Nestled amidst the stunning natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, North Lake Tahoe is a stunning oasis. With its pristine shores, towering trees, and tranquil atmosphere, it offers a unique blend of serenity and adventure.
With crystal-clear waters and a sandy shoreline, Hidden Beach in North Lake Tahoe boasts some of the most picturesque views in the country. Relax on the sand while gazing out at the majestic mountain backdrop, or take a refreshing dip in the cool, turquoise waters. And if you prefer to explore the great outdoors on land, you can hike along the scenic trails through the lush forests.
Come with us and visit the not-so-hidden Hidden Beach in North Lake Tahoe!
How to get to Hidden Beach on Lake Tahoe
Although the name Hidden Beach suggests that it might be difficult to find, it’s actually very easy. It sits along Highway 28, less than a mile south of Incline Village. It’s actually a part of Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park.
As far as parking, there are very limited spaces to park right along the highway. There will be trails heading down to different coves from there.
If you don’t luck out on a spot along the highway, there is a parking lot for the Tahoe East Shore Trail, where you can park for a fee. On this trail, you will pass under Highway 28 through a tunnel and head right to get to Hidden Beach.
If you are planning to pack a lot of stuff down with you, and you do use the parking lot, consider unloading closer to the beach, leaving someone there with your things, and then driving to find your parking spot.
Important things to know before you go
Can I bring a cooler, grill, etc. to Hidden Beach on Lake Tahoe?
- The trail to the beach is a dirt path going downhill. Taking a rolling cooler, wagon, stroller, etc. is doable but not the easiest.
- Absolutely no campfires or grilling.
- No glass containers are allowed.
- Make sure you pack out what you pack in. Practice Leave No Trace principles.
Is Hidden Beach in North Lake Tahoe dog-friendly?
Dogs are welcome on Hidden Beach. Make sure to bring bags to pick up after them!
Are there bathrooms at Lake Tahoe’s Hidden Beach?
There are vault toilets available at Hidden Beach.
Is Hidden Beach in North Lake Tahoe clothing optional?
Although Tahoe’s Hidden Beach apparently used to be part of a clothing-optional stretch of beach, it is no longer clothing-optional! It’s now more of a family-friendly atmosphere!
Our Experience at Hidden Beach in Nevada
Hidden Beach is actually a pretty popular place during the weekends and summer months, so don’t expect to be alone in this paradise! However, because of the huge granite boulders dotted along the shore, it is possible that you could find your own little space!
We visited in the late afternoon/evening on a July weekday. We found other people along the beach, but definitely not a big crowd. However, this also could have had to do with the wildfires in nearby areas.
We stopped by for only a few hours on our way from Sunriver, Oregon to Yosemite National Park in California. I had seen photos of the turquoise, crystal-clear waters, and round, granite boulders along the shores and knew we just had to see it with our own eyes!
It was not a disappointment! The views were incredible in every direction. The water was so clear and blue, it was perfect for snorkeling! The kids loved playing in the sand and climbing on the boulders.
I would love to come back for a week-long vacation to experience everything else this beautiful lake has to offer! I think it would be especially amazing to paddle around in a clear kayak!
Although South Lake Tahoe is the more popular area with more entertainment and nightlife, we truly thought this side of the lake was so beautiful. It felt more like an outdoor adventurer’s paradise than what we’ve heard about the more upscale south side of the lake.
Other things to do in North Lake Tahoe
Sand Harbor Beach
Another beach on this side of the lake, Sand Harbor Beach, is recognized as one of the best beaches on Lake Tahoe. There is a fee for this beach, but it includes picnic tables, a visitor center, a boat ramp, and more amenities that might make it worth it for you!
This is also where you can find one of the clear kayak tours.
Kings Beach, California
The town of Kings Beach is also on North Lake Tahoe and is known to be a great town to walk around, shop, and eat.
Kings Beach Recreation Area offers swimming, kayaking, parasailing, and more.
Via Ferrata or Aerial Tram
For the more adventurous families, less than an hour away, in Olympic Valley, California, you can try a Via Ferrata, which is essentially rock climbing without the need for any previous experience. You will be attached to a steel cable with a safety harness.
If that sounds too daunting, or some of your family doesn’t meet the requirements for the Via Feratta (taller than 3’11”), Olympic Valley also offers an aerial tram. Take a 10-minute ride above the mountains, waterfalls, and granite rock. When you reach the top, there is a swimming pool and hot tub, several hiking trails, and a skating rink!
Skiing and Snowshoeing
During the winter, skiing and snowshoeing are popular Tahoe activities. Diamond Peak Ski Resort is a nearby destination, and is considered one of the most family-friendly. It also boasts some of the most beautiful panoramic views.
Little Kid Entertainment
For families that aren’t looking to get too adventurous, there are also many entertainment activities for younger kids. There are a couple of mini golf locations as well as arcades and a children’s museum. In the winter, there are a few ice skating rinks.
Visit Historic Truckee, California
Historic downtown Truckee offers dining and shopping as well as several museums, including a Railroad Museum, Old Jail Museum, and a children’s museum.
Also in Truckee, you can visit Donner Memorial State Park to learn about the tragic story of the Donner Party. Visit the Pioneer Monument as well, which is dedicated to the pioneers on their way west across the Sierra.
Other activities in Truckee include skiing, horseback riding, ice skating, hiking, and white water rafting – all depending on the season you plan to visit!
Conclusion
Hidden Beach in North Lake Tahoe is a perfect place to spend a summer day, taking in the scenery and soaking in the crystal-clear turquoise waters. After you spend a day at the beach, there are so many other exciting and adventurous things to do and see in North Lake Tahoe.
It is definitely worth considering for your next family vacation!
Other articles you might like:
- The Ultimate Sequoia and Kings Canyon 2-Day Itinerary
- Best Things to do at Crater Lake
- Surviving Death Valley in the Summer: Tips and Tricks
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