The largest alpine lake in North America, Lake Tahoe is an alluring freshwater lake with crystal-clear water and gorgeous mountain panoramas. Straddling Nevada and California, it’s a popular tourist attraction with tons of amazing beaches including several hidden beaches (and not just the one literally named Hidden Beach).
If you’re looking to get away from the crowds, there’s a lesser-known hidden beach on the Nevada side that will do the job quite nicely.
Chimney Beach is a small, sandy lakeshore with dreamy views of Lake Tahoe.
This intimate hidden beach is located about two miles south of Sand Harbor State Park.
The beach is named after the stone chimney that sits on the sand.
The chimney is a remnant of a former caretaker's cabin.
You will have to hike about a half-mile to get to Chimney Beach.
Parking is available on both sides of the road near the trailhead down to Chimney Beach, but spots fill up quickly. The trail leads you down from the parking lot before curving down to the shoreline.
We recommend you wear a good pair of walking shoes for the hike to and from this hidden beach. (Don't worry, you won't be wearing them for long).
You'll know you're in the right place once you spot the chimney.
You made it!
Now all that's left to do is kick back, relax and enjoy the water ...
... the views ...
... the sun ...
... and the sandy beach.
Pet owners will be happy to know that Chimney Beach is dog friendly.
Four paws up for Chimney Beach!
If you think Chimney beach is beautiful in the daytime ...
... you just have to check it out at night.
The two photos above were taken at Chimney Beach during the August 2016 Perseids meteor shower. Absolutely breathtaking!
No matter the season or time of day, we're pretty sure you'll have an amazing time.
The only sad part will be saying goodbye.
See you next time!
Chimney Beach is located about six miles south of Incline Village and 2.5 miles south of Sand Harbor, off Highway 28. For a map to this hidden beach, click here.
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