If you’ve ever stood on the shoreline of Lake Tahoe and wondered, “How do I rent a boat?”, you’re not alone. With its 72 miles of shoreline, crystal-clear water, and legendary alpine scenery, Tahoe beckons you to get off the beach and out on the water.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned boater, renting a boat at Homewood High & Dry Marina is easier than you might think. Here’s everything you need to know to get started—and make the most of your Tahoe boating adventure.
Why Rent a Boat on Lake Tahoe?
Lake Tahoe isn’t just big—it’s the largest alpine lake in North America, stretching 22 miles long and plunging over 1,600 feet deep. Its towering granite cliffs, forested shoreline, and bluebird skies make it a dream destination for boating.
Some of the most popular places to explore include:
- Emerald Bay, home to the historic Vikingsholm Castle and Fannette Island, the lake’s only island.
- Meeks Bay, a calm and scenic spot perfect for swimming and beach picnics.
- Kings Beach on the North Shore, with wide-open waters ideal for wakeboarding or tubing.
No matter what kind of day you’re planning, there’s a boat—and a launch point—perfect for the adventure.
Step 1: Choose the Right Boat for Your Day
The first step in renting a boat is deciding what you want to do on the water. Are you here to relax with family, try your hand at fishing, or kick up some waves on a wakeboard?
Popular Boat Rental Options Include:
- Pontoon Boats: Great for groups, families, or laid-back cruising.
- Wake Boats: Built for tubing, wakesurfing, or waterskiing.
- Fishing Boats: Outfitted for deep-water trolling or shoreline casting.
You can view all our options with our partners SWA Watersports and High Sierra Water Ski School to find the perfect match for your plans.
Step 2: Pick Your Launch Location
North Shore Adventures
The North Shore, with spots like Carnelian Bay and Tahoe Vista, is perfect for calm morning paddles or waterskiing on glassy water. If you’re planning a North Shore day, check out our North Lake Tahoe boat rentals.
West Shore Access
Launching from Homewood High & Dry Marina puts you right on the West Shore, one of the quietest and most scenic parts of the lake. From here, you can easily reach Emerald Bay, Meeks Bay, and beyond.
Fishing Specific Trips
If you’re heading out to target mackinaw trout, kokanee salmon, or rainbow trout, we recommend checking out our Fishing Charters with Sierra Fin Addicts for boats equipped with rod holders and fish finders.
Step 3: Make Your Reservation
Booking is Easy:
- Reserve online or by phone.
- Provide your preferred date, party size, and boat choice.
- Add any extras you might need for water sports or fishing.
Pro Tip: Summer weekends fill up fast, so book early to lock in your boat.
Step 4: Know the Rules of the Water
- Boater Licenses: California law requires anyone operating a motorized boat to hold a valid boater card.
- Weather Awareness: Tahoe mornings are typically calm, but afternoon winds can make conditions choppy. Plan early trips for the best experience.
- Environmental Responsibility: Help protect Tahoe’s clear waters by following Clean, Drain, Dry practices to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.
Make Your Lake Tahoe Boating Day Easy
Boating on Lake Tahoe is one of the best ways to experience the lake’s beauty—and renting a boat has never been easier. From pontoon cruises to fishing trips to wakesurf sessions, Homewood High & Dry Marina has the boats and expert advice to make your day unforgettable.