About Sand Harbor
The largest alpine lake in North America, Lake Tahoe is a cobalt blue lake atop the Sierra Nevada mountain range. On its eastern shores, gently sloping beaches, crystal-clear water and interesting rock formations allow for wonderfully sublime swimming, kayaking and scuba diving at Sand Harbor. Boaters, water-skiers and fisherman can easily launch from one of the park’s two ramps. Visitors who would like a peaceful retreat from surf and sun can picnic in the shade of cedars and Jeffrey pines in one of many picnic sites equipped with barbecues and tables.
Facilities & Amenities:
Transportation: From Memorial to Labor Day Sand Harbor is very popular and experiences high visitation. Those planning to visit Sand Harbor should be prepared for park closures and have an alternate destination in mind. Parking along Highway 28 is prohibited, and walk-ins are currently not allowed. For more information, visit the FAQ page.
Group Area/Ramada: A group use area set next to the lake has about 100 seats, and can accomodate groups of up to 200. The covered facility, equipped with electricity, water and tables, includes a large barbecue. Use is by reservation only. Information, rules, regulations and the group area reservation agreement are available here. Reservations must be made in person or by phone at 775-831-0494. View Ramada photos.
Weddings: Weddings are permitted within the Ramada area by reserving the Group Use Ramada. Officiants, Wedding Planners and Photographers are required to obtain commercial permits from the park office prior the wedding. View more information or contact the park directly.
Photography: Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park offers amazing views and we encourage visitors to photography the natural beauty of the park. Photographers utilizing the park for commercial use (such as but not limited to: print ads, movies, wedding, engagement, family, or senior photos) are required to obtain a photography permit. Information can be obtained by contacting us at ltnsp@parks.nv.gov or by clicking here.
Picnicking/Day Use: Located in the shade of the cedars and Jeffrey pines, the picnic area offers a peaceful retreat from the busy beaches. Each site is equipped with a picnic table. Paved walkways make the area accessible to persons with disabilities. Propane grills and stoves with an on/off switch are allowed in the picnic area, charcoal and wood fires are prohibited at Sand Harbor. All fires are prohibited when a red flag warning is issued by the national weather service, including propane grills.
Boating: The boat launch includes two wave protected double ramps with docks and adjacent parking. Parking fills to capacity early on summer weekends. Watercraft inspections are required as part of the new program that is helping to protect Lake Tahoe from the threat of aquatic invasive species such as Quagga and Zebra mussels.
Kayaking/Stand-up Paddleboarding: Kayaks, sailing kayaks and stand-up paddleboards can be rented during the summer from Sand Harbor Rentals. Guided tours are also available.
Hiking: The Sand Harbor to Memorial Point Trail is a short half-mile trail offers a link to Memorial Point and provides access to many secluded beaches and rock areas.
The Sand Point Nature Trail, a one-third-mile trail, is a handicap-accessible trail with interpretive signs and breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe.
The Tahoe East Shore Trail, dubbed as “America’s Most Beautiful Bikeway” is not only a spectacular way to recreate, but also provides direct access to public beaches, coves and trails along the picturesque Nevada shoreline.This 3-mile paved trail system connects Incline Village south to Sand Harbor —one of the four Lake Tahoe Nevada State Parks.
Swimming and Scuba Diving: Gently sloping beaches, crystal-clear water and interesting rock formations allow for wonderful swimming and scuba diving. Beach Patrol is on duty from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Winter Activities: Sand Harbor is very beautiful and scenic during the winter-time. The parking lots are kept clear of snow, the Visitor Center is open year-round and visitors may enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride with Sand Harbor Sleigh Rides.
Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival: During July and August, the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival at Sand Harbor offers the Bard's best plays set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of Lake Tahoe.
Visitor Center: The Sand Harbor Visitor Center and Gift Shop is available for self-guided tours with informative displays and regional information. The Kokanee Bar and Grill concession offers snacks and drinks on a relaxing, shady deck.