The West Shore of Lake Tahoe is a family friendly summer vacation destination rich with beauty, history, and endless opportunities for adventure. Known as the "Gold Coast," this stunning stretch of shoreline is home to charming Tahoe neighborhoods, scenic hiking and biking trails, Lake Tahoe public beaches with crystal-clear waters perfect for kayaking and swimming. Explore historic mansions, visit fascinating museums, and discover the unique character of communities. Whether you're seeking outdoor thrills, cultural experiences, or a peaceful retreat, the West Shore offers the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. The best part, head on back to your Tahoe Getaways vacation rental to relax and unwind in comfort.
Enjoy our West Shore vacation homes located in Tahoe City, Sunnyside, Fluer Du Lac, Tahoe Pines, Tahoe Park, Chamberlands, Rubicon Bay, Homewood & Tahoma.
Things to Explore on The West Shore!
The West Lake Tahoe Bike Path - Experience an incredibly scenic ride for all ages, from Tahoe City to Sugar Pine Point State Park, passing through Emerald Bay and continuing to Meeks Bay. This breathtaking route takes you through charming lakeside communities like, Sunnyside, Pineland, Timberland, Tahoe Pines, Homewood, Chambers Lodge, and Tahoma. Along the way, you'll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy great food, outdoor activities, and stunning views of Lake Tahoe’s shimmering shoreline. If you're starting in Tahoe City, The 64 Acres Park offers convenient parking with access to the TCPUD bike trail system.
Gatekeepers Museum- Located in Tahoe City, is filled with historial educational and informative exhibits about the history of Tahoe. Classes, events and more! Dedicated to educating the public on the history of North Lake Tahoe and preserving this history for future generations. The North Lake Tahoe Historical Society has been apart of the North Lake Tahoe community for over 40 years.
Open Dates: April 2 -October 31 2025- Wednesday -Sunday / Hours: 11am -4pm
Sugar Pine Point State Park- A gorgeous park along the shores of Lake Tahoe about 2 milies long with year round campgrounds, the historic Hellman Ehrman Mansion and the Sugar pine Point Nature Center. Wandering through the park you can enjoy 2,000 acres filled with sugar pine, aspen, juniper, and fir forests. Enjoy beach front trails, epic hikes, swimming holes, and plenty of opportunity for boating, kayaking, paddlboarding and more.
Hellman-Ehrman Mansion- Step back in time with a visit to the Hellman-Ehrman Mansion, one of Lake Tahoe’s finest examples of early 20th-century summer retreats. Built in 1903 as a family getaway for Isaias W. Hellman, this stunning estate sits on 2,000 acres of pristine lakeside land. Now a National and State Historic Landmark, the mansion is open for public tours during the summer months, with each room carefully restored and furnished with 1930s-era pieces. Known for its beautiful grounds and breathtaking lakefront setting, it’s the perfect spot to explore—or simply relax during a nearby hike.
Open Tour Dates Memorial Day weekend through September 30th/ Hours: 10am-3pm
Tours are $8 for adults, $5 for children 6-17, under 6 are free.
Pet-friendly- Pets are allowed on the estate grounds, on leash. They are not allowed on the beach.
Emerald Bay State Park -With its stunning shades of blue and green, Emerald Bay is one of Lake Tahoe’s most breathtaking destinations. This scenic park offers endless outdoor adventures, from hiking and biking to kayaking and paddleboarding. It’s also home to the historic Vikingsholm castle and Lake Tahoe’s only island, Fannette Island. Be sure to stop at Inspiration Point along Highway 89—this iconic overlook offers panoramic views of the bay, making it the perfect spot for photos and unforgettable memories.
Vikingsholm – Tahoe’s Hidden Castle. Located along the shores of Emerald Bay, Vikingsholm is a breathtaking 38-room mansion and one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in North America. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this historic gem is open for tours during the summer months, offering a glimpse into its rich past.
Surrounded by stunning lake and mountain views, Vikingsholm is well worth the journey. Access requires a steep one-mile hike, descending 400 feet in elevation—but the scenery makes every step worthwhile. No dogs allowed.
Tours open late May 2025
Fannette Island – Lake Tahoe’s Only Island-Located within Emerald Bay State Park, Fannette Island is the only island in Lake Tahoe and a must-visit destination for those exploring the area. Accessible by boat, kayak, or canoe, this small yet storied island is home to the remains of the famous “Tea House.” In 1928, the island was part of the 240-acre estate purchased by Lora Josephine Knight, the visionary behind Vikingsholm. Wanting a unique spot to entertain guests, she commissioned the Tea House, a 16x16-foot stone retreat, built by 200 workers over nine months. Guests would arrive by motorboat to enjoy the island’s serene beauty. Today, only the ruins of the Tea House remain, offering visitors a glimpse into Tahoe’s history. Exploring Fannette Island is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and rich past of Emerald Bay.
Tahoe Getaways offers a variety of vacation homes on the West Shore, putting you right in the heart of the action and adventure, from lakefront estates, lakeview lodges and old Tahoe cabins. Discover our featured West Shore Tahoe vacation homes and must-do activities to make the most of your stay.
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