Hidden Beach
Lake Tahoe’s Hidden Beach might best be described as “hidden in plain sight.” Just south of Incline Village along Highway 28 you will find Hidden Beach.Dubbed “America’s Most Beautiful Bikeway,” the Tahoe East Shore Trail offers a stunning way to explore North America’s largest alpine lake. Located at Incline Village, there are 90 parking spaces near Ponderosa Ranch Road. Tahoe East Shore Trail provides direct access to small coves and public beaches like Hidden Beach and Sand Harbor. The paved trail is 10 feet wide and designed for hikers, runners, and bicyclists. Positioned below Highway 28, it delivers unfiltered lake views and access to Lake Tahoe.
Once you arrive you will find a beautiful beach flanked by giant boulders with sand for sunbathing, picnicking, and swimming. The amount of sandy beach varies from year to year depending on the how full the lake is. If the lake is full there may not be as much beach to go around. Hidden Beach is a great place to spend the day just lounging and swimming. Even with the new Tahoe East Shore Trail, Hidden Beach made our list of Lake Tahoe’s Best Beaches!
During peak summer months, you should get to the Hidden Beach by 9 am for easier parking and optimum choices to spread out your beach gear. Bring plenty of sunscreen, water and even an umbrella if you want some shade. You’ll find boaters like to anchor near the waters edge and swim. Also, it’s common for kayakers and people on stand-up paddle board to cruise through. Typically, the water near the surface is a bit warmer, which makes for a more pleasant dip in the lake. No glass, barbecues, or ground fires are allowed at Hidden Beach and visitors are asked to “pack it in and pack it out.”
Tips for Visiting Hidden Beach:
- Arrive Early: During peak summer months, aim to get to Hidden Beach by 9 am for easier parking and prime spots. You can also try after 3 pm when the early arrivers start to head out. In the summer when the days are longer you can still enjoy plenty of sunshine. The summer afternoon wind can pick up a bit, creating less calmer water.
- Bring Essentials: Remember sunscreen, water, and an umbrella for shade. A bad sunburn can sneak up quickly at higher elevations.
- Activities: Boaters, kayakers, and paddleboarders frequently visit the area. The surface water tends to be warmer, making for a pleasant swim.
- Restrictions: Glass, barbecues, and ground fires are not allowed. Visitors should “pack it in and pack it out” to keep the beach clean.
- Parking Information: The best parking is near the intersection of Lakeshore Boulevard and Highway 28 in Incline Village, Nevada. However, parking is limited.
- Important Note: Hidden Beach is NOT a clothing-optional beach per NRS 201.220.
If you want an easier beach to access check out our Lake Tahoe beaches map for other great North Lake Tahoe beaches in the area. The views and water are amazing so take your camera!
In summary, Hidden Beach offers a beautiful, scenic location on Lake Tahoe’s east shore. Arrive early to claim your spot, bring your essentials, and enjoy one of the best beaches Lake Tahoe has to offer.
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Incline Village, Nevada
