Nestled on the west shore of Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay State Park is truly a standout within the region. With its crystal blue waters, panoramic vistas and verdant forests, it’s the perfect place to reconnect with nature and rediscover your adventurous side. This guide is your comprehensive companion to exploring Emerald Bay’s enchanting beauty and alternatives with a similar vibe, whether you’re looking for unmatched views or a hike to get your heart moving. 

How Do I Get To Emerald Bay? 

You’ll find this stunning landmark on the California side of Lake Tahoe on the West Shore area of the lake. It is easily accessible by car via Highway 89 out of Tahoe City, making it the perfect spot for an afternoon excursion. Or, plan your stay within Emerald Bay itself — there’s more than enough to fill a multi-day getaway in and around the area. Campers should prepare to pack light, as campgrounds are only accessible through boating in, walking in from the Vikingsholm parking lot, or via Rubicon Trail. Visit California State Parks to learn more about Emerald Bay’s two campgrounds.

Emerald Bay’s Main Features 

The unmatched beauty of Emerald Bay’s sparkling, gemlike waters paired with the surrounding mountain and forest vistas have earned this spot an official designation as a National Natural Landmark. Once you visit, it’ll be easy to understand why. 

Emerald Bay Beach and Underwater Park offers endless exploration any time of the year. You can enjoy stretching out on the beach under the sun in the summer or take in the crisp fall air and focus on the views during the chillier months. Consider taking a kayak or stand-up paddleboard out on the water to truly immerse yourself in these incredible views. Just be sure to make sure your watercraft is cleaned, drained and dry before embarking in the water to help protect the lake from the introduction of aquatic invasive species.

One of the bay’s most fascinating features is Fannette Island, the only island in the entire Lake Tahoe area. Emerald Bay itself was carved out by glacier formations thousands of years ago — so the fact that this one island remained in the middle of the bay, standing strong and proud, is truly incredible. You can also explore the shell of the “Tea House,” a building that was used by the residents of nearby Vikingsholm Castle for their afternoon teas. 

Speaking of Vikingsholm Castle — this is another great highlight of the Emerald Bay area. A 38-room mansion, this impressive castle is one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in the United States. Built in 1929, Vikingsholm can be toured during the summer months, offering a glimpse into the luxurious, elegant past of Emerald Bay. You can purchase tickets at the visitor kiosk located in Emerald Bay, with last tours starting at 4 pm.

Get Out and Explore: Hiking in Emerald Bay 

Emerald Bay offers a plethora of activities, with hiking being one of the most popular. The area boasts several trails that cater to all skill levels, providing breathtaking views and access to secluded spots. 

If you’re using the Vikingsholm Castle parking lot, you’ll enjoy taking the trail down to Emerald Bay with various waterfalls to see along the path. The Vikingsholm Trail hike is about one mile round-trip, and takes you through Emerald Bay State Park, where you’ll find sandy beaches and sweeping views to take in along your walk.  

See Emerald Bay from a bird’s eye view — specifically, an eagle’s eye view. Eagle Lakes Trail is a shorter, moderately challenging hike that leads you to spectacular panoramic views of Emerald Bay once you reach the top.  

If you’re up for more of a challenge, the Bayview Trail is sure to make you work for the payoff of incredible bay views (hence the name). Starting at the Bayview Campground, this trail takes hikers up into the Desolation Wilderness, offering panoramic views of the bay and the surrounding Sierra Nevada. A wilderness permit is required, but you can easily secure one at the self-service station located at the trailhead.  

Rest and Relax: Where to Stay in Emerald Bay 

Accommodations in and around Emerald Bay range from luxurious resorts to rustic campgrounds, catering to all preferences and budgets. For a truly immersive experience, consider staying at one of the campgrounds within Emerald Bay State Park. Eagle Point Campground and Emerald Bay Boat Camp both provide the unique opportunity to wake up to breathtaking lake views and access to nature right at your fingertips. 

If camping isn’t your style, several hotels and resorts in the Lake Tahoe area offer luxurious amenities paired with views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains, as well as easy access to Emerald Bay. 

Parking Information and What You Need to Know 

Because Emerald Bay is such a popular spot, parking can be tougher to come by during summer or winter. The parking lot at the Vikingsholm trailhead is small and fills up quickly in the mornings, so arrive early or visit later in the afternoon. Or, consider planning your visit during the spring and fall, and visit midweek to enjoy more open spaces. 

Parking fees apply, so it’s advisable to carry cash. Additionally, some parking areas may have restrictions or require a parking pass, so it’s best to check the latest information on the California State Parks website before your visit. 

As with any trip to Lake Tahoe, we also recommend you take a look at our Know Before You Go page, which keeps you up to date on weather advisories, travel regulations, public transportation and more.

Consider these Alternatives to Emerald Bay 

Emerald Bay is an extremely popular bucket list spot for visitors from all around the world – meaning, it’s likely to be quite busy any time you visit, especially during peak travel seasons. For a similar experience to what Emerald Bay has to offer with more open space, consider heading to D.L. Bliss State Park, a state park about 17 miles south of Tahoe City. While the park is closed for the 24-25 season due to a large-scale infrastructure project, when it is open, it is a great place to soak in some gorgeous views of the mountains while you lounge by the beautiful waters of Lake Tahoe. You’ll find a variety of hiking trails and camping spots here, as well. Or, try Sugar Pine Point State Park, where you can explore the historic Hellman-Ehrman Estate, hike a variety of versatile nature trails and so much more. 

Plan Your Stay in Emerald Bay 

Emerald Bay is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Lake Tahoe. Its natural beauty, combined with a wealth of outdoor adventure and historical sites, makes it a perfect spot for adventurers, families and history buffs alike. Whether you’re hiking the scenic trails, exploring Vikingsholm Castle or simply soaking in the breathtaking views, Emerald Bay promises an unforgettable experience. Plan your stay in Lake Tahoe today.