People flock to Lake Tahoe for water sports in the crystal clear waters. South Lake Tahoe water sports include waterskiing, wakeboarding, paddling, boating, fishing, Jet Skiing, parasailing, sailing, standup paddleboarding and more. If you’re going to get in the lake for swimming or any other activity, just be prepared for cold water. In summer the surface temperature of the lake is around 63 degrees, but just 18 inches deep the temperature can drop by 10 degrees, causing cold-shock response if you’re not careful. Experts advise easing into the water slowly, wearing a wetsuit if possible, wearing a personal flotation device, looking for underwater obstacles, paying attention to watercraft and watching children at all times. Check these listings for all you need to know about South Lake Tahoe water sports and have fun on the water!
Featured for Your Visit
CA Highway 89, South Lake Tahoe, CA
DL Bliss State Park is a culmination of absolute Tahoe beauty in the form of stunning turquoise water, old-growth forests and giant cartoon-like granite boulders that balance themselves like toys in amazing ways. There are multiple hiking trails that lead from the park, giving plenty of opportunities to enjoy the splendor that outdoor Tahoe has to offer, and you'll find several good dive spots here too. To help enjoy the area even more, there are 150 regular campsites and one group site, all having easy access to the water via various points around the park. The park is also good for dogs as long as they're on a leash at all times and not on the trails. If you're coming to the park for day use only it is highly advised that you come early, as the park tends to be very busy and parking is limited. The park does not allow day use visitors once the parking lots are full. The park closes in the winter, although access to trails is still available. Visitors should remember to pack it in and pack it out and to leave no trace.
DL Bliss State Park is a culmination of absolute Tahoe beauty in the form of stunning turquoise water, old-growth forests and giant cartoon-like granite boulders that balance themselves like toys in amazing ways. There are multiple hiking trails that lead from the park, giving plenty of opportunities to enjoy the splendor that outdoor Tahoe has to offer, and you'll find several good dive spots here...read more
DL Bliss State Park is a culmination of absolute Tahoe beauty in the form of...read more
Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park
East Shore Water Sports
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 than other beaches that are accessed via car as it is a bit of a hike to get to it. The mile-plus hike starts out to the right of the free parking area, with a steep...read more
Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park
East Shore Water Sports
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 is the third beach that one comes to after passing Secret Cove. To access the beach, park at the free public parking 2.6 miles south of Sand Harbor on Highway 89. Take the single track down a steep hill...read more
The south and east shores of Lake Tahoe span two different states and three different counties and exhibit physical attributes more diverse than one might imagine. This area contains the lake's one and only island and a native Washoe spiritual site. It contains a cove known for its afternoon winds and beaches known for their shallow shorelines and gentle slopes. The south...read more
Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park is a park system found on the east shore of Lake Tahoe. With six different management units that total 14,301 acres, the park protects miles of dense Tahoe forest and beautiful sandy and rocky beaches. Within the park are the swimming areas of Sand Harbor, Chimney Beach, Hidden Beach, Secret Cove, Creek Beach, Boaters Beach and Whale Beach as well...read more
South Lake Tahoe Water Sports
Lake Tahoe Pontoon is your connection to discovering Big Blue in the comfort of your own boat. Offering pontoon rentals that are fantastic for lounging, water skiing, tubing or any other water activity, Lake Tahoe Pontoon is a family-owned business that prides itself in sharing the love of the water. The 200 HP Yamaha SHO rental comes with a double Bimini top, 24 feet of...read more
South Lake Tahoe Water Sports
Lakeside Beach is a lovely stretch of Tahoe sand. Although it caters to homeowners and the clientele of many of the South Shore motels and vacation rentals, any visitor can purchase a daily pass at the gate. The beach boasts playground equipment, and visitors can play volleyball, sit at picnic tables and rent boats, Jet Skis and other water-activity equipment at the adjacent Lakeside Marina....read more
South Lake Tahoe Water Sports
Lakeside Marina is a full-service facility on the California side of the state line. It has a paved launch ramp, floating docks and a fuel station. Rentals available at the marina include power boats, kayaks, paddle boats, paddleboards and Jet Skis. The marina is adjacent to Lakeside Beach and is a stop on the South Shore water taxi to Camp Richardson. Dining is available seasonally...read more
South Lake Tahoe Water Sports
Local Tahoe Adventures is a one-stop-shop for standup paddleboard (SUP) and snorkel rentals, boat cruises and SCUBA charters. They also offer free delivery of kayaks and standup paddleboards right to your preferred destination, spanning from Tahoma to Zephyr Cove. Their range of inflatable and hard-shell kayaks as well as paddleboards caters to specific preferences and skill levels. Add a mask and snorkel to any
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South Lake Tahoe Water Sports
Lake Tahoe and world-class fishing go hand in hand. If you're ready to catch the biggest fish possible, then a sure bet is organizing a fishing excursion with Mile High Fishing Charters. This is a local company owned and operated by Tahoe natives who know the best fishing spots in Lake Tahoe, and they guarantee their clients an exceptional trip. Their boats are the state-of-the-art KingFisher Offshore 26’...read more
South Lake Tahoe Water Sports
Pope Beach, a part of the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, is a wonderful place to spend the day with or without kids. The $10 (subject to change) per vehicle fee and pet prohibition keep some folks away, so it tends to not be as crowded as some other Tahoe beaches. Visitors can make use of picnic tables and restrooms are available. Although there...read more
The Lake Tahoe region boasts many rushing rivers that are great for whitewater rafting trips. If you are looking for a guide service with years of experience, look no further than Raft California. Known for offering more whitewater rafting trips in California and the West than any other outfitter, this highly reputable and family-owned company has been running commercial rafting trips since 1978. Join Raft California...read more
East Shore Water Sports
Round Pines is a great beach for those who like a lot going on but also like a beach that is tucked away. Not only does it have a deli and a bar, but it also has a wonderful selection of available water-activity rentals, including boats, Jet Skis, kayaks, paddleboards and pedal boats. Visitors can also choose to go parasailing, play volleyball, swim in the...read more