Whale Beach in Lake Tahoe is a freshwater site characterised by large rocks that resemble breaching whales. The topography consists of several small alcoves featuring sandy bottoms and rocky perimeters. Snorkellers can explore this area at depths ranging from 2 to 10 metres, with an average depth of 10 metres. The site is accessed from the shore, located approximately 20 metres out. Conditions generally offer visibility between 10 and 20 metres, though mild currents and cold water are present. Divers and snorkellers should be aware of boat traffic and thermoclines, which can occur at approximately 30 to 35 feet during the summer months. Toilets are available at the site.

Thunderbird Lodge is a freshwater site situated in a bay directly below the historic estate. The topography features ancient felled trees submerged in the lake, providing a unique underwater landscape. This site is accessible only by boat or kayak and is suited for advanced snorkelers and divers due to the challenging conditions. Depths range from 10 to 25 metres, with an average of 18 metres. Visibility varies between 9 and 23 metres. Divers and snorkelers must be prepared for cold water temperatures, as deep water remains near 4°C, and significant thermoclines are present. Boat traffic is a constant hazard in this area.

Skunk Harbor is a historic cove in Lake Tahoe featuring the ruins of a 1920s stone cabin. The site is well-protected from wind, offering calm surface conditions for snorkelling around old pier remnants and rocky points. This artificial reef site is located 2500 metres from shore and is suitable for intermediate snorkellers. Visibility typically ranges from 10 to 25 metres. The environment supports temperate freshwater fish and invertebrates. Divers and snorkellers must be prepared for dangerously cold water temperatures year-round, which range from 42°F in winter to over 70°F in summer. Hazards include boat traffic, deep water, and the risk of cold water exposure.

Bonsai Rock in Lake Tahoe is a distinctive freshwater site featuring a large offshore boulder with small trees growing from its crevices. Snorkellers can explore the area around this granite formation, which sits approximately 50 metres from the shore. The topography includes submerged granite slabs and deep channels. Conditions are variable, with visibility typically ranging between 20 and 23 metres and currents described as mild. The site is suitable for intermediate snorkellers, with depths starting at 2 metres. Entry can be made from the shore or by boat. The habitat supports various temperate freshwater fish and invertebrates. Divers and snorkellers should be aware of cold water, boat traffic, and potential down currents.

Sand Harbor in Lake Tahoe offers a freshwater shore dive featuring a mix of natural boulder formations and an artificial reef area. Divers can explore a navigation and buoyancy course equipped with reference lines and swim-through tubes located beyond the boat-protected zone. The site reaches depths between 1 and 30 metres, with visibility ranging from 30 to 75 metres. Surface temperatures reach 21°C in late summer, though bottom temperatures remain a constant 4°C. The site is suitable for beginners, though divers should remain aware of boat traffic and cold water conditions. Facilities include parking, toilets, showers, changing rooms, a rinse station, and a cafe.

Zephyr Cove is a freshwater shore-entry reef dive located in Lake Tahoe. The site features a reef structure situated between 8 and 15 metres, with an average depth of 12 metres. Divers benefit from excellent visibility reaching 30 metres and a lack of current, making it suitable for beginners. The environment supports various temperate freshwater fish and invertebrates. Due to consistently cold water temperatures ranging from 4°C to 18°C, a thick thermal exposure suit, hood, and gloves are necessary. On-site facilities include parking, toilets, and showers, providing a convenient base for a typical 30-minute dive. Divers should monitor their depth gauge closely to remain within the 15-metre limit.

Rubicon Point in Lake Tahoe features a distinctive wall and reef structure located 365 metres from shore. This freshwater site offers visibility of 30 metres, allowing for clear observation of the underwater terrain. Divers and snorkellers should be prepared for significant depth changes, as the wall drops from 20 metres to greater depths. The environment is cold, with a thermocline ranging from 20°C at the surface to 4°C at depth. Due to these conditions, full thermal protection is essential. Hazards include boat traffic, entanglement risks within the wall structure, and cold water. Facilities at the site include parking, toilets, showers, and changing rooms.

Sparks Marina is a freshwater artificial reef site offering shore access for intermediate divers. The topography features depths ranging from 3 to 30 metres, with an average depth of 18 metres. Divers should be prepared for low visibility, which typically remains around 3 metres, necessitating the use of a torch and close proximity to a dive team. Boat traffic is an active hazard at this location, and the use of a surface marker buoy is recommended during ascent. Facilities available at the site include parking, toilets, and showers. The site is suitable for those with experience navigating artificial structures in low-light conditions.