When you are in Lake Tahoe, there are a lot of things that you would want to do. From swimming, fishing, down to simply witnessing the lake's grandeur, all of these things will surely give you fun and excitement.
You can also do kayaking if you want. After all, this place is rated as one of the best places where you can bring your boat and kayak. There are numerous spots here where kayaking is quite ideal.
Lake Tahoe is extremely vast. Regardless of the season, this water body in California is truly the perfect venue to paddle your boat. You will not experience traffic here either. Because of its expansive size and the calmness of its waters, Lake Tahoe is an excellent destination for kayaking and other boating activities.
Here are some of the best spots in Lake Tahoe where you should bring your kayak!
Best Place To Kayak In Lake Tahoe
1. Lakeview Commons
The Lakeview Commons is arguably the most popular site in Lake Tahoe. This is due to its ease of accessibility. Specifically, the Lakeview Commons is just adjacent to the where the lake and the Highway 50 meets.
You will enjoy the amenities being provided by this site. You can rent some equipment in the shops there. They are complete with the necessary facilities for kayaking, including the boat. You can find some kayaks that are worthy for beginners in any of their rental shops.
The Lakeview Commons is an excellent venue to relax during the summer season. It offers a cool atmosphere that is perfect for trailer camping. Other than that, there are other events being held in this place, such as the stand-up paddleboard race, evening concerts, and even a ladies' night. I personally vouch for the Lakeview Commons if you want to witness mesmerizing sunsets.
2. Cave Rock
When the days are calm and steady, kayaking in Cave Rock should give you the most benefit. Many locals tout this place as one of the best areas in Lake Tahoe to paddle. It offers instant access to the lake without any fuss or whatsoever. Parking areas are visibly present here. Some shops and other facilities can be spotted in this place as well.
I visited Cave Rock once, and it did live up to my expectations. I didn't have to drag my kayak in great distances before I can reach the water. The launching area is quite close, which makes things a lot easier for solo paddlers like me. Once you are in your boat, you can already start paddling toward the north until you reach the iconic monolith of Cave Rock. Straight ahead and you can reach the old Glenbrook-- a town popularly known for logging.
Camping in the sandy regions of Cave Rock is also allowed. You can make it as your home for a couple of days. Everything here is beautiful and comfortable. There are no visible threats, either.
3. Camp Richardson
The West Shore of Lake Tahoe is home of some of its most secluded areas. Most of the time, you can only reach it with the use of your kayak or canoe due to the complexity of the path. Only small boats can maneuver around the coves that are sprawling on this part.
If you want to explore these hidden gems of the West Shore, I do suggest that you take your feet to Camp Richardson. It is generally accessible and offers safe areas where you can park or trailer or truck. Camp Richardson is also the smoothest route toward the Lake Tahoe Water Trail.
From Camp Richardson, you can reach the Lake Tahoe Water Trail by going to the Kiva Beach. Start paddling there until you reach the lagoon that is part of the Taylor Creek. Alternatively, Pope Beach should be a good place to unwind and relax.
4. Sand Harbor State Park
Of course, I should not forget about the Sand Harbor State Park on this list. This particular area is considered as an excellent place to launch your kayak or canoe in Lake Tahoe. Furthermore, you can see a lot of locals indicate that this is the finest beaches in the lake. Well, I couldn't argue with that because Sand Harbor is indeed a breath-taking spectacle.
There is a cave near the launching area of kayaks. It has an enclosed structure, which protects it from the hot and robust afternoon breeze. It is an excellent place to relax and have some fun. There are boat rentals stationed near the cove.
There are a lot of perks when you start paddling in Sand Harbor. The pristine and crystal-clear Crystal Bay is more than enough to make you feel alive. The waters here are generally calm, which makes it an excellent choice for amateurs. You can also launch your kayak and head straight to the East Shore. Just continue paddling until you can have a view of the Thunderbird Mansion.
5. El Dorado Beach
The El Dorado Beach is one of the premier destinations of the South Shore of Lake Tahoe. It is quite popular among locals and tourists because of its exceptional scenery and amenities. Paddling here is quite a popular activity. But you can also take your tent and camp on one of its base areas.
Interestingly, this place offers tutorials and lectures on how to kayak correctly. You can bring your family here if you want them to learn the basics of kayaking while on vacation. I encountered a lot of people who have gained their paddling skills here.
One of the best perks of El Dorado Beach is its shallow waters. Children and beginners will never fear to plunge themselves in the shores of this beach. If you are a skilled paddler already, you can start your adventure in the Upper Truckee Marsh. Continue paddling to the ever-fabulous Tahoe Keys.
These are some of the top spots to kayak in Lake Tahoe. These areas are indeed safe and convenient for every paddler out there. I do suggest that you make any of these places your home the next time you visit the lake!