The Prettiest Spots on Lake Tahoe's East Shore
- Gabriella Viola
- Sep 21, 2019
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 6, 2024
Discover the most beautiful beaches on Lake Tahoe's East Shore.
Lake Tahoe is a stunning destination, from iconic spots like Emerald Bay and Sand Harbor to the hidden coves along the east shore. There’s no shortage of places to take in the lake’s magnificent scenery.
For me, the east shore stands out above the rest. Not only does it offer some of the best views of the lake, but its rugged coastline is dotted with secluded beaches and coves where the turquoise water rivals that of the Caribbean. Instead of palm trees, it’s framed by pine trees and snow-capped mountains surrounding the crystal-clear water. Here are 5 beautiful beaches on Lake Tahoe's East Shore.
*Help keep Lake Tahoe beautiful. Always Leave No Trace.
Creek Beach
Creek Beach is one of several secluded beaches along Lake Tahoe's east shore, accessible via Nevada Route 28. It’s about a 10-15 minute hike south of Secret Cove Beach along the East Shore Forest Trail. Like many beaches in the area, Creek Beach is clothing-optional.
This is likely the most remote beach on the list. After passing through a series of boulders along the trail, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most picturesque views in Lake Tahoe.
Secret Cove
Secret Cove Beach is easily my favorite spot for photographing Lake Tahoe. The semi-secluded, turquoise waters never fail to amaze me.
Located on the east shore, Secret Cove can be accessed directly from Route 28 or from the Secret Harbor Parking Lot. It's a well-known clothing-optional beach and a popular spot for kayakers and paddleboarders. The best time to visit is around 11 a.m. when the sun hits the cove perfectly, making the turquoise water even more vibrant.
Chimney Beach
Chimney Beach is one of the standout remote beaches along Lake Tahoe’s east shore, known for its unique charm and photogenic views. A short, scenic hike from the Secret Harbor Parking Lot leads you to this serene spot. The beach gets its name from an old stone chimney that stands as a relic of a former cabin, adding a touch of history to the picturesque setting.
Bonsai Rock
Bonsai Rock, located about a mile south of Sand Harbor, is a popular destination in Lake Tahoe. It can be easily accessed from Route 28 via several trails that lead directly to the water's edge. This iconic spot attracts photographers and is a favorite for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
While the trails to Bonsai Rock are short, they can be steep and have loose dirt, so wearing sneakers or hiking shoes is recommended to ensure a safe descent.
Sand Harbor
Sand Harbor is arguably the most touristy location on this list, especially during the summer months. However, it remains one of the most picturesque spots in Lake Tahoe. Visiting during the off-season is a great way to experience Sand Harbor, as the typically crowded beach becomes practically deserted.
It's also one of the best places for kayaking and paddleboarding in Lake Tahoe, thanks to its easy access and proximity to the rugged east shore.
I hope you enjoyed my guide to the prettiest spots on Lake Tahoe's East Shore!
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