the annual American Century Championship, where more than 80 players compete for their share of a prize purse and the American Century Championship Cup.
Another golf course of note is the Lake Tahoe Golf Course. The Lake Tahoe Golf Course is situated in a sprawling meadow and is a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. With amenities including a pro shop, full driving range, golf lessons, and club rentals, Lake Tahoe Golf Course is full-service, with majestic mountain peaks serving as the backdrop to your 18 holes of play. The Lake Tahoe Golf course also hosts private events and weddings on its lush grounds.
Summer family fun
When the weather warms up, it’s time to take the family out to enjoy some of the many activities South Lake Tahoe offers. Aside from the obvious outdoor activities you can engage in, South Lake Tahoe also has a few hidden gems you may not be aware of but are fun for the whole family.
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Vikingsholm Castle is located on the shores of Emerald Bay and is a stellar example of Scandinavian architecture. In 1929 a wealthy widow, Lora J. Knight, had Vikingsholm constructed in the style of an 800 A.D. Norse fortress. Beginning Memorial Day weekend through the end of September, Vikingsholm Castle offers guided tours of the stately property overlooking Lake Tahoe.
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Heavenly Lake Tahoe is South Lake Tahoe’s premier ski resort in the winter. But, come summer, Heavenly transforms into an outdoor enthusiast's playground, making it a great outing with activities for all ages. Ride a mountain rollercoaster, hop on the scenic gondola, try your luck at gemstone panning, or brave the Red Tail Flyer Zip Line.
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The Tallac Historic Site is historically registered and includes the Pope-Baldwin Historic Estates. Visitors can take tours of the historic estates between May and October, but it is open year-round to the public, minus any services during the winter months. There is a gift shop and a free museum to explore and learn about Lake Tahoe's rich history. Watch an introductory video and check out exhibits, including a 1920s kitchen and a room dedicated to the Washoe people.
Outdoor activities and water sports
It’s true that the South Lake Tahoe region is known the world over for its ski resorts and winter sports, but as the snow melts on the slopes and mountains surrounding Lake Tahoe, a whole new season of things to do emerges. From boating, kayaking, mountain biking, and hiking, you’ll have no shortage of outdoor adventures to take on.
Summer in South Lake Tahoe is synonymous with wildflowers. Due to its higher elevation, you'll enjoy the splendor of the alpine wildflower season well into summer and long after lower elevations have already experienced their peak. A fantastic place to check out vibrant wildflowers is Carson Pass, a roughly 30-minute drive from the City of South Lake Tahoe. You can choose from a number of hikes that afford you plenty of opportunities to see wildflowers, but the most popular hike begins at the Carson Pass Information Station and winds through colorful wildflowers until you reach Winnemucca Lake.
Seeing how South Lake Tahoe is close to the lake, it’s only natural that many of the summer activities you’ll find here revolve around water sports. All along the south shores of Lake Tahoe, you can find more places to rent kayaks, paddleboards, and jet skis than you can count. Head out onto Lake Tahoe’s crystal clear waters and get a little wet. Both visitors and locals flock to its shores for fishing and cooling off during the warm summer months.
Living the dream in Lake Tahoe
Our team at Live Tahoe Real Estate, anchored by experienced Realtors Chris and Brooke Hernandez, leverages their local market knowledge to navigate the diverse range of properties, from residential homes to luxury estates. We're ready to assist you in your home search, whether you're seeking a quaint cabin, a majestic lakefront property, or a modern home in the bustling South Lake Tahoe community. Our exclusive listings showcase the finest real estate opportunities in the region, with properties that offer unparalleled views and proximity to world-class recreational amenities. To ensure a smooth and efficient buying process, we provide personalized service and attention to detail, including guidance on financing options and negotiation strategies. As your trusted partner in real estate, Live Tahoe Real Estate is committed to transforming your dream of owning a home in South Lake Tahoe into reality. Contact us today to embark on your unique home buying journey.