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Its clear, deep waters and year-round appeal make it a top choice for adventure and relaxation.
The summer heat is here. In fact, it’s downright sweltering in many parts of the U.S., and that means it’s high time to head to the water. Although this year, you may want to swap crowded beachfronts for a scenic lakeside retreat instead. And, according to the experts, Lake Tahoe is the gold standard in any season.
Straddling the California-Nevada border and sitting more than 6,000 feet above sea level, Lake Tahoe offers a stunning escape, thanks to its crisp blue waters surrounded by pine trees and mountain peaks. It also fosters a rich sense of adventure—you’ll find plenty of other visitors boating, paddle boarding, and kayaking around its banks. And with July high temperatures that typically hover under 80 degrees, you’re almost guaranteed a break from the stifling heat that overwhelms many other popular vacation spots this time of year.
“Lake Tahoe is perfect for travelers looking for that year-round appeal, crystal-clear water, incredible mountain scenery, and a wide range of outdoor activities, including everything from summer boating and hiking to winter skiing,” Tom Mannings, the co-founder of Top Villas, who has been organizing trips to the destination for more than 16 years, shared with Travel + Leisure. His must-see list starts at Emerald Bay State Park, which grants postcard-worthy views of the lake, along with Sand Harbor, known for its exceptionally clear water and granite boulders. On the East Shore Trail, an easy walking and biking route that traces the edge of the lake, every inch seems to get more beautiful than the last.
The Essential Guide to Visiting Lake Tahoe
And the water really is the main event. At 1,645 feet deep, Lake Tahoe is the second deepest lake in the U.S., yet its water is so clear that objects are visible at depths of up to 70 feet on a calm day. Getting out to explore its depths is simply a must.
“One experience I always recommend is renting a boat for the day,” Olivia Ferney, a luxury travel expert at Top Tier Travel, said. “Cruising around the shoreline, jet skiing, tubing, or anchoring in one of the lake’s crystal-clear coves” makes for the perfect day, she added. For those who want the full experience without having to source their own boat, Ferney suggests booking a stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, where the exclusive Lake Club on the North Shore provides beach access, waterfront dining, and a fleet of MasterCraft performance boats available for everything from wake surfing to scenic private charters. “For anyone looking for the perfect long weekend that blends adventure, relaxation, and luxury, Lake Tahoe is hard to beat,” she said.
Jen Ruiz, founder of travel platform Jen on a Jet Plane, just returned from her own trip to Lake Tahoe, and noted that she, too, found “no shortage of aquatic activities, from kayaking to boating.” Ruiz also appreciated the lake’s many laid-back hangout spots. “Kiva Beach is dog-friendly, and the Cocktail Corner has live music and skilled mixologists,” she said. “For a place to stay that’s reminiscent of the lodge in ‘Dirty Dancing,’ check out Zephyr Cove Resort.”
However, before you book, do remember that Tahoe is an alpine lake, which means the water stays chilly even at the height of summer, with temperatures low enough to cause cold-water shock. Prepare (and play) accordingly—favor shallower water for swimming, wear a life jacket, and always swim with a buddy.
With all these selling points, it’s no surprise that July and August bookings in Lake Tahoe tend to fill up quickly. Advance planning does pay off, though you can always hunt for a last-minute stay or a cancellation. And when you do score a room or rental, odds are you’ll earn rave reviews for your savvy trip-planning and crowd-pleasing destination pick. As Ferney said, “It offers the perfect combination of breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal getaway for everyone.”
Read the original article on Travel & Leisure
