South Lake Tahoe CaliforniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near South Lake Tahoe, California.
1. The Gondola at Heavenly
SCENIC MOUNTAIN VIEWS
The Heavenly Gondola takes visitors on a 2.4-mile journey up the steep slopes of Heavenly Mountain, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the lake, forest, and mountains. Riders can stop at the Observation Deck, located midway along the gondola journey at 9,123 feet, before continuing to the 9,150-foot Top of the Gondola. The Top of the Gondola area serves as an activity hub with dining at Tamarack Lodge, numerous trailheads, and seasonal attractions such as gold panning and a climbing wall.
2. Tallac Historic Site
HISTORIC LAKESIDE ESTATES
Tallac Historic Site is on the National Register of Historic Places and encompasses the summer homes and gardens of the Pope, Baldwin, and Valhalla estates, which were lavish lakeside resorts built from around 1894 to 1921. Visitors can explore the preserved properties, which were some of the earliest at Lake Tahoe, as well as the site's beach and forest trails. The site offers interesting exhibits inside the Tallac Museum and guided tours of the property, available only in summer.
3. Vikingsholm
SCANDINAVIAN CASTLE LANDMARK
Vikingsholm is a historic site featuring a remarkable Scandinavian-inspired castle nestled along the shores of Emerald Bay. The unique architecture showcases authentic Nordic designs, with intricate woodwork and stone masonry that transport visitors to another time and place. Visitors can take guided tours of this magnificent structure during the summer months to learn about its fascinating history and the vision of its original owner.
4. Lower Eagle Falls
MAJESTIC NATURAL WATERFALL
Lower Eagle Falls is a stunning waterfall that cascades down the mountainside near Emerald Bay. The falls offer a magnificent display of rushing water surrounded by pristine forest and granite outcroppings. Visitors can access viewing areas via hiking trails of varying difficulty, making it an accessible natural attraction for many outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Pope Beach
POPULAR SANDY SHORELINE
Pope Beach is one of South Lake Tahoe's most beloved sandy beaches, stretching along the shoreline with magnificent views of the crystal-clear waters. The beach features picnic areas, swimming access, and plenty of space for sunbathing or playing beach games. Its convenient location and family-friendly atmosphere make it a favorite destination during the warmer months.
6. Rubicon Trail
SCENIC LAKESIDE HIKING
The Rubicon Trail is a spectacular hiking path that follows Lake Tahoe's southwestern shoreline, offering some of the most impressive views in the region. This moderately challenging trail takes hikers through diverse terrain including forests, rocky outcroppings, and along crystal-clear waters with numerous photo opportunities. The trail connects several significant landmarks including D.L. Bliss State Park and Emerald Bay, allowing for flexible hiking options ranging from short excursions to longer adventures.
7. Taylor Creek Visitor Center
WILDLIFE AND EDUCATION
Taylor Creek Visitor Center serves as an educational gateway to the natural ecosystem of the Lake Tahoe Basin. The center features interpretive displays, a stream profile chamber where visitors can view underwater life, and access to several nature trails. During autumn, the center becomes especially popular as visitors gather to witness the annual Kokanee salmon spawning run, a remarkable natural spectacle.
8. Van Sickle Bi-State Park
CROSS-BORDER OUTDOOR RECREATION
Van Sickle Bi-State Park uniquely straddles the California-Nevada border, offering recreational opportunities in both states. The park features hiking and equestrian trails with spectacular views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains. Its convenient location near the Heavenly Village makes it easily accessible for visitors looking to experience nature without venturing far from town.
9. Emerald Bay State Park
ICONIC NATURAL WONDER
Emerald Bay State Park showcases one of Lake Tahoe's most photographed and visited natural landmarks, featuring a stunning inlet with vibrant blue-green waters surrounded by forested slopes. The park encompasses Fannette Island, the only island in Lake Tahoe, which adds to the picturesque quality of this remarkable natural setting. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, beach access, and tours of Vikingsholm Castle, making it a must-see destination in the Lake Tahoe area.
10. Heavenly Village
SHOPPING AND ENTERTAINMENT HUB
Heavenly Village serves as South Lake Tahoe's premier shopping, dining, and entertainment district located at the base of the Heavenly Mountain Resort. The pedestrian-friendly complex features a variety of boutiques, restaurants, art galleries, and seasonal activities including ice skating in winter and outdoor concerts in summer. Its central location makes it a popular gathering spot for both tourists and locals looking to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of South Lake Tahoe.
11. Sand Harbor State Park
PRISTINE BEACHES AND COVES
Sand Harbor State Park offers miles of sandy beaches, hidden coves, and shady pine forests with majestic scenery providing an awe-inspiring backdrop for outdoor activities. The 55-acre park provides opportunities for swimming, scuba diving, and kayaking in the translucent waters of Lake Tahoe, with lifeguards on duty from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Visitors can take scenic walks along trails like the Sand Point Nature Trail and the Sand Harbor to Memorial Point Trail, which offer outstanding views of the lake and access to secluded beaches.
12. Eagle Rock Trail
QUICK HIKE, AMAZING VIEWS
Eagle Rock Trail is a spectacular hiking trail on Lake Tahoe's west shore, just four miles away from Tahoe City. This short, easy hike is about a half-mile long and can be completed in 20 minutes, yet rewards hikers with magnificent views from its 6,000-foot elevation. Eagle Rock itself is a dramatic volcanic outcrop that sits a few hundred feet above Lake Tahoe, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.
13. Basecamp Pizza
POPULAR GOURMET PIZZA SPOT
Basecamp Pizza is a beloved dining establishment in Heavenly Village that specializes in gourmet pizzas with unique toppings and flavor combinations. The restaurant features a lively atmosphere with regular live music performances and an outdoor seating area perfect for people-watching. Their menu extends beyond pizza to include craft beers, cocktails, and a variety of appetizers and salads, making it a popular gathering spot for visitors after a day of Tahoe adventures.
14. The Shops at Heavenly Village
ALPINE-INSPIRED RETAIL EXPERIENCE
The Shops at Heavenly Village offer a diverse shopping experience with over 40 stores ranging from outdoor gear retailers to unique boutiques and souvenir shops. The alpine-inspired architecture creates a charming atmosphere as visitors stroll between shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Year-round events and a central location at the California/Nevada state line make this shopping destination a hub of activity for visitors exploring South Lake Tahoe.
15. Tahoe Chocolate & Wine
GOURMET TREATS AND TASTINGS
Tahoe Chocolate & Wine is a specialty shop offering a curated selection of fine chocolates, wines, and gourmet treats in the heart of South Lake Tahoe. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings paired with artisanal chocolates in a cozy, elegant setting. The shop features locally-made products alongside international selections, providing a perfect spot to find unique gifts or indulge in a sweet treat after exploring the lake.