When you think of California, the first few things that come to mind are thebeaches, boardwalks, and Beverly Hills. Next, you might think of the scrumptious wines of Napa Valley. While we certainly never tire of those, when we’re on the market for adventure, we’re headed north towards Tahoe. Here are our top 5  things to do in Lake Tahoe.

1. Paddle Board at Hidden Beach

Just south of Incline Village (technically in Nevada), you’ll find Hidden Beach sitting right below Highway 28. The beach has soft sands ideal for picnics or stretching out on a blanket with your favorite magazine. The water is calm and clear, making it ideal for swimming – but the real attraction here is paddle boarding. You can set off on your board right from one of the flat boulders that hug the shore and create the feeling of a natural sculpture gallery.

Pro Tip: Once you’ve worked up an appetite, venture over to Bite American Tapas in Incline Village, a restaurant that mixes Spanish-style cuisine with classic American ingredients.

2. Hike Along the Tahoe Rim Trail

OK, pack your Keens and your wool socks! Whatever level of hike you enjoy, the Tahoe Rim Trail is a must-try. It’s 165-miles long and encircles the entirety of the lake, boasting stunning peaks and ridge lines along the way. If you’re looking to access your inner Cheryl Strayed, you can hike the trail from beginning to end – a feat with serious bragging rights. But if you’re a novice or hobby hiker like us, fear not: it’s easy to hop on and off the trail for a day hike. Our favorite part of the trail is the north end which is a little less strenuous than the rest (but you’ll still work up a sweat), and meanders through forests, meadows, and small lakes with cliff outcroppings peppered in between.

Pro Tip: If you’re a mountain biker, put this on your wish list right now. Biking is permitted on about 80 miles of the trail; you’ll find prime conditions and unbeatable views on the Flume Trail.

3. Sunset Sailing Cruise

Sunset sailing might seem like more of a Caribbean activity – but once you witness the sun descending behind the Sierra Nevada Mountain range you’ll discover a whole new kind of natural beauty. You’ll find boat charter companies all around Lake Tahoe which offer everything from sailing cruises to powerboat rentals. Our favorite way to experience the lake is with a two-hour sunset sail with Tahoe Sailing Charters, right in Tahoe City. They’ll take you on a smooth ride along the lake and you’ll witness firsthand how perfectly the golden mountain sunset pairs with a spread of Cali-style appetizers.

Pro Tip: If winds are strong, you may have to reschedule your excursion for a calmer day. We recommend booking your sailing charter for the beginning of your stay to ensure there’s plenty of days to reschedule if need be.

4. Kayak on the Tahoe Water Trail

Why seek out Tahoe’s microbrews on dry land when you can travel via water instead? The Tahoe Water Trail hugs the boundary of the lake for some 72 miles, with 41 public landing sites, including sandy beaches, historic sights and restaurants. It’s calm and easy to navigate, designed for visitors to hop on a kayak or paddle board to bounce in between hiking, birdwatching, and trying those Tahoe brews! Suddenly walking and driving seems so unexciting.

Pro Tip: Want to bring your pup along for the adventure? Opt for a paddle board, where you can strap your pup on right in front of you. There’s a list of beaches along the trail you can enjoy with your canine here.

5. Tee Up at a Championship Golf Course 

If you’re a golf fanatic, you probably know Lake Tahoe boasts a number of championship golf courses. You’re treated to elevations over 6000ft in Tahoe, so your long drives will look better than ever. The vistas at Edgewood Tahoeare not to be missed, where the only thing interrupting clear views of the snowy mountain range and sparkling lake are the tall pine trees. We also love the Squaw Valley and Northstar resorts, or hopping over the border for a quick round at the Incline Village Championship Courses in Nevada. Courses as stunning as these will strengthen your game no matter how close to par you finish.