A Guide to the Most Stunning Photo Locations in Lake Tahoe
Updated: Sep 15, 2021
Want to know where some of the most beautiful spots in Lake Tahoe are? You’ve come to the right place! I’ve put together a list of some of the best photo locations in Lake Tahoe and how to find them. Let's get started….
P.S. Please enjoy Lake Tahoe responsibly. Always practice the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace.
↠ SECRET COVE ↞
I'm not even going to save the best for last. Secret Cove is hands down one of the most, if not the most photogenic spot in all of Tahoe. When the sun hits the cove just right it creates a brilliant turquoise color that you have to see to believe.
Located off Highway 28 on Tahoe’s East Shore, it's easily accessible via a short hike from the main road or from Secret Harbor Parking Lot. Secret Cove is a clothing-optional beach, and you will more than likely see a few of the local naturalists sunbathing on the granite rocks along the beach.
➳ Tip: Secret Cove is beautiful year-round but it can get crowded during the summer months, especially on weekends. I find the best time to go is off-season, during the week, and in the late morning when the sun hits the cove just right to get that turquoise color. The water is also calmer during this time from lack of activity giving it a glass-like effect.
↠ CREEK BEACH ↞
Head south on the same trail that took you to Secret Cove, and you will find yourself at another spectacular beach spot in Lake Tahoe called Creek Beach. With its hues of turquoise, Creek Beach is reminiscent of the Caribbean. Like Secret Cove, Creek Beach is a clothing-optional beach that is mostly used by locals. It's a little more remote than Secret Cove as a bit more hiking is involved to get here.
➳ Tip: There is some hiking and a few boulders to cross to get to this beach. Sneakers or hiking shoes are recommended.
↠ EAST SHORE COVES ↞
Along the east shoreline of Lake Tahoe between Chimney Beach and Secret Cove, you will find plenty of tranquil and picturesque little coves. The best part: You will most likely have the coves all to yourself. While most of the tourists are cramming into an over-crowded Sand Harbor during the summer months, you can have a serene and secluded little slice of Tahoe heaven all to yourself. Not only are these coves a great spot to take beautiful and unique photos, but they are also great for swimming.
➳ Tip: Wear hiking boots or sneakers. There are large sharp granite boulders to climb down and around to get to these coves and flip-flops may not cut it.
↠ BAYVIEW TRAIL ↞
