Eagle Falls, Emerald Bay State Park: Our most recommended tours and activities

South Lake Tahoe: Sightseeing Cruise of Emerald Bay

1. South Lake Tahoe: Sightseeing Cruise of Emerald Bay

Embark on a sightseeing cruise starting in South Lake Tahoe either at sunset or during the day. Take in the scenic beauty while cruising 11 kilometers across the lake to Emerald Bay, one of the top ten most photographed places in the world. Savor snacks and drinks as you sail. See the majestic mountains of South Lake Tahoe while onboard the world-class Tahoe Bleu Wave yacht. As you cruise, you will find indoor and outdoor seating with 360-degree panoramic views of Lake Tahoe, the snow-capped mountains, Fannette Island, Vikingsholm Castle, Eagle Waterfall, and the Rubicon. Navigate the pristine waters of Lake Tahoe while hearing your captain's narration about this lake. You may even get the chance to see a variety of wildlife such as the bald eagle, black bears, and wild geese. If you've chosen the sunset option, relax and watch the sun dip low below the sky.

Lake Tahoe: Self-Guided Driving Tour

2. Lake Tahoe: Self-Guided Driving Tour

Explore your way on this self-guided driving tour of Lake Tahoe. See the entire lake and all the best vistas, hikes, and swimming spots using an app that functions as a guide, audio tour, and map all in one. Enjoy a tour by local guides, creative writers, and professional voice artists. Begin your tour in Stateline on the southern shore. From there, take a clockwise loop around the lake. While driving, learn about the heated debate between California and Nevada over who technically owns the lake. Visit the summer home of a man who insisted people called his cabin the Vatican. Then, see a few more impressive homes along the shore, including some inspired by Viking longhouses. Next, visit Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe’s crown jewel. This bay offers stunning views of the water and the mountains beyond, as well as swimming, kayaking, scuba diving, and any other water activities you could want. If you’re in the mood for a waterfall, stop by the Eagle Falls trailhead to see the only waterfall that flows into the lake. Hear the spooky tale of how Lake Tahoe’s only island, Fannette, is supposedly haunted. As you continue, learn about the Washoe tribe who lived here long before any European explorers put it on a map. Next up, see Meeks Bay, a perfect white sand beach to catch some sun. Get the scoop on a presidential visit to the lake, famous residents who occupy the houses along the shore, and learn about the lake’s origins. Pay a visit to Carnelian Bay, where boat racing used to be a big deal in the '30s and '40s. Then, say hello to Kings Beach on the north shore, a perfect picnic spot with views that will make you feel like a royal yourself. Pass by the Cal Neva Casino next, which straddles the border between California and Nevada and was once owned by Frank Sinatra. See more stunning estates along the way. Then, learn about some of the area’s wildlife. Visit the Secret Cove, a perfect spot for those looking for some secluded serenity. Nearing the end of the tour, visit a 300-foot-high vista point for perfect photo opportunities. Conclude your tour by Cave Rock, a remnant of the lake’s most ancient history.

Emerald Bay Private Luxury Boat Tours

3. Emerald Bay Private Luxury Boat Tours

Our Private Emerald Bay Cruises are 2-hours, departing either in the morning or afternoon. Explore Lake Tahoe’s picturesque west shoreline and experience the pristine waters of Emerald Bay and Rubicon Bay. See Lake Tahoe’s most breathtaking views including Fannett Island and Rubicon Point. We can pull up and anchor at one of Lake Tahoe’s pristine coves or beaches for a picnic or a swim in the Caribbean colored water. We depart from the Tahoe Keys Marina and take guests along the beautiful west shore into Emerald Bay to view Lake Tahoe’s hidden castle the Vikingsholm, Eagle Falls and Fannette Island. Then, we cruise through the Caribbean waters of Rubicon Bay and Rubicon Point and then back across the lake to the Marina. We provide a cooler with ice, bottled water and sodas. Guests are welcome to bring snacks, packed lunches and beverages of their choice. Alcohol is allowed.

Lake Tahoe: Lakeside Highlights Yacht Tour

4. Lake Tahoe: Lakeside Highlights Yacht Tour

Experience the shoreline of Lake Tahoe aboard a yacht and take in panoramic views of the lush scenery. Join a relaxing and luxurious guided trip around the Tahoe Keys, allowing the crew to point out some of the biggest local attractions for swimming and diving. Explore the calm and secluded Eagle Falls and Fannette Island in Emerald Bay State Park, check out the clarity of the lake in Whiskey Cove, and see exciting activities taking place along the cliffs of D.L. Bliss State Park. Watch people jump off Rooster Rock and view the estates of Rubicon Bay. Make the most of your outing by bringing your favorite beverages and snacks to enjoy during your tour. Swim off the boat, sit in the shade or sun, and customize your trip to your own interests.

Stateline: Self-Guided Audio Tour of Tahoe City with App

5. Stateline: Self-Guided Audio Tour of Tahoe City with App

Take in the stunning state parks of Emerald Bay, Eagle Lake, D.L. Bliss and Sugar Pine, scattered along Lake Tahoe’s West shore, on a driving tour. View the crystal-clear waters from roadside overlooks and hear stories about this spectacular alpine lake as we cruise from the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino at Stateline, Nevada to Tahoe City. This driving tour is one of three that takes you entirely around Lake Tahoe. On this tour we’ll explore the early community of Al Tahoe, the Tallac Historic Site, and view three early Tahoe summer homes. Our tour continues with optional hikes to Vikingsholm at Emerald Bay, Eagle Falls, and Eagle Rock. Enjoy the picturesque splendor of Lake Tahoe and its surrounding snow capped mountains as you drive, along the way hearing stories about: • Some of Tahoe’s colorful characters • Early Native American history in the Tahoe Basin • Lake Tahoe’s early history • The trees of Tahoe’s pine forest • The history of gaming in Lake Tahoe This driving tour can be completed in about two hours without any stops. On the other hand, this is your adventure. You may stop where you want, when you want, and for as long as you want. It’s up to you! Along the way, you’ll have the option of visiting a number of state parks. Parking fees are not included in the price of this tour. For more detailed information about these stops please see “Places to stop along the way” in the tour description where I have listed April 2021 prices, as well as information about the optional hikes. Please review the “Precautions” section for important information on driving and hiking.

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What people are saying about Eagle Falls, Emerald Bay State Park

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 293 reviews

This tour was excellent. The views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding area were amazing, and we caught a beautiful sunset. The captain was very friendly & informative, and the beverage service was a nice plus. Will definitely do this tour again if/when I return to Lake Tahoe

Captain Auggie was absolutely amazing! He gave us a great cruise, lots of information and history. The drinks and snacks were amazing and the First Mate, Bob, was extremely kind and helpful. We will be back for sure in the summer!

We had a great time. Captain Steve, 1st mate Charlie and 2nd mate Josh were all awesome people and made the cruise for us. Of course the spectacular views didn’t hurt. . Thank you guys for a great experience.

Great crew! Knowledgeable and friendly, pick this boat tour, won’t be disappointed!

Amazing experience and the crew were very friendly and informative!