Fall for Lake Tahoe

Water Adventures on Lake Tahoe

Get Up, Stand-up! Rent a stand-up paddleboard at Kings Beach Recreational Area, a lively enclave surrounded by cool shops, restaurants, and plenty of places to rent kayaks and paddleboards. Even for beginners, stand-up paddleboarding is a fun way to explore Lake Tahoe. Stick close to shore to enjoy teal coves with giant boulders ideal for sunbathing.

Paddle from a State Park: Rent a kayak and explore Lake Tahoe from the east shore at Sand Harbor State Park. (Get an early start as the parking lot fills quickly.) This beach area has picnicking and day use facilities, along with kayak and paddleboard rental. Explore the clear waters accented by hulking boulders, with high-rising Mount Tallac across the way. Discover beach after beach and find tucked-away coves perfect for taking a quick dip.

 

Find Hidden Beach: It’s really called Hidden Beach! Located just south of Incline Village near Tunnel Creek Road, this secluded spot has limited parking, but early birds are treated to a sandy beach with rocky alcoves. Another picturesque beach you can hike to is Chimney Beach, named after a stone chimney that still stands on the lakeshore. This is a popular spot during summer, but late season and fall see fewer people. Bonus: Chimney Beach is dog-friendly!

Change Is Good: Change up your Lake Tahoe routine and make your weekend home base in Reno (aka the Biggest Little City in the World). It’s close to Tahoe’s shores and is quickly emerging as a hotspot for craft breweries, a lively river walk with restaurants, and Instagram-worthy Burning Man art installations.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Redwoods Star Power

    Go on a 5-mile (round-trip) redwoods hike that starts from Chabot’s Moon Gate entrance and through Dr. Aurelia Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park, then visit the Chabot Space and Science Center for a rooftop telescope star viewing or a space

    View
  2. Bike to Aardvark Beach

    Two wheels, a fresh sea breeze, birds, and a beach stop: now that's a California bike ride. Pack a beach blanket and set out on this 16-mile out-and-back pedal along the San Francisco Bay to Aardvark Beach.

    View
  3. Cheers to Chimney

    If you’re looking for all that Point Reyes has to offer in spring, Chimney Rock is the place to be. The 1.75-mile (round-trip) hike to Chimney may be short, but it packs a visual punch, quadrupling the viewing thrills during spring.

    View
  4. Woman on Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes at Death Valley National Park

    Starry Night & Dark Sky Adventures

    You don’t have to stay out all that late to experience eminent stargazing at Death Valley National Park. The park's been given the highest ranking of darkness by the International Dark Sky Association. From ranger-led to self-guided adventures, here are a few amazing ways to witness the mesmerizing night sky at Death Valley.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Garland in Bloom

    Carmel Valley is known for its quaint wineries and scenic hiking trails. Enjoy both on this 3.75-mile loop through Garland Ranch Regional Park.

    View
  2. Sponsored

    No Limits Family Trip: Reno Tahoe

    What if your next family getaway didn’t come with a set agenda—just the freedom to go where the day takes you? Find yourselves in Reno Tahoe, a land of no limits and plenty of outdoor bounty.

    View
  3. Can We Get a Whoop Whoop!

    City, mountain, and ocean views all in one hike? Whoop whoop! It’s no surprise the the Kenter Fire Road and Whoop-de-Doos Trail (a combo of fire road and singletrack) is a favorite among local mountain bikers and hikers alike.

    View
  4. Eat, Explore, Repeat: Point Reyes Station

    It’s small and laid-back, but Point Reyes Station is a standout gateway to Point Reyes National Seashore. Fresh food, cool culture, and an unfussy vibe are part of the draw.

    View