Emerald Bay State Park
South Lake Tahoe, CA, 96150
With bright turquoise waters owing to Lake Tahoe’s clarity, there’s no question where Emerald Bay got its name—but it’s a gem in other ways, too. It is also home to the lake’s only islet, Fanette Island, while the eponymous state park, centered on the bay, draws visitors in the summer to boat, swim, and hike down a forested trail to the sheltered cove.
The Basics
You can view Emerald Bay from overlooks and hiking trails on land, by air on a helicopter tour, or by water on a Lake Tahoe cruise. All offer different perspectives to take in breathtaking views of the picturesque spot. Sunset is a particularly beautiful time to visit, so book sunset dinner cruises and sunset helicopter tours in advance. Other not-to-be-missed sights include Vikingsholm, a 38-room mansion that is one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in the United States, and Eagle Falls, a beautiful waterfall accessible by short hike.
Things to Know Before You Go
Emerald Bay is a must-visit for outdoorsy travelers.
TheM.S. Dixie II, a historic paddle-wheel boat, departs daily from Zephyr Cove and is wheelchair-accessible.
Be sure to dress for the season, especially if heading out onto the water for a boat tour.
The park is kid-friendly.
How to Get There
Lake Tahoe lies on the border of California and Nevada. Emerald Bay is on the California side of the lake, on the western edge of the south shore. To get to the park, take Highway 89 to the southwest shore of the lake. It is about a 4-hour drive from San Francisco, and eight hours from Los Angeles and Las Vegas.
When to Get There
Emerald Bay is stunning in all seasons. Summer is the best time to visit, as temperatures are fairly mild. In winter, however, temperatures often remain below freezing and access to hiking trails is limited. You can pick up trail maps from the Lake Tahoe Visitor Center in summer or from the park’s headquarters in South Lake Tahoe year-round.
Popular Lake Tahoe Activities Nearby
Many visitors come to beautiful Lake Tahoe for the scenery alone, but there’s plenty of outdoor adventure to be had as well. In the summer, hiking, biking, and water sports are widely available, while the winter opens world-class ski runs at the many nearby resorts. Photographers will appreciate the landscape photo opportunities, including the surrounding, often-snow-capped Sierra mountain range.
Ways to explore
You can view Emerald Bay from overlooks and hiking trails on land, by air on a helicopter tour, or by water on a Lake Tahoe cruise. All offer different perspectives to take in stunning views of one of the most photographed lakes in the world. Sunset is a particularly beautiful time to visit, so book sunset dinner cruises and sunset helicopter tours in advance.
Other not-to-be-missed sights include Vikingsholm, a 38-room mansion that is one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in the United States, and Eagle Falls, a pretty waterfall accessible by a short hike.
Accessibility
Some park features, such as the Eagle Point Campground and Overlook Trail, are wheelchair accessible, along with the MS Dixie II, a historic paddle-wheel boat that departs daily from Zephyr Cove.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Reusable water bottle, sunscreen, snacks
What to wear
Dress for the season and wear layers, especially if heading out onto the water for a boat tour.
Not allowed
Dogs on trails or at the beach, fires, smoking, drones
Amenities
Restrooms, parking, showers, picnic areas
Address
Emerald Bay is on the south shore of Lake Tahoe, roughly 15 minutes west of the town of South Lake Tahoe. It’s easiest to access by car, but once you’re there, you can explore by boat or on foot.
Driving
To get to the park, take US Route 89 to the southwest shore of Lake Tahoe. It’s about a 4-hour drive from San Francisco, and eight hours from Los Angeles and Las Vegas. Limited paid parking is available.
Public transportation
Public transit to and around Lake Tahoe is limited, but a seasonal shuttle connects Sugar Pine Point Campground on the western side of the lake with Emerald Bay. Note that rides to and from Emerald Bay must be booked online.
Best times to visit
Beaches and parking areas fill up fast on summer afternoons, so arrive before 9am or after 3pm to claim a spot.
Best days to visit
There’s no stopping the crowds that flock to Lake Tahoe in the summer, but you might have more luck snagging a campsite reservation or avoiding traffic congestion midweek.
Best months to visit
Plan your visit during the summer for warm weather and full access to trails. While the park is open year-round, the visitor center is open only from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Special events
Lake Tahoe comes to life during the summer festival season, when live music, art, and performances are found at just about every point around the lake.
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