Top 5 Lake Tahoe Water Sports for Kids
April 23, 2018
Lake Tahoe is located in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Most of the lake is in northern California, but a portion is in Nevada as well. Lake Tahoe is surrounded by many picturesque small towns, including Kings Beach, Carnelian Bay, and Ridgewood.
Many people think of Lake Tahoe as a winter destination because of its nearby ski resorts, like Squaw Valley, but did you know Tahoe is just as fantastic in the summer? The freshwater lake is crystal clear and its temperature can reach 75 degrees in late August. It has many beaches and shallow bays, which are perfect for swimming. Lake Tahoe is often calm, but mountain weather can create storms and large waves, which are sometimes surfable, and the rivers running into Lake Tahoe (such as the Truckee River) provide additional recreation opportunities.
When you book with Xplorie, your rental includes some of the best Lake Tahoe activities. We’ve put together our five favorite water sport activities in the Lake Tahoe area, perfect for summer family vacations.
PADDLEBOARDING
You might be familiar with stand-up paddleboarding (or SUPing). Paddleboarding, an offshoot of surfing, is a fun way to spend time on the water. You can stand-up paddleboard in both calm conditions and in surf, although a calm lake day is optimal for beginners. In addition, a variety of boards are available to fit every ability level. Paddleboarding is a great full-body workout, but the activity can be as social or strenuous as you desire. For an added challenge, try SUP yoga!
WHITEWATER RAFTING
Take a half day away from the lake for an exhilarating whitewater rafting trip. The Lower Gorge of the Truckee River has beautiful views and can be rafted (with a guide) during spring, summer and sometimes fall. The stretch of river has Class II, III, and III+ rapids between swimming holes where you can jump in the water.
KAYAKING AND CANOEING
Spend leisure time on Lake Tahoe while kayaking or canoeing with family and friends. Kayaks are available in singles or doubles, and some canoes are large enough for two paddlers and a passenger! The 72-mile shoreline of Lake Tahoe is a designated “Water Trail” and has 20 launch/landing sites, all available to the public. While traveling the entire Water Trail via kayak or canoe can take up to a week, you can use the infrastructure to plan a safe and fun day trip between beaches and launch sites.
FISHING
Lake Tahoe and its surrounding streams, rivers and reservoir offer boundless fishing options for anglers. Take a charter boat with expert guides around Tahoe to catch Lake (Mackinaw) Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout and Kokanee Salmon. Fishing licenses and gear come with a fishing charter! If you are interested in fly fishing instead of sport fishing, try the Truckee River, East and West Carson Rivers, Taylor Creek or Boca and Stampede Reservoirs. In addition to the fish that live in Lake Tahoe, you’ll find Brook Trout and Kokanee Salmon.
WATER SKIING
Those who love Tahoe for the view can get all the exclusive sights right on the water! Wakeboarding, kneeboarding, wake surfing, and tubing are other popular speed boat sports. You’ll find many local water sports shops with ski boat and gear rentals (you’ll want a wetsuit at cooler temperatures). If you prefer to learn from a pro, many outfitters offer water ski lessons as well.
Between fishing and whitewater rafting, you’re sure to delight both the leisure-lovers and the adrenaline junkies of the family. Lake Tahoe water sports are diverse and plentiful, and many come free with your Xplorie vacation rental! Search Lake Tahoe vacation rentals and start planning your ultimate activity-filled getaway.
