Favorite places to get outdoorsey in Tahoe?

1) Emerald Bay- If you have never been to Tahoe (or even if you have) Emerald Bay is a must see. It is a National Natural Landmark renowned for crystal blue waters, and has the only island in the lake. Check out historic Vikingsholm Castle along the Rubicon trail and take a dip!

There is a lookout worth seeing that does not require a hike and is still a great photo op!

2 &3) Eagle Lake and falls- above Emerald Bay and a ten minute ascent up beautiful stone stairs to the falls. Joe took Nicole past the falls to Eagle Lake for their third date. You will first pass the waterfalls about 1/4 mile up and if you continue, will get to a beautiful alpine lake above Lake Tahoe. We encourage you to try it if you are considering, and think its well worth the effort! Keep in mind that if you are not used to the elevation, the ascents might feel more challenging.

https://visitlaketahoe.com/things-to-do/hikes/hike-to-eagle-falls-eagle-lake-a-great-beginner-hike/

4) Rubicon Trail From Emerald Bay lookout, if you walk down Rubicon trail, you will find another beautiful dirt path that hugs the rim of the lake.

5) Eagle Rock- in Tahoe City, is a very short hike, and a 15 minute walk to a lookout point over Lake Tahoe. Joe proposed to Nicole here last March. About 30 minutes total out and back. Located in Tahoe City. This trail head is just about 15 minutes give or take from Palisades. *Close & short Tahoe option!

5) Shirley Lake & Canyon trail is a strenuous 4 mi hike that starts near the base of Palisades, meanders alongside a flowing river and goes up to Shirley lake, and continues upward to "High Camp" where you can take the tram back down. If you are just up for a river stroll and maybe a river dip close to the venue, the challenging ascents and steep climbs are after the first mile and you can still enjoy a mellow out and back walk without going all the way to High Camp.

1) Sugarpine Point State Park has stunning beaches with great swimming spots in crystal clear turquoise water. Located 30 minutes from Palisades on the west shore, and on the way to Emerald Bay. This is Nicole's favorite and she thinks its worth the trek for a beach day.

2)The Tahoe City Commons has a playground for kids and is the convenient for proximity option.

3) DL Bliss- near Emerald Bay offers campsites on the west shore of Tahoe as well. This is Joe's favorite beach though it may be closed for construction projects June 2025

4) Sand Harbor is a highly visited state park that is a bit further, closer to 45 minutes away. Also beautiful but likely crowded this time of year.

4) Secret Cove not too far away from sand harbor is one of the most beautiful beaches on the lake. It is a nude beach, so there's your heads up!

There are several restaurants situated right on the lake. Here are some favorites of ours:

1) Sunnyside -Tahoe City

2)Za's Lakefront-Tahoe City

3) Christy Hill-finer dining in Tahoe City

4)Garwoods- Carnelian Bay

These are Nicole and Joe's recommendations though there are others in the Tahoe City Marina are also just fine!