Lake Tahoe (Rubicon Bay), California: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know Lake Tahoe contains enough water to cover the entire state of California to a depth of 14 inches? This crystal-clear alpine lake, with visibility depths reaching up to 70 feet, offers some of its most spectacular views from Rubicon Bay. Located on Lake Tahoe’s western shore, Rubicon Bay is famous for its Caribbean-like turquoise waters and is often called the “Jewel of Lake Tahoe” by locals who treasure its pristine beaches and breathtaking mountain vistas.

Plan Your Trip to Rubicon Bay

Before diving into all the amazing activities Rubicon Bay offers, let’s cover the essentials for planning your perfect Lake Tahoe getaway.

Getting to Rubicon Bay

Rubicon Bay is located on the western shore of Lake Tahoe, approximately 10 miles south of Tahoe City and 17 miles north of South Lake Tahoe. The bay is accessible via Highway 89, which runs along Lake Tahoe’s western shore.

Nearest Airports

The closest major airport to Rubicon Bay is Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO), located about 50 miles northeast. From there, you can rent a car and drive approximately 1.5 hours to reach Rubicon Bay. Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is another option, located about 120 miles west, with a drive time of approximately 2.5 hours.

Driving Directions

From South Lake Tahoe: Head north on Highway 89 for approximately 17 miles. Rubicon Bay will be on your right, with several small access roads leading to the shoreline.

From Tahoe City: Head south on Highway 89 for approximately 10 miles. Rubicon Bay will be on your left.

Best Time to Visit Rubicon Bay

Rubicon Bay offers distinct experiences throughout the year, each season bringing its own unique charm and activities.

Summer (June-August)

Peak season for water activities and beach enjoyment. Temperatures range from 70-80°F (21-27°C) during the day, cooling to 40-50°F (4-10°C) at night. This is the ideal time for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding in Rubicon Bay’s crystal-clear waters. Expect larger crowds and higher accommodation prices.

Fall (September-November)

A magical time with fewer crowds and beautiful fall colors. Daytime temperatures range from 50-70°F (10-21°C), with nights dropping to 30-40°F (0-4°C). Hiking trails are less crowded, and the changing aspen leaves create stunning photo opportunities.

Winter (December-March)

Perfect for snow enthusiasts. Temperatures range from 25-40°F (-4 to 4°C) during the day and can drop below freezing at night. While Rubicon Bay itself is quieter, nearby ski resorts like Homewood Mountain Resort offer excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

Spring (April-May)

A transitional season with wildflowers beginning to bloom. Temperatures range from 50-65°F (10-18°C) during the day. Spring offers a mix of winter and summer activities, with some hiking trails opening up while higher elevations may still have snow.

Where to Stay in Rubicon Bay

Rubicon Bay offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury lakefront homes to cozy cabins nestled in the woods. Here are some top choices for your stay:

Lakefront Vacation Rentals

Rubicon Bay is known for its stunning lakefront properties, many with private docks and beach access. These homes range from charming cabins to luxurious estates and are perfect for families or groups wanting direct lake access. Prices typically range from $300-$1,000+ per night depending on size, amenities, and season.

Nearby Resorts

While there aren’t large resorts directly in Rubicon Bay, several excellent options are just a short drive away:

• Homewood Mountain Resort – Just 3 miles north, offering ski-in/ski-out accommodations in winter
• Meeks Bay Resort – Located 2 miles south, with cabins and camping options
• Sunnyside Resort – About 8 miles north in Tahoe City, with lakefront rooms and a popular restaurant

Camping Options

For outdoor enthusiasts, several campgrounds are located near Rubicon Bay:

• D.L. Bliss State Park – Just north of Rubicon Bay with stunning lake views
• Meeks Bay Resort and Marina – Offers both tent and RV camping
• Emerald Bay State Park – Beautiful camping about 5 miles south

Top Things to Do in Rubicon Bay

Rubicon Bay offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Here are the must-do activities for your Lake Tahoe visit:

1. Explore Rubicon Bay Beach

Known for having some of the clearest, most turquoise waters in Lake Tahoe, Rubicon Bay Beach is a must-visit. The shallow sandy bottom extends far into the bay, creating the stunning Caribbean-like blue color that makes this area famous. While much of the shoreline is private, there are public access points where visitors can enjoy these crystal-clear waters.

2. Hike the Famous Rubicon Trail

The Rubicon Trail is one of Lake Tahoe’s most scenic hiking paths, stretching 16.4 miles along the southwestern shore. The section from D.L. Bliss State Park through Rubicon Bay to Emerald Bay is particularly spectacular, offering breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe’s azure waters. The trail features relatively gentle terrain with some moderate climbs, making it accessible for most hikers.

3. Visit D.L. Bliss State Park

Adjacent to Rubicon Bay, D.L. Bliss State Park offers stunning beaches, hiking trails, and the famous Balancing Rock. The park features Lester Beach and Calawee Cove, two of the most beautiful beaches on Lake Tahoe. Don’t miss the Lighthouse Trail leading to Rubicon Point Light, the highest-elevation lighthouse in the United States at 6,300 feet.

4. Kayak or Paddleboard the Crystal-Clear Waters

Exploring Rubicon Bay by kayak or paddleboard is an unforgettable experience. The crystal-clear waters allow you to see up to 65 feet deep on calm days, offering glimpses of the sandy bottom and granite boulders below. Paddle along the shoreline to discover hidden coves and beaches that are inaccessible by land.

5. Discover Emerald Bay State Park

Just a short drive south of Rubicon Bay, Emerald Bay State Park is one of Lake Tahoe’s most photographed locations. Visit Vikingsholm Castle, a 38-room Scandinavian mansion, hike to Eagle Falls, or take a boat tour around Fannette Island, the only island in Lake Tahoe. The viewpoint from Highway 89 offers one of the most spectacular vistas in all of Lake Tahoe.

6. Ski at Homewood Mountain Resort

In winter, Homewood Mountain Resort, just minutes from Rubicon Bay, offers some of the most spectacular lake views of any ski resort in the world. With 1,260 acres of skiable terrain, 67 runs, and 8 lifts, it’s perfect for families and skiers of all levels. The resort is known for its uncrowded slopes and laid-back atmosphere.

7. Explore Rubicon Point Lighthouse

Visit the highest lighthouse in North America at Rubicon Point in D.L. Bliss State Park. While the lighthouse itself is small, the views from this 6,300-foot elevation point are spectacular, overlooking the deepest part of Lake Tahoe where the water reaches depths of 1,645 feet.

8. Enjoy Water Sports and Boating

Rubicon Bay’s protected waters make it ideal for water sports. Rent a boat to explore Lake Tahoe’s vast expanse, try water skiing or wakeboarding, or simply cruise along the shoreline admiring the stunning mountain scenery. Several marinas in nearby towns offer boat rentals and tours.

Where to Eat Near Rubicon Bay

While Rubicon Bay itself has limited dining options, several excellent restaurants are just a short drive away:

West Shore Cafe

Located in Homewood just minutes north of Rubicon Bay, West Shore Cafe offers lakefront dining with stunning views. The menu features upscale California cuisine with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their deck seating is perfect for summer sunset dinners over the lake.

Chambers Landing Bar & Grill

This historic spot in Tahoma claims to be the oldest bar on Lake Tahoe, built in 1875. Famous for their “Chambers Punch” cocktail, they offer casual lakefront dining with burgers, sandwiches, and other American classics. The restaurant sits on a pier extending into the lake, providing unique dining views.

Fire Sign Cafe

A beloved breakfast spot in Tahoe City, Fire Sign Cafe serves hearty breakfast and lunch options. Their homemade bread and creative egg dishes have made this a local favorite for decades.

Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge

About 8 miles north in Tahoe City, Sunnyside offers lakefront dining with a large deck overlooking the water. Known for their fish tacos and zucchini sticks, this popular spot combines great food with amazing views.

Practical Tips for Visiting Rubicon Bay

Parking and Access

Public access to Rubicon Bay is limited as much of the shoreline is private property. D.L. Bliss State Park provides the best public access point near Rubicon Bay, with day-use parking available for $10. Arrive early during summer months as parking lots fill quickly, often by 10 AM on weekends.

Weather Considerations

Lake Tahoe’s weather can change rapidly, even in summer. Always pack layers, as temperatures can drop significantly in the evening, even after hot days. In winter, snow chains or 4WD vehicles are often required on mountain roads, including Highway 89.

Environmental Responsibility

Lake Tahoe’s clarity is precious and declining. Help preserve it by:

• Using reef-safe sunscreen to protect the lake’s ecosystem
• Packing out all trash and recycling properly
• Staying on designated trails to prevent erosion
• Never feeding wildlife, including Tahoe’s famous bears

Cell Service and Connectivity

Cell service can be spotty around Rubicon Bay and along hiking trails. Download maps and information before heading out, and consider bringing a portable charger for longer excursions.

Seasonal Activities in Rubicon Bay

Summer Activities (June-August)

• Swimming and sunbathing at Rubicon Bay’s crystal-clear beaches
• Kayaking and paddleboarding along the shoreline
• Hiking the Rubicon Trail when wildflowers are in bloom
• Boating and water skiing on Lake Tahoe
• Mountain biking on nearby trails

Fall Activities (September-November)

• Hiking amid fall colors, especially in nearby Hope Valley
• Photography along the shoreline with clear, calm waters
• Fishing for Kokanee salmon and Mackinaw trout
• Mountain biking with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
• Visiting Apple Hill farms about an hour away for fall harvest festivities

Winter Activities (December-March)

• Skiing and snowboarding at Homewood Mountain Resort
• Snowshoeing along the snow-covered Rubicon Trail
• Cross-country skiing at nearby groomed trails
• Ice skating at Northstar or Heavenly Village
• Cozy cabin evenings with stunning snow-covered lake views

Spring Activities (April-May)

• Watching waterfalls at peak flow, including nearby Eagle Falls
• Hiking lower-elevation trails as they become snow-free
• Wildflower spotting along forest trails
• Spring skiing at higher elevation resorts
• Enjoying the lake with fewer crowds before summer season

Day Trips from Rubicon Bay

While Rubicon Bay offers plenty to keep you busy, these nearby attractions make for excellent day trips:

Tahoe City (10 miles north)

This charming lakeside town offers shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. Visit the Gatekeeper’s Museum to learn about Lake Tahoe’s history, stroll along the lakefront path, or enjoy the public beach at Commons Beach.

Truckee (25 miles northeast)

This historic railroad town has a charming downtown with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Visit the Truckee Railroad Museum or explore Donner Memorial State Park to learn about the infamous Donner Party.

South Lake Tahoe (17 miles south)

The largest town in the Lake Tahoe Basin offers casinos, shopping, restaurants, and Heavenly Mountain Resort. Take the Heavenly Gondola for spectacular views or visit the Taylor Creek Visitor Center to learn about local ecology.

Hope Valley (30 miles southeast)

In fall, Hope Valley offers some of the most spectacular autumn colors in the region as aspens turn brilliant gold. The scenic drive along Highway 88 is worth the trip alone.

Plan Your Perfect Rubicon Bay Getaway

Rubicon Bay offers a perfect slice of Lake Tahoe paradise, with its impossibly clear turquoise waters, stunning mountain views, and endless outdoor activities. Whether you’re seeking adventure on the Rubicon Trail, relaxation on pristine beaches, or winter thrills at nearby ski resorts, this jewel of Lake Tahoe delivers unforgettable experiences in every season.

From the highest lighthouse in North America to some of the clearest waters you’ll ever see, Rubicon Bay showcases nature at its most spectacular. Start planning your Lake Tahoe adventure today and discover why this special corner of California’s Sierra Nevada mountains continues to captivate visitors year after year.