 | Tahoe Adventure Company |
Lake Tahoe Kayak Tours
Experience the scenic and beautiful Lake Tahoe shoreline from the unique perspective of a kayak.The Lake Tahoe area offers incredible kayaking opportunities. All of our one-day kayaking tours cover comprehensive paddling instruction, include an excellent lunch on the beach, and allow our guests to experience the area from the unique perspective of a kayak. We point out ecology, geology, and natural and human history along the way. These excellent paddles always travel with the prevailing winds and currents, which allows us to explore and have fun. The scenery is remarkable! For more information, read below about some of our guided kayak trips we offer on Lake Tahoe. All trips are suitable for beginners. Guests must know how to swim.
| Lessons and Tours | Time | Distance | Difficulty | Location | Minimum | Cost | Book |
| Discover Kayaking or Paddleboarding- $60! | 10am-12pm | 1-3 miles | Easy | Tahoe Vista Recreation Area. | $60 | Book | |
| North Shore Kayak Tour | 10am-2pm | 3-6 miles | Easy | Tahoe Vista Recreation Area | $85 | Book | |
| Sand Harbor Kayak Tour | 9:00am-1:30pm | 3-6 miles | Moderate | Sand Harbor State Park | $99 | Book | |
| Sunset Kayak Tour | Times vary, 3 hours | 1-3 miles | Easy - Moderate | Tahoe Vista Recreation Area | $65 | Book | |
| Thunderbird Lodge Kayak Tour | 9am-2pm | 3 miles | Easy - Moderate | Sand Harbor State Park | $139 | Book | |
| Gar Woods Lakeside Lunch and Kayak Tour | 10am-3pm | 3 - 4 miles | Easy - Moderate | Tahoe Vista Recreation Area | $135 | Book | |
| Star Tours | 6:30-10:30pm | 1-2 miles. 2 hours on water. | Easy - Moderate | Tahoe Vista Recreation Area | 20 per trip | $75 | Book |
| Full Moon Kayak Tours | Times vary, 3 hours | 1-3 miles | Easy - Moderate. | Tahoe Vista Recreation Area | $65 | Book | |
| Historical West Shore Kayak Tour | Times vary, 4 hours | 3-6 miles | Easy | Sugar Pine Point State Park | 15 per trip | $105 | Book |
Discover Kayaking or Paddleboarding- $60!
Learn to love these exhilarating sports!
For the beginner who wants to discover Kayaking or Stand Up Paddleboarding in a safe learning environment, this special 2 hour tour is waiting for you! Discover one of these easy and accessible sports on the clear alpine waters of Lake Tahoe. Our professional guides will provide a complete and thorough kayak or paddleboard lesson geared towards beginners followed by a tour along the coastline. More paddling tips as well as natural and human history discussions will be covered as we travel. Please bring your own water and snacks. Tour meets at the Tahoe Vista Recreation Area. Reservations are required.
Tour includes Kayak or SUP, paddle, life jacket, knowledgeable guide, instruction, natural and human history discussions, tax and permit fees.
Must know how to swim
Typical Distance and Time: 1-3 miles. 10am-12pm.
Level of Difficulty: Easy.
Location: Tahoe Vista Recreation Area..
Cost: $60.00 per person, 2 person minimum.
Book Discover Kayaking or Paddleboarding- $60!
For the beginner who wants to discover Kayaking or Stand Up Paddleboarding in a safe learning environment, this special 2 hour tour is waiting for you! Discover one of these easy and accessible sports on the clear alpine waters of Lake Tahoe. Our professional guides will provide a complete and thorough kayak or paddleboard lesson geared towards beginners followed by a tour along the coastline. More paddling tips as well as natural and human history discussions will be covered as we travel. Please bring your own water and snacks. Tour meets at the Tahoe Vista Recreation Area. Reservations are required.
Tour includes Kayak or SUP, paddle, life jacket, knowledgeable guide, instruction, natural and human history discussions, tax and permit fees.
Must know how to swim
Typical Distance and Time: 1-3 miles. 10am-12pm.
Level of Difficulty: Easy.
Location: Tahoe Vista Recreation Area..
Cost: $60.00 per person, 2 person minimum.
Book Discover Kayaking or Paddleboarding- $60!
North Shore Kayak Tour
Experience the scenic and beautiful Lake Tahoe shoreline from the unique perspective of a kayak.
An excellent kayak tour from our beachfront location in Tahoe Vista, Ca. with incredible views of the High Sierra. After an introductory lesson on shore, we head out on the water for a paddle. Your guides will discuss ecology, geology and other natural and human history topics along the way. Depending on lake conditions, you will paddle along the coast of King's Beach and among the boulders of Crystal Bay or along scenic coastline towards Carnelian Bay while getting a unique glimpse of some of Tahoe's most beautiful waterfront homes. We stop mid day for an excellent lunch on a local beach. The views of the surrounding peaks are amazing and it's great for the whole family!
Tour includes kayak, paddle, life jacket, knowledgeable guide, instruction, natural and human history discussions, tax, permit fees, snacks, deli spread lunch and beverages.
Must know how to swim.
Typical Distance and Time: 3-6 miles. 10am-2pm.
Level of Difficulty: Easy.
Location: Tahoe Vista Recreation Area.
Cost: $85.00 per person, 2 person minimum.
Book North Shore Kayak Tour
An excellent kayak tour from our beachfront location in Tahoe Vista, Ca. with incredible views of the High Sierra. After an introductory lesson on shore, we head out on the water for a paddle. Your guides will discuss ecology, geology and other natural and human history topics along the way. Depending on lake conditions, you will paddle along the coast of King's Beach and among the boulders of Crystal Bay or along scenic coastline towards Carnelian Bay while getting a unique glimpse of some of Tahoe's most beautiful waterfront homes. We stop mid day for an excellent lunch on a local beach. The views of the surrounding peaks are amazing and it's great for the whole family!
Tour includes kayak, paddle, life jacket, knowledgeable guide, instruction, natural and human history discussions, tax, permit fees, snacks, deli spread lunch and beverages.
Must know how to swim.
Typical Distance and Time: 3-6 miles. 10am-2pm.
Level of Difficulty: Easy.
Location: Tahoe Vista Recreation Area.
Cost: $85.00 per person, 2 person minimum.
Book North Shore Kayak Tour
Sand Harbor Kayak Tour
Explore the only undeveloped side of Lake Tahoe - The East Shore!
We start our kayak adventure at Sand Harbor on Tahoe's East Shore and first cover a comprehensive kayak lesson on the beach. Once on the water, we paddle along the coastline, soaking up the incredible Sierra views. Your guide will explain the geology, ecology, and natural and human history of the lake throughout your trip.
To re-energize, we will stop for lunch on the beach at mid day. This trip provides great opportunities to paddle, swim and float along pristine Lake Tahoe coastline. You MAY even get to paddle around the fascinating historic Thunderbird Lodge (conditions permitting). Your guide will discuss the many tales of George Whittell, the original owner, and Bill, his pet lion! This tour is suitable for those who have kayaked before and have a moderate level of fitness.
Tour includes kayak, paddle, life jacket, knowledgeable guide, instruction, natural and human history discussions, permit fees, snacks, and lunch.
Know Before You Go
- This tour is suitable for those who have kayaked before and have a moderate level of fitness.
- Must know how to swim
- Sand Harbor Parking often fills by 8:30am, especially on weekends. Arrive 1 hour before your scheduled tour time to allow for parking.
- Due to high water this season, and therefore smaller beaches, we are encouraging guests to travel in double kayaks to minimize our footprint and to maintain the best guest experience.
- Sand Harbor State Park Entrance Fee of $10.00 applies at Park.
- Our meeting location is not the rental tent. We launch adjacent to the rental tent on the same side of boat launch. Directions can be found on our website and will also be sent in a confirmation email.
If you are one person, please call our office to join an existing group!
Typical Distance and Time: 3-6 miles. 9:00am-1:30pm.
Level of Difficulty: Moderate.
Location: Sand Harbor State Park.
Cost: $99.00 per person, 2 person minimum.
Book Sand Harbor Kayak Tour
We start our kayak adventure at Sand Harbor on Tahoe's East Shore and first cover a comprehensive kayak lesson on the beach. Once on the water, we paddle along the coastline, soaking up the incredible Sierra views. Your guide will explain the geology, ecology, and natural and human history of the lake throughout your trip.
To re-energize, we will stop for lunch on the beach at mid day. This trip provides great opportunities to paddle, swim and float along pristine Lake Tahoe coastline. You MAY even get to paddle around the fascinating historic Thunderbird Lodge (conditions permitting). Your guide will discuss the many tales of George Whittell, the original owner, and Bill, his pet lion! This tour is suitable for those who have kayaked before and have a moderate level of fitness.
Tour includes kayak, paddle, life jacket, knowledgeable guide, instruction, natural and human history discussions, permit fees, snacks, and lunch.
Know Before You Go
- This tour is suitable for those who have kayaked before and have a moderate level of fitness.
- Must know how to swim
- Sand Harbor Parking often fills by 8:30am, especially on weekends. Arrive 1 hour before your scheduled tour time to allow for parking.
- Due to high water this season, and therefore smaller beaches, we are encouraging guests to travel in double kayaks to minimize our footprint and to maintain the best guest experience.
- Sand Harbor State Park Entrance Fee of $10.00 applies at Park.
- Our meeting location is not the rental tent. We launch adjacent to the rental tent on the same side of boat launch. Directions can be found on our website and will also be sent in a confirmation email.
If you are one person, please call our office to join an existing group!
Typical Distance and Time: 3-6 miles. 9:00am-1:30pm.
Level of Difficulty: Moderate.
Location: Sand Harbor State Park.
Cost: $99.00 per person, 2 person minimum.
Book Sand Harbor Kayak Tour
Sunset Kayak Tour
An evening of paddling and watching the night sky.
This kayak trip is a great way to wrap up your day in Tahoe. Offered every Friday as well as other days by reservation. We meet at sunset and get on the water to watch the colors change and the stars appear. We will cover natural and human history and tour the perfect distance before landing on the beach for some hot drinks,snacks, and stargazing.
Tour includes kayak, paddle, life jacket, knowledgeable guide, instruction, natural and human history discussions, permit fees, hot drinks and snacks.
Please note, this tour has a 4 person minimum to run. Groups of less than 4 can we be combined with others. Please call if you have a party less than 4.
Typical Distance and Time: 1-3 miles . Times vary, 3 hours.
Level of Difficulty: Easy - Moderate.
Location: Tahoe Vista Recreation Area.
Cost: $65.00 per person, 4 person minimum.
Book Sunset Kayak Tour
This kayak trip is a great way to wrap up your day in Tahoe. Offered every Friday as well as other days by reservation. We meet at sunset and get on the water to watch the colors change and the stars appear. We will cover natural and human history and tour the perfect distance before landing on the beach for some hot drinks,snacks, and stargazing.
Tour includes kayak, paddle, life jacket, knowledgeable guide, instruction, natural and human history discussions, permit fees, hot drinks and snacks.
Please note, this tour has a 4 person minimum to run. Groups of less than 4 can we be combined with others. Please call if you have a party less than 4.
Typical Distance and Time: 1-3 miles . Times vary, 3 hours.
Level of Difficulty: Easy - Moderate.
Location: Tahoe Vista Recreation Area.
Cost: $65.00 per person, 4 person minimum.
Book Sunset Kayak Tour
Thunderbird Lodge Kayak Tour
A truly unique kayaking experience!
Explore the Thunderbird Lodge Historic Site and arrive by kayak! We start our adventure at the beautiful Sand Harbor State Beach on Lake Tahoe's magnificent East Shore. After getting outfitted and covering a comprehensive paddling lesson, we begin our journey with an easy 1.5 mile paddle along pristine coastline to the beach at Thunderbird Lodge.
After a rest and snacks, knowledgeable tour guides take visitors on an hour walk throughout the Whittell estate. Guest will tour the Lighthouse Room, the Old Lodge, the maids' quarters and original kitchen. Next, take a trip through the 600' underground tunnel leading to the infamous Card House and Boat House. In the Boat House you may find the fabulous yacht, Thunderbird, built for George Whittell in 1939. The yacht is a 55' long, John Hacker design with mahogany hull and dual aircraft engines and is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece built in a bygone era. The tour then follows the Dragon's Tail path, past the waterfall and fountain to the Cook and Butler's House.
After our tour, a delicious deli spread lunch will be served on the beach before our short paddle back to Sand Harbor.
Tour includes kayak, paddle, PFD, knowledgeable guide, instruction, natural and human history discussions, $45 donation to the Thunderbird Lodge Preservation Society, permit fees, snacks, deli spread lunch and beverages.
Minimum age requirement is 10 years.
If you have your own kayak and wish to kayak to take the guided tour, the rate is $119.
Offered Every Tuesday June-September or by special arrangement. Tours start at Sand Harbor State Park. A $12 State Park parking fee applies.
Typical Distance and Time: 3 miles. 9am-2pm.
Level of Difficulty: Easy - Moderate.
Location: Sand Harbor State Park.
Cost: $139.00 per person, 2 person minimum.
Book Thunderbird Lodge Kayak Tour
Explore the Thunderbird Lodge Historic Site and arrive by kayak! We start our adventure at the beautiful Sand Harbor State Beach on Lake Tahoe's magnificent East Shore. After getting outfitted and covering a comprehensive paddling lesson, we begin our journey with an easy 1.5 mile paddle along pristine coastline to the beach at Thunderbird Lodge.
After a rest and snacks, knowledgeable tour guides take visitors on an hour walk throughout the Whittell estate. Guest will tour the Lighthouse Room, the Old Lodge, the maids' quarters and original kitchen. Next, take a trip through the 600' underground tunnel leading to the infamous Card House and Boat House. In the Boat House you may find the fabulous yacht, Thunderbird, built for George Whittell in 1939. The yacht is a 55' long, John Hacker design with mahogany hull and dual aircraft engines and is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece built in a bygone era. The tour then follows the Dragon's Tail path, past the waterfall and fountain to the Cook and Butler's House.
After our tour, a delicious deli spread lunch will be served on the beach before our short paddle back to Sand Harbor.
Tour includes kayak, paddle, PFD, knowledgeable guide, instruction, natural and human history discussions, $45 donation to the Thunderbird Lodge Preservation Society, permit fees, snacks, deli spread lunch and beverages.
Minimum age requirement is 10 years.
If you have your own kayak and wish to kayak to take the guided tour, the rate is $119.
Offered Every Tuesday June-September or by special arrangement. Tours start at Sand Harbor State Park. A $12 State Park parking fee applies.
Typical Distance and Time: 3 miles. 9am-2pm.
Level of Difficulty: Easy - Moderate.
Location: Sand Harbor State Park.
Cost: $139.00 per person, 2 person minimum.
Book Thunderbird Lodge Kayak Tour
Gar Woods Lakeside Lunch and Kayak Tour
TAC and Gar Woods Grill and Pier have teamed up to offer a fantastic North Shore experience departing from the Tahoe Vista Recreation Area. After an introductory lesson, we head out on the water for a paddle. We point out ecology, geology and other natural and human history along the way. Paddle along the scenic coastline of Tahoe Vista and Carnelian Bay while getting a unique glimpse of some of Tahoe's most beautiful waterfront homes. Arrive to the enjoyable Gar Woods Grill and Pier in Carnelian Bay to enjoy a lakefront lunch. Fill your belly at Gar Woods before continuing your journey in the sun back to Tahoe Vista.
Tour includes kayak, paddle, PFD, knowledgeable guide, instruction, natural and human history discussions, permit fees, snacks, set menu at Gar Woods and beverages.
Typical Distance and Time: 3 - 4 miles. 10am-3pm.
Level of Difficulty: Easy - Moderate.
Location: Tahoe Vista Recreation Area.
Cost: $135.00 per person, 4 person minimum.
Book Gar Woods Lakeside Lunch and Kayak Tour
Tour includes kayak, paddle, PFD, knowledgeable guide, instruction, natural and human history discussions, permit fees, snacks, set menu at Gar Woods and beverages.
Typical Distance and Time: 3 - 4 miles. 10am-3pm.
Level of Difficulty: Easy - Moderate.
Location: Tahoe Vista Recreation Area.
Cost: $135.00 per person, 4 person minimum.
Book Gar Woods Lakeside Lunch and Kayak Tour
Star Tours
Star gazers unite!
Tahoe Adventure Company and Tony Berendsen present: Telescopic tours of the midnight sky! This fusion brings you the most exciting tour of the season. It all starts with guided sunset kayaking followed by a brilliant tour of the midnight sky.
Our knowledgeable guides will teach you about the natural and human history of the area, while you watch the sun casts a purple alpenglow onto the Sierras. Paddle through the crystal clear waters of Lake Tahoe and then you'll be guided to a viewing point, where Tony will open your mind to the unknown world above you. Hot drinks and snacks will be served as our Star Tour begins.
For the past 15 years, award winning astronomer Tony Berendsen has exposed the superlative Sierra skies to many lucky people throughout California and Nevada. In addition to his tours, he is currently the President of the Northern Nevada Science Coalition and previously was the President of the Astronomical Society of Nevada. His large aperture telescopes will take you into the unfamiliar mysterious world that blankets the Sierra Nevada.
Let us guide you to mars and back again! Give us a call today to book this once in a lifetime opportunity. This tour is great for kids, teens, and adults bring the whole family.
Tour includes double kayaks, paddles, life jackets, Sunset Kayak Tour with all gear followed by Star Tour, hot drinks, snacks, knowledgeable guide, instruction, natural and human history discussions and permit fees.
2020 Dates:
Stay Tuned!
Typical Distance and Time: 1-2 miles. 2 hours on water. . 6:30-10:30pm.
Level of Difficulty: Easy - Moderate.
Location: Tahoe Vista Recreation Area.
Cost: $75.00 per person, 1 person minimum (20 per trip).
Book Star Tours
Tahoe Adventure Company and Tony Berendsen present: Telescopic tours of the midnight sky! This fusion brings you the most exciting tour of the season. It all starts with guided sunset kayaking followed by a brilliant tour of the midnight sky.
Our knowledgeable guides will teach you about the natural and human history of the area, while you watch the sun casts a purple alpenglow onto the Sierras. Paddle through the crystal clear waters of Lake Tahoe and then you'll be guided to a viewing point, where Tony will open your mind to the unknown world above you. Hot drinks and snacks will be served as our Star Tour begins.
For the past 15 years, award winning astronomer Tony Berendsen has exposed the superlative Sierra skies to many lucky people throughout California and Nevada. In addition to his tours, he is currently the President of the Northern Nevada Science Coalition and previously was the President of the Astronomical Society of Nevada. His large aperture telescopes will take you into the unfamiliar mysterious world that blankets the Sierra Nevada.
Let us guide you to mars and back again! Give us a call today to book this once in a lifetime opportunity. This tour is great for kids, teens, and adults bring the whole family.
Tour includes double kayaks, paddles, life jackets, Sunset Kayak Tour with all gear followed by Star Tour, hot drinks, snacks, knowledgeable guide, instruction, natural and human history discussions and permit fees.
2020 Dates:
Stay Tuned!
Typical Distance and Time: 1-2 miles. 2 hours on water. . 6:30-10:30pm.
Level of Difficulty: Easy - Moderate.
Location: Tahoe Vista Recreation Area.
Cost: $75.00 per person, 1 person minimum (20 per trip).
Book Star Tours
Full Moon Kayak Tours
Explore Lake Tahoe under the Full Moon!
Float in a kayak on the clear blue water while the sun sets the sky on fire, the full moon rises, and the stars twinkle! The water will be calm and quiet as the wind dies down and other boats button up for the night. Increase your knowledge of astronomy with jaw dropping views of Lake Tahoe illuminated by the light of the full moon. We paddle for about two hours before landing on the beach to cap it all off with hot drinks, snacks, and more stargazing on the beach.
When the moon isn't Full, Sunset and Astronomy paddles are still offered with a focus on viewing the stars and constellations. Full Moon paddles are offered June - September.
To accommodate the high demand for Full Moon Tours, we have added a few extra nights of moon viewing for Summer 2019! See extra dates below!
Trips include kayak, paddle, life jacket, knowledgeable guide, instruction, natural and human history, astronomy discussions, permit fees, hot drinks and snacks. Some personal clothing required.
2019 Summer Dates:
Stay Tuned!
Single travelers are welcome to join existing groups. Call to inquire!
Typical Distance and Time: 1-3 miles. Times vary, 3 hours.
Level of Difficulty: Easy - Moderate..
Location: Tahoe Vista Recreation Area.
Cost: $65.00 per person, 1 person minimum.
Book Full Moon Kayak Tours
Float in a kayak on the clear blue water while the sun sets the sky on fire, the full moon rises, and the stars twinkle! The water will be calm and quiet as the wind dies down and other boats button up for the night. Increase your knowledge of astronomy with jaw dropping views of Lake Tahoe illuminated by the light of the full moon. We paddle for about two hours before landing on the beach to cap it all off with hot drinks, snacks, and more stargazing on the beach.
When the moon isn't Full, Sunset and Astronomy paddles are still offered with a focus on viewing the stars and constellations. Full Moon paddles are offered June - September.
To accommodate the high demand for Full Moon Tours, we have added a few extra nights of moon viewing for Summer 2019! See extra dates below!
Trips include kayak, paddle, life jacket, knowledgeable guide, instruction, natural and human history, astronomy discussions, permit fees, hot drinks and snacks. Some personal clothing required.
2019 Summer Dates:
Stay Tuned!
Single travelers are welcome to join existing groups. Call to inquire!
Typical Distance and Time: 1-3 miles. Times vary, 3 hours.
Level of Difficulty: Easy - Moderate..
Location: Tahoe Vista Recreation Area.
Cost: $65.00 per person, 1 person minimum.
Book Full Moon Kayak Tours
Historical West Shore Kayak Tour
Explore the wonders of Lake Tahoe's West Shore.
We start our adventure at the beautiful Sugar Pine State Beach. Sugar Pine Point State Park contains one of the finest remaining natural areas on Lake Tahoe. With nearly two miles of lakefront, the park has dense forests of pine, fir, aspen and juniper.
Another attraction is the Hellman-Ehrman Mansion (also known as Pine Lodge), a summer home built in 1903 in a grove of pine and cedar. Sugar Pine Point State Park was owned by financier Isaias W. Hellman, and later by his daughter Florence Hellman until 1965. We will paddle along this mostly undeveloped section of coastline while covering these and other fascinating historical topics of this area.
Tour includes kayak, paddle, life jacket, knowledgeable guide, instruction, natural and human history discussions, permit fees, snacks, deli spread lunch and beverages.
Typical Distance and Time: 3-6 miles. Times vary, 4 hours.
Level of Difficulty: Easy.
Location: Sugar Pine Point State Park.
Cost: $105 per person, person minimum (15 per trip).
Book Historical West Shore Kayak Tour
We start our adventure at the beautiful Sugar Pine State Beach. Sugar Pine Point State Park contains one of the finest remaining natural areas on Lake Tahoe. With nearly two miles of lakefront, the park has dense forests of pine, fir, aspen and juniper.
Another attraction is the Hellman-Ehrman Mansion (also known as Pine Lodge), a summer home built in 1903 in a grove of pine and cedar. Sugar Pine Point State Park was owned by financier Isaias W. Hellman, and later by his daughter Florence Hellman until 1965. We will paddle along this mostly undeveloped section of coastline while covering these and other fascinating historical topics of this area.
Tour includes kayak, paddle, life jacket, knowledgeable guide, instruction, natural and human history discussions, permit fees, snacks, deli spread lunch and beverages.
Typical Distance and Time: 3-6 miles. Times vary, 4 hours.
Level of Difficulty: Easy.
Location: Sugar Pine Point State Park.
Cost: $105 per person, person minimum (15 per trip).
Book Historical West Shore Kayak Tour
Tahoe Adventure Company leads high quality adventure travel trips and tours with a focus on experiencing the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains, trails and brilliant waters of Lake Tahoe. Our goal is to offer the highest quality, most enlightening adventure tours in the Lake Tahoe area. Our knowledgeable, safe, and friendly guides offer exceptional service and strive to help create a memorable adventure for your group. Whether you decide on Kayaking Lake Tahoe, Mountain Biking or Hiking local trails, our many adventure activities allow us to share with you a side of Lake Tahoe few people ever experience. Located 3-4 hours northeast of the Bay Area, lying at 6,229 ft., surrounded by peaks upward of 10,881 ft. and bisected by the California and Nevada state lines, Lake Tahoe is truly one of the jewels of the Sierra Nevada.
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