Discover Lake Tahoe's Crystal-Clear Paradise. Secure Your Entry to the Sierra's Most Breathtaking Shoreline and Dive into a World of Turquoise Water and Sun-Drenched Granite.
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All the details about your upcoming adventure in one place
Welcome to Sand Harbor, the undisputed gem of Lake Tahoe's shoreline. Famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, expansive sandy beaches, and iconic granite boulders perfect for sunbathing and exploring, this Nevada State Park is a must-visit destination. Spend your day swimming in the refreshing alpine lake, launching a kayak or paddleboard to explore hidden coves, or simply relaxing on the pristine beach with panoramic mountain views. Our platform helps you secure your access and book rentals in advance, ensuring you don't miss out on this slice of paradise, which often reaches capacity early in the day.
Reserve your park entry passes and water sport rentals through our secure platform with instant confirmation. Avoid the disappointment of the park being full on arrival.
We connect you with the highest-rated, pre-vetted local rental companies and tour operators in the Lake Tahoe area, ensuring a top-quality experience.
Read thousands of authentic reviews from travelers who have visited Sand Harbor, helping you plan the perfect day with confidence.
Our platform ensures you get competitive pricing on rentals and activity packages, bundling options to save you money.
Skip the uncertainty. By pre-booking, you guarantee your spot and can plan your day around fun, not waiting in line or searching for parking.
From entry passes to kayak rentals and guided tours, find everything you need for your Sand Harbor adventure in one convenient place.
Summer (June - August) is the most popular season for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Fall (September - October) offers fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and stunning autumn colors in the surrounding mountains. Spring (April - May) is beautiful but the water is exceptionally cold.
Swimsuit and a cover-up|Light layers, as mountain weather can change quickly|A hat, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing|Water shoes are highly recommended for walking on submerged rocks.
The land for Sand Harbor was acquired by the state of Nevada in 1958. Before that, the area was owned by lumber baron Walter Scott Hobart. The park was opened to the public in 1971 and has since become one of the most iconic and beloved parks in the Nevada State Park system.
Cancellation policies vary depending on the booking. Park entry passes are typically non-refundable, while rentals and tours booked through our partners often offer flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Please check the specific policy at the time of booking.
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Real experiences from real travelers
I was absolutely stunned. The pictures don't lie – the water is truly that turquoise. We booked our entry pass online a week before, which was a lifesaver as we saw the 'PARK FULL' sign go up at 9:30 AM. We rented paddleboards through a partner site and spent hours exploring the coves. Worth every penny.
Simply breathtaking. We came from Italy and have seen many beautiful beaches, but Sand Harbor is unique. The mix of pine trees, giant rocks, and clear water is magical. We spent the whole day here. Tip: arrive as soon as the park opens to get a good spot. The booking process was simple and gave us peace of mind.
A very peaceful place, especially in early September when the crowds were smaller. The water was too cold for me to swim, but wading was refreshing. I took many beautiful photographs of the rocks and water. I recommend walking the short nature trail for the best views. Securing a ticket in advance was very convenient.
My family and I had the best day at Sand Harbor. The main beach is perfect for kids, with shallow water and soft sand. We pre-booked a family kayak, and it was the highlight of our trip. The booking platform made it easy to find a reputable rental company. It's popular for a reason - get there early!
Booking my pass online was the smartest move. I drove up from Carson City and bypassed a long line of cars being turned away. The park is impeccably clean, the views are world-class, and the water clarity is something you have to see to believe. I'll be back again and will definitely book ahead.
A beautiful location for a day trip. The water is very, very cold but also very clear. We enjoyed climbing on the big rocks and having a picnic. The parking situation is difficult, so booking a shuttle or arriving at 8am is a must. The scenery is 5-star quality.
Incredible! The water clarity is like nothing I've seen before. We spent the day snorkeling near the rocks and saw some small fish. Booking our entry tickets online was very easy and took away all the stress of trying to get in. A must-do if you are visiting Lake Tahoe.
Made the trip from Down Under and Sand Harbor did not disappoint. It's like our Whitehaven Beach but with mountains and pine trees! We used the online booking portal to reserve paddleboards, and they were waiting for us when we arrived. The whole day was seamless and utterly beautiful. Highly recommend planning ahead!
Everything you need to know for your journey
You can pre-purchase day-use passes online through the Nevada State Parks website or book through partner platforms, which is highly recommended to guarantee entry, especially in summer. On-site payment is available but is subject to capacity limitations.
Yes, Sand Harbor operates on a reservation system during peak season. It is crucial to book your entry pass well in advance online as the park frequently sells out, often days or weeks ahead for popular weekends.
The best time to arrive is before 9:00 AM, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure parking and a good spot on the beach. The park often reaches capacity and closes to new vehicles early in the morning. For photography, the light is best in the morning and late afternoon.
Yes, you can bring your own equipment. There is a designated boat/equipment launch area. If you don't have your own, you can pre-book rentals for kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and other watercraft through our trusted local partners.
Yes, there is a concession stand, Shakespeare's Kitchen, which operates during the summer season offering snacks, light meals, and beverages. However, you are also welcome to bring your own picnic. Glass containers are not permitted.
Pets are only allowed in the park in designated picnic areas and on the off-season Memorial Point and Divers Cove trails. They are strictly prohibited on the main sandy swimming beaches at any time of year.
If you arrive without a pre-booked pass and the park is at capacity, you will be turned away. There is no waiting line. This is why pre-booking your entry pass is so critical for a stress-free visit.
As of 2024, the vehicle entry fee is typically $10 for Nevada residents and $15 for non-Nevada residents. Prices are per vehicle, not per person, and are subject to change. Always check the official Nevada State Parks website for the most current fees.
Yes, the Tahoe Transportation District operates the East Shore Express, a shuttle service that provides a convenient way to get to Sand Harbor without worrying about parking. It's a great option, especially on busy summer days.
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