Top Accessible Beaches in Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is a one-of-a-kind destination famous not only for its world-renowned alpine ski resorts but also its beautiful beaches. It is the largest alpine lake in North America and spans two states, Nevada and California.

As the snow melts away during the months of June through August, the lake transforms the region from a ski destination to a summer retreat filled with beachy activities. Here are the five best accessible beaches in Lake Tahoe.

Nevada Beach

Best beach on the southside

Begin your day at Nevada Beach on the South Side of Lake Tahoe, where you can enjoy an early morning walk through native pine trees and evergreen shrubs. The accessible path leads to a beautiful, wide, sandy beach. Find a picnic table to enjoy your breakfast while soaking in the stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, and keep an eye out for the resident geese.

Arriving early secures a good parking spot, picnic table, and equipment rentals such as stand-up paddleboards or kayaks available on a first-come-first-served basis. Rental rates start at $35 an hour from Kayak Tahoe. For lunch, grab a sandwich or burger from The Burger Lounge, known for its delicious offerings.

Dedicate your day to basking in the sun with your camera ready—Nevada Beach offers breathtaking sunset views, reflecting vibrant colors on the lake. Facilities include restrooms, picnic areas, and a parking lot that fills up by 11 AM, so come early and be prepared to pay a $10 parking fee for day use.

Sand Harbor

Best Beach On The Northside

Take a moment to enjoy the fresh mountain air at Sand Harbor. You have the choice between a ⅓ mile Sand Point Nature Trail, which is accessible and features interpretive signs along with breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe, or a half-mile walk to Memorial Point Trail, leading to several secluded beaches.

This North Side beach, nestled within Nevada State Park, boasts crystal-clear waters that are ideal for swimming. Watch for scuba divers exploring the gently sloping beaches along the cove. If you’ve ever wanted to learn paddleboarding or take a guided kayak tour, this is the place. Sand Harbor Rentals offers paddleboard lessons, guided tours, and rentals for both single and tandem paddleboards and kayaks.

During July and August, catch the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival performances held right on the beach. Facilities include a bar and grill, restrooms, showers, and a parking lot. The parking fee for day use is $10 per vehicle, Non-NV Vehicles $15, and a boat launch fee of $20. Because Sand Harbor is such a popular location, arriving early is advisable, with gates opening at 7 AM.

Commons Beach

Best beach for families

If traveling with a large family, a visit to downtown Tahoe City is a must. Here, you’ll find the developed 4+ acre Commons Beach Park, which features amenities such as picnic tables, restrooms, a grassy area, a climbing rock, and a playground perfect for kids to enjoy a day in the sun. Take a stroll on the paved path, rest on the benches in the shade, or relax on the grass or sand.

This beach is perfect for family reunions, with barbecue areas and an amphitheater that can accommodate over 60 people, available for rent through the Tahoe City Public Utility District.

Moreover, music lovers will enjoy their Sundays here, particularly from July 25th to September 5th, with free live music concerts from 4 PM to 7 PM. Additionally, Wednesday nights feature movie nights under the stars for the family from July 14 through August 18th, with a suggested donation of $1 per person. Free parking is available on a first-come-first-served basis.

Kiva Beach #4

Best Beach for dogs

Escape the bustling crowds with your dog at Kiva Beach, located on the southern point of Lake Tahoe, near Camp Richardson. Walk along the partially paved trail with interpretive signs, leading to a vibrant beach with stunning views of Mt. Tallac, Taylor Creek, and the lake. The rocky beach gradually turns to sand further away from the shoreline.

Parking in the small lot is free, although arriving early is essential to secure a spot. Enjoy a picnic at the Kiva picnic area, located between the Taylor Creek Visitor Center and the Tallac Historic Site. Remember to bring your dog’s leash—portable restrooms and picnic tables are available.

Pope Beach

Best Beach for Scenic Views & Sunset

As daylight wanes, head to Pope Beach to enjoy the shade beneath native pine trees. The beach is less crowded in the evening, allowing you to appreciate the serene atmosphere and stunning views. The sparkling blue water here is ideal for swimming, windsurfing, and non-motorized boating. It is a great opportunity to bring dinner for a picnic on the ¾ mile sandy beach along the South shore of Lake Tahoe.

Pope Beach is particularly loved by nature enthusiasts and photographers, especially during sunset. Not only is it one of the quieter beaches located in the Lake Tahoe Basin, but it also stands out as one of the lake’s most accessible beaches. Accessible parking spots span the length of the beach, with accessible restrooms, paths, sidewalks, and an accessible walkway leading onto the beach. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available from Kayak Tahoe, with a $10 parking fee applicable.