Summers on Lake Tahoe are dream. An idyllic outdoor escape, the freshwater lake is home to crystal clear water, sandy beaches and hiking trails that straddle California and Nevada. It’s an outdoor paradise I’ve visited countless times. Here are some of my favorites for your next trip. 🌲💧🥾 BONSAI ROCK This large granite boulder sits in the middle of a serene cove on the lake’s east coast. Tiny trees sprout from cracks in the boulder, giving the illusion of a bonsai plant. CAVE ROCK The viewpoint at Cave Rock is a sweeping panorama, and the hike up is short and sweet. CHIMNEY BEACH Chimney Beach is accessible from the same parking lot as Secret Cove. It’s a short hike down to the little beach where idyllic turquoise water, big boulders and white sand await. CLEAR KAYAKS Rent a clear kayak to fully experience the clear waters of Lake Tahoe. Clearly Tahoe, Tahoe Paddlesports and Tahoe Jack’s rent out both clear and traditional kayaks. EMERALD BAY A popular day hike destination, Emerald Bay is home to Inspiration Point, an iconic viewpoint of the sparkling bay, Fannette Island and Vikingsholm Castle. LAKE FOREST BEACH LUPINES Lake Forest Beach isn’t particularly memorable, but it’s worth a stop if you visit when the lupines are blooming. A small field is located next to the beach, and it fills up with the wild purple flower. RIDGE RIDER MOUNTAIN COASTER This gravity-powered alpine coaster whisks riders through the forest and over pretty granite boulders. SAND HARBOR BEACH Sand Harbor is gorgeous – home to crystal-clear water, matte rocky coves and long stretches of beach. SECRET COVE This beautiful secluded cove serves up an epic backdrop for a day at the beach. The water is clear, the rocks are matte and epic viewpoints surround the little bay. Note that Secret Cove is a nudist beach. YUBA RIVER DAY TRIP If you have a day to spare, make a trip to Yuba River located in the Tahoe National Forest. It’s about an hour west of Tahoe City, and home to several emerald green swimming holes.