Thunderbird Lodge Kayak Tour

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 stunning gazebo with Lake Tahoe as the backdrop.

Tour includes: Kayak, paddle, lifejacket, knowledgeable guide, instruction, natural and human history discussions, permit fees, snacks, lunch and beverages, shuttle and tax. A portion of the fee is a contribution to the preservation and education programs of the non-profit Thunderbird Lake Tahoe.
Not included: guide gratuity

**Online bookings need to be made 48 hours in advance.  If you are interested in booking within 48 hours of your date, please call our office, (530)-913-9212.** 

Minimum age requirement is 8 years. Guests must change into dry shoes before entering the lodge. Guides will have dry bags for storing shoes.


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.