Your Complete Guide to Lake Tahoe Watersports
Lake Tahoe’s clear blue water offers more than just a pretty backdrop—it’s an invitation to fully immerse yourself in a postcard-perfect getaway. From paddle boards and jet skis to guided wakeboarding charters and lazy river floats, Lake Tahoe watersports deliver something for every type of traveler.
But, with so many rental companies and launch points around the lake, narrowing down your options can feel overwhelming, especially if this is your first time visiting. In this guide, we cut through the noise and focus on high-quality North Shore experiences, all within easy reach of your Tahoe Exclusive Vacation Rental.
Whether you're looking for an adrenaline-boosting activity or a simple float in the sun, here's how to enjoy Lake Tahoe like a local.
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The Best Lake Tahoe Watersports by Activity
Kayaking & Paddle Boards
For a peaceful start to the day, glide across the glassy Lake Tahoe water in a kayak or on a stand-up paddleboard. Mornings, before boats and jet skis are out in full force, will be the calmest, offering better visibility, smoother water, and a more relaxing experience.
Recommended Rental:
North Tahoe Watersports – Kings Beach
- Single Kayak: $30/hour
- Tandem Kayak: $50/hour
- Paddle Board: $30/hour
No reservations required—rentals are walk-up friendly.
Want more variety? You’ll find additional paddle options on our All Things Water Sports page.
Jet Skiing
If speed is more your style, renting a jet ski and rocketing across Lake Tahoe’s open water offers unmatched freedom and a serious thrill.
Recommended Rental:
North Tahoe Watersports – Kings Beach
- Sea-Doo Jet Ski: $200/hour
(Early bird special: $180/hour before 11 a.m. on non-holiday weekdays) - 2-person machines, 400 lb. limit, must stay in view of the rental booth
All rentals include fuel and life jackets—just bring a credit card and photo ID.
Parasailing
A parasail boat tour gives you a bird’s eye view of the entire lake, all while staying dry (or getting dipped—your choice). This is one of the most popular water sports in Lake Tahoe, and it books up fast in peak season.
Recommended Rental:
North Tahoe Watersports –
- Tahoe City Marina (AM flights): 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
- Kings Beach (PM flights): 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.
- 800 ft. Flight: $100 per person
- Observers: $20 (space permitting)
Group discounts available for parties of 8 or more (excluding weekends/holidays).
Wakeboarding, Waterskiing & Tubing
Ready for something more active? Whether you’re new to water skiing or want to push your wakeboarding skills, this private charter experience is all-inclusive and family-friendly.
Recommended Charter:
Wake Surf North Tahoe – Tahoe Vista
- 2 hours: $700
- 4 hours: $1,300
- Full day (8 hrs): $2,400
- Includes wetsuits, lifejackets, equipment, fuel, and a captain
- Max group size: 6 passengers
- Ages: All welcome
This is a top-tier experience for families, friend groups, or anyone who wants personalized time on the water. Boat charter captains can also tow kids in tubes or offer relaxed cruising between sessions.
Tubing & River Floats
Prefer something slower? A float down the Truckee River is one of North Lake Tahoe’s most iconic summer experiences. You'll drift past pine trees, sandbars, and the occasional mild rapid—ideal for laid-back families or larger groups.
Recommended Provider:
Truckee River Raft Company – Tahoe City
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Adults: $70 | Kids: $40
- Start: 2200 River Road (check-in and shuttle)
- End: River Ranch Lodge patio (perfect for lunch)
Float trips include a shuttle, commercial-grade raft, and full support from friendly staff. For additional providers and whitewater options, visit our Rafting page.
Where to Launch or Dock Your Boat
Bringing your own boat? These North Shore docks offer reliable access for loading/unloading passengers or launching your vessel:
- Lake Forest Boat Ramp (Tahoe City) – Free parking; fills early on weekends
- Tahoe City Public Pier – Located downtown near Za’s Lakefront restaurant
- Gar Woods Pier (Carnelian Bay) – Load/unload only; no tie-up allowed
- Sunnyside Marina – Park on Pineland Road and walk to the dock
Avoid North Tahoe Marina in Tahoe Vista unless you have a slip—public loading is not allowed.
For more scenic cruise options, check out our Boat & Sailing Cruises guide.
If You’re Bringing Your Own Boat
Keep in mind:
- All boats must pass a mandatory inspection before entering the lake to prevent invasive aquatic species from entering the water.
- Launch sites can fill up quickly – go early or have a backup plan.
- Most short-term rentals won’t allow on-site boat storage, so plan for marina day-use instead.
Our team is happy to recommend local services for boat rentals, inspections, and trailer storage. Just ask when booking your stay! Or contact us beforehand with any additional questions.
Beyond the Water: Summer Activities Near Your Rental
While the lake takes center stage, there's plenty more to enjoy just minutes from your front door. From hiking and biking to local farmers' markets, golf, and scenic drives, your trip doesn’t have to begin and end at the beach. Explore our top picks on the Summer Activities page.
Book a North Lake Tahoe Home That Fits Your Summer Plans
Featured Property: Sutter's Trail
After a day on the water, come home to a space that feels effortless, elevated, and entirely your own. Our handpicked vacation homes in Northstar, Old Greenwood, and Gray’s Crossing offer the ideal balance of comfort and convenience—just 15 to 20 minutes from the shoreline, yet tucked into peaceful, scenic neighborhoods that let you truly unwind.
Choose from private homes with hot tubs, pet-friendly getaways, and properties with shared pool access to keep the water fun going even after the lake. Whether you're spending your day at Kings Beach, parasailing in Tahoe City, or floating down the Truckee River, you'll have a luxury home base waiting—complete with easy access to golf, hiking, and the best of North Lake Tahoe.
Find your ideal summer rental when you book directly with Tahoe Exclusive Vacation Rentals.
See All North Lake Tahoe Vacation Rentals
Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Tahoe Watersports
Can you do water sports on Lake Tahoe?
Yes! Lake Tahoe offers excellent conditions for kayaking, stand-up paddling, jet skiing, parasailing, water skiing, wakeboarding, and more, all of which we highly recommend—especially along the North Shore.
How much does it cost to go tubing in Lake Tahoe?
Towing tubing behind a boat typically costs around $350/hour with a private charter. River tubing on the Truckee River starts at $40 for kids and $70 for adults with Truckee River Raft Company.
Are there public boat docks in North Lake Tahoe?
Yes. Top spots include Lake Forest Boat Ramp, Tahoe City Public Pier, Gar Woods Pier, and Sunnyside Marina. Not all allow long-term docking—some are for loading/unloading only.
How far is Lake Tahoe from Northstar?
About 15–20 minutes by car, depending on traffic and your lake access point (Kings Beach or Tahoe City are the closest).
What is there to do in Lake Tahoe besides going on the water?
Plenty! Hiking, mountain biking, shopping, farmers' markets, golfing, and scenic drives are all popular pastimes. Need more ideas? Check out our Summer Activities guide.
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