Things to do in Emerald Bay

Activities, attractions and tours

Emerald Bay Lake Tahoe, California
Emerald Bay Lake Tahoe, California
Emerald Bay Sunset
Emerald Bay Lake Tahoe, California
High angle view of Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe, Nevada, USA
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Top places to visit

1. Heavenly Ski Resort

Heavenly Mountain Resort lives up to its name; it is the place to be in Lake Tahoe in winter. This is the biggest ski resort in the area, with the highest peak, the longest vertical drop, some of the best terrain parks, and the best views. Thanks to its rocky trails and lakeside location, it offers plenty of activities in summer too. Daredevils, partygoers and nature lovers flock here year-round.
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Heavenly Ski Resort featuring a lake or waterhole, landscape views and snow

2. Palisades Tahoe

Head to Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows for a stellar ski experience ideal for snow lovers of all abilities. The resort’s highly coveted terrain and conditions attract Olympian Jonny Moseley, among other celebrity skiers year-round.
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Squaw Valley Resort showing mountains, tranquil scenes and snow

3. Heavenly Gondola

The Heavenly Gondola provides some of Lake Tahoe’s most staggering vistas. Hop in the gondola cabin and rise slowly for 2.4 miles (3.9 kilometers) up the mountainside as you watch over brilliant blue lake waters and dense green forests. In winter, pristine white snow blankets the landscape. Enjoy views from the Observation Deck, have drinks or a meal in the café and discover hiking trails, zip lines and varied family adventure activities.
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Heavenly Mountain Gondola showing a gondola, wildflowers and a hotel

4. Emerald Bay State Park

Declared a National Natural Landmark in 1969, Emerald Bay is surrounded by snow-capped peaks that are a stark contrast to the cobalt-blue water of the lake. It’s no wonder that photographers, hikers and other nature lovers flock here year-round.
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Emerald Bay State Park showing general coastal views

5. Zephyr Cove Beach

Zephyr Cove is the ideal place for a peaceful summer getaway. Its long beach is a pleasant place for sunbathing, and there are plenty of activities on the lake and in the nearby mountains to keep you entertained for a weekend.
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Zephyr Cove Beach showing a beach as well as a small group of people

What to do in Emerald Bay

Popular places to visit

South Lake Tahoe featuring forests, hiking or walking and a bridge

Eagle Falls Trail

Explore the great outdoors at Eagle Falls Trail and enjoy the mountain views during your trip to Tahoma. Make time for the casinos and ski slopes in this walkable area.

Eagle Falls Trail
The dock of the Hellman-Ehrman Mansion on the shore of Lake Tahoe in Sugar Pines Point State Park. The lake is magical in itself, but sitting there enjoying the entirety of the scenery is breath-taking. The mansion tour is US $12 and a very nice docent led exploration. The grounds have a lot to see as it is a part of a larger state park. Cheaper than the Vikingsholm tour nearby and much less crowded.

Hellman-Ehrman Mansion

You can spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in Hellman-Ehrman Mansion during your trip to Tahoma. Make time for the casinos and ski slopes in this walkable area.

Hellman-Ehrman Mansion

Meeks Bay Trailhead

You can take time to visit Meeks Bay Trailhead during your travels to Meeks Bay.

Meeks Bay Trailhead

Calawee Cove Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Calawee Cove Beach during your trip to Tahoma? Stroll along the lakeside or seek out the hiking trails.

Calawee Cove Beach

Rubicon Trailhead North

You can take time to visit Rubicon Trailhead North during your travels to Tahoma. Wander the lakeside and parks in the area.

Rubicon Trailhead North

Lester Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Lester Beach during your trip to Tahoma? Amble around the area's lakeside or seek out its hiking trails.

Lester Beach
Emerald Bay State Park showing general coastal views

South Lake Tahoe

Frequently asked questions

Is Emerald Bay worth visiting?
From shopping to history and outdoor activities, there are many interesting things to do in Emerald Bay. Remember to enjoy the area's blend of unmissable sights, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Emerald Bay?
After you've checked off the key attractions, spend some time enjoying the retail and food scene in Emerald Bay.
What is the top tourist attraction in Emerald Bay?
Plan your perfect getaway by browsing our list of cheap tours, family-friendly activities and other fantastic things to do in Emerald Bay.
Is three days enough to stay in Emerald Bay?
Three days is enough for a quick trip to Emerald Bay — you'll tick off the main attractions and get a good idea of the local vibe. But if you truly want to soak it all in, plan at least a week or more to explore some hidden gems too.
What are some activities to do in Emerald Bay with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes all the difference. Check out our ideas for what to do in Emerald Bay with kids.

What to do in Emerald Bay for adults?
From incredible food and cultural gems to thrilling activities and one-of-a-kind experiences, there are many fascinating things to do in Emerald Bay for adults.
Are there free things to do in Emerald Bay?
You don't need to spend piles of cash to enjoy a memorable holiday here. There are plenty of fun things to do in Emerald Bay for the budget-conscious visitor. Stroll through the parks, soak up the vibes at free events and festivals or ask for ideas from a local tour guide.