Secret Cove Beach
Secret Cove Beach on Lake Tahoe’s east shore is located along Highway 28 not too far from other popular Lake Tahoe beaches like Chimney Beach, Skunk Harbor and Sand Harbor . Secret Cove is one of those signature Lake Tahoe photo spots and you can see why. This gorgeous little cove is surrounded by granite boulders, sandy shoreline and the crystal clear water is just captivating. The beauty alone is why it made our list of Best Lake Tahoe Beaches. On any given summer weekend you will find a group of devoted regulars who pack in their colorful umbrellas, beach chairs and come to soak in the sun – most of them in the nude. This is one of Lake Tahoe’s nude beaches and if you wear a bathing suit you might be in the minority.
Many regulars take pride in keeping the Secret Cove Beach clean, fun and friendly. Get there early to claim your spot especially when the Lake Tahoe water level is high and sandy spots become limited. Secret Cove is a Lake Tahoe dog friendly beach with restrictions – respect others, use your leash and pack out all dog waste. There are no BBQ’s or picnic tables, but there are bathrooms nearby.
Secret Cove Beach is located about 2.6 miles south of Sand Harbor right off of Highway 28 (about six miles south of Incline Village, Nevada). Parking can be a challenge especially during peak summer season so arrive early to get a spot in the only designated parking lots. There are two parking lots – one on the lake side and another across the road a bit further down. Parking is free at both parking locations, but overnight camping is not allowed. If these lots are full then you can also park along the lake side of the road further south on Hwy 28 just past the “no parking” signs.
From the road you will see designated trails built by the U.S. Forrest Service that lead down to the lake, but keep in mind they can be fairly steep. Signs have been posted a long parts of the trail to guide you to your destination. If you were lucky enough to park in the lake side parking lot then start your journey at the gate. The fire access road beyond the gate will take you down to the trail that peals off to the right and down to Secret Cove. There are bathrooms provided along the trail and trash bins. Please pack out what you pack in and don’t forget to use sunblock. The higher altitude can burn your skin quickly if you are not prepared.
Lake Tahoe’s Secret Cove is one of many great North Lake Tahoe beaches. View our Lake Tahoe beaches map for other wonderful beach options nearest you!
Secret Cove Photos
Secret Cove is one of Lake Tahoe’s most photographed coves because of the crystal clear shallow water framed in by the amazing granite boulders. If you want to take photos of Secret Cove in the summer we recommend early morning sunrise or sunset when the beach isn’t full of sun bathers. Late spring and fall is also a great time to hike to Secret Cove just to soak in the sun and beautiful scenery.
Photo Gallery
Map / Directions
NV-28, Incline Village, NV 89451
