Where to Rent a Boat Near Bonsai Rock
Bonsai Rock, on Tahoe’s east shore (Nevada side, just south of Sand Harbor), is a legendary granite boulder topped with some tiny, wind-blown trees. It’s a pull for photographers, swimmers and thrill-seekers. The best way to explore it — and the surrounding gems — is by boat.
This guide includes where to rent boats near Bonsai Rock, the best restaurants you can boat up to, where to see and be seen, things to do, and opportunities to snap the best photos around Lake Tahoe.
Sand Harbor Rentals (2m north) • Enjoy warm summer days with boat rentals on glassy waters.
Excellent launch spot for short cruises south to Bonsai Rock.
Incline Village / Ski Beach Marina and beach (10 minutes by boat)
Pontoons, speedboats, and luxury cruisers. It is the center of Bonsai Rock and Crystal Bay.
Zephyr Cove Marina (further south)
Full service marina and larger boat rentals if you would like to explore the entire east and south shore as well as Bonsai Rock.
Pro Tip: Bonsai Rock doesn’t have docks, so make sure you anchor offshore and swim/paddle in.
Places Worth Seeing That Are Also On the Water
Bonsai Rock
Highlights: An iconic bonsai-topped boulder, crystal-clear turquoise water and a spot to swim naturally.
Why by boat: Skip the steep hike-in trail and pull up in style, anchoring near the site.
Sand Harbor
Main Attractions: Granite boulders, sandy beaches and great swimming/snorkeling.
Why by boat: Parking lot gets full early; you’re assured parking by arriving by boat.
Secret Cove and Chimney Beach (south of Bonsai Rock)
Highlights: A remote, clothing-optional beach and dramatic rocks on the shoreline.
Why by boat: You can’t get there by land, but it’s ideal to ease into by boat for a serene getaway.
Crystal Bay (north of Incline Village)
Why Go: Deep blue waters, dramatic cliffs, and a hopping nightlife hub 6.6 miles away.
Why By Boat: Drop anchor for cliffside photo ops and dining options on the shores at Kings Beach.
6 Alluring Restaurants That You Can Boat To
Lone Eagle Grille (Incline Village)
Docking: Moor at the Ski Beach Marina then walk a few minutes.
What to Try: Elk medallions, seafood tower, Tahoe mule cocktail.
Gar Woods Grill & Pier (Carnelian Bay, North Shore)
Docking: Private buoys with boat valet pickup. There is no cost for the boat valet, and private buoys at Logan’s don’t cost Members anything.
What to Try: The renowned “Wet Woody” cocktail, ahi poke stack, prime rib.
Jake’s On The Lake (Tahoe City)
Docking: Tahoe City Marina.
What to Order: Daily fresh catch specials, Hawaiian influenced poke, Sunday brunch.
Boathouse on the Pier (South Shore)
Docking: Available at Tahoe Beach Retreat.
What to Order: Crab cakes, clam chowder, and cocktails at sunset.
Best Photo Spots near Bonsai Rock Lake Tahoe by Boat
Bonsai Rock
The gold hue of light on the water makes the bonsai trees pop against the background.
Sand Harbor Boulders
Ideal for those underwater GoPro shots — with Lake Tahoe’s clarity, rocks look like they’re floating.
Crystal Bay Cliffs
Vertiginous granite faces — especially with a wide-angle lens.
East Shore Sunsets
Drop anchor offshore, then shoot west toward the Sierra Nevada as the sky lights on fire in oranges and purples.
Things to Do On and Around Your Boat while visiting Bonsai Rock Lake Tahoe
Swimming & Cliff Jumping: Located near Bonsai Rock and Secret Cove.
SNUBA: Try SNUBA in the Sand Harbor and Crystal Bay areas, where visibility below the surface is pristine.
Paddleboarding: Bring or rent an inflatable SUP and check out the shoreline boulders.
Fishing: Kokanee salmon and Mackinaw trout are plentiful — Crystal Bay is a favorite.
Stargazing: There is very little light pollution at East Shore —anchor near Bonsai Rock for a magical night sky.
Bonsai Rock Lake Tahoe Boat Rental with Tahoe Bliss Boat Charters
Boating around Bonsai Rock and the rest of the east shore will take you to Tahoe’s most recognisable photo spots, private coves and lakeside dining adventures. Whether you want a romantic sunset cruise, a family day of swimming, or an adventure of snorkeling and cliff jumping, this is about the best way to see Lake Tahoe. Book your Bonsai Rock Boat Rental today!
Get in Touch!
Let us create a day you're sure not to forget!
Please use our online booking system to book a boat today!