Lake Tahoe kayak tour from South Lake Tahoe: Wildlife and peaks

Paddle past wildlife preserves and see Emerald Bay peaks from the water

A 2.5-hour guided kayak tour on Lake Tahoe starting from South Lake Tahoe's Lakeview Commons, paddling past Secret Beach wildlife preserve, the Upper Truckee River mouth, and the peaks above Emerald Bay. The tour suits beginners and experienced paddlers alike, with a live guide sharing stories about the lake's landmarks and history as you paddle across water clear enough to see the bottom.

Step-by-step itinerary

Guided paddle tour at Lake Tahoe

• Launch from El Dorado Beach
• Paddle past wildlife preserve
• View Upper Truckee River mouth
• Hear stories about Lake Tahoe
• Return to Lakeview Commons

The experience

You launch from Lakeview Commons boat ramp at 9:30 am and paddle out onto water so clear you can see the lake floor. The route takes you past a wildlife preserve near Secret Beach and the Upper Truckee River mouth, where wildlife viewing opportunities come naturally as you paddle. Your guide shares stories about Lake Tahoe's landmarks and the personalities who shaped the region, pointing out the sweeping views of peaks above Emerald Bay as you move across the water. The paddle returns to the launch point around 11:30 am.

Lake Tahoe sits on the border between California and Nevada, and from a kayak you see both sides. The tour works for families and first-time paddlers as well as experienced kayakers: the pace and the clear water make it accessible to anyone comfortable in a boat. All equipment is provided: kayak, paddle, and personal flotation device.

What’s included

• Kayak, paddle, and personal flotation device.
• live guide in English sharing stories about Lake Tahoe's landmarks and history.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 15 May 2027

AgesAdult (5 and older) · Under 5: can't be booked

GroupUp to 16

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by South Tahoe Kayak & Paddleboard

Is this one for you?This tour works for families and mixed-ability groups paddling together, since the route from South Lake Tahoe keeps the distance manageable for beginners while the clear water and wildlife sightings hold the interest of experienced paddlers.

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What wildlife might I see on the Upper Truckee River mouth section?

The Upper Truckee River mouth offers lots of wildlife viewing opportunities as you paddle, though specific species depend on the season and time of day you're on the water.

Is this tour good for someone who's never paddled before?

Yes. The tour is appropriate for beginner paddlers and experts alike, and the launch spot at Lakeview Commons is one of the closest access points to the main sights, keeping the paddle manageable for all skill levels.

What time does the kayak tour start and end?

The tour departs at 9:30 am from Lakeview Commons and returns around 11:30 am, making it a 2.5-hour outing.

Can I see both the California and Nevada sides of Lake Tahoe on this tour?

Yes. Lake Tahoe straddles the California-Nevada border, and paddling from South Lake Tahoe gives you views of the lake from both states.

What's included in the kayak tour price?

The tour includes the kayak, paddle, and personal flotation device (PFD). A live guide in English leads the entire paddle and shares stories about the lake's landmarks and history.