Emerald Bay, Natural bay at Lake Tahoe, United States.
Emerald Bay is a body of water at Lake Tahoe surrounded by tall granite cliffs and thick pine forests that rise steeply from the shoreline. The bay has an elongated shape and opens toward the larger lake, with water depths reaching the center point where it drops significantly deeper.
The bay received official protection status in 1969 when it was designated as a National Natural Landmark, recognizing its natural importance at the national level. In 1994 it became a state underwater park, extending protection to its waters and surrounding environment.
The Vikingsholm mansion along the shore displays Scandinavian architectural details that visitors notice immediately when looking across the water. Its design reflects how early residents wanted to bring a Nordic aesthetic to this Lake Tahoe location.
Visitors can enjoy the bay from the shoreline or explore it by boat, with many spots easily accessible from land. The water remains cold year-round and can surprise swimmers, so caution is wise.
Fannette Island is the only natural island in all of Lake Tahoe and sits within this bay's waters. The small island still holds the remains of an old stone teahouse from earlier times.
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