T R A V E L G U I D E: the Lake Tahoe hit list

Most people probably have their favorite travel destination. That place where they love everything - the people, the food, the shops, the adventures to partake in, and anything else. That place for me is Lake Tahoe California.

Standing on top of Mt. Tallac, South Lake Tahoe

The following is a summer travel guide to my favorite place on earth.

Must-Do Activities:

1. Hike Mt. Tallac to get a wonderful view of the entire lake and surrounding mountain ranges. This is a 9.5 mile round trip hike with an elevation gain of 3,500 feet. It is best to start early in the morning as it can get quite hot as you climb higher in elevation.

2. Rent jet skis and/or a boat to spend a day on the water. Well worth the money and time to get out to the center of the second deepest lake in the United States at 1,645 feet in the deepest part.

3. Ride the gondola at Heavenly Ski Resort on the South shore to partake in the built in ropes course tucked away at the top of the mountain.

4. Ride bikes along the paved bike path on the South shore of the lake. It winds through the trees to provide good shade cover for an enjoyable ride the whole family can do. Don't forget to stop at the ice cream shop along the way for some of the best ice cream you have ever tasted.

5. Spend an afternoon at the beach of course. I recommend The Pines or any other beach along the South shore as they are not as crowded and touristy as the North shore beaches. Don't forget to lather up in sunscreen as the high elevation is the perfect climate for a nice sunburn. 

The North Shore - crowded beach

Must-Eats:

1. Steamers on the South shore for wonderful tacos.

2. My Thai Quisine - authentic Thai food that is to die for! Top off your meal with a Thai Iced Tea.

3. The Beacon Bar and Grill at Camp Richardson on the South shore - great lakeside view and great food.

These are my top recommendations for visit to the South shore of Lake Tahoe! Rather than reading TripAdvisor next time you plan a vacation, come to my blog to get the best recommendations of things to do and places to eat.