While the lake is a sight to see in and of itself, Lake Tahoe attractions go beyond just the water. The area’s rich environment influences the majority of Lake Tahoe attractions like hiking, camping, skiing, snowboarding, sunbathing, paddleboarding and more. Enjoy the great outdoors by visiting South Lake Tahoe’s attractions, including state parks, campgrounds suitable for both summer and winter weather or historic homes. Or let the famous Christmas carol come alive as you go on a sleigh ride through the snow. While the area’s attractions encourage a sense of athleticism, you don’t have to be planning your next 5K to appreciate them. You’ll find the area’s museums, visual arts and beaches are the kind of relaxed fun some visitors hope to find during vacations.
Lake Tahoe Attractions in Town
Lake Tahoe attractions also embrace the area’s history. Visit the Truckee attraction where the infamous Donner party is rumored to have fallen to cannibalism. You can also check out one of Palisades Tahoe's attractions, the site of the 1960 Winter Olympics, and view the same slopes that welcomed the world’s great athletes decades ago. It might inspire you to channel your inner Heidi Beibl (the 1960 Winter Olympic Women’s Downhill Skiing gold medalist) as you swoosh down nearby mountains.
If you’re in the mood for some visual entertainment, you can attend festivals in Incline Village that will delight the English and history nerds in your group. Tahoe City’s attractions also feature a variety of fun on the beach, including concerts and movies.
The summer seasons are prime time to take advantage of the main attraction: Lake Tahoe! All the towns offer tours for different areas in the Tahoe Basin. After being educated about the lake, dive in — we mean quite literally too — to all it has to offer. Kings Beach attractions let you sign up for a fishing excursion to hook some trout or explore every beach.
Check out the listings below to see what Lake Tahoe attractions will pique your interest during your visit.
Lake Tahoe Attractions by Area
South Lake Tahoe | Truckee | Tahoe City & West Shore | Palisades Tahoe
Kings Beach & North Shore | Incline Village & Crystal Bay
Lake Tahoe Attractions by Category
Carnelian Beach West is a nice sandy beach on the west side of Sierra Boat Company, located in Carnelian Bay. The free public beach is a little more than...read more
Cave Rock is an esteemed part of Lake Tahoe. Considered sacred by the Washoe Indians, the 3 million-year-old rock formation is known as the Lady of the Lake...read more
Chambers Landing Beach is a small, pebbly beach next to the historic and iconic Tahoe fine-dining restaurant Chambers Landing on the west shore of Lake...read more
Chimney Beach is one of the more spectacular beaches on Lake Tahoe. Located 2.6 miles south of Sand Harbor on Highway 28, it tends to be a little quieter...read more
Chimney Beach, a little off the beaten path on the east shore of Lake Tahoe, is a favorite for locals. Usually less crowded than the more commercial beaches...read more
One of Truckee’s hidden gems sits atop Donner Summit at 7,000 feet. Clair Tappaan Lodge was constructed in 1934 by Sierra Club volunteers, and, just like...read more
Commons Beach is the community beach area and park for Tahoe City. A large grass space, public bathrooms, a children's outdoor jungle gym and swings as well...read more
Concerts at Commons Beach is a great evening outing for all ages and families. A grass amphitheater and beach host hundreds of people for this free, weekly...read more
Coon Street Dog Beach and Boat Launch is in Kings Beach. Situated at the corner of Coon Street and Highway 28, this rocky public beach is option for...read more
Creek Beach is in a succession of beaches along the same trail network that connects Chimney Beach, Secret Cove, Boaters Beach and Whale Beach. Creek Beach...read more
To understand the historical roots of the Tahoe area, one has to be aware of the ranching heritage of the nearby Carson Valley. The meadows of South Shore...read more
Desolation Wilderness is a designated protected wilderness area of pristine National Forest land within the Tahoe Basin and El Dorado County. Spanning...read more
