Overview:
When visiting Lake Tahoe we recommend visiting the west shore or as we like to call it “the west shore best shore.” If you can, spending a weekend on the west shore comes highly recommended from our staff and travelers alike with so many activities, dining options, and spectacular views to soak in you won’t be disappointed. Best known for its old Tahoe charm, natural beauty, and many outdoor activities, the west shore is the perfect place to spend a weekend with family, friends, or a loved one. Boasting some of the most beautiful beaches, scenic hiking trails, and action watersports there will never be a dull moment. The West Shore stretches from Tahoe City and the mouth of the Truckee river all the way down to Emerald Bay State Park almost 12 miles south. We are going to cover some of Sunnyside’s staff favorite things to do on a weekend on the west shore.
Lake Activities:
Sunnyside Watersports
Sunnyside Watersports is conveniently located just two miles outside of Tahoe City and is your go-to destination for anything and everything watersports. Sunnyside boasts the largest fleet of premium Cobalt boats on the lake along with renting wakesurf boats, pontoon boats, jet skis, kayaks, and stand up paddleboards. Their friendly staff will make you feel right at home and recommend must-see hidden gems around the lake. Also, their location is protected from the typical south to southwest wind that blows across the lake in the afternoons making it an ideal spot to rent from and enjoy calmer waters.
Truckee River Rafting
A great way to spend the day is floating down the Truckee River with our friends at Truckee River Rafting. Family-owned and operated since 1973, this is a great activity for the whole family. You will float along the river for 3-4 hours with the gentle current carrying you down the river. There are plenty of places to stop and swim, relax, sunbathe, and have lunch (make sure to pack sandwiches, etc…). You’ll finish the float at River Ranch which is a great place to stop for appetizers and drinks before being conveniently shuttled back to Tahoe City.
Sugar Pine Point State Park
Looking for a beautiful, relaxing beach to spend the day? Look no further than Sugar Pine Point, surrounded by turquoise blue water that makes you feel like you’re in the Mediterranean. It’s the perfect place for beachgoers. There is also ample parking, large grass areas, and trails to walk around the state park.
Emerald Bay
When staying on the west shore it is always worth it to stop by the most picturesque place on the lake, Emerald Bay. Located on the southernmost part of the west shore, Emerald Bay is a destination you do not want to miss. With hiking trails and panoramic views looking over the bay, it is a great spot for a photo-op! They also have kayak and paddleboard rentals available so you can visit Fannette Island which is located in the middle of the bay. A trip to the west shore is not complete without making a trip to Emerald Bay!
Land Activities
Bike Ride
Taking a bike ride down the west shore of the lake is another one of our favorite things to do when visiting and spending the weekend. There is a bike path that runs from Tahoe City all the way down past Homewood and Tahoma with awesome beaches and scenic views along the way. You have the ability to rent regular bikes or E Bikes from West Shore Sports which is located just down the street from Sunnyside. Stop by one of the lakefront restaurants during your cruise for lunch and take in the classic west shore lifestyle.
Eagle Rock
Looking for a fun and relaxing hike for the whole family? Look no further than Eagle Rock! Eagle Rock is situated between Sunnyside and Homewood off of West Lake Boulevard, with parking readily available just at the edge of the trailhead. The hike is great for all ages, and features panoramic views of the entire lake from the top. Be sure to bring a backpack with some snacks for a picnic at the top!
Tahoe City
It’s always a good time walking around the mountain style village of Tahoe City. Walk around and visit many of the small locally owned shops, and bring a piece of Tahoe home with you! There are also a ton of restaurants in Tahoe City that will feed your appetite and quench your thirst featuring local craft brews!
Food & Drinks
Breakfast
- Great for quick breakfast burritos and sandwiches on the go!
- Located right in Tahoe City
- The most popular sit-down breakfast restaurant on the West Shore
- Make sure you allow plenty of time on the weekends because there is typically a wait
Lunch
- Awesome burgers and brews!
- Grab a table on their outdoor patio that looks over the Truckee River
- Great spot for sandwiches on the go
- Grab your sammy’s and eat while doing one of the activities above
- New lunch and dinner spot on the west shore, great mexican food and cocktails
- Be sure to sit in their outdoor patio area
Dinner
- An iconic dinner spot on the west shore of Lake Tahoe, boasting the largest lakefront dining deck on the lake
- Be sure to catch the sunset and order their famous zucchini sticks and Mai Tai’s
- Upscale dining experience in Tahoe city
- Enjoy beautiful views of the lake
A Weekend on the West Shore – What to Do? Sunnyside Staff Favorites
Overview
When visiting Lake Tahoe, a weekend on the west shore—often hailed as “the west shore best shore”—is a must. This area offers a rich blend of old Tahoe charm, breathtaking natural beauty, and a plethora of outdoor activities. Ideal for family, friends, or a romantic getaway, the west shore is known for its stunning beaches, scenic hiking trails, and diverse watersports activities. Whether you’re looking for beginner-friendly watersports or extreme watersports adventures, you’ll find it all here. Spanning from Tahoe City and the mouth of the Truckee River to Emerald Bay State Park, this 12-mile stretch is packed with things to do. Let’s dive into some of Sunnyside’s staff favorite activities for a perfect weekend.
Lake Activities
Sunnyside Watersports
Located just two miles outside Tahoe City, Sunnyside Watersports is your one-stop shop for summer watersports activities. With the largest fleet of premium Cobalt boats on the lake, they offer wakesurfing, wakeboarding, jet skiing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and more. The friendly staff ensures a comfortable experience, providing tips for safe jet skiing and highlighting must-see hidden gems around the lake. The location is perfect for renting watersports equipment, as it’s shielded from the typical south to southwest wind, ensuring calmer waters for your adventures.
Truckee River Rafting
Truckee River Rafting offers a fantastic family-friendly watersports experience. Operating since 1973, this family-owned business provides a gentle float down the river, perfect for kids and beginners. The 3-4 hour journey includes plenty of spots to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy a packed lunch. The adventure concludes at River Ranch, where you can enjoy appetizers and drinks before a convenient shuttle ride back to Tahoe City.
Sugar Pine Point State Park
For a more relaxed experience, head to Sugar Pine Point State Park. The turquoise blue waters make it feel like a Mediterranean escape, ideal for beachgoers. The park offers ample parking, large grassy areas, and trails, making it a perfect spot for a spring break watersports day or a leisurely fall watersports getaway.
Emerald Bay
Emerald Bay, located at the southernmost part of the west shore, is a must-see. This picturesque spot offers stunning hiking trails and panoramic views. You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore Fannette Island in the middle of the bay. Emerald Bay is an iconic destination, perfect for capturing beautiful photos and enjoying one of the best watersports destinations in the area.
Land Activities
Bike Ride
Cycling along the west shore offers a blend of exercise and sightseeing. The bike path runs from Tahoe City to Tahoma, providing access to scenic views and charming beaches. You can rent regular bikes or E-Bikes from West Shore Sports, just a short distance from Sunnyside. This route is perfect for a leisurely ride, with opportunities to stop at local lakefront restaurants for a meal.
Eagle Rock
For a more tranquil adventure, hike Eagle Rock. This beginner-friendly hike offers panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and is great for families. The trailhead is located between Sunnyside and Homewood, with convenient parking. Pack some snacks and enjoy a picnic at the top while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
Tahoe City
A visit to Tahoe City offers a unique blend of local shops and eateries. The mountain-style village is perfect for a leisurely stroll, shopping for souvenirs, and enjoying local cuisine. With plenty of restaurants offering craft brews and delicious meals, it’s a great spot to relax after a day of activities.
Food & Drinks
Breakfast
- The Dam Cafe: Quick and delicious breakfast burritos and sandwiches in Tahoe City.
- FireSign Cafe: The most popular sit-down breakfast spot on the west shore, known for its hearty meals.
Lunch
- Bridgetender: Offers excellent burgers and brews with an outdoor patio overlooking the Truckee River.
- West Shore Market: Ideal for grabbing sandwiches to-go, perfect for a picnic during your watersports adventures.
- Shadyside: A new eatery serving Mexican food and cocktails, featuring an inviting outdoor patio.
Dinner
- Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge: A west shore icon, known for its large lakefront dining deck. Enjoy their famous zucchini sticks and Mai Tai’s while watching the sunset.
- Wolfdale’s: An upscale dining option in Tahoe City, offering stunning lake views and exquisite cuisine.
Conclusion
A weekend on the west shore of Lake Tahoe is an adventure waiting to be discovered. From the thrilling watersports at Sunnyside Watersports to the tranquil hikes at Eagle Rock, this area offers a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation. Whether you’re seeking beginner-friendly watersports, extreme adventures, or family-friendly activities, the west shore has something for everyone. Enjoy the local cuisine, explore the beautiful landscapes, and make unforgettable memories. So pack your bags and experience why “the west shore best shore” is a saying you’ll soon understand and cherish.
