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Summer is coming to an end soon in Lake Tahoe, and while everyone is looking forward to the winter snow it would be a shame to miss out on the best of what summer has to offer. From a spa day to a simple quiet afternoon at the beach, here are a few of the more pleasant activities that visitors might enjoy before the ski season finally kicks in.
1 - Jump in the Lake
With a surface elevation of 6,225 ft, Lake Tahoe gets pretty cold in the winter time, but it the summer the water is both cool and refreshing. August and September are the warmest months, with the water temperature at about 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The water is famous for its clarity and beauty as well. On a good day, visitors can see as far as 75 feet deep!
2 - Go Boating
If the water is a bit too nippy for a swim, water lovers can still enjoy gazing into the Lake's crystal blue depths and cool breezes from a boat. With 193 square miles of lake to explore and easily accessible boat launches, the day will be exciting and interesting for everyone. Fishing reaches a new level here. After all, how many times does one actually get to see the fish as they swim deep under the surface or watch as they take the hook?
HINT: Find a list of boat rental companies here - http://www.tahoesbest.com/boating
3 - See a Concert
Whether it's a small, intimate concert or a larger venue, Lake Tahoe is the place to be. This is a popular touring location for some of the best big name acts. Don't overlook the locals as well. Local bluegrass favorite Dead Winter Carpenters always packs the house when they come home, and there are free concerts at the beaches all summer long.
HINT: Find a list of upcoming shows here - http://www.tahoesbest.com/Calendar
4 – Picnic
There are literally dozens of free and fee beaches around the lake where picnickers can enjoy a breath of fresh air and sunshine with their lunch. Don't forget to soak up some natural Vitamin D for dessert!
5 - Drive Around the Lake
Locals don't advise a drive around the lake in winter as parts of the road can be icy, dangerous or just plain closed, so summertime is the best chance to see the lake from every beautiful angle. It's only 72 miles around the lake, but the drive is sure to take several hours. Put on a favorite CD and see everything the road has to offer from century-old mansions to the Emerald Bay Lookout. Read our list of favorite stops around the Lake.
6 - Spend the Day at the Beach
Lake Tahoe has beaches for everyone. Pet friendly beaches are a great way to take man's best friend out for a frolic. Kids will love building castles in the soft sand and clear water at the kid friendly beaches. Those that prefer an all over bronze with no tan lines will love Lake Tahoe's nude beaches as well.
7 - Go Hang Gliding
There is no experience as grand as seeing the lake in all its glory from the sky. Hang gliding lessons are available for novices and those who chose to learn hang gliding with an expert can even rack up FAA flight training hours while having some fun. Try Hang Gliding Tahoe for the ultimate experience.
8 - Eat at Sunnyside
Catch lunch with a beautiful view or make dinner reservations at Sunnyside Restaurant & Lounge. Their Hula Pie, made of macadamia nut ice cream, chopped macadamia nuts, hot fudge and whipped cream served in a chocolate cookie pie crust, is worth the visit alone.
9 - Drink Some Chambers Punch
Locals come by car or boat to enjoy Chambers Landing Bar and Saloon and their delectable (and highly alcoholic) Chambers Punch. The cozy atmosphere and friendly crowd keeps visitors coming back for more. Don't forget to grab a bite to eat. Their burgers and fries are great.
10 - Treat Yourself to a Spa Day
Nothing says decadence like a relaxing day at the spa. There are many spas, including spa treatment resorts, which offer full body pampering. Enjoy detoxifying body wraps, facials, exfoliating scrubs, foot rejuvenation, and microdermabrasion for a new look. After a rejuvenating treatment, enjoy a night on the town to show off the results!
HINT: Find a full list of day spas here - http://www.tahoesbest.com/weddings/massage.htm
11 - Go Golfing
Lake Tahoe's golf courses are unique for their awe inspiring scenery. And every golfer can find a course that suits their handicap, whether nestled at the base of imposing mountains or surrounded by towering pines. Try the golf course at the Resort at Squaw Creek for a challenging course.
12 - Go on a Tahoe Rim Trail Hike (tahoerimtrail.org)
The Rim Trail is a 165 mile long trail that follows the ridge tops of the basin. This trail crosses through six counties, two states and has a view that is nothing short of awe-inspiring. The Tahoe Rim Trail Association offers a ton of free day hikes and trips, so be sure to check their schedule to find upcoming events
13 - Go for Day Hike
There are many other places to hike in the basin ranging from gentle walks to difficult mountain slopes, all of them teaming with wildlife and beautiful scenery.
14 - Rent a Kayak
One of the most interesting things about kayaking in Lake Tahoe is the view down. On a gentle day, close to the shore, a boater can see all the way to the bottom of the lake, as clear as if they were looking through glass. In fact, a photo taken might show their shadow at the bottom of the lake and give the appearance that they are suspended over nothing but thin air
15 - Bike Around
Not surprisingly, there is a very active biking community at this lake. The urge to go on adventures through the area's numerous trails is almost irresistible. Visitors are likely to see many friendly locals enjoying the paths who are happy to give tips for the best ride or even join in to give a mini tour. For bike rentals in North Lake Tahoe use Factory Bike in Squaw Valley, and for rentals in South Lake Tahoe try Anderson’s Bicycle Rental.
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