Lake Tahoe is a stunning alpine lake in the Sierra Nevada mountains, straddling the border between California and Nevada. Known for its crystal-clear blue water and dramatic mountain scenery, it’s one of the most popular natural destinations in the United States. We’ve visited Lake Tahoe a couple of times, most recently in 2023. Our first visit was in 2002, when we spent half a day exploring the eastern side of the lake.
Note – South Lake Tahoe, including Emerald Bay State Park, is located in California. Logan Shoals, on the eastern shore of the lake, is in Nevada.
- South Lake Tahoe (2023)
- Emerald Bay State Park
- Emerald Bay State Park, Vikingsholm
- Emerald Bay State Park, Fannette Island
- El Dorado Beach
- Lake Tahoe Eastern Shore (2002)
South Lake Tahoe – When we visited Lake Tahoe in May 2023, we stayed in the vibrant town of South Lake Tahoe, where our hotel room overlooked the lake. The weather was still cold, and many areas around Emerald Bay State Park was still covered in snow.
South Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay State Park – With its rugged shoreline and blue-green water, Emerald Bay is one of the most photographed places in the world.
South Lake Tahoe, Vikingsholm – Nestled at the head of the Emerald bay is Vikingsholm, a remarkable 38-room Scandinavian-style mansion built in 1929 and often called Tahoe’s hidden castle.
The mansion is accessible by a steep one-mile hike down to the shoreline. It is open for visiting and guided tours from June-September. With its natural beauty and cultural significance, Emerald Bay, along with Vikingsholm, is considered one of the crown jewels of Lake Tahoe.
The mansion was closed during our visit, and the trail leading down to it was still covered in snow. We had to settle for admiring it from afar.
South Lake Tahoe, Fannette Island – is the only island in Lake Tahoe and is accessible by boat, canoe, or kayak. The ruins of a small stone building stand on the island. The ruin is called the Tea House, constructed by Lora Josephine Knight, the former owner of Vikingsholm. There was no boats available to visit the island at the time of our visit in May.
South Lake Tahoe, El Dorado Beach – Our hotel was located within walking distance of this beach and is one of the area’s most accessible and popular lakeside spots. Known for its wide shoreline, calm waters, and beautiful mountain views, it’s a great place for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing by the water. The beach features picnic areas, restrooms, and a boat launch, making it convenient for families and visitors looking to enjoy a day by the lake.
Lake Tahoe Eastern Shore – We stopped at Logan Shoals Vista Point, conveniently located just off US Highway 50 on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe. The viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. We visited during peak winter, and the scenery was absolutely breathtaking.
