Sand Harbor in Lake Tahoe [Parking + Tips For Visiting
PLANNING A VISIT TO SAND HARBOR IN LAKE TAHOE?
We’ve got all the info you need! We love exploring California and have spent months at a time in the state. Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America, and Sand Harbor is one of its most popular attractions. It’s such a fun place to visit while we’re spending time in Lake Tahoe.
Though it’s known for many things, Lake Tahoe’s Sand Harbor is its crowning jewel. One of three sections of Lake Tahoe’s Nevada State Park, the beauty of the tree-lined shores and crystal clear waters are indescribable. With mild-blowing beauty and so much history to its name, this place definitely deserves a spot on your list of upcoming family fun adventures.
Located on the eastern shore of the lake, It’s impossible not to connect with nature in a place this serene. Here are some tips and insights on how to best enjoy your time at Sand Harbor in South Lake Tahoe.
Sand Harbor in Lake Tahoe Overview
Hours: 8 am to 1 hour after sunset
Entrance Fee: $10 for residents and $15 for non-residents
Phone Number: 775-831-0494
Email: shsp@parks.nv.gov
Pets Allowed: Not Allowed Except for Off-Season (Oct 15 – April 15)
Sand Harbor in Lake Tahoe Parking
Park Closures When Parking Lot is Full
One thing to know before you go is that Sand Harbor in Lake Tahoe is exceptionally busy during the summer months. The Sand Harbor parking area opens at 7 am and is typically full by 9 am during the time between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Different from other state parks you may have visited, once the Sand Harbor Beach parking area is full the park is closed to any additional visitors. Parking along nearby Highway 28 is not permitted either.
Keep in mind, your day is not entirely ruined if you aren’t able to gain admittance to the park in the morning. Once the crowds have dissipated a bit, the park typically reopens around 5 pm, allowing a new round of cars to fill the parking area.
During our last visit to Lake Tahoe, we tried to visit Sand Harbor around noon and the parking lot was full. We went back around 4 pm and we were able to get in.
East Shore Express
If you would rather not face the hassle of driving to Sand Harbor, the East Shore Express offers a great alternative plan.
For just a few bucks per person you can hop on a bus (at a variety of stops around South Lake Tahoe) and enjoy a ride directly to the park. It’s a convenient and relaxing way to make your way to Sand Harbor.
East Shore Trail
The East Shore Trail is a 3 mile paved trail system popular with bikers, but also serves as yet another avenue into Sand Harbor. You can jump onto the trail at Incline Village and follow it as it eventually flows into Sand Harbor State Park.
Sand Harbor isn’t the only destination though, the East Shore Trail also offers access to other beaches, rocky coves and trails along the way.
Amenities at Sand Harbor
- Food Concessions
- Group Facilities
- Paddleboard/Kayak Rentals
- Picnic Table
- Public Bathrooms
Things to Do at Sand Harbor Beach
Swimming Beaches
If you’re looking for the perfect place to spend some time on the beach during your vacation, the main Sand Harbor Beach in Lake Tahoe is your best bet. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Lake Tahoe. This sandy beach is sprawling, offering optimal space for family fun.
The crystal clear water is shallow, making it an amazing spot for kids to swim or maybe even snorkel, taking in the sights below the water’s surface. We had such a fun time spending an afternoon at the beach here and swimming in the crystal-clear water.
Due to the popularity of the park, the main beach will most likely be busy. You can find more secluded beaches at Memorial Point.
Sand Point Nature Trail
Sand Point Nature Trail is a short (⅓ mile), handicap-friendly hike that offers stunning views of Lake Tahoe. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the interpretive signs that line the trail, teaching you about Sand Harbor at Lake Tahoe along your way.
Sand Harbor to Memorial Point Trail
The Sand Harbor to Memorial Point Trail is a path that leads visitors to a stunning overlook of the lake, just between Sand Harbor and Incline Village. The shoreline, crafted from dense and beautiful granite rock, is a highlight of this area as well, popular as platforms for fishermen.
From this point, the path takes hikers out to Memorial Point, which offers visitors access to the other beaches in the area.
Sand Harbor in Lake Tahoe Kayak Rentals
Water sports are their own distinct category of fun when it comes to spending time at Sand Harbor in Lake Tahoe. For families visiting the area without access to a boat, kayaks are a low-pressure, cost effective way to experience time out on the lake.
Clearly Tahoe Rentals provides a range of kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for rent right on-site at Sand Harbor. This is a huge advantage to some of the other parks in the area that don’t provide rentals, forcing visitors to rent their needed goods at one location and personally transport them all the way to the desired lake location.
Sand Harbor Boat Launch
Known for its gorgeous crystal-clear water, it’s not surprising that boating is one of the most popular activities to enjoy on Lake Tahoe. Sand Harbor is an amazing portion of Lake Tahoe for boating, whether you’re planning for some playful water sports or relaxing fishing.
All of those using the Sand Harbor boat ramp must submit to a boat inspection, per the park’s launch regulations.
Boat inspections are a safety precaution. Inspections prevent invasive species from contaminating the beautiful waters at Lake Tahoe. Invasive species like zebra and quagga mussels can be a problem throughout the country.
Once your boat is cleared, the sky’s the limit for fun on the water. Enjoy soaking up the sun as you cruise along the water’s surface and best of luck catching Rainbow trout or paddling around the lake!
Keep in mind that Lake Tahoe boat tours are also very popular. This is a great option for travelers who don’t have their own boat or aren’t interested in renting one.
Sand Harbor Restaurant
A long stretch of playing at the beach and soaking up the sun always results in one thing, hunger. If you’re in the mood for something more than concessions, be sure to try Sand Harbor Bar and Grill.
A very casual atmosphere, this restaurant definitely has a beach snack bar type of vibe. Family favorites here include burgers and Lake Tahoe-inspired ice cream shakes!
Once you leave Sand Harbor there are lots of delicious places to eat in South Lake Tahoe too.
Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival
A little known fact about Sand Harbor is that it also plays home to the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival. There’s nothing like experiencing theater outdoors, under the open sky. Be sure to check the schedule during your visit and try to catch a live performance, you won’t regret it!
Sand Harbor Visitor Center
The Sand Harbor Visitor Center is a great place to visit to learn all you can about Sand Harbor and the greater Lake Tahoe area. It’s a fun spot to take a self-guided tour with your family, as you wander through the displays.
The visitor center is also where you will find Kokanee Bar and Grill, which sells concessions and drinks. Kids love stopping here for a snack and enjoying it on the outdoor patio. Don’t forget to swing by the gift shop before you leave!
Sand Harbor Beach in the Winter
Sand Harbor Beach isn’t just a summertime playground. Just as picturesque, but through a different lens, this park makes for a marvelous winter wonderland.
There’s no better way to ring in some holiday cheer in Tahoe than a family fun, horse-drawn Sand Harbor Sleigh Ride!
Rules and Tips for Visiting Sand Harbor in Lake Tahoe
- Once the parking area is full, no additional vehicles are allowed to enter.
- Walk-ins and drop-offs from the highway will not be allowed admittance into Sand Hollow. Walk and bike-ins via the East Shore Trail are allowed entrance, even while the park is closed to vehicles.
- Glass containers are NOT permitted in waterfront areas.
- Propane grills and stoves powered by a switch are allowed (with the exception of days categorized as a Red Flag Warning by the National Weather Service) in the picnic areas.
- Charcoal and wood fires are NOT permitted throughout Sand Harbor.
- Drones are not allowed unless approved by the Park Supervisor.
- Pets are only allowed during the off-season (October 15- April 15) and must be leashed by pet owners at all times.
- When exploring, stay on trails. Do not wander off into unmarked territory.
- Boats and other motorized water vehicles can only be launched at the boat ramp after a successful inspection.
- Once boat ramp parking is full no other launch-and-leave of vessels will be permitted.
- Take bear-related precautions (clean up after yourself, never approach a bear or cub, never feed any of the wildlife).
- No camping is allowed at Highway 28 beaches.
- Practice Leave No Trace: Practice basic good decision-making with the aim to minimize the impact on the environment and those around you.
- Treat the park with kindness: do not remove, disturb or damage any historic structure, artifact, rock, plant life, fossil or other feature.
- Keep the park beautiful by disposing of litter.
Sand Harbor Lake Tahoe Hotels
Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino – Luxury
The Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino is an exceptional hotel shrouded in the Lake Tahoe wilderness. One of the highest-rated Sand Harbor Lake Tahoe Hotels, this is a great place to rest and play. The hotel features 20,000 square feet of casino floor and even an arcade for the kids.
The immaculate rooms range from standard king and queen options, to beautiful and cozy suites, featuring multiple bathrooms and a full kitchenette. Cribs are also available upon request, at no charge.
This hotel features one of the most amazing pool areas we’ve ever come across. There are multiple pools (one specifically designed for kids) and multiple hot tubs scattered throughout the beautiful terrace area.
Guests at this hotel can also unwind in the lap of luxury at the spa. Available treatments include body scrubs, facials, manicures and pedicures, as well as massages (single and couple) and sauna sessions.
Other convenient highlights of this hotel include an electric car charging station, 3 on-site restaurants, a bar, coffee shop and deli. They also offer laundry services for an additional fee.
⭐ Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino Reviews (9 out of 10 Stars)
Despite being a casino this is a family friendly hotel, warm pool and a dedicated hot tub for kids, lots of dining options, even a microwave in the cafe to warm up bottles. – Suki (Expedia Review)
▶️ Check Rates & Book: Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carson City – Mid-Range
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carson City is a comfortable mid-range priced hotel about 8 miles from Sand Harbor at Lake Tahoe. The guest rooms are clean and well equipped with premium bedding and convenient staples like a microwave, mini-fridge and coffee maker.
This property also features a guest gym, an indoor pool and convenient laundry facilities. A free breakfast buffet is offered daily.
⭐ Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carson City Reviews (8.2 out of 10 Stars)
The hotel is well maintained and the breakfast spread is very good. Rooms were clean and the bathrooms were neat. – Vandana (Expedia Review)
▶️ Check Rates & Book: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carson City
My Place Hotel – Carson City NV – Budget
My Place Hotel is a thrifty and nice place to stay when visiting Sand Harbor at Lake Tahoe. Located a handful of miles away in Carson City, this simple hotel offers all the basics you need.
Guest rooms are stocked with queen beds and kitchens – including full size refrigerators, stovetops and microwaves.
The property features a fun outdoor picnic area complete with a barbecue grill. An on-site deli and convenience store are at your fingertips and a daily to-go breakfast is available for an additional fee.
⭐ My Place Hotel Reviews (8.8 out of 10 Stars)
Beautiful property. Comfortable rooms. Great staff. – Margaret (Expedia Review)
▶️ Check Rates & Book: My Place Hotel – Carson City NV
Camping Near Sand Harbor in Lake Tahoe
Camping around Lake Tahoe is very popular, so there are several Lake Tahoe campgrounds to choose from. If you’re hoping to stay near Sand Harbor, some of our favorite campgrounds are William Kent Campground, Silver Creek Campground, and Upper Little Truckee Campground.
FAQ: Sand Harbor in Lake Tahoe
Can you swim in Sand Harbor?
Yes! Swimming at the main Sand Harbor Beach in South Lake Tahoe is one of the best ways to experience Sand Harbor State Park.
If you’re looking for a less popular beach follow the Sand Harbor to Memorial Point Trail to find some more secluded beach options.
What time does the Sand Harbor Parking Lot Fill Up?
Weekdays from Memorial Day through Labor Day, the parking lot is usually filled by 9 am. It’s generally full by 10 am on summer weekends.
Don’t worry if you aren’t able to get into the park in the morning during the busiest summer months. You might have a second chance in the late afternoon, as they typically reopen for a second wave of visitors.
Can you walk in to Sand Harbor?
People wishing to walk into Sand Harbor in Nevada are not be permitted entrance into the park. In order to gain entrance into the park you must arrive early enough to get a parking spot.
Additional means of entry include the Tahoe East Shore Trail or East Shore Express.
Can you bring alcohol to Sand Harbor in Lake Tahoe?
You can take alcohol to Sand Harbor Beach, however, you cannot bring glass containers to Sand Harbor. Alcoholic beverages must be in a can or otherwise plastic container.
How long does it take to drive around Lake Tahoe?
A loop around Lake Tahoe is 72 miles. A direct route, never veering off for scenic stops, would take about 3 hours.
We recommend savoring the experience and taking a bit more time to enjoy all that Lake Tahoe has to offer. There are so many fun things to do in South Lake Tahoe as well as many underrated North Lake Tahoe attractions!
Can you bike into Sand Harbor?
Yes, Sand Harbor is a bike-friendly park. Sand Harbor at Incline Village East Shore Trail offers entry into the park. The gorgeous biking trail leads riders into the park.
Once there, you won’t believe the beauty you can discover on two wheels!
What time does Sand Harbor in Lake Tahoe open?
Sand Harbor opens at 8 am. On heavy traffic days, it will often reopen later in the afternoon. This offers visitors who weren’t able to be admitted earlier in the day a chance to explore the park.
Is Sand Harbor Beach good for kids?
Yes, Sand Harbor Beach is an excellent place for kids. Children will love exploring Lake Tahoe up close! Playing at the beach and exploring the land on the nature trail offer hours of fun!
Because the immensity of Lake Tahoe also stretches into California, there’ s a ton of additional kid-friendly exploring opportunities nearby. There are several national parks in California that are worth stopping by!
Conclusion: Sand Harbor in Lake Tahoe
Don’t pass on Sand Harbor in Lake Tahoe when visiting the area. If Lake Tahoe’s Sand Harbor Beach isn’t convincing enough on its own, come explore the trails or venture out onto the water in a boat or kayak. Be sure to enjoy all the impressive and stunning aspects of Sand Harbor in Tahoe.
