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Here is a list of our favorites spots on the North and West Shores of Lake Tahoe!
Lake Tahoe is the second deepest lake in the U.S., boasting over 70 miles of stunning shoreline. This iconic destination features a mix of granite boulders and cliffs, yet it also offers numerous public beaches perfect for swimming, picnics, BBQs, and relaxing in the sun. Notable spots include dog-friendly beaches and family-friendly areas ideal for summer activities. Some beaches may have parking fees, while others allow free access. Be sure to check websites for specific beach rules, including dog policies, to make the most of your visit. With nearby Tahoe City restaurants, luxury vacation rentals, and an array of summer activities, Lake Tahoe is a fantastic getaway for both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind. Whether you're enjoying the Made in Tahoe Festival, Truckee Wine Walk, or a beautiful day at Emerald Bay, there's something for everyone at this breathtaking location.
North Tahoe Beach
The North Tahoe Beach Center is a beautiful 2.7-acre site located at the intersection of Highway 267 and Highway 28, featuring 540 feet of pristine shoreline on North Lake Tahoe. Owned by the California Tahoe Conservancy and maintained by California State Parks, this popular destination offers a variety of summer activities for families and visitors alike. North Tahoe Beach is equipped with 3 beach volleyball courts, restroom facilities, and a spacious pavilion that can be reserved for special events, making it ideal for gatherings such as weddings or family reunions.
The North Tahoe Beach Pavilion, located right at the water's edge, includes a covered BBQ area, electrical outlets, picnic tables, and a kitchen area with running water during the summer season (May – October). This picturesque location is perfect for brunch events, barbecues, or simply enjoying the breathtaking views of the lake. Reservations are required for events serving more than 25 people, and the pavilion features 4-7 picnic tables, though the exact number may vary depending on prior use.
In addition to the pavilion, visitors can take advantage of 3 bathrooms, outdoor showers, a horseshoe pit, and the sand volleyball court—all available on a first-come, first-served basis. While only the immediate pavilion area may be rented, the rest of the site remains open for public enjoyment, making it a great spot for summer fun, beach access, and local events.
Please note that parking fees apply. For more information or to book your event at the North Tahoe Beach Pavilion, contact the Special Events Office at (530) 550-6165. For any questions regarding this beautiful property, reach out to State Parks at (530) 523-3203.
China Cove Beach (Donner Memorial S.P.)
China Cove Beach is a scenic beach located on Donner Lake in Truckee, California, accessible from within the beautiful Donner Memorial State Park. Situated at the end of the Day Use area along South Shore Drive, China Cove is a hidden gem perfect for summer activities and family outings.
Parking and Restroom Facilities - Limited parking is available on the side of the road across from the beach. Just past the restrooms—located directly across from the beach—there is a parking lot where South Shore Drive ends at the park boundary. Visitors can continue along South Shore Drive by either walking or biking, making it a great spot for outdoor adventures.
Dogs - While dogs are not allowed at China Cove Beach or on the nature trail behind the museum, they are permitted on the rest of the trails throughout Donner Memorial State Park and can enjoy swimming in the lake. Pets must be kept on a leash at all times, and please remember to clean up after them to maintain the park’s natural beauty.
There is no cost to enjoy the beach itself; however, a Day Use fee of $8.00 per car applies for entry into Donner Memorial State Park. This affordable access makes it an ideal location for a day of relaxation or fun activities on the water.
Commons Beach Park
Located in downtown Tahoe City, this family-friendly beach features a children's playground and a spacious grassy area that rises uphill from the sandy shoreline. The water is shallow, making it ideal for young children to wade in safely. Enjoy free concerts on Sundays and a lakeside movie on Thursdays, perfect for a relaxing evening by the water! Additionally, there’s a vibrant weekly morning farmer’s market on Thursdays in the beach parking lot, which occasionally moves to the elementary school during the summer months, offering fresh produce and local goods.
DL Bliss State Park
D. L. Bliss State Park is located on the western shore of Lake Tahoe, just north of Emerald Bay State Park. This beautiful park features notable attractions like Rubicon Point Light, the highest-elevation lighthouse in the United States, and a popular trail through the lakeside forest, which showcases a large balancing rock. Named in honor of timber and railroad magnate Duane Leroy Bliss, whose heirs donated 744 acres to the state in 1929, the park has since expanded to 2,149 acres, offering a variety of summer activities and breathtaking views.
Dogs: Dogs are NOT allowed on the beaches, trails, or off-trail areas, including the bouldering zones.
SUMMER: The day-use parking areas at the beaches and Rubicon trailhead are extremely popular during the summer months and often reach capacity by mid-morning. We recommend arriving early or late in the afternoon for the best chance of finding a parking space. When the parking lots are full, day-use vehicles will not be allowed into the park. A parking fee is required.
Emerald Bay State Park
Emerald Bay is a stunning South Lake Tahoe state park and a designated National Natural Landmark. Located along one of the most scenic stretches of Highway 89, this destination offers breathtaking lake and mountain vistas around every hairpin turn, making it a must-visit spot on your Lake Tahoe journey.
Incredible views of Eagle Falls can be enjoyed right from the road, so even if you don't have time to hike and explore, we recommend finding a parking spot to admire the falls for a few minutes—the views are fantastic! Don’t miss out on this iconic spot, which is perfect for summer activities, photography, and appreciating the natural beauty of Tahoe.
Kings Beach State Recreation Area
KBSRA (Kings Beach State Recreation Area) is the flagship beach site in the North Tahoe area, boasting 1,700 feet of lakefront—the largest public access sandy beach on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe. The wide stretch of white sand at Kings Beach is a favorite among visitors and residents alike, making it a top destination for summer activities. Its south-facing aspect and a gently sloping lake floor create one of the warmest swimming areas on Lake Tahoe, perfect for families enjoying a day at the beach.
A beautiful playground area overlooks the water, providing kids with a place to play after they’ve tired of swimming. There is also a picnic area available on a first-come, first-served basis, making it ideal for summer gatherings.
Kings Beach State Recreation Area is managed by California State Parks. For any questions about this property, contact State Parks at (530) 583-3075. The "Tahoe Regional" Annual Pass at $75 allows Tahoe enthusiasts to access their favorite Lake Tahoe State Parks, including D.L. Bliss SP, Ed Z'Berg Sugar Pine Point SP, Emerald Bay SP, and Kings Beach SRA, as well as Donner Memorial SP.
Lake Forest Beach
Lake Forest Beach is a free day-use park located within the Lake Forest Glen neighborhood, just a few miles outside of Tahoe City. This secluded beach features a sandy and pebbly shoreline, offering spectacular views of Mount Tallac and surrounding mountains. It’s an ideal spot for launching paddleboards, kayaks, and windsurfing equipment, making it one of the top summer activities in the area.
The beach is also excellent for birdwatching and swimming, with amenities like horseshoe pits, picnic tables, and grills available for public use. Additionally, Lake Forest Beach provides unparalleled opportunities to photograph expansive fields of vibrant lupine. These brilliant purple wildflowers blanket the lowland shore each summer, typically blooming from mid-July through mid-August, although in drought years, they may start appearing as early as late May or June.
When facing Lake Tahoe, you’ll find the Lake Forest Beach sign, and on the right-hand side is a designated dog-friendly beach area. The left side is marked “No Dogs Allowed,” so ensure you’re on the right (West) side of the beach. Look for the small bridge that leads to the dog area, where you’ll find a dispenser for plastic bags to help dog owners clean up after their pets. The water in this area is shallow but still cold, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Dog-Friendly! Please note that parking is limited.
Meeks Bay
Meeks Bay is located just 2 miles south of Tahoma along Highway 89 on the scenic west shore of Lake Tahoe. Meeks Bay Beach is situated on National Forest land and is popular for its stunning scenery, sprawling clean beaches, and easy access for visitors. This beautiful beach area features restrooms and picnic tables, making it perfect for family outings and summer activities.
Adjacent to the beach, Meeks Bay Campground offers additional accommodations for those looking to extend their stay. The beach is ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and enjoying a relaxing day by the lake.
Please note that there is a $10 day-use fee for parking, making it a convenient spot for a fun day at Lake Tahoe!
Moon Dunes Beach
Moon Dune Beach, celebrated as the finest white sand beach in Lake Tahoe, is located in the community of Tahoe Vista just off North Lake Boulevard. This picturesque beach offers stunning lake and mountain views, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation. Snow Creek flows through the site, adding to its natural beauty. Despite limited parking available only along the highway, the beach remains a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and other summer activities.
Please note that there are no developed facilities at this public beach, but garbage services and portable restrooms are provided during the summer season for visitor convenience. Unfortunately, pets are never allowed at Moon Dune Beach, ensuring a peaceful experience for all guests.
This beautiful beach is a California Tahoe Conservancy-owned property, managed by the North Tahoe Public Utility District. For any inquiries about this property or nearby attractions, please contact State Parks at (530) 583-3075.
Patton Landing Beach
Home to Waterman's Landing, Patton Landing is situated on the west side of Gar Woods Grill & Pier. This scenic three-acre, pebbly beach is rapidly establishing itself as Lake Tahoe's premier stand-up paddling destination. The property features a free, non-motorized "car top" boat launch site—be sure to inspect your kayak or paddleboard for Aquatic Invasive Species. Rentals for stand-up paddleboards and kayaks are available, allowing you to explore the lake without needing your own equipment.
Patton Landing offers essential amenities, including restrooms and a full-service café, staffed by knowledgeable experts in the local paddling community. Additional features include accessible pathways, benches, picnic tables, and a small parking facility with space for 23 cars. The beach and coffeehouse operate year-round under a concessionaire, with extended hours in the summer and limited hours during the winter months.
Dog Friendly: Known as one of the most popular dog beaches on the North Shore, dogs are welcome on the east end of the beach, provided they are under strict voice command or leash. Please be sure to clean up after your pet; "mutt mitts" are conveniently available.
Racoon Street Beach & Boat Launch
The Racoon Street Boat Launch is located at the end of Racoon Street in Kings Beach and is owned and operated by California State Parks. The facility includes a boat launch ramp (open when lake levels allow), restrooms and parking for vehicles as well as vehicles with trailers. Parking is limited and available on a first come, first served basis. This area also has some picnic tables in the shady area behind the restrooms.
Racoon Street is also the site of the only public dog beach in Kings Beach and Tahoe Vista. This small, rocky beach is located to the east (left if looking at the ramp) of the boat launch.
Please call (530) 583-3075 for questions or information regarding Calfornia State Park properties.
Sand Harbor State Park
Sand Harbor is truly one of the most spectacular places on the planet and a must-see in Tahoe! This stunning Nevada State Park spans 55 acres of beautiful sandy beaches, rocky coves, shady forested areas, and panoramic lake views, featuring some of the clearest water you'll ever encounter.
Visitors to Sand Harbor can indulge in unparalleled opportunities for fun and relaxation. The beach boasts soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for families and picnic groups. Sand Harbor Rentals conveniently offers kayaks and paddleboards for rent by the hour at the boat ramp. With multiple beaches to choose from, you can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, rock jumping, and soaking in the incredible scenery.
The park is well-equipped with several bathroom facilities and a restaurant that serves delicious food and sweet treats. In the summer, don’t miss the chance to enjoy Shakespeare on the Lake—feel free to bring a picnic or purchase food on-site. And if you can, plan your visit for a full moon rising over the lake; it’s a breathtaking and unforgettable experience!
Sandy Beach
Sandy Beach is situated in Tahoe Vista, just across Highway 28 and to the east of Anderson Road. This lovely beach is owned by the California Tahoe Conservancy and managed by the North Tahoe Public Utility District. It adjoins Moon Dunes Beach, offering a seamless coastal experience. During the summer months, portable restrooms are available for visitor convenience.
For any inquiries about this property, please contact State Parks at (530) 583-3075.
Skylandia State Park & Beach
West End Beach (Donner Lake)
Nestled on the West Shore of Donner Lake, this 10 acre day use beach facility offers excellent shaded picnic and barbeque sites for families or groups. Day use fees apply.
Amenities Include:
- Covered Pavilion (reservable)
- Group Picnic Sites (reservable)
- Family Picnic Areas
- Basketball Court
- Tennis Court Sand & Grass Volleyball Courts
- Playground Areas
- Horseshoe Pits
- Kayak & Paddleboat Rentals
- Swimming Area
- Boat Parking
- Fishing Area
- Concession Stand
- Seasonal Small Boat Storage
Please call the District offices at 530 582-7720 to make reservations. You must complete the Rental Facility Application to reserve a facility. Reservations accepted at least two weeks in advance.