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5 Amazing Adventures in Lake Tahoe's Zephyr Cove

Explore Tahoe's best summer destination.

By: Josiah Roe + Save to a List

Drive to Zephyr Cove, get out of the car, and just go. In any direction there are endless adventures. Book a campsite, cabin, or room in the lodge in advance and you are well on your way.

1. Camp at Zephyr Cove


Situated on the eastern shore of Lake Tahoe, Zephyr Cove is one of the most convenient basecamps for easy access to a multitude of watersports and on-trail exploring. It also boasts walk in/drive in campsites, showers and bathrooms, and even free wifi in the resort’s main lobby and restaurants. Not to mention incredible views of the cove.

2. Explore Emerald Bay by Boat from Zephyr Cove

Book a cruise or rent a watercraft to see the beauty of Emerald Bay right from its surface. Relax while meandering across the bay, and be sure to check out Vikingsholm Castle, a magnificent example of Scandinavian architecture that is nationally renowned, and situated right on the shore of Emerald Bay.

3. Wake Surf Zephyr Cove

Try your hand at one of the most popular watersports in the cove and rent a wake surfboard to play with. Surrounded by plenty of trees and mountains, Zephyr is the perfect near-sheltered spot to practice your skills.

4. Kayak Zephyr Cove

No matter what your skill level, Zephyr is a great place to rent a kayak and paddle out into that Tahoe blue. 360 views of the surrounding snowcapped peaks are sure to leave you breathless.

5. Stand Up Paddle Board Zephyr Cove


Rent a stand up paddle board and “walk on water” from one end of the cove to the other. Paddle over to the northern end (depending on the water level) of the Cove to explore several rock islands, some of which are ideal to jump off of.

Photos and story by Josiah Roe.

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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