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Lake Tahoe Kayak Tours
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 | |
| Discover Kayaking Tour - $70! | 10am-12pm | 1-3 miles | Easy | Tahoe Vista Recreation Area. | $70 | Book | |
| Thunderbird Lodge Kayak Tour | 8am-2:30pm | 3 miles | Easy - Moderate | Incline Visitors Center | $195 | Book | |
| North Shore Kayak Tour with Deli Lunch! | 10am-2pm | 3-6 miles | Easy | Tahoe Vista Recreation Area | $105 | Book | |
| Sand Harbor Kayak Tour | 8:30-12:30, door to door | 2-3 miles | Easy | Incline Village Visitors Center | 2 per trip | $109 | Book |
| Sunset Kayak Tour | Times vary, 3 hours | 1-3 miles | Easy - Moderate | Tahoe Vista Recreation Area | $80 | Book | |
| Gar Woods Lakeside Lunch and Kayak Tour | 10am-3pm | 3 - 4 miles | Easy - Moderate | Tahoe Vista Recreation Area | $170 | Book | |
| Kayak Star Tours | Varies based on date. | 1-2 miles. 2 hours on water. | Easy - Moderate | Tahoe Vista Recreation Area | 20 per trip | $95 | Book |
| Full Moon Kayak Tours | Times vary, 3 hours | 1-3 miles | Easy - Moderate. | Tahoe Vista Recreation Area | $80 | Book | |
| Historical West Shore Kayak Tour | Times vary, 4 hours | 3-6 miles | Easy | Sugar Pine Point State Park | 15 per trip | $105 | Contact |
Discover Kayaking Tour - $70!
Our Discover Kayaking and Discover Stand Up Paddleboarding tours are perfect for beginners and long-time enthusiasts alike!
This special 2 hour tour, gets you and your party out on the water in a safe and fun learning environment. Perfect for anyone who wants a taste of what Lake Tahoe has to offer. The tour starts with our knowledgeable guides providing a detailed kayak lesson geared towards beginners. Then we get on the water, paddling along the scenic North Shore coastline. As we go, our guides will share more paddling tips as well as discuss the local natural and human history.
The Discover Tour is the perfect way to get on Lake Tahoe and learn more about this amazing area.
Reservations Required. You can book online up to 48 hours before your desired tour time. If you are within 48 hours please call our office 530-913-9212 and we will do our best to accommodate your party.
Typical Distance and Time: 1-3 miles. 10am-12pm.
Level of Difficulty: Easy.
Location: Tahoe Vista Recreation Area..
Cost: $70 per person, 2 person minimum.
This special 2 hour tour, gets you and your party out on the water in a safe and fun learning environment. Perfect for anyone who wants a taste of what Lake Tahoe has to offer. The tour starts with our knowledgeable guides providing a detailed kayak lesson geared towards beginners. Then we get on the water, paddling along the scenic North Shore coastline. As we go, our guides will share more paddling tips as well as discuss the local natural and human history.
The Discover Tour is the perfect way to get on Lake Tahoe and learn more about this amazing area.
Reservations Required. You can book online up to 48 hours before your desired tour time. If you are within 48 hours please call our office 530-913-9212 and we will do our best to accommodate your party.
Typical Distance and Time: 1-3 miles. 10am-12pm.
Level of Difficulty: Easy.
Location: Tahoe Vista Recreation Area..
Cost: $70 per person, 2 person minimum.
Thunderbird Lodge Kayak Tour
A truly unique and exclusive kayaking experience! Offered every Tuesday and Friday.
Experience The Exclusive Thunderbird Lodge Kayak Tour! The tour starts with a hassle-free shuttle from the Incline Visitors Center to Sand Harbor State Park. Arriving to Sand Harbor by shuttle allows you to enjoy the glorious drive along the iconic east shore into the state park without the hassle of parking. Upon arrival to Sand Harbor, you will have a few moments to use the restroom, apply sunscreen and enjoy the white sand beach before setting off by kayak to explore the only undeveloped side of Lake Tahoe enroute to the Thunderbird Lodge!Prior to launching, the guide will pack the groups’ dry shoes, lunch, and other necessary belongings into dry bags before covering a comprehensive paddle lesson. The journey will begin 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. Highlights include the Lighthouse room, the Old Lodge, maids’ quarters, 600” underground tunnel leading to the infamous card house and boat house. If you’re lucky, you may get a glimpse of the fabulous Thunderbird yacht, built by 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.
Following the tour, lunch will be served at the gazebo with Lake Tahoe as the backdrop.
Tour includes kayak, paddle, lifejacket, knowledgeable guide, instruction, natural and human history discussions, $75 donation to the Thunderbird Lodge Preservation Society, permit fees, snacks, lunch and beverages, shuttle and tax.
Minimum age requirement is 8 years. Masks required in the lodge. Must change into dry shoes before entering the lodge. Guides will have dry bags to store shoes in.
Typical Distance and Time: 3 miles. 8am-2:30pm.
Level of Difficulty: Easy - Moderate.
Location: Incline Visitors Center.
Cost: $195.00 per person, 2 person minimum.
North Shore Kayak Tour with Deli Lunch!
From our beachfront location in Tahoe Vista, California, we offer a fantastic kayak tour with stunning views of the High Sierra. We start with a lesson on land before heading out for a paddle. Along the way, your guides will talk about geology, ecology, and other aspects of the natural world and human history. Depending on the lake's conditions, you may paddle along King's Beach's shoreline, through Crystal Bay's boulder fields, or along the picturesque coastline towards Carnelian Bay while catching a rare glimpse of some of Tahoe's most exquisite waterfront residences. As you glide through the water, take in the stunning views of the nearby peaks and breathe in the fresh mountain air. This is an experience that your entire family will enjoy, whether you're a seasoned paddler or a first-timer. Our tour is sure to leave you feeling inspired and rejuvenated as you take in the natural beauty that surrounds you. So grab your paddle and get ready for an adventure that will leave lasting memories for years to come!
Typical Distance and Time: 3-6 miles. 10am-2pm.
Level of Difficulty: Easy.
Location: Tahoe Vista Recreation Area.
Cost: $105.00 per person, 2 person minimum.
Typical Distance and Time: 3-6 miles. 10am-2pm.
Level of Difficulty: Easy.
Location: Tahoe Vista Recreation Area.
Cost: $105.00 per person, 2 person minimum.
Sand Harbor Kayak Tour
We now offer a hassle-free Sand Harbor experience! No need to battle traffic and race to Sand Harbor first thing in the morning in hopes of gaining admission to the park to make your tour. Instead, conveniently meet your guide for a morning departure on Tahoe Adventure Company’s private shuttle! Upon arrival to Sand Harbor, you will have time to use the restroom, apply sunscreen, and enjoy the beach before setting off to explore the only undeveloped side of Lake Tahoe - The East Shore!
Your guides will first cover a comprehensive kayak lesson on the beach. Once on the water, we paddle along the rustic coastline and iconic boulder fields, soaking up the incredible Sierra views. Your guide will discuss the geology, ecology, and other natural and human history topics throughout your trip. We end our trip with snacks and cold beverages back on the beach at Sand Harbor.
Know Before You Go:
- We utilize a private shuttle to get into Sand Harbor. Parking at Sand Harbor often fills up by 8:00am, preventing guests from obtaining parking and missing their scheduled tour. This tour cuts that hassle out and guarantees you a spot at Sand Harbor!
-Tour available Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday
If you are one person, please call our office to join an existing group!
Typical Distance and Time: 2-3 miles. 8:30-12:30, door to door.
Level of Difficulty: Easy.
Location: Incline Village Visitors Center.
Cost: $109.00 per person, 1 person minimum (2 per trip).
Your guides will first cover a comprehensive kayak lesson on the beach. Once on the water, we paddle along the rustic coastline and iconic boulder fields, soaking up the incredible Sierra views. Your guide will discuss the geology, ecology, and other natural and human history topics throughout your trip. We end our trip with snacks and cold beverages back on the beach at Sand Harbor.
Know Before You Go:
- We utilize a private shuttle to get into Sand Harbor. Parking at Sand Harbor often fills up by 8:00am, preventing guests from obtaining parking and missing their scheduled tour. This tour cuts that hassle out and guarantees you a spot at Sand Harbor!
-Tour available Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday
If you are one person, please call our office to join an existing group!
Typical Distance and Time: 2-3 miles. 8:30-12:30, door to door.
Level of Difficulty: Easy.
Location: Incline Village Visitors Center.
Cost: $109.00 per person, 1 person minimum (2 per trip).
Sunset Kayak Tour
Experience the beauty of the sunset on the water. As you embark on your journey, your guide will provide insights into the natural and human history of the area, making for an educational and enriching experience. The tour will take you just the right distance to appreciate the stunning sunset and watch for the first stars to come out. Then arrive at our serene beach where you can drink a warm beverage and take in the breathtaking views of the night sky over the Sierras. This tour is perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape from their daily routine and a chance to connect with nature in one of California's most beautiful destinations. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience – book your reservation today!
Summer 2023 Friday Sunset Dates:
Coming Soon!
Typical Distance and Time: 1-3 miles . Times vary, 3 hours.
Level of Difficulty: Easy - Moderate.
Location: Tahoe Vista Recreation Area.
Cost: $80 per person, 4 person minimum.
Summer 2023 Friday Sunset Dates:
Coming Soon!
Typical Distance and Time: 1-3 miles . Times vary, 3 hours.
Level of Difficulty: Easy - Moderate.
Location: Tahoe Vista Recreation Area.
Cost: $80 per person, 4 person minimum.
Gar Woods Lakeside Lunch and Kayak Tour
Tahoe Adventure Company 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.
Typical Distance and Time: 3 - 4 miles. 10am-3pm.
Level of Difficulty: Easy - Moderate.
Location: Tahoe Vista Recreation Area.
Cost: $170.00 per person, 4 person minimum.
Typical Distance and Time: 3 - 4 miles. 10am-3pm.
Level of Difficulty: Easy - Moderate.
Location: Tahoe Vista Recreation Area.
Cost: $170.00 per person, 4 person minimum.
Kayak 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.
Summer 2023 dates:
Wednesday July 5 - 6:00pm - 10pm
Wednesday August 9 - 6:00pm-10:00pm
Wednesday August 23 - 6:00pm-10:00pm
Typical Distance and Time: 1-2 miles. 2 hours on water. . Varies based on date..
Level of Difficulty: Easy - Moderate.
Location: Tahoe Vista Recreation Area.
Cost: $95.00 per person, 1 person minimum (20 per trip).
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.
Summer 2023 dates:
Wednesday July 5 - 6:00pm - 10pm
Wednesday August 9 - 6:00pm-10:00pm
Wednesday August 23 - 6:00pm-10:00pm
Typical Distance and Time: 1-2 miles. 2 hours on water. . Varies based on date..
Level of Difficulty: Easy - Moderate.
Location: Tahoe Vista Recreation Area.
Cost: $95.00 per person, 1 person minimum (20 per trip).
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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.
2023 Summer Dates:
Thursday May 4th ~ Night Before Full Flower Moon ~ 6:00pm-9:00pm
Friday May 5th ~ Full Flower Moon ~ 6:30pm-9:30pm
Friday June 2nd ~ Night Before Full Strawberry Moon ~ 6:30pm-9:30pm
Saturday June 3rd ~ Full Strawberry Moon ~ 7:00pm-10:00pm
Sunday July 2nd ~ Night Before Full Buck Moon ~ 7:00pm - 10:00pm
Monday July 3rd ~ Full Buck Moon ~ 7:30pm-10:30pm
Monday July 31st ~ Night Before Full Sturgeon Moon ~ 6:00pm-9:00pm
Tuesday August 1st ~ Full Sturgeon Moon ~ 6:30pm-9:30pm
Wednesday August 30th ~ Full Blue Moon ~ 6:30-9:30pm
Thursday August 31 ~ Night After Full Blue Moon ~ 6:30pm-9:30pm
Friday September 29th ~ Full Harvest Moon ~ 5:30pm-8:30pm
Saturday September 30th ~ Night After Full Harvest Moon ~ 5:30pm-8:30pm
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: $80 per person, 1 person minimum.
When the moon isn't Full, Sunset and Astronomy paddles are still offered with a focus on viewing the stars and constellations.
2023 Summer Dates:
Thursday May 4th ~ Night Before Full Flower Moon ~ 6:00pm-9:00pm
Friday May 5th ~ Full Flower Moon ~ 6:30pm-9:30pm
Friday June 2nd ~ Night Before Full Strawberry Moon ~ 6:30pm-9:30pm
Saturday June 3rd ~ Full Strawberry Moon ~ 7:00pm-10:00pm
Sunday July 2nd ~ Night Before Full Buck Moon ~ 7:00pm - 10:00pm
Monday July 3rd ~ Full Buck Moon ~ 7:30pm-10:30pm
Monday July 31st ~ Night Before Full Sturgeon Moon ~ 6:00pm-9:00pm
Tuesday August 1st ~ Full Sturgeon Moon ~ 6:30pm-9:30pm
Wednesday August 30th ~ Full Blue Moon ~ 6:30-9:30pm
Thursday August 31 ~ Night After Full Blue Moon ~ 6:30pm-9:30pm
Friday September 29th ~ Full Harvest Moon ~ 5:30pm-8:30pm
Saturday September 30th ~ Night After Full Harvest Moon ~ 5:30pm-8:30pm
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: $80 per person, 1 person minimum.
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.
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).
Contact Us
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.
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).
Contact Us
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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