We went looking around for beaches at Lake Tahoe and when we arrived here, we were shocked. Compared to the beaches at the western shores, which had muddy and smelly water unsuitable for swimming, Sand Harbor was super clean with clear blue waters and amazing scenery all around the beach. The water was kind of cold but not as bad as the beaches in the pacific near San Francisco, so I got used to it pretty quickly. There was a lot of parking available with public bathrooms. Parking costs $15 or $10 if you're from Nevada. Definitely worth the cost especially if you plan to stay here for a long time. The beaches in the western shores were super shallow with no waves at all compared to Sand Harbor where there were waves and you could submerge yourself in the water. We ended up staying at this beach just because of how beautiful and amazing it was. 10/10 would recommend going here. Definitely going back here next time we go back to Lake Tahoe. 👍

Lake Tahoe has countless of beautiful beaches but Sand Harbor to me has to be the number 1 spot. Beautiful, blue, calm water and lots of parking. Public Bathrooms are clean and spread out through out the harbor. We only bike north til the trail ends at the highway and boulder scrambling along the beach this trip but will be back this summer for kayaking and hiking. Plan to spend the entire day here at least. It's totally worth it and you probably won't want to find other beaches to hop to

Great beach and facilities. Lots of parking and worth paying to enter, but get here early in the warm months. We came in February and it was empty but cold! The wind coming from the lake created amazing waves.

We were here on June 21, 2022. It is an excellent place to paddle board, we spent 7 hours here paddling over the boat ramp (2-hr round trip) and to bonsai rock (2-hour round trip). The location is not long, within 1 mile, but we spent most time taking picture and climbing the boulders. Occasional gust of wind in the afternoon but manageable. There is cafeteria offering burger and fish&chip for lunch. Parking does get full around 10AM so come early. Water temperature is 55 degree. There are some trees providing some shade on the sand beach. Most beach umbrella flew off when there are gust of wind.

Best beach of Tahoe! 10:30 was a good time to arrive and have plenty of space. The part of the beach past the board/kayak launching area was less crowded. Sand is soft, it is clean, great stand up paddle boarding. Water is clear, there is a concession stand. The day after 4th of July, when we were leaving at 1:30pm, they had closed the gate coming in and were not letting any cars in. Sand Harbor has a capacity limit. Best to come early during busy vacation weeks. Bring a shade umbrella to enjoy your stay!

Great scenery. Came on April 7th. Wasn’t busy at all so was really enjoyable and peaceful. Parking permit was $15 if you do not have a Nevada plate.

This place! Took us a few trials and errors but we made it on the last day! Must get here by 8 am! Bring a sweater and set up your spot on the cove side. We walked around the boardwalk and warmed up. Being surrounded by the huge boulders and being able to jump off was so cool. The sand is so pretty and soft, it has a pink color. The views from the board walk looking down you could see just how aqua blue the water is. They have a restaurant with adult drinks, and lots of good food.

A cool spot to visit, especially during summer. It's part of Lake Tahoe, a gigantic lake which gives you a sea-like feel, where you can enjoy it's beaches, calm waves or even the rocky terrain. Great place for water sports or just a swim. It's a fun place for all ages and an ideal family getaway too, where kids gonna have a lots of fun. Getting a parking can be a nightmare, unless you reach there very early and if you don't, an ideal solution is to go to the nearby Incline village, park there and use the free shuttle service to get back and forth.

Gorgeous views, well maintained trail, so many photo ops. Entry is about $15 for non Nevada cars. And $10 for Nevada state cars. Super clean and super picturesque. Dogs are allowed off-season (mid October to mid April) We were in March and definitely layer up because it can be windy and cold. Restrooms are available but be mindful that they were closed due to winter.

The best thing about Sand Harbor is the beautiful beaches you ever see. Rocks, trees, beaches and colorful. I love it so much. You better get here early in the morning especially during the summer season. We get here 9am in the morning, 2/3 of parking lots are full. Once it full, the gate will close until 3pm . So get ready for the view as early as you can.

This Is one of my favorite beaches in Lake Tahoe. Scenic views, an expertly built and well maintained trails, beaches, bathrooms and more. Kayak and paddleboard rentals. And the scenery is awesome! Mountains, lake, beach, it is incredible. Very busy in the summer and parking is somewhat limited and is not free. The gift shop has a small museum that is pretty cool.

We love this state park, off-season, that is. It can be quite crowded in the summer. There is a nice boardwalk to wander with beautiful views of the lake and inlets. The large boulders in the water give it a unique charm.

1st time experience and it did not disappoint. The beach was clean and beautiful. You must arrive early in order to get in. I would recommend an hour before it opens. The water was crisp and refreshing. The sand was soft on my feet. Beautiful views and will be returning.

Beautiful state park- One of the most beautiful places you’ll ever see. Park is very clean and visitor center with restaurant are on the premises. Large parking lot, but beware as it can fill up by 9am. Beach rentals are towards the end of the beach. You could spend all day here and be just fine. There are a series of walking paths around the lake within the park. The pictures don’t do it justice: you’ve gotta go!

We spent several hours exploring the area by kayaks. It was a great time. Afterward, we hiked along the shoreline. It was a great day for adventure. The visitors center was closed, making it difficult to learn more about the state park. To see our adventures subscribe to SIMPLE LIFE BIG ADVENTURES on YouTube.

We arrived on a Sunday at 12:30pm. The gate was closed off. We drove by a few times back and forth to see if they'll open because the parking lot looked pretty empty and cars were constantly coming out. We then decided to go find and park in the "other parking lot" and take the bus/shuttle. It was about a 15 min drive ~3 miles away back into town to find that parking lot. We came back 2 other times and the lot was full. We didn't get in until 2pm through the option of the other parking lot and taking the shuttle which is fine. But note, they advise you take the shuttle back before the 5pm shuttle so you can get your car. The lot closes at 6:30 and the gate will be closed overnight. And if you leave for a later shuttle, everyone is also tryna catch it so you had to wait for the 5pm shuttle. The shuttle didn't get there til 5:30pm. They said it's a 35min shuttle back and forth. Parking is $15 and they didn't open the gate til 5pm for new comers. 😒 I guess it's also because they had private events but there was barely folks on the beach. Not very crowded, plenty of space. Maybe it's a way they can control and limit people. There was probably a fire not too far away because it was pretty smokey. The later we stayed, the more smokey it got. It's always pleasant and pretty blue. Love Sand Harbor. Been coming here for over 10 years, I will say, it's kind of sad to see it not look the same as it did. Water is getting smaller and it's pretty shallow and it goes pretty far out. Family friendly but just sad to see it getting dirtier a d the water getting more shallow. The rocks in the water revealing itself over the years. Still gorgeous and blue, just maybe not as clear as it use to be. Also harder getting in.

Absolutely stunning and worth the breathtaking view. If you're visiting Lake Tahoe and or driving around the lake please swing by this spot. It's only 10 for Nevada folks to enter. We used the kiosk machine to pay

A beautiful 😍 park! A must see if you are in the area! If you go by car you are better off going to the Sand Harbour State Park, entrance was $15.00 USD and walk the trail which are made of asphalt so be careful when hot. There is a place where you can rent e-bikes and go through the trail. We walk but we didn’t the whole trail. The place for food and drinks closed by the end of October and reopen in May of the following year!

Beautiful sight. So serene, peaceful. One can spend whole day while watching Blue water, mountains - every angle gives you Beautiful pictures. Loved it. Must visit for everyone.

There are kayak rentals here - it’s a must. This was my first time kayaking and the water was so serene, I was comfortable the whole time. The water is turquoise-hued and largely transparent so you can see straight to the bottom, especially in the shallows. It’s relaxing and enchanting.

Perfect spot to start a kayak adventure. I was able to carry my boat to the entrance to beach and then drag it along the sand. Water was so clear! Lots of shore to explore heading south towards Chimney Beach. It was $15 for Non-Nevada resident.

Best beach on the lake! No question about it. Anytime of year. It's a state beach so expect to pay for entry but there is hiking and sandy beaches. Rocks to climb on. A Shakespearean festival sometimes. So picturesque.

Great park for views, easy casual walking paths, the beach, and kayaking/paddle boarding. Entry fee cash only. Food and drinks available at store. Note for summer- by mid day it is very busy, parking fills up and they will close the parking lot and no walking into park allowed. Best to go in the morning or later afternoon/evening and hope the parking lot is open.

Sand Harbor Beach is an incredibly beautiful hidden gem just about 20 minutes outside of Lake Tahoe. You won't be disappointed if you go there. There is pristine clear Turquoise Waters with a sizable sandy Beach area to enjoy. There are Prehistoric looking Rock formations that you can climb on and take some really cool pics.There is ample room for Bicycling and several Nature trails for some hiking. There is a pretty cool BBQ area for some day use however this area must be reserved in advance. I highly recommend that any interested individuals go there, you will be pleasantly surprised. 😉👍👍

Absolutely one of the best beaches in Tahoe. The sand is a light yellow and it's fairly coarse but didn't hurt the feet. It's nice because it sluffs off very easily when it dries, unlike the fine grain sand that just gets everywhere and into everything. We paddle boarded for about 5 hours and didn't tire off the views. Being 100 yards out and still seeing a sandy bottom to the lake about 20 get deep was awesome. For a more interesting experience you can visit the two smaller beaches just around the point to the north. Or visit the bar/restaurant next to the beach for a refreshing beverage. This beach was almost on par with those in Hawaii. It was that good.

Nevada State Parks has really gone downhill. You now need to pay twice as much if you're from out of state. They have one vehicle entrance that charges $10 dollars, than another entrance that charges $2, for what looks like foot or bicycle entrance, but since you need to display your tag in your vehicle, how will they know you already paid for parking and were just hiking. In addition they threaten a $195 fee if you don't pay. I work for California State Parks and Nevada State Parks are definitely scamming people. So, why is this place still getting 5 stars? Because, the tyranny of Nevada State Parks shouldn't take away from this place's natural beauty. I usually go to the California side, as the parking on the Nevada side is practically impossible to find during peak season, unless you get there at like 6 or 7 in the morning. I see why, as it is much more beautiful than the beaches on the California side. Personally, I wouldn't attempt to come here during peak season, but during low season, it's a completely different world. This is Lake Tahoe at its most raw!

My partner made the trek super early in the morning on a Saturday & it was madness! She secured an amazing spot, but be advised that if your want to land a chance of enjoying this beautiful beach, you'll need to be there & in line incredibly early as the lot often fills by 9a at the latest. Pack for the day (food, entertainment, etc.) Alternatively, I took the kids on a bike ride on the East Shore Trail to meet up with her. It's a beautiful ride with one lightly challenging hill for little one or inexperienced riders, but you can't trade that for the immaculate views of the lake you're treated with along the way .

Went there on a Sunday 9 AM, more than half of the parking lot was full (actually better than our expectation). Price was $15 per vehicle and didn’t allow walk-ins. There was a NP style booth at the inner gate and they will close the main gate once it’s full. Won’t re-open till late afternoon so you won’t be able to drive in. They installed spikes on the exit😅 Places was decent for families and tourists, but it’s also occupied with that, most people just set up their spots and had their day. Smell marijuana on the beach.

Beautiful!! So glad we stopped by. The whole area was so stunning. The rocks and beach were totally worth seeing here. It was a little chilly with the slight breeze, but that's to be expected in January!

Really beautiful and unique state park on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe. Things you should know: sunny days during the summer season on the weekends the lot fills up and they close gates by 10:00 am. There is no other parking. If you are going to go, go early or after 5 pm or you will not be able to park. Dogs are not allowed, on leash or otherwise from the end of May through October 1- I think it was, double check the specific Sand Harbor site before going. Nevada plates $10 and all others $15 to park. The appeal of going on a sunny, calm day is the giant boulders you can view through the glass like water. On a stormy day a different kind if beauty is present and no crowds.

Very busy park but super beautiful. Great place to spend a day. Drop in a kayak, walk the small trail and play in the water. Great sand beach. Also nice Cafe with snacks, food and alcoholic beverages. We had an awesome time hanging here for the day. In the summer I am guessing it fills up fast so I would recommend getting here early.

This is my go-to place in Tahoe. It has everything you need: bathrooms, food, boat launch, beach, trails and even a gift shop. It's also out of the way. Probably the most beautiful public beach in Tahoe.

Check the feels like weather before you come to hang out at the beach, because dang when that lake wind is a blowing it is chilly! It's a beautiful stop on any Tahoe Lake tour though. Enjoy! 😁

Amazing beach, lot of parking. It has 3-4 access points and the views of the beach are different from each access point. Also, don't forget the Ramada Point Rocks. Parking is $15 for CA registered vehicles and $10 for NV registered vehicles. There is a bar and grill (closes in evening) and restrooms nearby. The water here is the best turquoise color that can be seen in Lake Tahoe without hiking anywhere. No need to go anywhere else.

Wow, just wow! I lived in South Lake Tahoe for 8 years in the 70's/80's and never made the trip to spend some time at Sand Harbor. I knew it was nice, but there is noting like experiencing it for real. Our family really enjoyed our time there but you must arrive early because once the parking lit is full, the gates close for the day.

My partner and I stopped here on the way from Yosemite and we’re so glad we did. I’ve been dreaming about swimming in the the clear, blue, beautiful lake of Tahoe for quite some time and it exceeded my expectations. We found this epic rocky cove to swim at and the water was quite a bit warmer than the swim beach. I can’t wait until I get to come back. By far the best water I’ve ever swam in!

Amazing, the best place on Lake Tahoe to enjoy the crystal-clear water whether swimming or kayaking. In summer you'll want to get there EARLY before the gates open or you won't get in. Weekdays are a little less crowded than Fri/Sat/Sun. Kayaking right off the beach, amazing boulder formations, and mountain views. Clean bathrooms. A perfect day.

We had a guided kayak tour with Tahoe Paddle Sports, from Sand Harbor to Banzai rock. Absolutely beautiful!

Beautiful place to enjoy the lake. The water is knee to waist deep for a good 50 yards and visible. Finding a spot to plant our umbrella by the water was no problem either. Great place to spend a day at

Some of the cleanest water in the America's! Water temp chilly, not too bad in shallow areas! Nature here is very photogenic 😍

As of early June 2023, a major sidewalk needs repair so you have to walk a long way around to get to particular areas of the park. It was pretty crowded when we went on a Tuesday afternoon, so I can't even imagine what it would be like on a weekend during the summer. It costs pedestrians $2 to enter. They have a nice visitor center!

It’s been about 20 years since I’ve been to this beach, it’s always packed and for good reason! Large sandy beaches with a few separate little coves. The rocks are fun to climb and jump off of. Plus, there’s a place to buy food and snacks now! We love that new addition and the cashier was so helpful and sweet. Must visit but get there early or plan on taking a shuttle.

Really cool place to visit in North Lake Tahoe any time of year. Huge beautiful beach (which I imagine is very crowded in the peak Summer Season) and a boardwalk that goes quite a ways along the shoreline offering beautiful views of Lake Tahoe and the crystal blue waters of the bay. The only downside of this place is the bathrooms near the beach are only in in Summer, which is surprising considering they still charge an entrance fee. The other downside is this place gets very crowded in the Summer being one of the most popular beaches on Lake Tahoe. So I'd definitely avoid weekends here during Summer break and any time in Summer definitely show up as early as possible to stake your claim to a section of the beach.