Placer County Park of the Month: The Beaches of North Lake Tahoe
Long before vacationers came to bask on its sandy shores, Lake Tahoe was revered by the Washoe Tribe as Da ow a ga—meaning “big water” or “water in a high place.” For countless generations, the Washoe people gathered along these clear alpine waters to fish, hold ceremonies and sustain their way of life.
Today, we are honored to share this special place with visitors and residents alike, and we invite you to explore some of the stunning public beaches that call Placer County home.
While Lake Tahoe’s shoreline hosts many public and private beaches, each offers its unique way to experience the lake’s beauty.
Commons Beach - Tahoe City
Welcome to Commons Beach. This lively lakefront park is perfect for family fun. Soak up the sun, splash in the shallows, or spread out a picnic with views of the Sierra Nevada peaks. Throughout summer, enjoy free concerts by local bands at the amphitheater—there’s truly something here for everyone.
Amenities: Sandy beach and open space, amphitheater and concerts, playground, restrooms, Zagster bike rentals and lakeside paved walking/bike path connecting to Dollar Point.
Location: 280 N Lake Boulevard, Tahoe City.
Hours: Half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset.
Parking: There is parking available at lake level, near Mackinaw and on the street.
Moon Dunes Beach - Tahoe Vista
Located along Tahoe’s northern shore, Moon Dunes Beach is the finest white sand beach in Lake Tahoe. Take in panoramic lake views, sunbathe on the warm sand or wade into the inviting shallows.
Amenities: swimming, Sunbathing and street parking.
Location: 7456 N Lake Boulevard, Tahoe Vista.
Hours: The beach is open from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset.
Secline Beach - Kings Beach
This quiet spot is perfect for a swim, a scenic lunch or simply relaxing in the sun. Surrounded by natural beauty, Secline Beach feels like your own little Tahoe escape.
Amenities: Swimming, shade, sunbathing and picnic tables.
Location: 141 Secline Street, Kings Beach.
Hours: The beach is open from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset.
Speedboat Beach - Kings Beach
A local favorite, Speedboat Beach is known for its soft sand and clear shallows, perfect for swimming and kayaking.
Limited parking makes it feel like a hidden gem, so arrive early to claim your spot.
Amenities: Interactive murals, restrooms, outdoor shower, swimming and sunbathing.
Location: Lake Street, Kings Beach.
Hours: The beach is open from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset.
Let's Work Together to Keep North Lake Tahoe Beautiful and Safe
Officials from the Placer County Sheriff’s Office and Placer County want to remind tourists and residents throughout the Lake Tahoe Basin to follow the county’s beach ordinances this summer.
From Tahoe City to Kings Beach, the following rules apply to locals and tourists alike: No dogs allowed on the beach or in the water, no glass containers, no littering, no smoking, fires or BBQ's, alcohol is prohibited at most county beaches and reminder to stay safe; many beaches do not have a lifeguard on duty.
Ready to discover Lake Tahoe’s public treasures?
Learn more about Placer County parks at placer.ca.gov/parks and plan your perfect beach day in the high country.