If you like to water ski or wakeboard, then Lake Tahoe is the ideal place to do it. With plenty of room and outstanding scenery, the East shore of Lake Tahoe, south of Sand Harbor is an outstanding place to ski or board. On early summer mornings the lake’s surface is often like a sheet of glass, and there are usually very few other boats. There is virtually no development, incredible white sand and granite boulder strewn beaches. Remember to always stay outside the red navigational buoys, as there are many unmarked obstacles near shore.

The west shore of Lake Tahoe offers another popular place to ski or board. There is stunning scenery and beautiful sand and gravel beaches. After you’ve had your fill of skiing and boarding, why not cruise down to the ever-popular Emerald Bay and Sugar pine Point State Park. Your kids will never have had so much fun! Later in the day, the west shore tends to have more wind and boat traffic. The wind and wakes soon create an undesirable chop. So plan to get an early start and you will be greatly rewarded.

There is no feeling quite like ripping perfect slalom turns as you glide over turquoise shapes far below you in the crystal clear water. After your workout, relax in the warm sun and bask in your sense of accomplishment. If you haven’t tried skiing and boarding and would like to learn there are several agencies here with competent instructors to teach you. They will also provide all the necessary equipment for your lessons. It’s much easier to learn than you might expect and so much fun!

If you would like to rent a ski boat or need information on local boat ramps, please refer to the Boating section on our web site. As always, wear plenty of sunscreen as you may become severely burned after just a short time in the sun. Below find a listing of local water ski schools.

Water Ski Schools

High Sierra Water Ski School
1850 West Lake Blvd
Tahoe City, California
530.583.7417 
Dates of Operation – May 1 to October 15.
Hours of Operation – 7 am to 5 pm.
Call for fees.
Specializing in slalom, wakeboarding, kneeboarding and tubing, they offer instruction for beginner and advanced water skiers. Group and family lessons are also available.
Driving time - 30 minutes. Driving distance - 20 miles.