July in Tahoe means long sunny days stretched out before you in the ultimate summer playground. Whether you’re visiting for a family summer vacation, a fun-filled friend weekend, or just escaping solo, there’s no shortage of things to do. Race downhill on a mountain bike, SUP on Lake Tahoe, stroll and shop in Tahoe City, or just enjoy the view from your deck, summer here is simply the best! We’ve put together our idea of the “Perfect Tahoe Summer Day” – from morning until night.
Hello Sunshine
Photo: Fire Sign Cafe in Tahoe City
Good morning! First things first, breakfast! Whether that means a morning cup of joe with a view on the deck of your vacation rental, a quick caffeine and pastry run to Tree House Cafe in Kings Beach or a visit to Sugar Pine Cakery & Cafe with a pitstop for some morning lake views from Skylandia Park, or a long leisurely breakfast at Fire Sign Café, let your stomach be your guide.
Dive into Fun
Photo: Adrift Tahoe
Let’s head to Kings Beach and get out on the water! Rent a kayak or paddleboard from Adrift Tahoe and spend a few hours exploring Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters. Stop at a beach, practice some SUP yoga, and enjoy the sun. Or, for those looking for more of a thrill, North Tahoe Water Sports offers parasailing. You’ll get a unique and memorable bird’s eye view of the lake and the beautiful Sierras.
If biking is more your speed, Northstar California has miles of single track, cross-country, and downhill trails. You can rent bikes and gear on-mountain, plus you can take lessons if you’re new to the sport. Whether you take a leisurely bike ride through the beautiful surrounding forest or if you get your adrenaline pumping through the downhill course full of technical descents and jumps, it will be a day well spent.
Hungry after all that biking? Head to the Village at Northstar to grab some food and a well-deserved cold beverage at one of the many restaurant options or add another activity to the day with some roller skating in their 9,000 square foot rink.
Relax and Unwind (or Add One More Adventure)
Photo: Jakes on the Lake
As the shadows get longer and the day starts to wind down, maybe you’ll choose a leisurely stroll or bike ride? Cruise along the lake or the slow-moving Truckee River on Tahoe City’s Multi-Use Trail System, offering miles and miles of fun. End the evening with some food and a drink with a view at Jake’s on the Lake as the sun goes down.
Or, why not take in the beautiful sunset from the middle of Lake Tahoe? Take a Tahoe Adventure Company Sunset Kayak Tour or join an other-worldly Kayak Star Tour where you’ll meet up with award-winning astronomer Tony Berendsen at a viewing spot to learn about the night sky. What a perfect way to end a summer Tahoe day!
