South Lake Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe, CA, 96150
From the lakeside trails of Emerald Bay State Park to the year-round trails of Heavenly Mountain Resort, South Lake Tahoe is an outdoor playground—one that comes with the region’s widest array of places to gamble, eat, and stay. In summer months, visitors flock to the sandy, swimmer-friendly shorefront at Pope Beach and Zephyr Cove, while winters draw skiers to slopes with sweeping views of the deep blue lake.
The Basics
South Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination with a particular appeal to outdoor enthusiasts. In summer, an extensive network of walking paths, bike trails, and campsites offer myriad ways to enjoy the lake and its surrounding forests, including Emerald Bay State Park (just a few miles north of town). In winter, skiers and snowboarders flock to the region to experience some of California’s best ski resorts, including Heavenly and Squaw Valley. For something even more serene, strap on a pair of snowshoes and take an off-the-beaten-path winter hike through the fresh powder.
Things to Know Before You Go
South Lake Tahoe is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure travelers.
South Lake Tahoe is larger, and packed with more amenities, than Truckee or Tahoe City.
Don’t forget to pack comfortable shoes—ones suitable for walking on uneven surfaces.
For unmatched views of the lake, book a Lake Tahoe circle tour.
If you’re driving through the area in winter, remember that tire chains are sometimes required.
How to Get There
The nearest airport is Reno-Tahoe International, located 58 miles (93 kilometers) north. If you don’t have a car, catch the South Tahoe Express Bus from the airport to the Heavenly Gondola. Or, fly into San Francisco International Airport take the scenic 3.5-hour drive.
When to Get There
The best time to visit South Lake Tahoe? That depends on what you like to do. Non-skiers tend to enjoy the area in early fall and late spring, when the crowds are thinner, the prices are lower, and the weather is consistently beautiful.
Choosing a Shore
Lake Tahoe has a large perimeter, and each shore offers something unique. The south shore, near South Lake Tahoe, shines for its gambling and entertainment, easy access to ski resorts like Heavenly, and abundant, affordable accommodations. North Lake Tahoe, on the other hand, is dotted with vacation rentals and luxury resorts, and the eastern and western banks, which have less commercial activity, are good choices for a rugged wilderness escape.
Ways to explore
Though many travelers use South Lake Tahoe as a base camp for exploring the entire region, there’s plenty to do within easy reach of the town itself. Popular outings include cruises aboard the M.S. Dixie II paddleboat that cruises out of Zephyr Cove, or trips to Vikingsholm Castle within Emerald Bay State Park. At any time of year, the Heavenly Gondola at Heavenly Ski Resort leads to panoramic vistas at the Observation Deck. After dark, the scene heats up with gambling and nightlife at a lineup of casinos along the South Lake Tahoe main drag.
Accessibility
South Lake Tahoe has many wheelchair-accessible attractions, including the Heavenly Gondola, beaches, and some trails.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Sun protection, bathing suit, hiking shoes
What to wear
Given South Lake Tahoe’s mountain weather, layered clothing is a must in every season.
Not allowed
Fireworks and campfires are often limited or banned in Lake Tahoe, due to fire danger.
Amenities
Visitor center, equipment rentals
AddressÂ
South Lake Tahoe is located at the southern edge of Lake Tahoe, on Highway 50. The nearest airport is Reno-Tahoe International, located 58 miles (93 kilometers) north.
Driving
To reach South Lake Tahoe from Sacramento, travel east on Highway 50 for 103 miles (166 kilometers).
Public transportation
Amtrak maintains a bus stop in South Lake Tahoe, with service to the train station in Sacramento. Shuttle buses link the Reno-Tahoe airport with South Lake Tahoe hotels and attractions.
Best times to visit
Popular trails and beaches can fill up during high season, so plan to arrive first thing to secure prime spots.
Best days to visit
Come during the week to enjoy South Lake Tahoe’s quieter side, absent the weekend crowds.
Best months to visit
Visit South Lake Tahoe in September to enjoy still-summery weather with quieter trails. The ski season generally lasts from November through April, with prime conditions arriving in January and February.
Special events
Summer in South Lake Tahoe brings the free weekly concert season Live at Lakeview, as well as the Shakespeare Festival (July–August). Snow-season highlights include December’s Festival of Winter Lights.
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