Lake Tahoe beach holidays

Size wise, Tahoe is enormous! In fact, it’s North America’s biggest alpine lake and over 20 miles long and half as much wide which adds up to plenty of lakeside action for all the family with loads of picnic areas, all-day cafés and designated BBQ pits to keep you fed and watered.

Away from the beach you’ll discover some spectacular scenery to explore with relatively mild summer temperatures making walking and cycling in the mountain foothills a most pleasant experience although swimming can get a tad chilly.

Below are just a few of the things to do and the awesome beach locations to be found around Lake Tahoe and if you ever tire of the mountain views and peaceful ambience then there are always plenty of casinos to be found in Nevada so good luck and don’t forget your wallet.

Lake Tahoe’s best beaches

Meek’s Bay Resort
Located on Tahoe’s South Shore, Meek’s Bay is an ideal location for watching the world float by and one of the best places to hire boats and water sports equipment. A designated swim zone, camp site and grill café/restaurant keep the locals coming back for more and learning about the Native American heritage is always an interesting alternative to that well-thumbed novel you’ve just gotten around to reading.

Zephyr Cove
If you’re looking to kick off your summer party on a beach around Lake Tahoe then head to Zephyr on the South Shore and you won’t be disappointed. Camping, volleyball, live music and water sports make this one of the area’s most exciting hot spots (without air-con) and guaranteed to give you good times to remember after the tan fades. Beach bar, local restaurant and just four miles from the Nevada state line all adds up to a whole heap of awesomeness down at the Cove.

Burnt Cedar Beach
Small, yet perfectly formed, with plenty of peace and quiet, pretty much sums up this secluded little number on the North Shore. Situated in Incline Village, Burnt Cedar is one of a number of beaches which can only be accessed with a valid beach pass (IVGID) although picking one up at the local recreational centre on Incline Way is pretty straightforward. The heated pool is perfect if the water’s a bit nippy and there’s also a snack bar and BBQ pits to help you keep warm.

El Dorado State Beach
In contrast to the tranquil and undisturbed beaches of the North Shore, the South is a whole new ball game and if you’re looking for the largest of them all then check out El Dorado for plenty of fun in the sun. A ringed swim area and chance to hire all-manner of water sports equipment, including: kayaks and floats, will help to keep you active all day long with bike trails and play areas giving you lots of excuses to dry off out of the water. Good fun but can get a tad busy at the weekend or in the holidays.

Secret Cove
If you fancy letting it all hang out on Lake Tahoe then head to Incline Village and follow the signs to Secret Cove, also known as: Paradise Cove. Well-known as being one of the lake’s more spiritual settings, Secret Cove is also a nudist beach so make sure you’re happy to get your bits out if you’re visiting during the summer. There are also lots of other nudist beaches around Tahoe’s East Shore however, Secret Cove is probably the most worthwhile and close enough to adjacent Incline Village beaches if you end up chickening out.

Where to stay

Best Western Plus Station House
With a private beach, swimming pool and on-site restaurant, the Best Western Plus Station House is an awesome base if you’re wishing to check out the beaches and attractions on Lake Tahoe’s South Shore. The Heavenly Valley Gondola, Edgewood Golf Course and the Nevada State line are all just moments away with casinos, spas and lake views aplenty all within walking distance.
More information and to book: The Best Western Plus Station House is in a perfect location for some of Lake Tahoe's most popular attractions, including shopping, dining, casinos and the Heavenly Gondola ride.

Holiday Inn Express, South Lake Tahoe
With its very own pool, spa and bar, the Holiday Inn Express on Tahoe’s South Shore is an excellent retreat if you’re looking to escape and explore, with Zephyr Cove Beach just a stroll away. Breakfast dining sets you up for the day and wandering into town to purchase picnic products or just heading to the beach café to see what the specials are, always makes for an enjoyable way to kick back and relax Lake Tahoe style.
More information and to book: The Holiday Inn Express South Lake Tahoe is the perfect starting point to explore this idyllic location.