Are you tired of the same old summer vacation? Are you looking for a fun way to spend your tax refund? Then splurge on yourself this summer in Lake Tahoe, a destination offering numerous affordable summer activities.

Travelers should know about South Shore Lake Tahoe’s top affordable, fun, adventurous and easily accessible things to do in the summer. Here is a list of options:

1. Schedule an afternoon to drive the 72 miles around Lake Tahoe to experience the most beautiful drive in America along Highway 50 and 89. The drive offers numerous look out points, beaches, restaurants and shops to pull over, snap some photos, take a walk and enjoy lunch or dinner. Emerald Bay and Camp Richardson are popular places to stroll along the beach and admire Mother Nature’s beauty. For more information visit http://www.mostbeautifuldrive.com">www.mostbeautifuldrive.com.

2. Hike a portion of the Tahoe Rim Trail, a 165-mile natural wonder, encompassing the ridge tops of the Lake Tahoe Basin. The trail is open to hikers, equestrians, and in some areas to mountain bikers. Trail elevations range from 6,300 to 10,333 feet, and the trail is accessible from 12 different trailheads around the lake. Fairly level terrain makes it ideal for families with young children. For more information visit http://www.tahoerimtrail.org">www.tahoerimtrail.org.

3. Encounter breathtaking views of the Lake, the mountains, and Tahoe's only island – Fannette Island at D.L. Bliss and Emerald Bay State Parks. Both parks have campgrounds, hiking trails, swimming, fishing, and interpretive activities. The D.L. Bliss State Park has a wonderful beach on Rubicon Bay which is also a trailhead for the Rubicon Point Trail that continues to Vikingsholm Castle, the most popular attraction on the west end of Emerald Bay. For more information visit http://www.vikingsholm.com">www.vikingsholm.com.

4. Golf at the affordable Bijou Municipal Golf Course, catering to beginners and families. Centrally located on the South Shore, Bijou Municipal Golf Course is an executive 9-hole golf course, par 33, with pro shop, practice net, rentals, and putting green. No tee times required. For more information visit http://www.recreationintahoe.com">www.recreationintahoe.com.

5. Walk around Mt. Tallac. Tour the Tallac Historic Site, a 74-acre outdoor museum showcasing the Old Tahoe style and architecture complete with working forge and blacksmith while kids ages 6-12 can participate in the Living History for Kids program. For more information visit http://www.tahoebackcountry.net/hiking/desolation/tallac.htm">www.tahoebackcountry.net.

6. Find great bargains at the Factory Stores at the Y located at the intersection of Highway 50 and 89. More than 18 stores are in one location offering name-brand items at 30 to 40% off normal store prices. It’s difficult to pass up such bargains on name brand sportswear, footwear, training apparel, winter and ski wear, summer fashions and accessories, including Bass, Big Dog, Sunglass Hut, Adidas, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Nine West, Van Heusen, Geoffrey Beene, Home Again and more. For additional information visit http://www.shopthe-y.com">www.shopthe-y.com.

7. Experience the magnificent views of Lake Tahoe by riding the Heavenly Gondola. While on the mountain there are several hiking trails, ranging from 1.6 miles to just under four miles round-trip, that meander through the high Sierra forest. For more information visit http://www.skiheavenly.com">www.skiheavenly.com.

8. Cruise North America’s largest Alpine lake, Lake Tahoe, exploring this 22-mile long and 12-mile wide body of water onboard the M.S. Dixie or Tahoe Queen. The two to three hour tours depart from the historic Zephyr Cove and loop around Emerald Bay. The water in Lake Tahoe is known for its glistening sparkle and clarity making it possible to see the white plate on the bottom of the Lake. For more information visit http://www.laketahoecruises.com">www.laketahoecruises.com.

9. Experience a creatively concocted burger at The Burger Lounge on Emerald Bay Road, featuring extra large gourmet burgers made with beef, turkey and/or vegetables – the veggie burger! Combinations were gathered during the owner’s extensive travels throughout the United States. Paired with fresh pesto, garlic, chili and cheese fries, the recipes have become something of an urban legend around South Shore.

10. Dance the night away at one of the local nightclubs in South Shore Lake Tahoe. The hottest all new venues taking nightlife to a new level this summer are the Blu Nightclub and Opal Ultra Lounge, in MontBleu Resort Casino & Spa; the cigar bar Cliché and throbbing nightclub VEX, at Harrah’s; and local favorite Boost Nightclub in Bill’s Casino.

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