If you are looking for a perfect weekend getaway in the US, we strongly suggest putting Lake Tahoe at the top of your list! Located at an elevation of 6,225 feet in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the lake lies on the border between Nevada and California and is a big vacation destination year-round. Its remarkable blue waters offer scenic views from the numerous mountaintop lookouts and beaches along its shoreline. On a trip to Lake Tahoe, you can take in the magnificence of the lake and the mountains that surround it, and enjoy the boundless recreational activities offered here. But you may wonder, can you swim in Lake Tahoe?
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Can You Swim In Lake Tahoe?
Dotted with many recreational spots, the lake is an ideal destination for a wonderful, relaxed, and safe getaway. It is divided into two parts: the South Shore and the North Shore.
The area attracts visitors of different ages, as it delivers all types of vacation experiences. Thanks to its extensive range of entertainment, sightseeing opportunities, and activities, it really has something to offer everyone. Emerald Bay, the Tahoe Rim Trail, the Heavenly Ski Trail, the Spooner Summit, and the Children's Museum of Sierra Nevada are some of the attractions you should not miss around the area.
The highlights of North Lake Tahoe include Carson City and Truckee River rafting. Visiting this side of the lake gives you an opportunity to relax, as most of the quieter ski resorts are located on the north shore. On the other hand, South Lake Tahoe is ritzier, with casinos, boat cruises, celebrity shows, and wonderful ski resorts. There are also excellent dining opportunities on the south side of the lake.
Our favorite way to see and capture Lake Tahoe from all the best angles is on this bestselling Half-Day Photographic Scenic Tour! Whether you're a serious photographer or just looking for an opportunity to discover the most jaw-dropping spots around the lake, this ultimate hiking and sightseeing tour takes you to all the waterfalls, glaciers, and stunning lookouts you shouldn't miss.
Of course, if you have the time to venture a little further afield, Lake Tahoe is also the perfect base from which to discover the spectacular Yosemite National Park.
Top tip: If you only have one day to take in the awe-inspiring beauty of Yosemite, we highly recommend booking this top-rated day tour from Lake Tahoe. Departing from several locations around the lake, it allows you to spend 6 hours in the park, making the most of all its famous highlights. Hike to Yosemite Falls or Bridalveil Fall, enjoy a delicious picnic lunch at Cascade Falls, and be wowed by one scenic location after another.
Note: This bestselling tour sells out fast, so make sure to reserve it well ahead of your trip to secure a spot.
The best time to visit Lake Tahoe can really be any time of the year, depending on what you're looking for. The winter season offers snowboarding, skiing, sledding, skating, and of course all sorts of après-ski fun and relaxation. Meanwhile, in the summer, you can enjoy activities like boating, rafting, cruising, hiking, golfing, biking, and fishing.
The question, however, is can you swim in Lake Tahoe? Of course, you can!
Swimming in Lake Tahoe is a breathtaking experience - and we mean that in more ways than one! Even when the weather is hot, the water can be very cold. You have to be aware that the average surface temperature of Lake Tahoe can be as low as 63°F in July, and can even go further down to 53°F just a few inches below the surface.
Because taking a plunge in the water can be dangerous, here are some tips you should follow when swimming in Lake Tahoe, especially in the cold season…
Take it slow. Pace yourself and get into the water progressively to let your body adjust to the colder temperature.
Obey the rules. Be responsible and stay only in designated areas. If you’re paddling, make sure to wear a personal flotation device or PFD. Make sure to be aware of the boats that are cruising around the lake.
Watch out for hindrances. If you’re planning to jump into the water, watch out for any hurdles and jump in with your feet first. When you paddle, know how to search for and avoid problems.
Be aware of the weather. You have to know that the weather can vary by the hour and change very suddenly in Lake Tahoe. Do not wait for it to change. You need to be conscious of your surroundings and always know the easiest means to shore.
Don’t drink and swim. Alcohol weakens one's judgment and increases the tendency to take risks. This is definitely a dangerous combination. Even professional swimmers might go out further than they should under the influence of alcohol. Having a leg cramp can make it hard to get back to shore, and even a cold can lead to hypothermia.
Don’t be alone. If possible, have a friend with you. Make sure to look out for each other while you are swimming, so that one could save the other or at least call for help in case something happens.
Look after young children. If you’re visiting Lake Tahoe with kids, especially if they can’t swim, make sure to always keep an eye on them. If possible, teach them how to swim before taking them to Lake Tahoe.
A trip to Lake Tahoe is perfect for both friends and families. Make sure to follow the above tips to make the most of your time around this stunning lake.
With this said, where can you swim in Lake Tahoe?
Five Best Swimming Spots in Lake Tahoe
Sand Harbor
Sand Harbor offers quiet inlets to lounge on the beach, and spectacular nature that will tempt you to spend all day in this wonderful spot. If you decide to stop for a swim here, you will be surrounded by some of the most remarkable scenery around Lake Tahoe.
This spot has a fascinating Native American history. It was the control center for a timber company back in the 1880s. The rich George Whittell Jr. developed the area - together with other waterside locations - in the 1930s, and constructed the still-standing Thunderbird Lodge at Sand Harbor. This area became part of the Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park in the 1960s.
Angora Lakes
For more adventurous travelers, you can do some cliff diving by hiking up to Angora Lakes, just above Fallen Leaf Lake. These big lakes have a little store that sells snacks and rents out canoes and kayaks to visitors.
The crystal-clear swimming holes at Angora Lakes are famous for their high cliffs, from which thrill-seekers can perform some crazy dives and jumps. The highest ledge here is about 60 feet high. If you're going to attempt a stunt, don’t forget to check the water depth and to watch out for objects and people below you before you jump.
Emerald Bay
This spot is possibly the most stunning part of Lake Tahoe. It is graced with high mountains, a Scandinavian-style castle, and an islet with a tea house in the middle of the bay's deep water.
Not only can you swim in Lake Tahoe at Emerald Bay. But beyond that, there's a whole lot more to explore and do, including visiting the 38-room Vikingsholm mansion.
Fallen Leaf Lake
Another little lake you may want to jump into is the gorgeous Fallen Leaf Lake on the South Shore. You need to be aware that the beach here is rocky. However, if you are able to snag some of the free public parking spots on the lake’s south shore, you may have it to yourself. You can walk right into the water to swim, and paddle around while enjoying the sights of Mount Tallac and the local Stanford Camp in the southern part of the lake.
Pope Beach
Pope Beach is the perfect beach for families looking for a quick swim stop. It is long and there are no rocks or stones. So if you are looking for a spot where you can just jump off without having to worry about hitting hard rocks, this is the place for you. There is a bathroom and some shaded places to lounge. From here, you can also admire views of Mount Tallac and the South Shore.
So, if you're asking yourself the question, “Can you swim in Lake Tahoe?” then this article should have confirmed that yes, definitely! And as you can see, Lake Tahoe is not only about swimming, there are also other activities here that will make you and your family enjoy your trip, no matter what time of the year it is.
Do you think we missed a swimming spot that should have been on this list? Make sure to let us know in a comment below!