UNIQUE THINGS TO DO IN LAKE TAHOE

Lake Tahoe is a major travel bucketlist destination, and it’s not hard to see why. You’ve got the beautiful Sierra Nevada mountains, the crystal-clear lakes, and plenty of fresh air—it’s everything you’d want in a holiday. 


But, there's so much more to Tahoe than just the usual recreational outdoor activities. While these are undoubtedly fun, Lake Tahoe will keep surprising you no matter how many times you visit—as long as you know where to look. 


If you're planning a trip and want to go beyond the usual tourist spots, here are some unique things you can do that might not be on everyone’s radar. This is great to consider during peak seasons!

A group of people are kayaking on a lake.

1. Stargazing at Castle Peak


The night sky at Lake Tahoe will leave you in awe of the sky. Because of the area’s lack of city lights, the stars get their chance to shine. Head up to 6,400 feet at Castle Peak with a blanket, or join the guided stargazing tours where they bring telescopes and point out constellations. This is one of those experiences you don’t get anywhere else when you live in the city.

The milky way is visible over a city at night.

2. Dive into the Underwater Trail


Most people don’t realize you can also scuba dive in Lake Tahoe—let alone follow an underwater trail. The Emerald Bay Maritime Heritage Trail at Lake Tahoe is a 1-2 hour dive at 10 to 60 feet (depending on your experience level) that explores the old shipwrecks from the early 1900s. This watercraft collection is also one of the the largest in the nation. It’s an activity that offers both history and adventure.

A scuba diver is swimming in the ocean near a coral reef.

3. Bike the Flume Trail


If you’re not into the water, hit the Flume Trail on two wheels. This might not be ideal for beginner bikers as it can get steep along the way. But if you’re a biking fan or cyclist, the views make it worth it. Get to ride along the cliffside with views of the lake—you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world.

A man is riding a bike down a path in the woods.

4. Touring Vikingsholm Castle


Take a tour of the Scandinavian-style mansion tucked away in Emerald Bay, Vikingsholm. While the architecture alone is already impressive, it has been packed with history since the 1920s.


Vikingsholm was built in 1929 by heiress Lora Josephine Knight as her summer home. Get to learn about the times of the early 20th century and her contributions to aviation and philanthropy. 


The castle is also a stunning example of traditional Scandinavian architectural methods using sod roofs and wood carvings. 


The surrounding views of Emerald Bay make it a perfect photography spot and a place for nature walks. You can also go on picnics and visit the Knight’s “Tea House” in Fannette Island.

A large stone house is surrounded by trees in the middle of a forest.

5. Snowshoeing to Sand Harbor


If you’re looking for something a little more relaxed compared to skiing, try snowshoeing down to Sand Harbor. It is a quiet spot to take in the snow-capped winter views.

A person wearing a pair of snowshoes in the snow

6. Hot Air Balloon Ride Over the Lake


Starting to see how Tahoe has it all? On land, underwater, and even up in the air! This one is for the early risers. Taking a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Lake Tahoe is surely a unique experience. Rise up on a hot air balloon as the sun rises, and get a bird’s-eye view of the mountains and colors over the lake.

A yellow hot air balloon is flying over a lake with mountains in the background.

7. Geocaching in Tahoe


If you’ve never tried geocaching before, Tahoe might just be the best place to start. Geocaching is basically a treasure hunt, where you use GPS coordinates to find the geocache or “caches” (container) in the area. It’s a fun way to explore spots you wouldn’t usually go to, and it adds a little adventure to your trip, especially if you’re traveling with the little ones.

A woman is holding a small blue object in her hand in the woods.

8. Renting a Transparent Kayak


A transparent kayak takes kayaking to another level, especially in Tahoe! The water in Lake Tahoe is so clear that you can see everything from the bottom of your boat. It will make you feel like you’re floating right on top of the lake. This activity is best done in early morning when the light is soft and water is still.

A young boy is paddling a clear kayak in the ocean.

9. Tasting Local Brews and Wines


After a day of outdoor activities, relaxing with a local craft beer or wine is a perfect way to unwind. Tahoe has some great breweries and wineries that offer tastings. South Lake Brewing Company is a good spot if you’re into craft beers, and there are several wineries in the area that offer some great local flavors. It’s a nice way to end your day, especially if you’re looking to try something new. For adults only, of course!

Four glasses of beer are sitting on a table next to a bowl of nuts.

10. The Kempa Collection


For a more luxurious and exclusive accommodation experience, check out the Kempa Collection. This high-end vacation villa in Lake Tahoe offers everything you could want—personalized service, easy access to activities, chef services, and spa treatments, all in the privacy of your own space. It gives hotels a run for their money. If you’re in Tahoe, you surely want a break, and with Kempa Tahoe, you get that and even more. The villa is a vacation in and of itself!


Even if you’ve been to Lake Tahoe a few times, know that there’s always something new to experience. Whether you’re underwater, up in the air, hitting the road, or at your very own villa, Tahoe has a way of surprising you—again and again.

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