Sunday, August 24, 2014

Best Beaches In Tahoe - Pope Beach

Pope Beach – (Southwest corner of Tahoe)
Parking – Plenty, but always a good idea to get there early!
Fee - $8 per vehicle
Dogs – Sorry, not allowed, not even in vehicles!
Boat Launch – No, unless your boat is a kayak, paddleboard, or canoe that you can carry to the water. (Remember to get your boat inspection.) You can also rent a kayak or paddleboard during much of the season here. Give them a call for schedule.



One of the greatest beaches in Tahoe is only a short distance from the "Y" intersection in South Lake Tahoe where Hwy 89 (Emerald Bay Road) goes north from Hwy 50. Turn north at the Y and drive 2 miles toward Emerald Bay.




 Look for the sign.




Pope Beach is huge, and although very popular, we stopped by on a weekday morning in August and the place was almost empty!




There are many picnic tables and barbecues.



You will see some waterfowl, and the lake and mountain scenery is in the Wow range.



The parking lot accommodates many cars, so even during the height of the season, you'll find a place if you get there early.




Another great benefit for a day at the beach is plenty of restroom facilities.





Note that these pictures show the beach when Tahoe's water level is low. After a big-snow winter, Tahoe's level goes up six feet, and the beach becomes quite a bit narrower!

Bring your hat and sunscreen and sunglasses, and have fun!

2 comments:

  1. Camp Rich was very crowded this year so we ventured over to Popes Beach and LOVED it!! Deeper water to swim, easier parking, less crowded.... and this was in JULY!! We took our kayaks and it was a very short walk from car to water. We'll be going back to Popes next year for sure! Also great little food truck there too:)

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    Replies
    1. Thanks, Baker Family!
      Yes, you can park closer to the water at Pope Beach than most places on Lake Tahoe. Great for bringing your kayak! Pope is definitely one of the greatest beaches on the lake!
      Todd

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