What Fannette Island Is
Fannette Island is a small granite outcrop in the center of Emerald Bay, approximately 150 feet long and rising 150 feet above the water at its highest point. It is the only natural island in Lake Tahoe — a distinction notable both for its uniqueness and its symbolic place in the lake's identity.
The island was named in the 1920s and has been a center of attention since Lora Josephine Knight built Vikingsholm on the bay's western shore in 1929. Mrs. Knight constructed a small stone "Tea House" at the highest point of Fannette Island as a destination for boat trips with her guests. The stone walls of the Tea House remain today, though the roof and interior are long gone.
Quick Facts
| Location | Center of Emerald Bay (West Shore, Lake Tahoe) |
| Size | ~150 ft long, granite outcrop |
| Highest point | ~150 ft above lake surface |
| Status | Lake Tahoe\u0027s only island |
| Historic feature | Stone Tea House ruins (built 1929) |
| From Tahoe Keys Marina | ~30 min cruise (Emerald Bay route) |
| Access | Anchor in Emerald Bay, swim or kayak to island |
The Tea House
The Tea House on Fannette Island is one of Lake Tahoe's quirkier historical sites. Lora Knight had it built in 1929 as part of her Vikingsholm construction project. Constructed of native granite stone, the small structure (perhaps 12x16 feet) served as a destination for boat picnics — Mrs. Knight would have her boatmen ferry guests across to Fannette Island for elaborate tea ceremonies.
Today only the stone walls remain. The wooden roof, interior fittings, and any furnishings are long gone. The walls themselves are weathered but intact. Visitors can hike up to the Tea House (a short but steep scramble from the island's south landing) and walk inside the open-roofed ruin.
Visiting Fannette Island
The Boat Approach
You can't drive a rental boat onto Fannette Island — it has no dock. Visitors anchor their boats in Emerald Bay nearby (200-400 feet from the island typically) and then swim, paddle, or use a dinghy to reach the small landing beach on the island's south side.
See our Emerald Bay guide for the full cruise approach. Once inside the bay (which is 5 mph throughout), Fannette Island sits at the center — you can't miss it.
Swimming In
The swim from an anchored boat to Fannette Island is typically 100-400 feet depending on anchorage. Lake Tahoe water is cold (50s in early summer, low 70s by August), so wear a wetsuit early in the season or be a strong swimmer. Most people wear a swimsuit and bring a dry bag for sandals, phone, camera, etc.
The Scramble to the Tea House
From the small landing beach on the south side, the scramble to the Tea House at the island's top is short (~150 ft) but steep. Closed-toe shoes recommended — sandals will work but the granite is sharp underfoot. The path isn't marked; follow the visible track up the south slope.
Rules & Restrictions
Spring Bird-Nesting Closures
From February 1 to June 15 each year, Fannette Island is closed to public landing because of nesting Canada geese and other birds. Visitors should not land on the island during this window. Anchoring nearby and viewing from the water is still fine.
No Camping
Day-use only. No overnight stays on the island.
No Fires
The island is small and remote; any fire risk is unacceptable.
Leave No Trace
Pack out everything you bring. Maintenance crews don't service the island; the only thing keeping it clean is visitor responsibility.
What to See
The Tea House Ruins
The stone walls of Mrs. Knight's 1929 picnic destination. Walk inside; photograph from various angles.
360-Degree Emerald Bay Views
From the Tea House location, you get the lake's best 360-degree view of Emerald Bay — Vikingsholm visible to the west, the bay's entrance to the east, Eagle Falls to the south, the granite cliffs all around.
Underwater Visibility
The water around Fannette Island is exceptionally clear. Looking off the island's south landing into the water, you can often see the granite bottom in dramatic detail.
Fannette Island FAQs
Can I land my boat on the island?
No. The island has no dock and the shoreline is rocky. Anchor your boat in Emerald Bay nearby and swim, paddle, or dinghy in.
Is the Tea House safe to enter?
The walls are stable for casual exploration. Don't climb on them or try to perch on the walls — they're old and the risk isn't worth it.
Why is the island closed in spring?
Canada geese and other bird species nest on Fannette Island during spring. Landing disturbs them and can cause nest abandonment. Closure protects breeding success.
Is Fannette Island the same as Vikingsholm?
No. They're related but separate. Vikingsholm is Mrs. Knight's 1929 mansion on the western shore of Emerald Bay. Fannette Island is the small island in the center of the bay, with the Tea House she built as a side destination. Both were her creations from the same era.
Can I see Fannette Island from Highway 89?
Yes. The Inspiration Point overlook on Highway 89 (above the bay's north rim) has the classic photographic view that includes the entire bay and Fannette Island in the center. The view from land is iconic; the view from the water at the island itself is more intimate.
Boat to Fannette Island
Half-day or full-day rentals from Tahoe Keys or Camp Richardson marinas (the closest launches to Emerald Bay).
Browse RentalsRelated Reading
Complete Emerald Bay Guide →
Vikingsholm Castle (the related site) →
Tahoe Keys Marina (the close launch) →
Lake Tahoe Boating History →