Courtesy of Waterman's Landing
Waterman's café.
The summer standup paddle board racing journey continues here in Northern California as we head back to Lake Tahoe for the "Jam from the Dam" race July 12. "Jam from the Dam" is the second race of the O'Neill Tahoe Cup Series, starts at Common's Beach in Tahoe City and finishes at Waterman's Landing at Carnelian Bay. This post will focus on the two fabulous paddle places on Lake Tahoe in this race.
First up: Common's Beach in Tahoe City. I think it’s a little known secret that there is a pretty decent beach right in Tahoe City that you can paddle from. There is a small parking lot right at the water’s edge for an easy launch but it can fill up quickly. The prevailing wind tends to blow side to offshore at Common’s making the water very smooth but keep close to shore to avoid a ride to the middle of the lake. Lake levels are low this year which means you will be in knee deep water for quite a distance when you launch. Tahoe City Kayak has a rental kiosk right at Common's if you want to rent a kayak or a standup paddle board. Need some food or drink after a paddle? Pick your poison in Tahoe City. Jakes on the Lake is my go-to for lunch and dinner but there are plenty of restaurants to choose from, all walking distance from Common's Beach.
Head east for five miles on North Lake Blvd and you will find Waterman’s Landing, which is located at The Tahoe Conservancy, Patton Landing Beach in Carnelian Bay. Waterman’s is a unique paddle place that sits on its own beach and is open to the public (and dogs). While far less crowded than Common’s Beach, Waterman’s has a deep and easy launch into the water, but be mindful of some of the boat traffic since they are next to Sierra Boat Company and Marina. Paddle exploration from Waterman’s is endless with non-stop sightseeing of Lake Tahoe’s North Shore just minutes away. Waterman’s has the added benefit of being owned by two elite paddlers in the country, Jay and Anik Wild. Not only do they teach outrigger and standup paddling but they also put on Tahoe Junior Waterman Camp for kids. Waterman’s Landing has a terrific café that serves up organic coffee, breakfast and lunch.
