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Planning a trip to Lake Tahoe and want to make the most of your time? This 3-day itinerary has you covered!
We’ve explored both the North and South Shores and built the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery, based entirely on firsthand experience. From hiking to hidden castles and sailing the lake, to kayaking over crystal-clear water and snapping epic sunset photos, this itinerary is packed with unforgettable moments.
So grab your camera, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to experience the very best of Lake Tahoe in just three days!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this Lake Tahoe cruise! What better way to experience the lake than this small group cruise on a luxury sailboat? We took in the sights and chilled out for the best 2 hours of our vacation!
Itinerary Overview
When it comes to getting around Lake Tahoe, you’ll need to have a rental car. It is the easiest and most convenient way to make the most of your time. Trust me when I say that trying to get to all the different outdoor activities without one is a huge pain!
Keep in mind you can stay in North or South Lake Tahoe, and both offer different vibes. The north is quieter and perfect for those who want a more nature-focused stay and pace. The south is livelier with more bars, casinos, and restaurants. We have stayed in both and enjoy both for different reasons. However, for the purpose of this itinerary, we will be writing it as if you are based out of South Lake Tahoe.
Day 1: Experience Lake Tahoe’s natural beauty and head to Emerald Bay to hike the Vikingsholm Castle Trail. After a delicious lunch, you’ll get out on the lake for our favorite experience, a 2-hour sailing cruise! And then later in the evening, hike to one of the best viewpoints in the area for sunset.
Day 2: Spend the morning in North Lake Tahoe and take a self-guided bike tour of Tahoe’s East Trail for some incredible scenery. Keep the adventure going and kayak around Sand Harbor. If you love good Italian food, we have a dynamite spot lined up for you after kayaking finishes.
Day 3: See Tahoe’s highlights on this sightseeing and photography tour (which has over 600+ 5-star reviews!). In the afternoon, you can either go hiking or visit the casinos, and then finish up your time by hitting the town for a cocktail or two!
Day 1
Morning – Emerald Bay and Vikingsholm Castle
We’re going to have you start your Lake Tahoe adventure with one of the most scenic spots in the area, Emerald Bay State Park. To make the most of your morning, aim to be up and out the door by 7:00 am. This gives you plenty of time to explore before your 12:30 pm sailing tour (and squeeze in lunch, too!).
Begin at the Emerald Bay State Park Lookout, which offers some of the most jaw-dropping lake views you’ll find anywhere in Tahoe. From here, follow the Vikingsholm Trail, a moderate 1-mile (1.6 km) hike that winds down to the lake’s edge and ends at the historic Vikingsholm Castle. If you’re up for it, the 30-minute guided tour of the castle begins at 10:00 am, giving you a fascinating glimpse into this Scandinavian-style estate and its history.
After the tour, you can relax by the beach or explore a few of the other trails nearby if you’re feeling energetic. Just don’t forget you’ll need to hike back up to the parking lot, so give yourself a buffer to make it back to the car and grab a bite to eat before your sailing experience kicks off.
Lunch – Artemis Lakefront Café
For lunch, head to Artemis Lakefront Café, a laid-back spot right on the water that serves up delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes. I loved the gyro and fresh salads, while Daniel went for their lamb burger, it’s all good!
Best of all, it’s conveniently located right next door to the meeting point for your 12:30 pm sailing tour, so you can eat and head straight to the next adventure.
Afternoon – Relax on a Lake Tahoe sailboat cruise
There’s no shortage of boat tours in Lake Tahoe, but this small-group sailing cruise is hands-down our top pick and was the highlight of our trip. While many other similar tours pack in over 50 people and race across the lake with loud engines, this 2-hour experience was calm, quiet, and exactly the kind of laid-back adventure we came to Tahoe for. We recommend booking the 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm option so you have more time afterwards to relax before the evening activity.
We loved Blue, a sleek 40-foot (12-meter) sailboat that was incredibly comfortable and only held a maximum of 18 people. As soon as we left the dock, it was pure magic from start to finish. There was no engine rumble, no diesel smell, just the wind in the sails and smiles all around.
The route changes with the wind, but the views are always spectacular. The water was crystal-clear, and distant snow-dusted peaks were putting on a show for us as we cruised over the lake for 2 hours.
Add in a friendly crew and complimentary drinks, and it feels more like a relaxing afternoon out with friends than a typical tour. We genuinely could’ve stayed out there all day. It’s easy to see why this experience has over 700+ 5-star reviews. We can’t imagine going to Lake Tahoe and not doing it!
Book this popular cruise here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!
Late Afternoon – The Idle Hour
After the sailing tour, we had a bit of time to unwind before our next activity, so we headed to The Idle Hour. This cozy wine bar sits right on the lake and was the perfect spot to relax with a glass of wine and soak up the afternoon sun.
This lakeside stop is just a 15-minute walk or a quick drive to the evening tour’s meeting point, so no need to rush here! You can sit back and enjoy the breeze and the water views.
Evening – Enjoy an easy sunset hike
This isn’t your average sunset stroll! This 2-hour sunset hike and photography adventure was the perfect way to end our day in Lake Tahoe. Start times vary depending on the time of year, but the team will confirm the exact meeting time when you book, so you’ll catch the best golden hour light (typically between 4 and 6 pm).
We ventured off the beaten path to hidden spots that most tours don’t visit, trekking over smooth granite boulders and through peaceful alpine forest while the sun slowly dipped behind the peaks. The views alone were worth it, but what really made this tour stand out was our guide, Michelle. She was part trail expert, part creative coach—snapping photos of our group, helping us frame the perfect shots, and even sharing quick tips for taking stunning pictures with just a smartphone.
The best part? You don’t need to be a serious hiker or an experienced photographer to enjoy this. The pace was relaxed, the group was small, and the vibe felt more like an evening out with friends than a formal tour.
With 360-degree mountain views, soft golden light, and the deep blue of Lake Tahoe in the distance, this sunset tour was hands-down one of the most beautiful ways to close out the day.
Check availability and book this sunset tour here!
Dinner – Azul Latin Kitchen
After the hike, head just five minutes down the road to Azul Latin Kitchen for dinner. This vibrant spot in the Heavenly Village serves up flavorful Latin-inspired dishes with a California twist—think street tacos, fresh guacamole, and creative cocktails. It’s a lively yet laid-back place to refuel after your adventure-filled day, and the outdoor seating is perfect if you’re still soaking in those Tahoe mountain vibes.
Day 2
Breakfast – Drink Coffee Do Stuff
Today, you’re off to explore the beauty of North Lake Tahoe, so we recommend getting an early start. The drive from South Lake to Incline Village takes about 45 minutes, and since both of today’s activities kick off from there, we recommend hitting the road by 7:30 am at the latest to beat traffic and maximize your time.
Once you arrive, make a quick stop at Drink Coffee Do Stuff for breakfast. This local favorite is just a 3-minute walk from the tour meeting point and serves up strong, small-batch coffee and seriously good bagel sandwiches. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger a little, fueling up for the active morning ahead while soaking in the crisp mountain air.
Morning – Bicycle Tahoe’s East Shore Trail
We love a good guided tour, but sometimes, especially when you’re in nature, the best option is a self-guided experience so you don’t feel rushed. That’s why we highly recommend renting e-bikes and riding the East Shore Trail. This self-guided tour is super customizable, but we suggest booking the 4-hour rental starting around 9:30 or 10:00 am. That way, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the hidden gems along the route without feeling rushed.
We picked up our bikes at a convenient rental shop in Incline Village, where the staff were incredibly welcoming and gave us a quick but thorough rundown. The bikes were easy to ride, and the trail itself was a dream: smooth, car-free, and full of jaw-dropping lake views.
We stopped often at quiet little coves, scenic overlooks, and even for a swim at Sand Harbor. One of the most surprising highlights? Gliding past the stunning homes on “Billionaire’s Row”, with their private docks and pristine backyards stretching right to the lake.
This was a perfect way to start the day on Lake Tahoe. It offered the perfect balance of freedom, beauty, and adventure! The tour provides bikes, helmets, locks, and bags in case you have extra things to carry on your bike. They took care of the logistics so we could just enjoy the ride!
Check out the HUNDREDS of 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Lunch – Inclined Burgers and Brews
After wrapping up your ride, you won’t have to go far for lunch. Inclined Burgers and Brews is located right next to the bike rental shop. And honestly, what’s better than a juicy burger and cold drink after a few hours of cycling? This casual spot hits the spot with classic smash burgers, crispy fries, and local brews all served up in a laid-back, post-ride-perfect setting.
Afternoon – Kayak at Sand Harbor
After lunch, it’s time to shift gears and hit the water. Just a 3-minute drive from Inclined Burgers and Brews, this guided see-through kayak tour of Sand Harbor was one of our favorite experiences of the trip. We booked the 3:00 pm tour, which gave us the perfect amount of time to digest and recharge before we paddled through one of Lake Tahoe’s most iconic harbors.
After checking in at the shop in Incline Village, we geared up and took a quick shuttle ride to Sand Harbor. Our guide, Belinda, was incredible—warm, energetic, and super knowledgeable about the area. On the lake, she pointed out local landmarks like Bonsai Rock and even encouraged us to jump off the giant shoreline boulders (which we definitely did). The icy blue water was shockingly cold but totally refreshing!
The best part? The kayaks are completely transparent, so it feels like you’re floating above an aquarium. You can see the massive underwater boulders and fish passing beneath you as you paddle. This kayaking tour was the perfect mix of peaceful and adventurous, and the views—both above and below the water—were absolutely unforgettable.
Reserve this tour now and pay later when you book it in advance here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Dinner – Lanza’s Restaurant
To end the day, we weren’t quite ready to head straight back to South Lake Tahoe, so we made the quick 10-minute drive to Kings Beach to check out another side of the lake. For dinner, we stopped at Lanza’s Restaurant, a cozy Italian spot known for its hearty pasta dishes and old-school charm. It was the perfect reward after a full day of biking and kayaking, and the portions definitely didn’t disappoint.
After dinner, take a little time to wander around Kings Beach if you’re up for it. It’s a fun, low-key area to explore. Then, when you’re ready, hop in the car for the scenic 45-minute drive back to South Lake Tahoe to rest up for tomorrow’s adventures.
Day 3
Morning- Tahoe sightseeing and photography tour
For your final day in Tahoe, we suggest doing something a little different and incredibly rewarding. This small-group photography tour was one of the most unique and memorable experiences of our entire trip. You can choose to start at 8:00 or 9:00 am, and we recommend opting for hotel pick-up to keep things easy. Tours wrap up by 3:00 pm at the latest, though they sometimes finish a bit earlier depending on the group.
Over the course of the day, we visited a mix of lesser-known viewpoints and iconic landmarks, including a peaceful backcountry lake, a tucked-away waterfall, and a quiet beach with glassy water and no crowds in sight. We even saw Emerald Bay before the tour buses rolled in, which made all the difference for photos. Along the way, we spotted bald eagles near the river and even caught a glimpse of a bear in the distance!
Our guide, Jim, was a total pro, not just at finding the best locations, but also at helping us actually capture them. He gave simple, helpful tips that instantly improved our shots and took amazing photos of us throughout the day. This wasn’t just sightseeing—it was hands-on, personal, and one of the best ways to bring home frame-worthy memories from Lake Tahoe.
Book this tour with over 600 5-star reviews here, before it fills up!
Afternoon – Casino or Hike
After a full morning of photography and exploring, you’ve got some flexibility this afternoon. Lake Tahoe is also known for its great casino scene, so this is the perfect time to check it out if that’s your thing. Not into gambling? No problem! There are plenty of beautiful hikes nearby if you’d rather spend the rest of your day outdoors.
Casinos
If you’re in the mood to check out some classic Tahoe casinos, head to Harrah’s Lake Tahoe or Caesars Republic, two of the most popular and iconic casinos in the area. Both are located right in Stateline and offer everything from slot machines and table games to live entertainment and bars. Whether you’re feeling lucky or just want to soak in the lively atmosphere, these casinos are a fun way to experience another side of Lake Tahoe.
Hikes
If you’d rather stretch your legs than try your luck at the tables, there are a few great short afternoon hikes that won’t have you racing the sunset to get back before dark. These trails are scenic, easy to moderate, and perfect for a more relaxed outing:
- Eagle Falls Trail – A short but rewarding hike with waterfalls, lake views, and access to longer routes if you want to explore a bit more. It’s a local favorite for good reason.
- Fallen Leaf Lake – This peaceful area offers multiple trail options along the shoreline. It’s less crowded than other parts of the lake and ideal for a casual afternoon walk. You can find some great recommendations here.
- Cave Rock Trail – A quick and easy uphill walk that leads to panoramic views over Lake Tahoe. You’ll find the trailhead here.
Dinner – Riva Grill On the Lake
For your final night in Tahoe, treat yourself to some lakefront dining at the beautiful Riva Grill on the Lake. Located right on the water, this upscale yet relaxed spot is known for its fresh seafood, juicy steaks, and famous Wet Woody cocktails. With unbeatable views of the lake at sunset, it’s the perfect place to grab dinner before hitting the town.
This restaurant is a 5-minute drive from Harrah’s, giving totally different vibes than the casino part of Tahoe!
Evening – Hit the town!
South Lake Tahoe is known for its lively atmosphere, so if you’re not quite ready to call it a night, head out and enjoy the local nightlife. Grab a few drinks at one of the nearby bars, listen to live music, or simply take a stroll through the village and soak in the energy. It’s the perfect way to celebrate your last evening in Tahoe!
We loved relaxing with a rum cocktail at The Beach Tiki Bar, which is only a 5-minute drive or a 15-minute walk from dinner. It’s a great place to start, then see what else you can find!
Related Read: If you find yourself with some extra time, check out the 10 Best Things to do in Lake Tahoe here for our favorite activities!
Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe
From the pine-draped peaks of North Lake Tahoe to the lively shores of the south, this alpine lake offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re chasing powder days, sunny swims, or just a peaceful mountain escape, Tahoe delivers on all fronts
To help you find your perfect basecamp, we’ve gathered top stays in both North and South Lake Tahoe, so you can dive straight into your dream adventure. If these hotels are still available, they will be your best options!
South Lake Tahoe
Luxury – $$$
Edgewood Tahoe Resort is a 5-star lakeside escape in Stateline with elegant rooms, cozy fireplaces, and sweeping mountain views. Guests rave about the private beach, heated pool, on-site spa, and exceptional service—plus it’s just steps from Lakeside Beach and top Tahoe trails.
Nightly rates typically range from $600–$1,000+ USD. Book your luxury stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Hotel Azure is a great mid-range pick in South Lake Tahoe, offering spacious rooms, a heated outdoor pool, a hot tub, and lake views, just across the street from the water. Guests love the easy access to ski resorts, golf, and lakeside trails.
Rates usually range from $130–$330 USD per night. Check your dates on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For a budget-friendly South Lake Tahoe getaway, Blue Jay Lodge offers unbeatable value and location, just a short walk from Lakeside Beach and Heavenly Village. Rooms are clean, cozy, and pet-friendly, with views of the mountains or the pool.
Rooms start at around $100 USD per night, depending on the season. Check availability and book on Booking.com.
North Lake Tahoe
Luxury – $$$
Tucked into the mountains at Northstar California, The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe offers ski-in/ski-out luxury, cozy lodge-style rooms with fireplaces, a full-service spa, and fine dining at Manzanita. Ideal for winter getaways or summer escapes.
Rates typically range from $550–$1,000+ USD, depending on the room and season. Check prices and book your luxury retreat on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Gravity Haus Truckee-Tahoe is a stylish mid-range stay just minutes from downtown Truckee and top ski resorts. Rooms are cozy yet modern, with perks like a hot tub, sauna, and on-site Mediterranean restaurant. Guests love the clean design, welcoming staff, and wellness amenities.
Prices range from $200–$400 USD per night. See available options for your stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For a budget-friendly stay near North Lake Tahoe, Best Western Plus Truckee-Tahoe Hotel hits the sweet spot. Just minutes from ski resorts and downtown Truckee, it offers comfy rooms with microwaves, free breakfast, Wi-Fi, a seasonal pool, and even a hot tub.
Rooms start at around $150 USD per night. Book your reservation on Booking.com.
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
This three-day Lake Tahoe will show you the best of the best! We loved exploring hiking trails, relaxing on lake cruises, and eating high-class meals lakeside. If you want a luxury vacation, stick to our 3-day Lake Tahoe itinerary!
Need help planning the rest of your trip? Check out all of our USA blogs here! We have put together guides on the top things to do, where to stay, and more city itineraries for your use. Here are a few related blogs to get you started – cheers!
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