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Before you go
Your trip to South Lake Tahoe.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
South Lake Tahoe – California Destination Lake Tahoe
How to get there
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Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) Reno · 95 km
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Sacramento International Airport (SMF) Sacramento · 165 km
Approximate distances. Check flights and bus, train or boat schedules before you travel.
Reno–Tahoe International Airport (RNO) is about 95 km away via mountain roads. Sacramento (SMF) is about 165 km via US-50. The local airport has no regular commercial flights. Buses connect the town with Reno and Sacramento.
How many days
One to two days: one for Emerald Bay and the Tallac Historic Site, another for the Heavenly gondola and the beaches.
When to go
From June to September for the lake and the trails. From December to March for skiing at Heavenly. In spring and late autumn there is less activity and some attractions close.
The seasons shown are the most usual ones; nature doesn't always follow the calendar.
Do you need a car?
Yes, for Emerald Bay, the Tallac site and the west shore beaches. Around Heavenly Village you can walk, and there are local buses.
Suggested itinerary
An order that works
Built with the places on this page. No rush: it's paced so you have time to see them.
One day in South Lake Tahoe
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Morning
Emerald Bay
Leave early for Emerald Bay, stop at the Highway 89 overlook and hike down the trail to Vikingsholm at the water's edge.
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Afternoon
Tallac Historic Site
Return toward town and visit the Tallac Historic Site summer houses, with Kiva Beach next to them.
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Late afternoon
Heavenly Gondola
Take the Heavenly gondola to view the lake from above at sunset.
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Evening
Heavenly Village
Dine at Heavenly Village at the base of the gondola, with restaurants and shops.
Check before you go. Opening hours and days change, and places may close for renovations, holidays or events. This itinerary is a suggestion from Cidade Turismo, not a commitment: plan yours by checking directly with each place you intend to visit.
Before you go
Frequently asked questions
What to do in South Lake Tahoe?
Visit Emerald Bay and Vikingsholm, ride the Heavenly gondola, explore the Tallac Historic Site, go to the beaches and ski in winter.
Does the Heavenly gondola operate in summer?
Yes, the gondola usually runs in both summer and winter, with an observation platform and activities at the top. Check operating hours before you go.
What is the distance between South Lake Tahoe and Tahoe City?
About 45 km via Highway 89, which circles Emerald Bay and the west shore.
How many days to spend in South Lake Tahoe?
One to two days, covering Emerald Bay, the Tallac site and the Heavenly gondola.