Planning a Lake Tahoe day trip in the summer? Whether you’ve been there before or this is your first time exploring Tahoe, you can have an adventure-packed day. Of course, there are so many places to see and explore that you can’t do everything in a single day. Nevertheless, one day in Lake Tahoe is enough to hike a little, swim a little, and gaze at the bluest lake water you’ve ever seen. Keep reading for my best tips for visiting Lake Tahoe in one day and the itinerary I’d use for a summertime Lake Tahoe day trip adventure!
Is the Drive Around Lake Tahoe Worth It?
Yes! While South Lake Tahoe might be the most popular tourist destination, you don’t want to miss what the rest of the lake has to offer. The drive around Lake Tahoe is 72 miles and takes about three hours if you don’t stop anywhere. But you’ll want to stop, explore, and take in some of the most beautiful sites you’ve ever seen. Even with one day in Lake Tahoe, you can have a magical time and see the entire thing.
Which Side of Lake Tahoe is Better?
Honestly, it depends on who you ask and what you enjoy. Personally, I think North Lake Tahoe has the most beautiful beaches and clearest blue waters. It’s breathtaking, and I haven’t found another part of the lake that beats it. However, South Lake Tahoe is definitely more lively and offers countless restaurants, shops, accommodations, and attractions.
The good news is that you can see both sides of the lake, even when you have one day in Lake Tahoe. Whether you start your Lake Tahoe day trip on the south shore or the north shore, you can see what both have to offer.
How Many Days Do You Need in Lake Tahoe?
You could spend months in Lake Tahoe and not see or experience everything the destination has to offer. However, giving yourself an entire week would provide plenty of time for diverse activities, rest, and relaxation. A long weekend would keep you busy but with less time in the car. Nevertheless, exploring Lake Tahoe in one day is totally worth it and doable if that’s all the time you have.
Can You Do Lake Tahoe in a Day?
Yes! Although the more time you spend in Tahoe, the more you’ll be able to see and do, a Lake Tahoe day trip still has much to offer. I recommend you start early and plan for a long, busy day to get the most out of your one day in Lake Tahoe.
Where to Go During a One Day Trip to Lake Tahoe
Sand Harbor Beach
- Crystal clear blue water featuring smooth boulders and unbeatable views
- Watercraft rentals available for an unforgettable adventure on the lake
- Come early if possible because the parking lot fills up quickly; you can also park for free on the side of the road and walk to the beach
Location: North shore, east side
Price: $20 parking fee; paddleboard/kayak rental fee varies
Hours to Spend: 1-4 hours
Secret Cove
- The clearest water you’ll see in Lake Tahoe
- 1-mile, relatively easy hike through a wooded area (get directions here)
- It takes about 30 minutes to get to Secret Cove
- Nudity is acceptable on Secret Cove beach (keep in mind if you’re bringing kiddos)
- You can paddleboard or kayak to Secret Cove from Sand Harbor beach; it’s about an 8-mile round-trip, so make sure you have lots of time and wear lots of sunscreen
Location: North shore, east side
Price: Free parking in a small lot or on the road nearby
Hours to Spend: 1-2 hours
Inspiration Point (Emerald Bay)
- One of the best vista points in the area, 600 feet above Lake Tahoe
- Accessible via paved walkways
- Views of Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay, Vikingsholm, and Fannette Island
- Hiking not required
Location: South shore, west side
Price: Free parking in a small lot (don’t park on the roadway)
Hours to Spend: 30 minutes-1 hour
Cascade Falls
- 1.4-mile out-and-back moderate hike (get directions here)
- Trailhead is located at the back of Bayview Campground, across from Inspiration Point
- It takes about 40 minutes to one hour to get to the falls, depending on your hiking speed
- Beautiful waterfall at the top with gorgeous views of the lakes below
Location: South shore, west side
Price: Free parking in Inspiration Point parking lot (don’t park on the roadway)
Hours to Spend: 2-4 hours
Base Camp Pizza
- The best pizza in South Lake Tahoe
- Gluten-free crust available, plus other delicious Italian dishes
- Located in the heart of south lake with shops to explore
Location: South Lake Tahoe
Price: Varies depending on what you order
Hours to Spend: 1 hour
Lake Tahoe Day Trip Summer Itinerary
There are so many amazing beaches, incredible hikes, and breathtaking views in and around Lake Tahoe that it’s impossible to experience everything on a one-day trip. Throw in the shopping, casinos, golf courses, and tourist attractions, and you’d be lucky to explore all Lake Tahoe offers in a week-long trip! Not to mention, a winter Lake Tahoe day trip is a whole different story–you have the ski resorts and lodges to consider exploring. However, if it were me, here’s how I would spend one day in Lake Tahoe in the summer.
7:00 AM: Arrive at Sand Harbor Beach
My one day trip to Lake Tahoe would start at 7:00 AM on the north shore. I’d arrive at Sand Harbor beach as soon as it opens to secure a parking spot and watercraft rentals. Personally, I’d take a paddleboard on the water, but you can rent other watercraft in the area. Or simply enjoy a nice swim in some of the clearest blue lake waters you’ll ever see.
I’d spend about two hours enjoying the beach without any watercraft and up to four hours if I had a paddleboard or kayak to venture on.
10:00 AM: Drive to Secret Cove Parking & Hike to Secret Cove
It’s a quick five-minute (tops) drive from Sand Harbor beach parking to a small parking lot where you can start your hike to Secret Cove. If there isn’t any parking available, you’ll see cars starting to line up on the roadway.
The nearly one-mile hike to Secret Cove will take about 30 minutes, and you’ll know once you make it. If you thought the water at Sand Harbor was beautiful, just wait until you see what the cove has to offer.
It’s definitely worth spending a few moments relaxing and enjoying the views. I’d spend one hour sun tanning on a beach towel and maybe finding a safe rock to jump off into the water. With the hiking trip, I’d spend two hours exploring this secret cove in Lake Tahoe.
12:00 PM: Drive to Emerald Bay State Park
Next, it would be time for lunch and a long drive down the east side of the lake. I’d pack some sandwiches and snacks to have lunch on the go. You can also pull out along the drive and find a nice place to eat your lunch with a view. If you’re exploring Tahoe on a weekday and you own a location independent business, it’s the perfect time to check emails. Either way, you’ll want to make it to Emerald Bay by 1:30 PM at the latest.
1:30 PM: Take in the Beauty of Inspiration Point
Because there is parking right next to Inspiration Point–Lake Tahoe’s infamous vista point, 600 feet above the lake–it’s relatively easy to get to and enjoy.
I’d spend about 15 minutes taking in the views before walking across the street to Bayview Campground. You can keep your car park at Inspiration Point while you hike Cascade Falls.
2:00 PM: Hike Cascade Falls
Make sure you bring lots of water and a snack for your hike to Cascade Falls. The hike will take 45 minutes to an hour, depending on how fast you go and if you’re traveling with little ones. As you make your way through the forest and up rocky pathways, you’ll come across Cascade Falls. Make sure to spend some time at the top of the falls and enjoy the fresh air and beautiful sites.
I’d spend at least 30 minutes to an hour enjoying the lookout views. With the hiking trip, I’d spend two and a half to three hours exploring the area.
5:00 PM: Drive into Town for a Delicious Dinner at Base Camp Pizza
Base Camp Pizza is a quick 25-minute drive back into town, and it is delicious. Plus, they sell more than just pizza, so there is truly something for everyone to enjoy. There is plenty of indoor and outdoor seating at the restaurant, but it’s popular, so you may have a short wait.
I’d sit back, relax, and savor every bite for up to two hours, depending on how long the wait is to be seated and get my food.
7:00 PM Where to Next?
With just about 12 hours of exploring Lake Tahoe in one day under your belt, it’s time to ask yourself, “Where to next?” Depending on where you’re staying for the night, it will probably be a good time to start your drive.
If you plan on staying in Lake Tahoe, I recommend booking an Airbnb in Tahoe City. It’s a beautiful town on the west side of Tahoe that isn’t included in my Lake Tahoe one day trip. If you spend the night there, you can enjoy a Lake Tahoe sunset and get one more look at the lake before taking off to your next destination the following day.
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If you’re heading toward Reno or Sacramento–two of the closest big cities–you’ll need two to three hours to get there, especially while driving in the dark. Be safe on those backroads, and keep an eye out for wildlife!
Alternative Lake Tahoe One Day Trip Itinerary
Lake Tahoe might be one of the most beautiful lakes, but it is definitely not one of the warmest. By starting your day trip at Sand Harbor beach, you will have to brace for cold waters. It’s not so bad if you’ll be on a watercraft, but if you plan on swimming, you may want to wait until the day warms up a bit. In that case, I’d start the morning at Inspiration Point and Cascade Falls. I’d then drive up the west side of the lake to get to Sand Harbor Beach and Secret Cove. I’d still end my day in South Lake Tahoe at Base Camp Pizza.
Lake Tahoe is One of My Favorite Destinations to Earn and Explore
Because I own a location independent business, I’m able to visit Lake Tahoe while making money on the road. And it’s one of my absolute favorite places to go! Whether you’re heading to Tahoe for a vacation or just passing through on your way to your next destination, it’s worth spending a day taking in the beautiful sights.
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