For those who may not be familiar with the Lake Tahoe landscape, the massive body of water spreads across two states: California and Nevada. The Nevada side of Lake Tahoe is home to noteworthy attractions, including Zephyr Cove, Sand Harbor, and Incline Village. The California side includes its fair share of picturesque areas, including the quaint mountain town of Tahoma, Tahoe National Forest, and the region’s crown jewel, Emerald Bay.

Emerald Bay history

Just a short drive (under 30 minutes) from South Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay is an inlet within Lake Tahoe. In fact, it’s the only inlet in the entire lake. Within the bay is Lake Tahoe’s only island — Fannette Island — which rises approximately 150 feet above the water. Geologists believe that, since Lake Tahoe was formed by glaciers, Fannette Island was able to withstand the rise of water due to its resistant granite rock. If exploring the area, you’ll also find Vikingsholm Castle: a 38-room mansion featuring some of the finest Scandinavian architecture in the U.S.

After being declared a National Natural Landmark in 1969 by the federal Department of the Interior and then being included as a California State Park in 1994, Emerald Bay is one of the first underwater parks in California. Today, Emerald Bay State Park consists of 1,533 acres, which includes trails, beach areas, and lookouts that provide breathtaking views of the glistening water and surrounding mountain landscape.

Things to do in and around Emerald Bay

Spending a day (or two!) out in Emerald Bay? Here are a few things to check out in this one-of-a-kind area:

1. Take a hike

Emerald Bay is more than a (albeit incredibly picturesque) part of Lake Tahoe — it’s surrounded by protected forests that make for gorgeous hiking. A few noteworthy trails to check out while in the area include:

• Eagle Falls Loop: This short, family-friendly trail leads to gorgeous waterfalls and a remarkable lake overlook. Due to its short length and simple terrain, this is the ideal hike for families or people who want to enjoy nature but aren’t looking for anything too rigorous.
• D.L. Bliss State Park to Emerald Bay State Park via Rubicon Trail: For those looking for a longer, more strenuous hike, this one should do the trick. Enter from D.L. Bliss State Park and hike alongside Lake Tahoe until reaching Emerald Bay.
• Vikingsholm Trail to Lower Eagle Falls: A moderate hike around the bay that offers views of the lake, waterfalls, and the historic Vikingsholm Castle.

2. Tour Vikingsholm Castle

The cliffs and mountains surrounding Emerald Bay reminded Mrs. Lora Josephine Knight of the fjords she adored in Scandinavia. So, in 1928, she bought the land around Emerald Bay to transform it into a Scandinavian-style summer home that she would enjoy until her death in 1945. In fact, the only structure on Tahoe’s only island — Fannette Island — is known as the “Tea House,” as Mrs. Knight and her guests would head to the house to enjoy an afternoon cup of tea during her many summers in Emerald Bay.

With Vikingsholm Castle being considered one of the best examples of Scandinavian architecture in the U.S., it shouldn’t come as a surprise that tours run daily in the summer. So if you’re looking for a brief history lesson and a chance to get out of the afternoon sun, a tour of Vikingsholm Castle might be a great option. Just keep in mind: To access the castle, you’ll have to hike down (and then back up) a prettttty steep hill that’s about 400 feet elevation gain. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear. Those with medical concerns should not attempt this hike.

3. Take a dip or paddle around the bay

If you’re able to make it to Emerald Bay, you can enjoy any of the public beaches in the area. The best way to access the shoreline is via boat. However, while the dream is to befriend someone with a boat in Lake Tahoe, not everyone is privy to such luxuries. The good news is you can also access Emerald Bay using a kayak or paddleboard. There’s a few beaches (such as Baldwin Beach, Kiva Beach, and Pope Beach) nearby that make for good launching points. We launched our paddleboards from Kiva Beach (which has free parking!!!), and it took about 90 minutes to paddle up to Emerald Bay and 90 minutes back. If you’re staying at Upper Eagle Point Campground, you can launch a kayak or paddleboard from the camp’s private beach, which will give you full access to the bay.

4. Snap a few (breathtaking) photos at one of the lookouts

The good news is that you can take in absolutely amazing views of Emerald Bay just by driving through the area. Emerald Bay Road takes you high above the water — making it a biiiit nerve-wracking if you’re not used to driving narrow roads — and provides beautiful views of Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay, and Fannette Island. There are a few vista lookouts along Emerald Bay Road, including the Emerald Bay State Park Lookout and Inspiration Point. Just be warned: These lookouts get C R O W D E D during the summer (AKA peak tourist season in Lake Tahoe), and since the road is narrow, parking can be tough. Drive with care and try to arrive early in the day.

Know before you go: Emerald Bay edition

Planning to peruse the Emerald Bay area of Lake Tahoe? Here are a few quick tips to help you plan your day:

• Parking can be very difficult: As mentioned, this is an area of Lake Tahoe that gets crazy crowded in the summer. Personally, I wouldn’t head here during holiday weekends or Saturday afternoons. Why? Parking is limited, and roadside parking can be really tricky, as the roads are narrow and curvy. The best days to go are during the week and early in the morning.
• Drive cautiously: In this area of Lake Tahoe, not only is the road windy, but there’s usually tourists walking along the shoulder to reach vista points and trailheads. Be prepared to drive slowly.
• Remember you’re on the road: Emerald Bay Road is, in fact, a real road. People — tourists and locals alike — use the road to access various parts of Lake Tahoe. If you’re heading to the Emerald Bay area, keep your eyes on the road and foot on the gas pedal. We frequently drove through the area, and, on multiple occasions, drivers would simply stop (probably either distracted by the view or looking for a parking spot). Regardless, remember you’re on a real road, not a giant parking lot.
• Bring sturdy footwear: If you’re planning on hiking down to the beach, bring a pair of sneakers. The trek to Emerald Bay may be easy, but going back up might not be in flip-flops or sandals.
• Plan for minimal cell phone coverage: The Emerald Bay area of Lake Tahoe doesn’t have great cell reception. If you need navigation routes or trail maps, be sure to download them ahead of time.