Beaches
Sand Harbor State Park
From Memorial to Labor Day Sand Harbor is very popular and experiences high visitation. Those planning to visit Sand Harbor should be prepared for park closures and have an alternate destination in mind. Parking along Highway 28 is prohibited, and walk-ins are currently not allowed.
The largest alpine lake in North America, Lake Tahoe is a cobalt blue lake atop the Sierra Nevada mountain range. On its eastern shores, gently sloping beaches, crystal-clear water and interesting rock formations allow for wonderfully sublime swimming, kayaking and scuba diving at Sand Harbor. Boaters, water-skiers and fisherman can easily launch from one of the park’s two ramps. Visitors who would like a peaceful retreat from surf and sun can picnic in the shade of cedars and Jeffrey pines in one of many picnic sites equipped with barbecues and tables. The park also hosts the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival every summer.
Sand Harbor Beach is a popular tourist destination located on the northeastern shore of Lake Tahoe in Nevada, USA. The beach is known for its crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Here are some of the things to know about Sand Harbor Beach:
Activities:
Sand Harbor Beach offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. There are also several hiking trails nearby, including the Sand Harbor Overlook Trail, which provides panoramic views of the lake.
Facilities:
The beach has several facilities for visitors, including picnic areas, barbecue grills, restrooms, and a concession stand. There is also a visitor center where you can learn more about the history and geology of the area.
Parking:
There is a large parking lot at Sand Harbor Beach, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. There is a fee for parking, which is used to maintain the facilities at the beach.
Events:
Sand Harbor Beach is known for hosting several events throughout the year, including the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, which takes place every summer. The festival features performances of Shakespearean plays in an outdoor amphitheater with the lake as the backdrop.
Scenic views:
Sand Harbor Beach is renowned for its scenic beauty, and it’s a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts. The crystal-clear waters of the lake and the towering mountains in the background make for stunning views.
Overall, Sand Harbor Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Lake Tahoe. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore the hiking trails, or attend an event, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this beautiful location.
The Main Beach is 2,500 feet long and is popular for swimming and sunbathing and a wide variety of beach activities. There is also a small launch corridor for non-motorized watercraft at the south end (look for the buoys).
Divers Cove, popular with SCUBA divers and recreational beach users alike, is a smaller, more protected area just below the Visitor Center and near the Group Area. The Boat Beach is the long stretch of sand on either side of the Sand Harbor Boat Launch Facility.
Beach Features:
- Accessibility
- Barbeques
- Boat Access/Ramps
- Boat Inspections
- Dogs Allowed with Restrictions
- Fishing Nearby
- Food Concessions
- Group Facilities
- Paddleboard/Kayak Rentals
- Parking/Day-use Fee
- Personal Watercraft (Jet Ski) Rentals
- Picnic Tables
- Public Bathrooms
- Public Transit Nearby
- Shade Available
- Showers
- Volleyball Courts
- Watertrail Trailhead
KEEP IT CLEAN: Lake Tahoe is recognized as an Outstanding Natural Resource Water. Please, join your fellow beachgoers in protecting this special place! Begin by being an example to others:
- Dispose of trash properly or pack it out.
- Never feed birds, squirrels or any other wildlife.
- Campfires are NEVER allowed on Tahoe beaches.
VEGETATION: Protect Tahoe plants! Keep outside signed or fenced protected habitat.
SWIM and BOAT SMART: Very cold water, sudden storms and unexpected waves deserve respect. Be alert!
PET OWNERS: Pets are permitted only on dog-friendly beaches. Use a bag to pick up after your pet, and use a leash. Protect your pet’s privilege to share the beach!
BOATERS: Aquatic invasive species are a very serious threat – completely clean, drain and dry your boat before launching it at Tahoe.
FISHING: Any person over 16 years old must have a valid California or Nevada sport fishing license. Visit one of the many Lake Tahoe fishing sites to learn more about fishing and the special regulations that are enforced at Tahoe.
Click here for the Nevada State Parks App
Sand Harbor Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park
Hwy 28, Incline Village, NV 89451
