Beaches in Lake Tahoe
Whether you’re heading to North Lake Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe, or anywhere in between, there are plenty of summertime beaches for you to enjoy. Some are favored by families, others by singles and couples. A few are only reached by boat but most are easily accessible.
If you’re planning an outing to one of Tahoe’s many beaches, know that they can get crowded, especially on sunny summer afternoons. If you’re not staying in a beach-front property and can’t walk to your chosen destination, plan ahead. Parking can be quite tough. Consider, instead, taking an alternate means of transportation. The Tahoe Area Regional Transit (TART), for example, can help you reach a number of different beaches along Routes 89 and 267. Taking the bus can save the money that you’d spend for a parking space as well as lots of aggravation.
Here’s a list of a few beaches to consider during your Tahoe vacation.
§ Sand Harbor – Generally considered the nicest beach in the area, Sand Harbor is – appropriately – a very sandy east shore destination that’s known for its fine white grains rather than the usual rocky stuff found in Tahoe. Here, guests can snorkel or SCUBA dive, enjoy a sizeable concession area, and take advantage of the pavilion with a central grill and fire area. Parking comes with a fee and it’s a good idea to arrive early (or late in the day) if you want a spot. During much of the summer, the Shakespeare Festival happens at Sand Harbor, which adds to the crowds.
§ Round Hill Pines Beach – Located on the Nevada side at Marla Bay, this ˝ mile beach has lots of amenities including a few watercraft outfitters where you can rent jet skis, the Tahoe Bleu Wave tour boat, a pool, and a nice bar and grill. Visitors can take a walk on the pier or even play tennis here. Parking fees are daily or regulars can buy a yearly pass.
§ Zephyr Cove Beach – Looking for a beach with a party atmosphere? Then this one is for you. Not particularly family-friendly, Zephyr Beach’s Sunset Bar is rocking most of the time. This is also a good place to go parasailing, rent wave runners, or to hop a cruise along the M.S. Dixie II. Camping and beachfront cabins are also available at Zephyr Cove.
§ Pope Beach – Located on the South Shore, Pope Beach is one of several that are operated by the U.S. Forest Service. A lovely family beach with plenty of shallow water for the little ones, you’ll also find restrooms, picnic tables, and grills here. Lots of parking too, but it’ll cost you.
§ Meeks Bay – Home to crystal clear water, lots of campsites (which disappear quickly), a general store, a snack bar, boat rentals, and more, Meeks Bay is a a pleasant place to spend the day. Traditional lodging is available at Meeks Bay too in case you’re not the camping type and staying here puts you within walking distance of this terrific beach.
§ Kings Beach – This is actually three separately beaches that include Coon Street Picnic Area, North Tahoe Beach Center, and Kings Beach Recreation Area. There are no concessions here but there are picnic tables and grills available if you pack your own food. Restaurants are close by as well. There are also places to rent watercraft, a playground, and some volleyball courts. There’s even a small dog area. Look for occasional fairs and craft shows here, which tend to clog up the parking areas a bit, so plan accordingly.
§ Commons Beach – This is one of the few beaches where there’s not a parking fee. However, parking spaces are indeed limited. This is technically the “city” beach but don’t let that deter you from checking it out. There’s plenty of sand, a large grassy area, BBQ grills, picnic tables, and even live music on the weekends.
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