Top Travel Tips For Visiting North Lake Tahoe in Summer 2021

Are you planning a vacation to Tahoe in summer 2021? Come escape in the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains and enjoy perfect weather and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation.

If you're visiting North Lake Tahoe this summer, keep in mind there are a few things you might notice to be different than in the past. As locals, business owners, and travelers are all navigating a new way of vacationing, it's important to reminder we're all in this together. Here are a few of our top tips for visiting North Lake Tahoe in summer so you can plan the vacation of a lifetime.

Tips for Vacationing to North Lake Tahoe in Summer 2021

1. Make Reservations For Activities

Plan ahead by making reservations for any activities you'd like to do while you're in Tahoe. Activities such as boating, golfing, sunset cruises, and dining all require reservations, and the farther in advance you make them, the better. 

Many restaurants in the region are requiring reservations at the moment. If you don't have a chance to book a reservation, be sure to call ahead before arriving to check their capacity and availability. Check out our dining guide for recommendations and contact information for local restaurants.

2. Arrive Midweek if You Can

Avoid the Friday afternoon traffic by traveling midweek. Many travelers will visit Lake Tahoe for a long weekend, and a 3 hour drive can easily be doubled if you are driving from the Bay Area to Truckee on a Friday afternoon. Head up on a Wednesday or Thursday to beat the traffic getting into town, plus you'll be able to enjoy mid-week activities with fewer crowds!

3. Avoid Peak Times for Going Out

Head out early in the morning to avoid the peak crowds. Beaches in the North Lake Tahoe region can get crowded, especially on the weekends. Hop in the car an hour or two earlier and you'll be able to pick the best spot on the beach before everyone else shows up. Plus, if you head out early, you won't need to do laps searching for a parking spot. Trailheads and waterways are also less crowded in the morning. You won't regret getting up early to explore in solitude!

If you're going out to get food at local Tahoe restaurants, try going during non-peak hours. You can score happy hour deals and great seats by dining early and avoiding the traditional hours for lunch and dinner. 

4. Shop Local Businesses

Support the local communities and buy local during your stay. In the last year and a half, local businesses in Tahoe and Historic Downtown Truckee have suffered from shutdowns and ordinances limiting capacity, hours, and more. Go and support the amazing local businesses throughout Tahoe! Whether you're grabbing food, shopping for souvenirs, or getting gear for outdoor adventures, there are incredible local options to choose from. 

Check out this informative Know Before You Go Guide to North Lake Tahoe Travel in Summer 2021 for further tips and suggestions about travel to Tahoe this summer!