Best Lake in California!
South Lake Tahoe is located on California–Nevada state line, in the breathtaking Sierra Nevada Mountains. This lake is considered one of the most beautiful and cleanest lakes in California.
July is my hubby's birthday month which means adventure time! Both of us have never been to Lake Tahoe which is perfect for his birthday celebration. We were a bit hesitant about going due to COVID but we checked on their website and all is well, South Lake Tahoe is reopening. Just keep in mind to keep your mask on and stay 6 feet distance apart. I have here some information on how to get to Lake Tahoe and what things to do in South Lake Tahoe in this pandemic season. Let’s go!
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Travel Tips
- For flights, Skyscanner is excellent for comparing the best airline deals.
- For accommodations, our family trusts Booking.com for reasonable prices.
- Organize your trips easily with a Travel Planner.
- For tried-and-true travel and hiking gear, check out our Amazon Storefront.
Drive
Travel time from Los Angeles to South Lake Tahoe: 7 hours and 30 minutes
The drive was far and it was just me and my husband, as two of his friends backed out due to work-related matters. This was my first long drive where I was not just the passenger and it was fun for me. I realized I love driving for 3 straight hours as it puts me in a state of zen. We packed our breakfast, snacks, and water ahead of time to ensure we didn't have long stopovers aside from filling our tanks and going to the bathroom.
South Lake Tahoe Reopening
Where To Stay
- Check-in: Bluelake Inn @ Heavenly Village
- Address: 944 Friday Avenue, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
- 3 days, 2 nights: 606.32 USD (with breakfast)
All the hotel prices were high so try to avoid the peak season. Normally, they charge less than 300 USD for 2 nights. The great location, cleanliness, and walking distance to restaurants, grocery stores, even souvenir shops and breakfast make up it all, they provide free access to Lakeside Beach which is just 10 minutes away.
Where To Go: Lake Tahoe Beaches nearby
Parking is a challenge in Lake Tahoe, especially during peak seasons. Good thing we have our bikes with us as it really saves us time. Biking from Bluelake Inn to Lakeside Beach was easy and breezy it only took us less than 5 minutes to get there, make sure you bring your beach chairs as tents are not allowed for now.
Lakeside Beach
Address: 4081 Lakeshore Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
It was a refreshing trip away from the bustling city of Los Angeles. The kind of trip that makes you forget about COVID and all the struggles in life. We were at the moment enjoying the cold waters of Lake Tahoe and getting all that sunshine goodness in.
It wasn't that crowded considering it's one of Lake Tahoe's peak season and the upcoming 4th of July celebration. There is a Kayak rental inside the beach premises if you're interested.
Address: 4041 Lakeshore Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Contact number:(530) 541-9800
Beach Retreat & Lodge at Tahoe
Address: 3411 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
This is another nearby beach with Kayak rentals, no reservations needed which is a bummer as we can't plan out our day ahead. We wanted to do some water activities but our main priority was exploring the mountains of Lake Tahoe so maybe next time when we have more days to spare.
If not for COVID you can go kayaking, snorkeling, and join boat tours at any time. Some kayak and boat rentals are open but it's on a first-come-first-served basis, and if you have your own kayak or boat that makes things easier too.
Where to go Sightseeing
Emerald Bay Main View Point
Address: Emerald Bay Rd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
From Bluelake Inn @ Heavenly Village to Emerald Bay Main View Point is around 30 minutes drive. We parked close to the lookout, a small space on the side of the road close to this rock barrier.
The drive heading to the lookout was beautiful, with luscious greeneries, tall trees, and delicious fresh air. Make sure to drive slowly as the road gets narrow as you make your way up the mountain. We passed by Camp Richardson and Inspiration Point along the way. This lookout shows an amazing panoramic view of Emerald Lake.
Inspiration Point (Emerald Bay)
Address: South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
The inspiration point is an overlooking view of the lake and Tahoe's historical castle. There's a restroom available which is perfect if you're planning to park your vehicle there and start your hike.
If you're planning to hike this is a good spot for parking, across from Inspiration Point is Bayview Campground which is the main entry point to Cascade Falls Hiking Trail or Bayview Hiking Trail. Further down the road from Inspiration Point are two other trails that lead to Vikingsholm Castle or Eagle Falls Lake.
Where to go Hiking: Hike Maggie's Peak
The hike to Maggie's Peak starts at the end of Bayview Campground. This is the most scenic hike I've ever done in California.
This is our most challenging hike together but we had so much fun. We did a lot of water breaks and rest periods during the hike. Don't forget to look back and enjoy the view as this hike shows a splendid view of Granite Lake and good-looking trees.
What else to do in Lake Tahoe...COVID times
Massage
Touch of Asia Massage
Address: 3444 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Contact number: +15306000249
After a long day of hiking and exploring, we found a place to unwind. We were lucky enough to get a spot for that day as they needed reservations. The massage price is reasonable and they have great masseuse. There's limited parking so make sure to ask if there's one available.
Where to Eat
Tep's Villa Roma Italian Restaurant
Address: 3450 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
This restaurant was situated conveniently right beside the massage parlor. After a relaxing massage, we simply moved our car to the restaurant's parking area and ordered our food. The lasagna was mouthwatering, I highly recommend it! It brought me back to the most delectable Lasagna experience I've ever had at Amalfi Coast in Italy.
Ice cream @ Beach House
Address: 4081 Lakeshore Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
What more can we do to end our day? Get ice cream! The beach house is located near the entrance of Lakeside Beach where we just walked this time around from our inn. It was a tasty treat while waiting for the sunset.
Watch the Sunset
We watched the sunset by the lake in Lakeside Beach. I didn't get a good shot of the sunset as I was engrossed staring at it and enjoying the end of the day celebrating my husband's birthday trip.
Make sure to check the latest update at Tahoe South Blog before driving to your destination.
Have fun and be safe ^__^
Do you want more adventure?
If you still have one more day to spare why not go to Castaic Lake, California.
Where am I going next?
My next adventure is Hiking Maggie's Peak, one of South Lake Tahoe's best hiking trail in California.
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