9 Things to do in South Lake Tahoe During Your Summer Roadtrip

On one particularly random morning, my roommate and I decided to wake up and head to South Lake Tahoe, without knowing anything about the area or what we were going to do. Luckily, we had around an 8 hour drive ahead of us to do some research. So, if you’re looking for things to do in South Lake Tahoe this summer, here’s what I recommend:

Note: Flying is also an easy option, given that Reno-Tahoe International Airport has more than 120 daily nonstop flights.

Hit the Trails

Although Lake Tahoe’s mountains are known for skiing, the Sierra Nevada is also great for hiking. Tahoe’s mountains are rugged and colorful, and offer incomparable views of the lake below.  We went for Mount Tallac, which was a little technical due to the snow at the top, but absolutely worth it. You can view a list of the trails here (from easy to difficult).

Read about the Mount Tallac hike here

Find Cocktails, Live Music, and One of the Best Views in Town

If you’re not in any shape to climb to the top of Tallac, I may dare to say that Beacon Bar and Grill has the second best view of Tahoe. It’s a waterfront restaurant with live music, friendly staff, and a fairly diverse menu. This is a perfect place to settle for sunset. Other lake front restaurants include Riva grill and the Edgewood Restaurant.

Why Look at the Water When You Can Be on the Water?

Between boat, jetski, kayak, and paddle board rentals, you have no reason not to be out on the water. Cruising around South Lake Tahoe on a boat has a lot of benefits, including finding spots that you may not be able to reach by car. Just make sure to pack a cooler. Once you’re out on the lake, you may not want to return.

Book Some Wilderness Inspired Accommodations

There are tons of cute wooden cabins and large lakeside forest retreats to store your bags. Try Basecamp Hotel or the Coachman if you’d prefer a boutique style hotel. Basecamp is complete with a cute outdoor beer garden under the stars and the Coachman’s complimentary s’mores and hipster vibe will welcome you with open arms. Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel is a good option for those that prefer a luxury stay. Camping and airbnb are additional choices.

Sprawl Out on Calawee Cove

Hidden in D.L. Bliss State Park, Calawee Cove is a sandy beach surrounded by bright blue water. I bet you didn’t believe you could find a view like this in South Lake Tahoe. It’s the perfect way to recover and cool off after a long hike.

Chill Out at Craft Breweries

Speaking of hiking recovery, not much goes better with hiking than craft beer. Try the Cold Water Brewery, Lake Tahoe Aleworx, or South Lake Brewing Company to get your fix.

Become a Photographer at Emerald Bay State Park

Go to Emerald Bay for the unique overlook of Fennate Island or stay for a while to enjoy the trails. Venturing down to the shoreline may even lead you to a castle-like house. 😉

Gondolas Aren’t Only for Ski Season

The Heavenly Gondola stays open in the warmer months for tourists who would like a birds eye view of Tahoe. It’s a 2.4 mile ride to an observation deck, where you can view Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains. I prefer hiking for my views, but this is a (more expensive) option!

Splurge on an Adventure Pass

Enjoy rope courses, zip lines, mountain coasters, climbing walls, tubing, and guided hiking tours at Epic Discovery.

Have any questions about things to do in South Lake Tahoe? Feel free to comment below!

This post was sponsored by Tahoe South, but all views are (as always) my own.

Media Credits: Brewery, Emerald Bay, Adventure Pass