14 Best South Lake Tahoe Beaches [+ Hidden Gems]

Are you looking for the best South Lake Tahoe beaches for your trip this summer?

With so many options to choose from, there is an ideal beach for everybody, depending on what you’re looking for.

Crystal-clear waters and sand that stretch out for days, you’ll be sure to have quite the adventure of exploring South Lake Tahoe’s public beaches.

Most beaches are easily accessible whether you’re driving, biking, or hiking.

This list highlights the best beaches in South Lake Tahoe, along with a few other favorites on the opposite shore. Let’s dive in.

14 Best South Lake Tahoe Beaches

1. Pope Beach

• ⭐BEST FOR: Families and those looking to enjoy a day on a beach with easy access (parking lot runs the length of the beach), clear shallow water, and relative shelter from the wind

Pope Beach is one of the most popular South Lake Tahoe beaches for visitors with or without kids.

We love the long stretch of clean, sandy beach and the relative shade provided by the tall pine trees, which makes it a perfect getaway for spending a day out in the sun.

Parking is not a problem, but if you’re looking to avoid the fee, the beach is easily accessible via a nice paved trail near Highway 89 (Emerald Bay Road).

Though there is ample shade provided by pine trees in the area, the sand can get quite hot, especially during the summer so make sure to bring your water shoes.

• Amenities: paddleboard/kayak rentals, food concession, picnic tables, public bathrooms, nearby public transit, shade available, pay to park lot
• Parking: $10 (subject to change) per vehicle, free limited street parking
• Pets Allowed: No
• Accessibility: drive-up, hike-in, or bicycle ride via Pope/Baldwin Bike Path

LOCAL TIP: If you want to avoid the crowds, this beach was practically empty when we visited Lake Tahoe in the Fall.

2. Kiva Beach

• ⭐BEST FOR: Those wanting a dog-friendly beach

Kiva Beach is well-known as one of the best dog-friendly beaches in South Lake Tahoe.

It offers a quick getaway that features fantastic views of the surrounding mountains.

Every time we’ve visited, this sandy beach remains fairly uncrowded, making it a perfect place to chill.

Though unmaintained, there’s a nearby shoreline trail to the Tallac Historic Site that has interpretative panels showcasing the history of the resort community there.

Public bathrooms are the only amenities found in the area and shade is very limited so make sure to bring your own umbrella.

This is one of the few free beaches in South Lake Tahoe, so you won’t have to worry about parking or other fees.

• Amenities: Public bathrooms
• Parking: Free parking
• Pets Allowed: Yes (on leash/restrictions)
• Accessibility: drive-up, hike-in, or bicycle ride via Pope/Baldwin Bike Path

3. Lester Beach

• ⭐BEST FOR: Those looking to go camping in Tahoe, as camping sites are integrated into the area

Even though it’s not as expansive as some, Lester Beach is considered to be one of the best spots in Lake Tahoe.

This beach offers more private coves and excellent views for those seeking to explore further from the lakefront strip.

You will also have easy access to one of the best hiking trails in Tahoe from this beach.

Located in D.L. Bliss State Park, access to the nearby campsite is one of its main draws for groups and families looking to do more than just spreading a blanket for a picnic.

However, we found that parking can be very limited, so it is advised to get there early (ideally before 11 a.m.).

As there is no dedicated swimming zone, those going in the water for a swim should look out for boat traffic. 

• Amenities: nearby campsites, fishing, pay to park, picnic tables, public bathrooms, showers, shade
• Parking: $10 per vehicle (trailers not advised)
• Pets Allowed: No
• Accessibility: drive-in to D.L. Bliss on Highway 80, beach access may require a little stair navigation in some spots 

4. Calawee Cove Beach

• ⭐BEST FOR: Visitors looking for a scenic destination, those who want to stop by the beach after hiking the Rubicon trail

Calawee Cove is a stone’s throw away from Lester Beach, located in D.L. Bliss State Park.

Access to its turquoise-green waters can be a little tricky, but if you’re up for it, you will find yourself on one of the nicest beaches in South Lake Tahoe.

Boasting clear, sparkly waters with only a handful of people, Calawee Cove Beach offers a more private experience for those who are lucky enough to snag one of the few parking spots near the area.

There are very limited amenities available, so be sure to pack plenty of food, water, and other necessities for your day on the beach. 

• Amenities: pay to park
• Parking: $10 per vehicle (limited parking)
• Pets Allowed: No
• Accessibility: drive-in to D.L. Bliss on Highway 80, access down to the cove is steep

5. Baldwin Beach

• ⭐BEST FOR: Families and couples, those who enjoy water sports such as windsurfing, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding

If you’re looking for a Lake Tahoe beach with kayak rentals, then Baldwin Beach is one of the best places to go.

It’s a popular launching point for kayakers heading out to explore Emerald Bay.

Its half-mile stretch of sandy beach offers plenty of space for those seeking to spend a more active day out on the beach.

We found the sand a little bit more coarse than fine, so bringing water shoes is a good idea.

The availability of parking is also convenient for those who bring out kayaks and other water toys, and it is advised that you bring your own umbrella for shade.

• Amenities: paddleboard/kayak rentals, windsurfing/canoe rentals, picnic tables, restrooms
• Parking: $10
• Pets Allowed: No
• Accessibility: drive-up, hike-in, or bicycle ride via Pope/Baldwin Bike Path

6. Zephyr Cove

• ⭐BEST FOR: Those looking for a full-service resort experience, those who want to be active (variety of activities available), those looking to party

Zephyr Cove is a mile-long stretch of sandy beach in Lake Tahoe, which is a popular tourist spot for beach lovers looking to enjoy some water sports and relax by the lake.

On the south end is the Zephyr Cove Resort and Campground, which offers plenty of amenities from restaurants to kayak rentals.

For a chance to enjoy the best sunset in Tahoe, grab a seat on the deck of the Sunset Beach Bar & Grill, which is run by the resort, and enjoy one of their famous rum runner cocktails.

On the north end is a relatively quieter section of the beach which is a day-use area run by the National Forest Service.

This beach also has a pier used as the departure point for the M.S. Dixie II paddle ship that offers lake cruises to Emerald Bay.

Local Tip: This beach can get really rowdy especially on weekends due to alcohol being served on the beach, so if you’re looking for a quiet beach, skip this one.

• Amenities: barbeques, boat rentals, beach chairs/umbrellas rentals, campsites, fishing, food concessions, group facilities, SUP/kayak/jet ski rentals, picnic tables, restrooms, public transit, shade, volleyball courts
• Parking: Free (for resort guests), $12 per vehicle per day during the summer season, parking fee is waived in winter
• Pets Allowed: Yes (on a leash and only on the north beach of Zephyr Cove)
• Accessibility: walk-in, bike-in, or drive-in via Hwy 50 (more direct route) or Hwy 80 (more scenic)

7. Thomas F. Regan Memorial City Beach

• ⭐BEST FOR: Families with kids, visitors with dogs (allowed off-leash in the dog water park section of the beach)

One of the best public beaches in South Lake Tahoe, Thomas F. Regan Memorial City Beach, also known as Regan Beach, is the city’s oldest beach facility.

It is also one of the best South Lake Tahoe beaches for kids, as it offers shallow water for swimming and a playground for the little ones to enjoy.

Conveniently located at Lakeview Avenue, this city-owned beach is a great getaway in town and is a dog-friendly South Lake Tahoe beach offering a dog water park section where dogs are permitted off-leash.

• Amenities: nearby campsites, large grass area, dogs allowed with restrictions, group facilities, picnic tables, playground, public bathrooms, nearby public transit, shade, volleyball courts, observation deck, seasonal restaurant (Memorial Day thru Labor Day)
• Parking: Free
• Pets Allowed: Yes (with restrictions)
• Accessibility: drive-in with free parking, walk-in, convenient access for those in town

8. Lakeside Beach

• ⭐BEST FOR: Those with accommodations at Lakeside Park Association property establishment 

Lakeside Beach is a private stretch of beach located on the California side of the state line and offers a tranquil escape from the nearby casinos.

The beach stays relatively quiet, even though it is close to all the action in South Lake, as they charge a per-person admission which ranges from free for kids under 5 to $25 for adults. 

This is one of the best South Lake Tahoe beaches for families looking to escape the crowds and the parties, as there is no alcohol allowed on the property. 

They offer all the amenities you could need, from a sit-down restaurant, watersport rentals, and super clean restrooms.

Lakeside Beach also offers one of the best vantage points for enjoying the sunset on the lake.

Just across the road from the beach are some of the best lakeside accommodations, which offer free beach access with your stay.

• Amenities: public bathrooms, jet skis, paddle boards/kayak rentals, children’s play set, picnic tables, benches, sit down restaurant, volleyball net, beach umbrellas/ chair rentals, water fountains/water bottle refill stations, South Shore Water Taxi from Lakeside Marina
• Parking: Free
• Pets Allowed: No
• Accessibility: public transportation via Tahoe Transportation District Bus, water taxi between Lakeside Marina and Camp Richardson, drive-in (free parking), walk-in, bike-in 

9. Nevada Beach

• ⭐BEST FOR: Those interested in camping out along with their visit to the beach, those who’d like to go kiteboarding, visitors who want to explore the Lam Wa Tah trail

Almost hidden from plain sight, Nevada Beach is one of the best swimming beaches in South Lake Tahoe.

Boasting a stretch of 0.7 miles long, this dog-friendly Tahoe beach is huge.

Swimming and picnicking are some of its more popular activities but given its size and location, the beach tends to be on the windy side, which also makes it a popular beach destination for kiteboarders.

Unlike other beaches in Lake Tahoe, we love that you don’t have to walk a great distance to get into deep enough water for swimming.

It drops right off, which is a good thing to note for swimmers and those who plan on bringing kids along.

• Amenities: boat access/ramps, campsites, food concessions, group facilities, paddleboard and kayak rentals, picnic tables, restrooms
• Parking: $10 per vehicle (can be avoided if you part outside beach are on Elks Point Road and walk-in or bike-in)
• Pets Allowed: Yes with restrictions (only allowed on leash at the picnic area on the south end of the Nevada Swimming Beach)
• Accessibility: drive-in via Hwy 50 onto Elk Point Rd, walk-in, bike-in (easy hike or bike ride via Lam Wa Tah trail)

10. Emerald Bay Beach at Vikingsholm

• ⭐BEST FOR: Those who are up for a bit of a hike, visitors hiking the Rubicon Hiking Trail, scuba divers who would like to explore the many boats and barges that rest underwater 

Dubbed as “one of the most photographed places on earth”, Emerald Bay Beach boasts 360-degree views that encompass Emerald Bay, Fannette Island, Eagle Falls, and Vikingsholm Castle.

There’s a large shallow area, sandy beach, and roped-in swimming on the south side of Eagle Creek.

You can take the 1.6-mile path from Vikingsholm trailhead to reach the beach where you can have a picnic or rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the area.

We found the hike easy on the way down the paved trail. However, it was quite steep and a bit challenging on our way back, but the views were worth the effort.

• Amenities: boat access/ramps, fishing, paddleboard and kayak rentals, picnic tables, public bathrooms, shade
• Parking: $10 per vehicle (sunrise to sunset, very limited parking)
• Pets Allowed: No
• Accessibility: accessed via the Rubicon Hiking Trail or by boat, the trail down the beach is steep and exposed and not recommended for visitors with health or mobility issues

11. Camp Richardson Beach

• ⭐BEST FOR: Families and those looking for a full-service resort experience

If you are looking for a year-round outdoor fun experience, Camp Richardson Beach, located at a historic site on Lake Tahoe, is a great place to go.

The beach stretches for 1/4 mile with spectacular views of Cave Rock, Heavenly Mountain Resort, and East Shore.

This is the best beach in South Lake Tahoe if you want to have access to full resort amenities. Kayaks, jet skis, and other water toys are available for rent on-site.

Valhalla, a historic building located on the adjacent property, offers music, theatre, and art events during the summer months.

Local Tip: This beach gets really busy and crowded, so if you’re looking to get away from the crowds, skip this beach.

• Amenities: restrooms, barbeques, boat access/ramps, boat inspections, boat rentals, campsites, fishing, food concessions, SUP/kayak/jet ski rentals, picnic tables, public transit, shade, volleyball courts
• Parking: overnight parking, day-use fee
• Pets Allowed: No
• Accessibility: easy walking trails and paved bike trails located at the adjacent Tallac Historic Site

12. El Dorado Beach

• ⭐BEST FOR: Those looking for a beach with plenty of activities to offer

El Dorado Beach is one of the best places to swim in Lake Tahoe with an area large enough to offer a variety of activities and an overall fun-for-all beach experience.

It is the perfect place to go for large picnics, launching your boat, renting a kayak, or other water toys.

The roped-off swim area is shallow enough for children to swim in, and there are lots of places to sit and enjoy the view.

Note that the Truckee River runoff may cause the water at El Dorado Beach to be a little more clouded than other beaches, but its many offers and convenience surely make up for it.

Local Tip: Make sure to stop by Aloha Ice cream to get a sweet treat!

• Amenities: large picnic area, large turf area, swim area (rope and buoyed), barbeques, boat access/ramps, campsites, food concessions, SUP/kayak rentals, picnic tables, restrooms, public transit, shade
• Parking: Free parking at the Lakeview Commons Lot
• Pets Allowed: No
• Accessibility: one of the first things you see on the lake when approaching from Hwy 50

13. Sugar Pine Point Beach

• ⭐BEST FOR: Those that are looking for a secluded place to relax and take in a little nature

Located on the quiet west shore of Lake Tahoe, Sugar Pine Point Beach is the perfect place if you are looking to find a tranquil space away from the crowds.

The sandy Lake Tahoe beach is rarely packed with people, even in the high season. The lack of facilities like bars or restaurants keeps away the rowdy party crowds.

This makes this beach a great spot for a quiet family outing or a place to read a book under a redwood tree while taking in the beach’s crystal-clear waters.

• Amenities: boat dock, public restrooms, kayak and canoe rentals
• Parking: $10 on-site parking
• Pets Allowed: No pets except in the picnic area
• Accessibility: A paved half-mile drive from Highway 89. The beach can also be accessed by trails or by boat at the small dock

14. Round Hill Pines Beach

• ⭐BEST FOR: For visitors looking for full-service facilities including good food and great cocktails right on the beach

Round Hill Pines Beach is connected to the Round Hill Pines Beach Resort that is nestled inside Marla Bay on the east coast of Lake Tahoe.

The resort provides all of the amenities you could need for a day at the lake, either with your family or with a group of friends that want to enjoy a few lakeside beverages after a day of boating on the lake.

The beach even has a rum bar directly on the beach that serves its famous painkiller cocktail which is a frozen pineapple and coconut beverage that is spiked with rum and nutmeg.

• Amenities: Boat marina, lounge chair rentals, picnic tables, on-site restaurant, snack bar, 2 cocktail bars including one on the beach, kayak rentals, parasailing, personal watercraft (Jet Ski) rentals, public restrooms, beach volleyball courts
• Parking: $10 on-site parking
• Pets Allowed: No 
• Accessibility: a short 3rd of a mile drive off of highway 50

Other Lake Tahoe Beaches

Sand Harbor Beach

• ⭐BEST FOR: Everyone, even allows pets during off-season

Sand Harbor Beach is one of Lake Tahoe’s most popular sandy beaches located on the Northeast Shore.

This famous Instagram spot attracts a lot of crowds for a reason, so be warned.

A favorite of swimmers and sunbathers alike, Sand Harbor also offers a variety of water activities on its 2,500 feet long strip.

This is one of the best beaches in Tahoe for kayaking and paddleboarding, where you can check out the natural rock gardens while floating across the surface.

It offers plenty of activities all year round but during the summer months, it transforms itself into an Elizabethan theater as part of Lake Tahoe’s annual Shakespeare Festival.

For visitors who would like a quiet retreat from the beach crowd, Sand Harbor’s picnic areas come equipped with picnic tables and paved walkways that make the area very accessible to persons with disabilities.

Local Tip: Unless you get there early (around 7 or 8 am), it will be very difficult to find a parking spot. So make sure to plan ahead or have a plan B.

• Amenities: fishing, food concessions, group facilities, paddleboard and kayak rentals, picnic tables, public bathrooms, public transit, shade
• Parking: $10 per vehicle (Nevada registered vehicles), $15 per vehicle (out of state registered vehicles)
• Pets Allowed: Yes, with restrictions
• Accessibility: drive-in (parking and walking into Sand Harbor on Hwy 28 is prohibited)

Kings Beach State Recreation Area

• ⭐BEST FOR: Families with kids, large groups, visitors who’d like to go on a parasail ride, or kayak/paddleboard

Known as the “Banana Belt of Tahoe”, Kings Beach State Recreation Area is a great sunny spot even during the winter months.

Located just steps away from Kings Beach community, it provides families and visitors easy access to shops and restaurants in the area.

With a beautiful playground area that overlooks the water, it’s also a family favorite.

There’s also a barbecue and picnic area available, but they do come on a first-come, first-served basis.

We found it a bit crowded when we visited during the summer months, so it’s best to arrive early and save your spot.

🍺After a day out on the beach, stop by one of the Tahoe breweries close by for a refreshing pint of cold beer.

• Amenities: boat rentals, fishing, paddleboard and kayak rentals, jet ski rentals, picnic tables, playground, public bathrooms, public transit, shade, volleyball courts 
• Parking: $5-7 per vehicle
• Pets Allowed: permitted on dog-friendly beaches (on leash)
• Accessibility: drive-in, walk-in (very close to Kings Beach community)

Secret Cove

• ⭐BEST FOR: Those looking to lay out on the beach au naturel and experience Lake Tahoe’s nude beach scene

Surrounded by granite boulders with its sandy shoreline and crystal-clear waters, Secret Cove is one of Lake Tahoe’s top photo spots and one of the few nude beaches in the area.

It is a day-use-only area that has very limited amenities, but it does boast a scenic view of Lake Tahoe.

For great photos, it is recommended to go during the early morning sunrise or during sunset when the beach isn’t full of sunbathers, the beach is only 300 yards long (in low water).

• Amenities: public bathrooms, shade
• Parking: Free (two locations)
• Pets Allowed: Yes with restrictions
• Accessibility: walk down the access road from the Secret Harbor’s parking area then take the trail to the lakeshore (some areas on the trail can be fairly steep), by boat (no dock/pier available)

Hidden Beach

• ⭐BEST FOR: Those who are willing to hike in exchange for a quiet beach

Hidden Beach, a not-so-hidden beach, in fact, is one of the free beaches in Lake Tahoe that do not charge visitors but do encourage donations for its upkeep.

It’s a favorite among locals as it is free, but it does require a bit of a hike (about a 15-minute walk) from the parking lot.

Given its small area and limited amenities, visitors are advised to “pack it in and pack it out” which means visitors ought to be responsible enough to clean as they go.

• Amenities: fishing nearby, public bathrooms
• Parking: Park on Tahoe East Shore Trail lot, $1-$4/hour
• Pets Allowed: Yes with restrictions
• Accessibility: Hike-in

Commons Beach

• ⭐BEST FOR: Those who’d like to enjoy a day out in downtown Tahoe City

Commons Beach is a popular family destination for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking.

With an area of four-plus-acre, there are plenty of activities to experience and in downtown Tahoe City no less.

The park’s barbecue area can accommodate up to 75 people and its amphitheater can seat another 65.

The large lakefront grass and the sand area offer a perfect place for group picnics and children’s playgrounds for the whole family to enjoy.

Free concerts and movies on the beach are hosted here during the summer, which makes this spot all the more very enticing to visit and enjoy.

• Amenities: barbeques, fishing nearby, group facilities, picnic tables, playground, restrooms, public transit nearby, shade
• Parking: Free parking (limited, first-come-first-served basis)
• Pets Allowed: No
• Accessibility: right on the Tahoe City Boardwalk, walk-in or bike-in via Tahoe City Lakeside Trail

Skunk Harbor

• ⭐BEST FOR: Those looking for a hidden getaway

Featuring a large, gray stone building built in the 1920s, Skunk Beach is a favorite hidden beach in North Lake Tahoe, especially during the summer.

Its limited accessibility allows the area to be less crowded, offering its stunning views only to those who don’t mind taking the hike to get to it.

There are no picnic tables, restrooms, or trash bins in the area, so it’s best to come prepared, especially if you plan on taking kids with you. 

• Amenities: shade available
• Parking: free, located alongside Hwy 28
• Pets Allowed: yes (on leash)
• Accessibility: can only be accessed by hiking or biking a 1.6-mile long trail (good for kids and dogs and can even be handled by a beefy stroller)

Whale Beach

• ⭐BEST FOR: Those willing to hike for a more secluded beach

Whale Beach, also known as Black Sand Beach, was named from a protruding rock in the bay that appears to look like a sperm whale bursting for air from the water.

The 2-mile hike to Whale Beach can be challenging for some, and so it’s best to come prepared. There are also limited amenities on this 100-yard-long beach.

Dogs are allowed on a leash, so the hike leading to this scenic beach just might be quite the adventure for you and your furry friend.

• Amenities: restrooms, shade
• Parking: parking on Secret Harbor
• Pets Allowed: yes (on leash)
• Accessibility: long hike (2 miles) from Secret Harbor parking area

Map of Lake Tahoe Beaches

South Lake Tahoe Beach Guide

1. Arrive early

Lake Tahoe is the second deepest lake in the US and is visited by millions of tourists each year, especially in the summer and winter months. Parking can be limited at most beaches, so if you want to avoid a lengthy hike to the beach, plan accordingly.

2. It gets windy in the afternoons 

If you plan on renting a kayak or paddleboard, it is best to do so in the earlier part of the day as it gets windy in the afternoons so the water can get choppy.

3. The water is cold

The months of July and August have the “warmest” water temperatures in Tahoe, hovering around 65 F. Outside of these months, be aware that the water is bone-chilling cold.

When we visited Lake Tahoe in April, we found that we would definitely need to wear a wetsuit if we wanted to do any water activities.

4. Do not skimp on sunscreen!

With Lake Tahoe being on a higher elevation (6,200 ft) you can easily torch your skin if you don’t come prepared. 

FAQs: South Tahoe Beaches

Can you swim in Lake Tahoe? 

Yes! Most if not all of the best beaches in Lake Tahoe are great for swimming. But do note that the water can be very cold however, it does get a bit “warmer” during the summer months.

The shallower beaches in South Lake Tahoe would have the warmest waters such as Kings Beach and Baldwin Beach.

Where is the clearest water in South Lake Tahoe? 

Sugar Pine Point Beach has the clearest water of any beach in Lake Tahoe. The water is so clear that you can see as deep as 75 feet when the water is calm. 

Which side of Lake Tahoe is best for swimming? 

Many claim that the North Side of Lake Tahoe is best for swimming with Sand Harbor, located on the Nevada side of the lake, especially considered as being the most beautiful beach in Tahoe.

What is the best beach to go to in Lake Tahoe? 

Sand Harbor Beach is actually considered to be the best and prettiest beach to go to in Lake Tahoe because of its photogenic submerged rocks and its crystal clear waters.

Are there sand beaches in Lake Tahoe? 

Yes, there are plenty of sand beaches in Lake Tahoe. Some of course do have more stretches of sand with finer grades as well but all in all, there are a variety of sandy beaches to choose from.

Wrap-up: Best Beaches in South Lake Tahoe

Whether you’re a local or a tourist looking to explore more of Tahoe, there’s no better way to find some relaxation and fun than visiting some of the best South Lake Tahoe beaches.

There are plenty of beaches to go around for every type of beachgoer and needless to say, they all offer quite the scenic view of the Lake.

Related:

• Warmest Beaches in California
• Beaches near Sacramento
• Sacramento to Yosemite
• Swimming Holes near Sacramento