Sand Harbor - Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park

The first days of Summer are fast approaching, and this week we’re heading to Lake Tahoe’s magnificent Sand Harbor Beach. Lovingly referred to as “the jewel of Tahoe,” this is the absolute perfect place to spend a wonderful, warm summer day.

History

Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America, and Sand Harbor is located inside of Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park on the north-east edge of the lake. This harbor was formed when a giant glacier carved out the area leaving behind boulders, which broke down into the natural sand found here today. Long before European Americans discovered this lake in 1846, the Washoe Tribe spent Summers at Sand Harbor fishing, hunting, and gathering. In the 1930s George Whittell Jr. purchased most of the east side of Lake Tahoe. Then decades later the state of Nevada purchased 5,300 acres of this land…and in 1971 Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park was officially opened.

Water Activities

Sand Harbor is known for its crystal clear water, sandy beaches, and beautiful rock formations. Two ramps are located at Sand Harbor and are perfect for water skiers, fishermen, and boats to launch from. The waters of Sand Harbor are wildly popular for swimming, scuba diving, and snorkeling. Sand Harbor Rentals (located at the white tent near the boat ramp) rents water sport equipment daily, including kayaks and paddle boards…but plan your reservation early because watercraft can rent out fast here.

Land Activities

The southern section of Sand Harbor is perfect for children and swimmers with it sandy shoreline, and the northern section is great for exploring the giant rocks and boulder formations. In the Summer months the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival brings live theater to the water’s edge. Make sure to stroll the Sand Point Nature Trail on your visit…it’s less than half a mile, wheelchair accessible and it leads to Sand Point, which has stunning mountain and Lake Tahoe views. While there is no camping or campgrounds here, there are plenty of peaceful picnic spots surrounded by beautiful cedar and pine trees with barbecue and picnic tables. Stop by The Sand Harbor Visitor Center and gift shop for self guided tours and regional information. The Kokanee Bar and Grill here offers concessions and snacks on a relaxing, shady deck as well.

Know Before You Go

• Park hours are 8 AM to one hour after sunset. Entrance fees are $10 for NV vehicles and $15 for non-NV vehicles.

• Sand Harbor is one of Tahoe’s most popular spots, and the parking lot can often fill up by 9 AM, so plan your visit early. The park will close its entrance gates when full…walk-ins are not allowed and parking on Highway 28 is strictly prohibited.

• Please be sensitive when exploring here and consider the Leave No Trace principles to help keep this special spot pristine. Learn about the Lake Tahoe Take Care Travel Pledge and the Keep Tahoe Blue (the “League to Save Lake Tahoe”). If we leave this place better than we found it, we will be rewarded with years of natural wonder here.

• This is black bear country, so please learn about local bear safety. Keep Tahoe Bears Wild is a great resource to learn more about Tahoe bears and how we can enjoy Tahoe while respecting that this is there home too.

Lake Tahoe Points of Interest

• Cave Rock
• Emerald Bay & Inspiration Viewpoint
• Vikingsholm
• Eagle Falls/Eagle Lake Trail
• Emerald Bay State Park
• Glen Alpine Falls
• Fallen Leaf Chapel
• Tallac Historic Site
• Sand Harbor Beach
• Bonsai Rock & Whale Rock
• D. L. Bliss State Park

In Summary & Behind the Blog Video

Thanks for joining me this week at beautiful Sand Harbor. For a virtual visit, make sure to watch my Behind the Blog YouTube video below…and until next week I hope you find adventure and encouragement wherever you go.

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