The Best Lake Tahoe Photography Spots In 2026 (With Map)

Looking for the best Lake Tahoe photography spots? You’ve come to the right place! There are a lot of photo spots for amazing nature photography, wedding and engagement spots, and photos in all seasons around this huge lake known for its clear, cobalt-blue water, unique rock formations, water sports, hiking and fabulous mountain views.

Why listen to me? I’ve been a professional photographer for 15 years, and I’ve traveled extensively while doing photography – both in the US and abroad, including California! I’ve also researched professionally besides for my own trips.

Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America. It’s located on the Nevada-California state line in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, and is around 22 miles long and 12 miles wide. The lake is so big, the earth’s curve plays some tricks on the eye, and with the atmospheric refraction you may just get a glimpse of Tahoe Tessie!

Map of the Best Lake Tahoe Photography Spots

Best Lake Tahoe Photography Spots: Beaches

1. Secret Cove

Secret Cove is a nudist beach in Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park. It’s part of a series of trails that will continue to lead to more photo-worthy beaches, like Whale Beach and more. There’s a 0.9-mile, easy hike to Secret Cove.

The best time to visit Secret Cove in Lake Tahoe for pictures is when there are lower crowds, which means any season other than summer, and in the mornings and evenings during the summer.

Photo ops include:

• Turquoise, clear water
• Rocks in the water – you can photograph the view, do photoshoots sitting on the rocks and more
• Sunsets and sunrises

📸 Tip: There is a trail network that connects Chimney Beach, Secret Cove, Boaters Beach and Whale Beach, so you can easily go from one to the next as you take photos!

2. Skunk Harbor

Skunk Harbor is a hidden beach cove on Lake Tahoe that has amazing photo opportunities, including ruins of an old house from the 1920s. You’ll need to hike or bike the 1.6-mile trail, which is an old road, to get to the cove. You’ll also see remains of an old railroad from the 1870s and a lot of nature that you can photograph on the way to the beach, which isn’t too crowded since its hidden!

Skunk Harbor is located on Hwy 28 (a couple miles North from Spooner Lake). The Hwy 28 access gate is locked, so you’ll need to walk down the gated road after parking (there’s small parking area).

3. Chimney Beach

Chimney Beach is another picturesque beach that is near an old cabin – the chimney is what remains of the structure, hence the name Chimney Beach.

You can get to this beach by taking this hour-long hike. It tends to be more crowded in the summertime, but taking the hike will reward you with amazing scenes for photos. Go for sunrise to avoid crowds and get top-notch pictures.

4. Kings Beach

Kings Beach is known for being a hippie-style beach town where you can find photo ops like old hotels, independent shops and restaurants, all with Lake Tahoe in the background. It’s a walkable town that is really popular for many reasons, including the beach – it’s one of the warmest for swimming, plus the restaurants and nightlife.

Photo ops include:

• Festivals, including Fireworks and a Beach party on July 3rd
• Water and winter sports
• Sparkling white sand

Tip: If you’re going in the water at King’s Beach, beware of hazardous algae blooms.

5. Sand Harbor

Sand Harbor is a popular state park on the NE side of Lake Tahoe, near Incline Village. Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the best photos!

Photo ops include:

• Beautiful beaches with sand and clear water, plus rock formations
• Close parking and lots of water sports, including scuba diving
• Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival (summer)
• Two ramps for boats, water-skiing and fishing
• Picnic sites with BBQs
• Weddings and events at the Ramada
• Kokanee Bar & Grill

📸 Tip: A photography permit is needed for commercial photography, as well as photoshoots for weddings, senior portraits etc.

📸 Tip: Don’t use drones unless you get prior authorization from the Park Supervisor. Visit B4UFLY for information.

6. Creek Beach

Creek Beach is yet another gorgeous, turquoise-water beach where your photos will make people wonder if you’re on a tropical island! Creek Beach is another clothing-optional beach, and not many tourists visit for that reason, plus due to its harder-to-reach location.

The hike to Creek Beach includes getting across some boulders, so bring good hiking shoes and gear. On the hike, Creek Beach comes after Secret Cove and Boaters Beach.

7. Speedboat Beach

Speedboat Beach is a hidden neighborhood sandy beach cove where you can find huge rock formations and clear water for amazing photos and snorkeling, along with water sports like kayaking or SUP and more. This one is easy access, with no hiking necessary.

There is limited parking, so arrive early or paddle in from the water!

8. Hidden Beach

Hidden Beach is, like the name implies, hidden! It’s is close to Incline Village on Hwy 28 and has rocky alcoves that are perfect for photoshoots, as well as more boulders. There’s limited parking, and donations are encouraged.

There is a 3-mile hiking path from Incline Village you can take as well by walking or biking. Get there early in the morning for parking and beach space, especially in the summer.

Hidden Beach is a great spot for water sports, swimming and more activities, but grilling is not allowed.

9. Regan Beach (Thomas F. Regan Memorial City Beach)

Regan Beach is the oldest beach facility in South Lake Tahoe. This beach is open only part of the year; it’s closed October-March. However, it’s worth mentioning for specific photo opportunities, such as:

• Regan Beach West rental for weddings and private events
• View of Lake Tahoe and observation deck
• 4th of July fireworks 
• Water dog park, playground and volleyball court
• Winter sledding

Lake Tahoe Beach Tips to Remember:
👉 Dispose of trash properly – never litter!
👉 Don’t feed any wildlife
👉 Campfires are not allowed on any Tahoe beaches
👉 There is a coastguard station nearby

Best Lake Tahoe Photography Spots: Viewpoints

10. Palisades Tahoe Aerial Tram

The Palisades Tahoe Aerial Tram (Squaw Valley Aerial Tram) is one of the best ways to get aerial photos of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Mountains. It’s a 10-minute ride that takes you from 6,200 ft elevation to 8,200 feet, with panoramic views from the tram.

At the top, you’ll get off the tram and visit the High Camp, which has restaurants, a bar, marketplace and the free Olympic Museum.

Tickets can be purchased as part of the Sierra Sightseeing Pass, and with this you’ll also be able to ride the Funitel and the Base to Base Gondola for even more views of Lake Tahoe!

The Base to Base Gondola takes you between two mountains so you can get wilderness views for photos of both resort property and private land. The Funitel takes you to the Palisades for views, skiing and dining.

11. Emerald Bay (Inspiration Point)

Emerald Bay State Park is the most photographed place on Lake Tahoe. It’s also the only inlet and is 1,533 acres. It’s accessible via a short drive from South Lake Tahoe on Hwy 89, and it’s one of the absolute best photo spots on Lake Tahoe for the amazing views, plus more unique photo ops to discover!

Photo ops include:

• Views
• Fannette Island (the only island on Lake Tahoe)
• Mrs. Knight’s Teahouse, a stone building on the island with a panoramic view of Emerald Bay
• Vikingsholm Castle, a hidden photo spot and National Landmark – it’s a 1920’s Scandinavian Castle with another lake viewpoint, plus rich history
• Inspiration Point, which is a drive-up overlook for panoramic photos of the landscape and Fannette Island
• Water sports, hiking and biking
• Sunset and sunrise photos
• Fall is considered the best for photos, but spring is also amazing

📸 Check out this recommended Photography Tour of Lake Tahoe!

You’ll get a guided tour of your choice (half-day or full-day tour) with photography tips and more information about Lake Tahoe. The tour includes Emerald Bay and more locations, depending on which tour you choose!

📸 Learn More about the Lake Tahoe Small Group Photography Tour Here

12. Eagle Falls & Eagle Lake

Eagle Lake is just a short hike from Emerald Bay, where you can get photos of the waterfall, as well as Lake Tahoe views from the top of the falls.

From Eagle Lake, a short hike from the falls, you’ll get views of Emerald Bay, the falls and Desolation Wilderness.

13. Cave Rock & Overlook

Cave Rock is the remains of a prehistoric volcano and there are caves in the area sacred to the native Washoe people. There’s a profile of a woman’s face that can be seen from the reflection, which is why it’s called the “Lady of the Lake” by the native people.

You can reach Cave Rock via a short hike from the parking area nearby. This area has amazing views, but a lot of cliffs, so stay clear of the edge and be aware of your surroundings. There’s also a steep scramble to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the lake and the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Even if you can’t complete the scramble to the very top, you’ll still get a 360-degree view that’s great for photos!

14. Mt. Rose

Mt. Rose is one of the tallest mountains in the area, plus you can ski the mountain and more! There’s a ski resort, and it’s close to the airport as well.

Photo ops include:

• Views of Lake Tahoe and Reno
• 12 mile round-trip hike to the summit
• Skiing with legendary Chutes that have some of the longest continuous vertical runs in North America
• Snowshoe trails

15. Chickadee Ridge

Chickadee Ridge is a hike that can be done on foot, but it’s best for photos during the Winter when you can use snowshoes.

Photo ops include:

• Views of Lake Tahoe
• Birding (the birds eat from your hand!)
• Sledding

🚗 Renting a car in Los Angeles? I did (and even switched mid-road trip)! Read this guide for all my tips for renting a car in Los Angeles!

Best Lake Tahoe Photography Spots: Instagram Spots

16. Monkey Rock

Monkey Rock is one of the best photo spots on Lake Tahoe for panoramic views, but it also has a rock that looks like a monkey! It originally had some of these features, and at some point someone carved the rock to make them more prominent, but it’s still one of the best spots for photos because it’s so iconic.

There’s a short hike to the rock starting from behind the Tunnel Creek Cafe, near Incline Village.

17. Glen Alpine Falls

Glen Alpine Falls is another waterfall, located on South Lake Tahoe. It’s 65-feet tall with tiers, and you can get close-up to it as well. Of course, to get photos when the waterfall has the most water falling, go during the Spring, when the rain and melting snow help the water to be more impressive.

There’s a moderate to strenuous hike to the upper falls, and the lower falls don’t require a hike, so you can photograph the falls from either, or both spots!

18. Bonsai Rock

Bonsai Rock is aptly named for the zen-like spectacle, with four small trees growing out of a large boulder, with other boulders surrounding it. It’s a popular photo spot because it’s an icon – it’s located between Sand Harbor and Hidden Beach.

Bonsai Rock is located on the Nevada side, and is also a popular spot for SUP. You’ll need to park on the side of the road, but it’s easily accessible from there. Go early to avoid crowds!

19. Disappearing Train Tracks (Sugar Pine Point State Park)

Lake Tahoe has been around for eons, so the train tracks you’ll see going into the lake are an odd sight, and well worth photographing! These tracks weren’t actually built for trains, but for boat launches in the early 1900s.

Photo ops:

• Snorkeling or scuba diving to get underwater photos of the tracks
• The boathouse and pier
• Historic mansion that you can tour

The tracks are located at Sugar Pine Point State Park, which is on the west side of Lake Tahoe near Tahoma, on Hwy 89.

20. Gar Woods Pier

Gar Woods Grill & Pier provides an excellent photo spot for photoshoots and views of the lake! The restaurant is located in Carnelian Bay and both the building and the pier are in the style of the wooden boat era known to Tahoe history, providing a picturesque location all-around – especially at sunset!

Photo ops include:

• Pier and view
• Private dining rooms upstairs for large groups
• Balcony with a view for cocktails
• Floor-to-ceiling windows and “Old Tahoe” classic style
• Can be reserved for private events and weddings (including outdoor weddings) with a “Banquet Packet”

21. Skylandia Pier

Skylandia Pier is located at Skylandia State Park and Beach, which is near Tahoe City on Lake Forest Road.

Photo ops include:

• Pier and beach with amazing views for photography
• Weddings and other events
• Biking and hiking trails
• Picnicking, plus nearby campsites and fishing areas

22. Donner Pass Summit Tunnels

The Donner Pass Summit Tunnels (Historic Summit Tunnel) are an amazing Instagram photo opportunity, as well as underground street art and history!

The tunnels have a lot of photo-worthy graffiti art that make for great photos on their own, or photoshoot backdrops.

⚠️ Important Safety Tip: Don’t go into the tunnels at all during Winter or Spring, as the stalactites are dangerous.

23. Fannette Island & Tea House

In case you missed it in the Emerald Bay section, Fannette Island and tea house are popular photo spots that are a must for Instagram when visiting Lake Tahoe!

Fannette Island can be viewed from the top of Emerald Bay, and it’s the only island on Lake Tahoe. The Tea House is a stone structure on the island that was built in the 1920s, when the nearby (and also Instagram-worthy) Vikingsholm Castle was built.

The mansion owner, Mrs. Knight would have tea at the Tea House. Today, the structure is no longer complete but much of the outside remains.

Best Lake Tahoe Photography Spots: Swings

Where is the swing in Tahoe? There are swings in multiple locations that make for great photo ops for Instagram, photoshoots and more! Read on to discover them all:

24. East Shore Tire Swing

There’s a tire swing you can find as you head towards Bonsai Rock (mentioned earlier), on a tree.

25. Obexer’s Boat Company Ski Lift Chair Swing

Obexer’s Boat Company, in Homewood, has a ski lift chair swing that makes for great photo ops on the lake (vs the slopes)!

26. Donner Lake Swing

Donner Lake is near Lake Tahoe, and has amazing views of the lake from Donner Lake Overlook. There’s also a bridge, as well as a swing you can find here that are excellent photo ops!

Best Lake Tahoe Photography Spots: Hiking Trails

27. Flume Trail

Flume Trail is known for being one of the best biking trails in the world, and it’s also amazing for photos. At the top, you can see both Marlette Lake and Lake Tahoe.

28. Mt. Tallac

The Mt. Tallac hike crosses state lines and has photo-worthy views of Desolation Wilderness.

29. D.L. Bliss State Park & Rubicon Trail

D.L. Bliss State Park has camping, a beach and is the start of the Rubicon Trail, one of the most popular in Northern California because it goes through so many amazing photo spots!

Photo ops include:

• Rubicon Point Lighthouse, which used to be highest in the world – a small wooden lighthouse
• One of the best Fall photo spots for the colorful views
• The trail goes along the coast through secluded coves, cliffs and more

30. Tahoe East Shore Trail

The Tahoe East Shore Trail is one of the best places for sunset and sunrise photos along the coast, and the trail takes you along the shore to find all kinds of new photo spots of the Lake with boulders.

31. Bayview Trail

Bayview Trail takes you through the Desolation Wilderness, but even before you go very far you’ll see amazing views of Emerald Bay for photos!

You can also camp at Bayview Campground, which is the start of the trail and across fro Inspiration Point. You’ll be able to reach Cascade Falls from there, as well as Granite Lake and Maggie’s Peak, all of which are great for photos.

32. Tahoe Rim Trail

The Tahoe Rim Trail can be hiked, biked or done via horseback riding. The length of the round trip is 165 miles, so naturally you can see everything for nature photos, from multiple lakes, to mountains and more. There are also eight trailheads so this hike can be done in sections instead of all at once.

33. Pope-Baldwin Recreation Area Trails and more

The Pope-Baldwin Recreation area is on the south shore, and there are tons of amazing photo ops in this area, including:

• Rainbow Trail and Lake of the Sky Trail 
• Baldwin Museum and historic estates
• Kiva Beach
• Wildlife and nature photography
• Heritage Days at the Tallac Historic Site
• Ranger-led Moonlight Walks for night photography
• Festivals and events

Best Lake Tahoe Photography Spots for Aerial Photography

34. Helicopter Tour 🚁

If you want amazing aerial photos of Lake Tahoe, a helicopter tour is a great way to be up in the air yourself (no drone needed, adventure added) and have a fun story to tell with your photos! Here are a couple top-rated helicopter tours to check out:

🚁 This Emerald Bay Helicopter Tour of Lake Tahoe takes you over Emerald Bay State Park where you can capture aerial photos over Fallen Leaf Lake, Cascade Lake, Taylor Creek, Pope Beach, Eagle Falls and more!

🚁 📸 Learn More about this Emerald Bay Helicopter Tour of Lake Tahoe Here

🚁 This Tahoe Helicopter Tour over Lakes and Waterfalls takes you over Emerald Bay and more areas, including Mount Tallac, Fallen Leaf Lake, Glen Alpine Falls, Pyramid Peak, Lake Aloha and Horsetail Falls, focus on the waterfalls and lakes!

🚁 📸 Learn More about this Tahoe Helicopter Tour: Lakes and Waterfalls Here

35. Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride

Another option for amazing aerial photos at sunrise over Lake Tahoe is to go on a hot air balloon ride. There are multiple companies that offer these experiences. You can also choose to hike to a point where you can get photos of the hot air balloons taking off!

Best Lake Tahoe Photography Spots: Winter Sports

There are multiple opportunities for experiencing and photographing with Winter sports around Lake Tahoe! There are six major resorts for skiing and snowboarding, plus snowshoe tours and more. Read on for more information on tours, rentals and other ways to get involved and capture the experience in photos!

36. Lake Tahoe Skiing and Slopes 🎿

There are multiple ski resorts around the lake, but the ones with the best views of Lake Tahoe are:

• Incline Village and Diamond Peak
• Heavenly Village Ski Resort
• Ski Run Marina, which is next to the beach and the Village, which has restaurants and entertainment
• Homewood Mountain Resort
• Alpine Meadows
• Mt Rose Ski Tahoe
• Northstar California

🎿 Check out this Half-Day Guided Backcountry Ski Touring Experience near Incline Village on your schedule with an experienced guide. You can choose from downhill, alpine or cross-country skiing, and it’s great for skiers who have yet to explore the backcountry wilderness away from all the crowds – an area perfect for all kinds of winter photography!

🎿 📸 Learn More about this Half-Day Guided Backcountry Ski Touring Experience near Incline Village Here

🎿 Heavenly Resort & Village

The Lakeview Lodge at Heavenly Resort that offers amazing views from 2,000 feet above Lake Tahoe that you can reach via a tram ride, where you can get photos on the way, and at the lodge you’ll find restaurants and a bar with nearly 100 beers on tap!

🎿 Check out this Heavenly Premium Ski Rental Including Delivery to avoid long lines, and get a custom in-room fitting and more great perks!

🎿 📸 Learn More about Heavenly Premium Ski Rental Including Delivery Here

37. Photo-focused Lake Tahoe Snowshoe Tours ❄️

❄️ This Photo-centric Snowshoe Adventure in South Lake Tahoe, CA is a great way to get off the beaten path to get photos free of all the tourists! You don’t need experience for this tour, or your own equipment because they have the best equipment and offer lessons (if you’re an expert, they’ll also give you the experience that matches your skill level).

You’ll also be able to stop and photograph the views of Lake Tahoe in avalanche-free zones on this tour. If there’s no snow on your tour day, you’ll get a photo-focused hiking tour instead!

If you’re a solo traveler, call the local office at the link below.

❄️ 📸 Learn More about this Photo Snowshoe Adventure in South Lake Tahoe, CA Here

❄️ Get amazing Winter night photography on this Moonlight Snowshoe Tour Under a Starry Sky! Snowshoes and trekking poles are provided, as well as a guide who will stop with you to admire the constellations as you capture the photography of your dreams.

❄️ 📸 Learn More about this Moonlight Snowshoe Tour Under a Starry Sky Here

Best Lake Tahoe Photography Spots: Activities on & in the water to photograph

38. Activities on & in Lake Tahoe

Whether you’re interested in SUP, Kayaking, Parasailing, Jetskiing, Boating, Snorkeling or Scuba Diving, there are tons of ways to get experiences and capture photography from the middle of Lake Tahoe with amazing views! Read on for inspiration and to find a tour that fits what you’re looking for:

🛶 This Clear Kayak Tour of Lake Tahoe allows you to get photos underwater without having to even get in the water or worry about your camera or phone’s waterproofing (too much – I’d still recommend taking precautions, though)!

Photo ops include:

• Seeing up to 65 feet (20m) underwater from the clear kayak’s bottom
• Lake Tahoe views from Sand Harbor State Park along the south shoreline to Bonsai Rock

🛶 📸 Learn More about this Clear Kayak Tour of Lake Tahoe Here

🛶 Kayak & Stand Up Paddle Board Rentals – Special Insight on Crystal Clear Coves

If you’re an experienced kayaker or Stand-Up Paddle Boarder, and just want a “grab and go” rental for you and your family or group, here’s a top-rated place to get your gear! They’ll also tell you where to go to photograph crystal-clear coves!

🛶 📸 Learn More about Kayak & Stand Up Paddle Board Rentals Here

🛥️ Cruises and Boat Tours

If you want to photograph Lake Tahoe from a wooden boat, yacht or sailboat, there are a few excellent options!

🛥️ Private boat tour of Lake Tahoe (for up to six guests)

This private boat tour takes you and your guests to various places on Lake Tahoe so you can get amazing photos (and it includes drinks and snacks)! Places include:

• Emerald Bay State Park, including Vikingsholm castle and the tea house on Fanette island
• Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course
• D.L. Bliss State Park

🛥️ 📸 Learn More about this Private boat tour of Lake Tahoe Here

⛵ 2 Hour Sailing Cruise on Lake Tahoe

If you’re looking for a sailing experience on Lake Tahoe, this one’s for you! You’ll get a unique experience with South Lake Tahoe’s premier sailing charter. As you explore and take pictures of nature’s beauty, you’ll get to enjoy local beer and wine (as well as other options), with a smaller group of passengers (up to 18 allowed).

⛵ 📸 Learn More about this 2 Hour Sailing Cruise on Lake Tahoe Here

🛥️ Half Day Luxury Yacht Class Tour on Lake Tahoe

This half-day luxury experience on a Sea Ray yacht will allow you to cruise in style, with a stop for swimming at a hidden cove in Lake Tahoe! You can bring your own drinks and snacks, and a cooler with ice and water are included.

You’ll get to photograph:

• South Lake Tahoe
• D.L. Bliss State Park and the “Rooster Rock”
• Rubicon Peak and Estates
• Emerald Bay State Park, including Vikingsholm, Eagle Falls, and the Fannette Island tea house

🛥️ 📸 Learn More about this Half Day Luxury Yacht Class Tour on Lake Tahoe Here

Best Lake Tahoe Photography Spots: Shuttle Tour

If you’re looking for a tour that doesn’t require hiking, sports or being on the water (or driving yourself), a shuttle tour is a great way to go to all the best photo spots in one fun-filled day!

39. Full-Day Lake Tahoe Circle Tour including Squaw Valley

This is a 7-hour tour with a local guide that takes you all the way around Lake Tahoe. You’ll also stop by the Squaw Valley Ski Resort Village, get lunch in Tahoe City and more!

Photo ops include:

• Palisades Tahoe
• All around Lake Tahoe
• South Lake Tahoe
• Tahoe City Visitor Information Center
• Logan Shoals Vista Trail Views
• Cave Rock (Pass By)
• Emerald Bay State Park Inspiration Point

📸 Learn More about this Full-Day Lake Tahoe Circle Tour including Squaw Valley Here

Places to Stay Near Lake Tahoe On Any Budget

✅ Budget Option: Americas Best Value Inn Lake Tahoe-Tahoe City

America’s Best Lake Tahoe is an excellent choice for an affordable and comfortable hotel with free continental breakfast, a pool and hot tub, and it’s near a beach and restaurants!

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from CopperPenny33:
“This is a great hotel, directly across from the lake, lots of excellent dining options, golf and groceries within walking distance! You can also hook right into the biking trail system right across the street. Love this place! ❤️”

🛏️ Check Prices at Americas Best Value Inn Lake Tahoe-Tahoe City Here

✅ Mid-Tier Option: Beach Retreat & Lodge at Tahoe

Beach Retreat & Lodge at Tahoe is an excellent choice for a mid-tier option – it’s right on the shore of South Lake Tahoe close to Heavenly Lodge. Plus, it has its own pier and marina, two restaurants, meeting and wedding facilities, and a number of activities, plus amazing views for photography!

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from jch243988:
“Great stay here at Beach retreat, the staff was awesome, super friendly & attentive. We really enjoyed our stay here. The kids loved that they had hot chocolate, fresh baked cookies and s’mores kits in lobby every evening, it was nice sitting at the fire pits while kids made their s’mores. Location is great, close to everything, breakfast in restaurant on site was great too. Will definitely be coming back.”

🛏️ Check Prices at Beach Retreat & Lodge at Tahoe Here

✅ Luxury Option: Edgewood Tahoe Resort

Edgewood Tahoe Resort is one of the best luxury stays at Lake Tahoe – it has amazing views for photography, a pool, private beach and boating, activities for kids, a bar, three restaurants, golf course and more amenities! It’s also an amazing spot for night photography:

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from LeighWalker1:
“We arrived grouchy after a long day and were not in a mood to be pleased by anything, but quickly fell in love with this lovely place. We ate at the comfortable golf course bar one evening and at the Bistro in the lodge another evening–both good meals. A real highlight was sitting on our deck in comfortable chairs enjoying the millions of stars on display at this elevation.”

🛏️ Check Prices at Edgewood Tahoe Resort Here

🛏️ VRBO is a great place to find vacation rental houses for yourself or a whole group to have the entire place to yourself.

Getting to and around Lake Tahoe

👉 Flights: WayAway is a flight aggregator that helps you find the cheapest flights. Use the code MUKI-TRAVELS for 10% off WayAway Plus.

👉 Rent a car in California or Nevada: Discover Cars is a great tool to use. For more, check out the travel resources page.

Tip: Make sure your car is ready for winter weather if you’re driving around Lake Tahoe in Winter!

👉 Find more tips on things like travel insurance, what to pack, and more on my travel resources page.

📸 Photography Gear for Lake Tahoe Photo Locations

✅ 4-In-One Travel Tripod

This multi-purpose tripod works with cameras and smartphones. It can be used as a selfie stick, monopod and as trekking poles, so it’s perfect for a place like Lake Tahoe where you’re hiking and taking lots of photos! It’s made with durable and lightweight aluminum alloy, and it’s super affordable.

✅ Drone

While drones are allowed in many areas around Lake Tahoe, there are places where they aren’t allowed, so be sure to check first. You can also take a helicopter tour or hot air balloon ride to get aerial photos (see the tours mentioned above).

If you’re bringing a drone, the DJI Mini 4 Pro is a great option for travel because it doesn’t weigh as much as others and it can fold to fit in a camera bag.

✅ Camera

When choosing a camera for a place like Lake Tahoe, considering options that are best for outdoor conditions – including water – and travel are key, along with your experience level and preferences.

There are DSLRs, Mirrorless options and more that are all great to consider. Check out this post on surf cameras for a full list of beginner-expert level cameras of each type, and more gear for outdoor and water photography, to choose what fits your needs!

I use a Canon 6D DSLR. It has wifi connectivity, is a full-frame professional camera and does an overall fabulous job!

📸 For more affordable DSLR options, check out my guide to the 5 Best DSLR Cameras Under $300.

✅ GoPro Action Camera

If you’re going to be doing water sports, going on boats or in vehicles, hiking, biking or horseback riding, skiing or really anything that involves movement, a GoPro is an amazing way to capture videos and photos to impress all your friends and remember the adventures for yourself!

Using a GoPro in addition to a DSLR, Mirrorless or even your phone is a great way to capture a variety of images and videos that can more fully capture your experience in a variety of formats.

The GoPro HERO 11 Black is waterproof down to 10m (33ft) without housing. Just attach it to anything and film as you go!

For water adventures where you might go deeper than 10m (33ft), this waterproof housing is needed:

📷 Get Waterproof Housing for GoPro HERO 11 Black

✅ Lens

Depending on your photography style, you might want a certain type of lens, or even multiple kinds to change as you go, including wide angle, telephoto (for close-up nature and wildlife photography), and standard zoom for an all-around lens.

I currently use this Canon EF 16-35mm Wide-Angle Zoom Lens, because I absolutely love taking wide-angle photos – but I don’t want to sacrifice zoom capability!

✅ Dome for dual under- and over-water photos

If you want to get those photos that are half-under, half-over the water, you’ll need a dome like this one that works with a GoPro!

✅ Circular Polarizer

A Circular Polarizer like this one will help you get better photos, especially of lake reflections. They keep the sun from being too strong, and allow you to capture the reflections and the bottom of the lake better! Make sure you get the proper size for your lens.

✅ Remote Shutter

A Remote Shutter, like this one for Canon cameras, will help you take photos when the light is low, like at sunrise or night photos, without touching the camera – when you’re using long exposure, this helps you not move the camera.

👉 Here’s a remote shutter (2-pack) for smartphones:

✅ Camera Insurance

If you’re going to be taking your camera and gear into the water, or doing other sports, you may want to spring for insurance. Companies like Progressive and Nationwide offer insurance for cameras and photography businesses.

✅ Waterproof camera backpack

The Peak Design Everyday V2 20L hiking backpack is designed to stay dry and to carry a camera with other gear. Plus, it has a lifetime guarantee and more to love, so be sure to check it out – it’s ideal for exploring Lake Tahoe!

🎒📸 Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 20L

More Gear for Lake Tahoe Photography

🛂 National Parks Passport

America’s National Parks Store has National Park passports, clothing and more gear, and they donate a portion of their proceeds to the National Parks System!

🥾 Get Your National Park Passport Here

✅ Yaktrax Diamond Pro Traction Cleats

Yaktrax are durable cleats that fit over hiking boots and shoes to provide traction on ice, snow and more surfaces like gravel, dirt and concrete, with swivel beads that prevent snow buildup and help transition between surfaces.

✅ First Aid Kit

It’s a good idea to bring a first aid kit when exploring Lake Tahoe. Check out this one that’s easy to pack and waterproof:

🩹 Buy a First Aid Kit Here

✅ Pocketknife

A pocketknife is an essential tool to bring when hiking, camping and more for multiple needs you might have. Here’s a top-rated favorite:

🏔️ Buy this top-rated pocketknife

✅ Compass

Your phone has a compass and Google Maps, but it’s a great idea for safety to carry an actual compass – and a paper map – in case your phone dies or gets lost.

🧭 Buy a Compass Here

✅ Headlamp

A headlamp is needed for nighttime and sunset photography, because when it gets dark you’ll need a flashlight, and a headlamp is an easy way to keep your camera at the ready and focus on your steps:

✅ Sunglasses and Sunscreen

It gets really sunny, and even when it’s cloudy you still need protection from the sun, especially with the lake’s reflection, snow reflection in Winter, and high altitudes. I use Badger Reef-Safe Sunscreen because it only has four ingredients and is free of all my allergens!

✅ Clothing & Rain Gear

Make sure to dress in layers for changing weather conditions. Bring a rain jacket, hat, gloves, and extra socks, and if you’re visiting Lake Tahoe in the Winter, bring a good coat and waterproof pants, plus hiking boots and Yaktrax.

✅ Food and Water

HydraPak: This 3L water pouch has a straw and fits in your backpack so you can drink as you hike, a favorite among nature explorers and photographers:

💦 Purchase a HydraPak Here

Collapsible Water Bottle: This bottle is perfect for hiking and exploring because it’s collapsible (and BPA-free).

Protein Powder: Protein is really important when you’re adventuring outdoors. It can help you have more energy and, along with hydration, protect from altitude sickness.

Salmon Jerky: I don’t usually eat jerky because it’s so tough, but this one isn’t tough at all, plus it’s really healthy.

Mini Clif Bars: These have been amazing for when I get hungry and there’s no food around.

✅ Good Hiking Shoes

Salomon hiking shoes are top-rated, and are fantastic options because they’re waterproof for wet and snowy conditions.

All In All: Finding the Best Photoshoot Places In Lake Tahoe

Obviously, Lake Tahoe has more photography spots than you can fit into a weekend trip. I hope this guide helps you find all the best Lake Tahoe Photography spots while also having amazing adventures, places to stay and more for all your current and future trips to this amazing US destination!

📸 For more lake photography tips and ideas, see this post!

For more Western US places to photograph, check out:

📸 39 Best Photography Spots In Southern California
📸 The 67 Best San Jose Photography Spots
📸 The 72 Best Sacramento Photography Spots
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📸 67 Best Portland Photography Spots
📸 53 Best Denver Photography Spots
📸 18 Best Colorado Springs Photography Spots
📸 Guide to the best photo spots in Salt Lake City

📸 More best photo spots in the US