ALOHA's Guide to Tahoe

Eat + Sip

Tahoe's stunning views and easy access to local ingredients make it a paradise for foodies and cocktail connoisseurs alike. Whether you're in the mood for a cozy cafe, an upscale restaurant, or a local brewery, the area offers plenty of dining and drinking experiences to suit every taste and mood.

Pro Tip: Tahoe is great for going from your boat deck to the boat dock–don’t miss boating up to Chamber’s Landing on the West Shore for a Chamber’s Punch or Camp Richardson for a Rum Runner at the Beacon on the South Shore!

West Shore Market: West Shore

West Shore Market is a must-visit in Lake Tahoe, offering a delicious array of sandwiches, salads, and snacks. Enjoy the homey atmosphere and rustic decor while indulging in high-quality, locally sourced food and drinks. Check out their impressive selection of craft beer and wine and their gourmet food items and gifts - perfect for a picnic by the lake or as souvenirs to bring home!

Bridgetender Tavern and Grill: Tahoe City

We love this super laid-back, casual bar with an outdoor dining area right next to the Truckee River. Highly recommend it for outdoor drinks on the patio!

Chambers Landing: West Shore

This historic bar and grill offers stunning lake views and a relaxed atmosphere. The menu features classic Tahoe favorites, including their famous Chamber’s Punch. This is the ultimate midday spot to soak up the sun and enjoy the beauty of Lake Tahoe!

Camp Richardson + The Beacon: South Lake Tahoe

We love Camp Rich! Located right on the sand, this place gets wild on the weekends with live music and their “world famous” Rum Runners.

Pro Tip: Order the calamari with a round (or two) of Rum Runners--this is one of the best places to catch the sunset in Tahoe!

West Shore Cafe: West Shore

Looking for a romantic dining experience in Tahoe? This is your place! Opt to dine outside on the pier with breathtaking views of the lake and mountains in the background.

Pro Tip: Make sure to book ahead! Reservations are highly recommended.

Sunnyside: Tahoe City

If you're a fan of Duke's in Hawaiʻi, you'll feel right at home at Sunnyside in Tahoe City. Make sure to try their famous Mai Tais - they're strong and delicious! Sit outside on the deck–the largest in Tahoe, and come early to enjoy the sunset.

Ernie’s Cafe: South Lake Tahoe

This locally owned gem has been slingin’ brekkie since 1968. If you're looking for a hearty and satisfying breakfast in South Lake Tahoe, Ernie's Cafe is the place to go!

Sprouts Cafe: South Lake Tahoe

Sprouts has been serving healthy and delicious food in South Lake Tahoe for almost 30 years! They offer a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, all made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. We love their bowls, their famous A.T.O.M. bagel, and fresh pressed juice in the morning!

Gar Woods: Carnelian Bay

This lakeside hotspot is one of our faves to take in the stunning views while enjoying some food and drinks. And let's not forget about their famous Wet Woody cocktail - it's the ultimate way to cool off on a hot summer day!

Swiss Restaurant: West Shore

It’s cozy vibe and classic Swiss decor will transport you straight to the heart of Europe, and the menu is equally impressive! From delicious fondue to savory schnitzel, every dish is packed with flavor and made with care. Whether you're in the mood for a romantic dinner for two or a dinner with friends, Swiss Restaurant is a must-visit spot for any foodie in Tahoe.

Dog + Bear Tavern: West Shore

Located in the charming neighborhood of Tahoma, Dog + Bear Tavern is a great locally owned spot for a casual dinner or drinks with friends. The menu features pub favorites with a twist, and the drinks list includes a great selection of local beers and creative cocktails.

STAY

Lake Tahoe offers a range of accommodations, from luxurious resorts to quaint cabins. You can’t go wrong with these ALOHA picks!

Edgewood Tahoe: $$$$ Stateline

Tahoma Meadows Cottages:  $ Tahome, West Shore

Cedar Crest Cottages: $$$ Homewood, West Shore

Station House Inn: $$ South Lake Tahoe

Resort at Squaw Creek: $$$$ Olympic Valley

VRBO a private cabin. Hint: West Shore is our favorite!

SEE + DO

Tahoe is a destination that offers visitors an unforgettable experience. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or just looking to relax and enjoy the scenery, there is something for everyone in Tahoe!

Float the Truckee River:

One activity that shouldn't be missed during your trip to Tahoe is floating down the Truckee River. Buy your own River Runner float or book a rental with Truckee River Raft Co.

Pro Tip:  Bring sunscreen, water shoes, and plenty of water. Don’t forget to bring your favorite boat bag to protect your belongings!

Take a Hike

Tahoe is a hiker's paradise. With over 200 hiking trails, you can explore the stunning mountains, pristine lakes, and beautiful forests. Here are some of our must-do hikes!

• Mount Tallac Trail

• Eagle Falls

• Shirley Canyon Trail

• Desolation Wilderness

Enjoy breathtaking views of mountains, lakes, and forests on hikes like the Mount Tallac Trail and Eagle Falls Trail, which offer unbeatable vistas of the lake and nearby peaks. Looking for a challenge? Head to Desolation Wilderness for a rugged adventure in a pristine alpine landscape. Grab your hiking boots and let's go!

Head to the Beach

Relax on the sandy beaches of Lake Tahoe while soaking up the sun. Here are our favorites!

• Kiva Beach, South Shore: As one of the few beaches in the Tahoe area where dogs are allowed off-leash, this is the perfect spot for your furry friends!

• Secret Cove: Crystal clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding mountains make this the place to be! It's a bit of a hike to get to, but well worth the effort.

• Zephyr Cove: On the Nevada side of the lake, Zephyr Cove Beach is super lively in the summertime. There is a bar right on the beach serving drinks, and the volleyball scene is SO FUN! The beach also features a marina, restaurant, and rentals for kayaks, paddleboards, and other watercraft!

• Meeks Bay, West Shore: Situated on the west shore of the lake, Meeks Bay Beach is a quieter and more secluded option, with blue water and panoramic mountain views. It's a great spot for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding!

Boat the Lake:

Is it even summer in the Sierras if you don’t get out on the water?! The best advice we could ever give is to book a boat and explore the lake from a whole new perspective. Trust us!

Kayaking or Paddleboarding:

Renting a kayak or paddleboard is a great way to explore while enjoying the quieter parts of the lake. Try Sand Harbor or Emerald Bay for a less crowded cruise.

Go Stargazing:

The dark night sky over Lake Tahoe provides a perfect opportunity to see the stars. Try heading out to the Tahoe Meadows or Spooner Lake for a great stargazing experience!

WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR TAHOE VACATION

When packing for your Tahoe vacation in the summer, think about comfort, sun protection, and outdoor activities. Be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, insect repellent, and water to stay hydrated and protected from the elements. Don't forget to bring comfortable clothes and shoes for hiking and exploring, as well as a swimsuit to jump in and enjoy the water! With these essentials in your suitcase, you'll be ready to make this your best summer vacation yet!

PACK IT:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing (shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, sundresses)

• Warm layers for chilly evenings (sweater, jacket, long pants)

• Comfortable hiking shoes or sneakers

• Sandals for the beach or pool

• Swimsuits and coverups

• Hat or visor for sun protection

• Sunglasses

• Rain jacket or umbrella (in case of a summer storm!)

Outdoor Gear:

• Sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. The high altitude of Tahoe means the sun's UV rays are stronger and can increase the risk of sunburn and skin damage.

• Insect repellent

• Water bottle- It’s important to stay hydrated, especially since you will be at high elevation!

• ‘OHANA Pareo for use as a picnic blanket or for a day at the beach

• Water shoes or sandals with good traction

• ALOHA Camp Hat

ALOHA POUCH + BAG PACKING GUIDE

Small Pouch: Use to keep your beach bag organized!

Pro Tip: Carry an extra bikini bag to stash wet bathing suits on the boat or after a Trukee river float!

Mid Pouch: The perfect size for all of your essentials, keep your personal items safe from splashes while out on the lake.

MAX Pouch: Our largest pouch can fit a change of clothes like a sundress or joggers in addition to a light sweater, so you can easily go from deck to dock! After a day on the lake, this pouch is a must for anyone going to lakeside restaurants or bars.

Pareo: Wear our lightweight pareo as a swimsuit coverup on the boat or as a dress for lakeside BBQs. You can also dip it in the water and throw it around your shoulders to stay cool on hot days.

Mini Hip Pack: Our Mini Hip Pack was built for adventure! Use it for hiking, biking, or out on your SUP to keep your cash, cards, and phone free from splashes.

Pro Tip: DO NOT SUBMERGE!

Holo Holo: This large capacity carryall bag is a must-have for beach day essentials like towels, a good book, sunscreen, a water bottle, and a sandwich from West Shore Market. The zipper pocket inside is perfect for storing your wallets and keys.

Day Tripper: Pack for a day on the lake with this must-have tote. A zipper enclosure and an expandable top will keep your gear organized and in one easy-to-find place.

ALOHA Trucker Hat: Stay out of the sun or take a dip in the lake with our ALOHA trucker hat! You can even wear wake surfing or on the river float for an extra layer of sun protection

ALOHA Coldie: Keep your cold ones COLD with our neoprene logo can coldies!

There are endless ways to use our SPLASH-PROOF travel pouches!