Emerald Bay and Vikingsholm Castle
The most photographed section of Lake Tahoe shoreline. Emerald Bay is framed by huge granite cliffs and Jeffrey pines. The steep mile-long trail from the highway to the lake ends at Vikingsholm Castle, a stunning Scandinavian mansion built in 1929. Tour the mansion, hike around and swim in the lake.
Taylor Creek Visitor Center
Tucked near the base of Mt. Tallac, the Taylor Creek Visitor Center explains the creek’s ecosystem and its relationship to Lake Tahoe. Especially interesting in October when the kokonee salmon leave the lake and spawn in the creek.
Squaw Valley USA
One of the country’s most comprehensive year-round resorts, Squaw Valley offers a plethora of winter sports along with seasonal golf, horseback riding, hiking, mountain climbing, swimming, ice skating and tennis. Cable car rides feature 360-degree views of Lake Tahoe.
Tahoe Maritime Museum
Commemorating the history of Lake Tahoe, the museum boasts a collection of boats going back to the 1890s. Housed in a new facility in Homewood, right across from the beach.
Best Entertainment
Tahoe Shakespeare Festival
Watch the sun sink into the lake and enjoy the Bard on the beach during the summertime Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival at Sand Harbor Beach near Incline Village. Picnic dinners available.