Best Summer Activities in Lake Tahoe
Top summer activities in Lake Tahoe include paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming at Kings Beach and Commons Beach, hiking Shirley Canyon, biking Olympic Valley, and visiting Emerald Bay. Olympic Village Inn is the perfect base for it all.
Lake Tahoe in summer is magical. Blue waters, alpine peaks, and sunny days paired with cool evenings create the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. From paddleboarding to lakeside dining, Olympic Village Inn is where you can recharge between it all.
Why Visit Lake Tahoe in Summer?
Summer offers warm weather perfect for swimming, water sports, and outdoor fun. July brings mild days, crisp evenings, and long daylight hours—great for families, couples, and solo adventurers.
Paddleboarding & Kayaking on Clear Waters
Gliding across Lake Tahoe’s calm, clear blue water on a summer morning is unbeatable. Paddleboarding and kayaking let you explore hidden coves and scenic shores, and you can rent gear nearby to get started. Boat rentals are also available for exploring Lake Tahoe’s hidden coves.
Top spots:
Sand Harbor (great for day trips)
Sand Harbor Beach and Secret Cove are especially popular for kayaking. Paddleboarding is one of the most popular water activities in Lake Tahoe.
Both activities are beginner-friendly and fun for families or couples.
Best Beaches for Relaxing
North Lake Tahoe’s beaches are perfect for sunny days. Kings Beach offers a lively, family-friendly vibe, while Commons Beach is more laid-back, and some visitors plan a full beach day at Sand Harbor Beach for its turquoise waters and sandy shores. Hidden beaches provide quieter spots for relaxing. Enjoy swimming, picnics, and sunset strolls.
Baldwin Beach is a quieter option with clear water and a calm atmosphere.
Zephyr Cove Beach is popular for volleyball and sunset views, while Secret Cove is a more secluded cove known as a nude beach with stunning views.
Hiking the Tahoe Rim Trail & Outdoor Adventures
Explore trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs in the Sierra Nevada mountains. For stunning views, try:
Shirley Canyon Trail – waterfalls and granite vistas
Tahoe Rim Trail – panoramic lake and mountain scenery
Eagle Rock Trail – a short hike to a scenic overlook with panoramic views of Lake Tahoe
Eagle Falls Trail – a short, rewarding hike
Mount Rose Trail – a moderate hike to the third-tallest peak in the area at 10,780 feet
The Tahoe Rim Trail spans 166 miles around the lake. Emerald Bay State Park is known for breathtaking views, and Vikingsholm Castle was built there in 1928 in Scandinavian style.
Summer adds wildflowers and waterfalls to every step.
Biking Through Scenic Paths
Olympic Valley has paved paths for easy, family-friendly rides through mountain views. Adventurous riders can bike to Tahoe City, Kings Beach, or Truckee, each offering charm, shops, and dining.
Family-Friendly Summer Fun
Enjoy mini golf, nature walks, and spotting wildlife with the whole family. Summer also brings outdoor concerts and live music, plus farmers markets and festivals. Don’t miss local ice cream shops, boutique shopping, or scenic drives around the lake.
Dining with a View
After a day outdoors, unwind with lakeside dining. Waterfront restaurants and casual cafés serve fresh, local meals with stunning views, from sunny patios to sunset dinners.
Day Trips Around Lake Tahoe
Explore Tahoe City, Kings Beach, or historic Truckee. Emerald Bay State Park is a must-see, with breathtaking views and scenic overlooks. Vikingsholm Castle is a Scandinavian-style home built in 1928. The bay also features a small island with a tea house ruin. If you want a scenic hike in the area, the rubicon trail offers lake views and access to the quirky wooden Rubicon Point Lighthouse.
Why Stay at Olympic Village Inn?
After a day of adventure, Olympic Village Inn offers cozy, peaceful accommodations near beaches, trails, and activities. Its location makes it a favorite for families, couples, and groups.
Tips for Planning Your Getaway
What to pack:
Swimsuits, sunscreen, and water shoes
Hiking shoes and layers for cool evenings
Helpful tips:
A few insider tips can make busy summer days easier
Arrive early at popular beaches
Reserve paddleboard or kayak rentals ahead of time
Lake Tahoe’s average summer water temperature is 63°F, so plan accordingly for swimming or paddling
Check weather and trail conditions before heading out for up-to-date travel tips
Sample Three-Day Itinerary
1st Day: Arrive at Olympic Village Inn, explore Olympic Valley, and enjoy dinner in Tahoe City.
2nd Day: Paddleboard in the morning, then spend the afternoon relaxing at the beach before watching the sunset.
3rd Day: Hike a scenic trail, browse the farmers market, and wrap up your trip before heading home refreshed.
Make Summer Memories at Lake Tahoe
From paddleboarding and hiking to relaxing on beaches, Lake Tahoe is your summer escape. Olympic Village Inn offers the perfect base—book your stay and make unforgettable memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best summer activities in North Lake Tahoe? Paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming, hiking Shirley Canyon, and visiting Emerald Bay.
What’s the weather like in July? Warm, sunny days and cool evenings—perfect for outdoor fun.
What are the best beaches? Kings Beach for a laid-back vibe, plus plenty of dining and entertainment options, Commons Beach for relaxing, and hidden beaches for quieter options.
Is Lake Tahoe family-friendly in summer? Yes! Families love paddleboarding, swimming, easy hikes, mini golf, and seasonal events.
Where should I stay? Olympic Village Inn offers cozy accommodations close to North Lake Tahoe’s beaches and trails.