Kings Beach

Question

Hi everyone, as the date approaches for our trip to Lake Tahoe. We’ve narrowed our beach day to Kings Beach? Any opinions. We plan to go on a Wednesday. Originally wanted sand lot but the reservations were already booked up months ago. Any other recommendations? I heard Richardson is a good option

Answer

Kings Beach is a popular choice for a beach day on Lake Tahoe, and going on a Wednesday is smart as it tends to be less crowded than weekends. The beach has a wide sandy area, easy access to the water, and amenities such as parking, restrooms, and nearby restaurants, making it convenient for a relaxed day.

That said, Kings Beach can feel busy even on weekdays during peak summer season, so arriving earlier in the day is a good idea. The water here is usually calm, which is great for swimming and wading. There’s also the option to rent paddleboards or kayaks if you want some light activity.

Pros of Kings Beach: sandy shoreline, easy access, facilities like restrooms and parking, nearby cafes and shops, calm water suitable for families or relaxing swims.
Cons: can get crowded, especially closer to noon, and parking can fill up quickly even on weekdays.

Richardson Beach (or Richardson Bay State Park area) is another excellent alternative. It’s less crowded, more natural, and has beautiful views. It also offers picnic areas and slightly more privacy. The water may be a bit cooler and rockier in parts, but it’s excellent if you want a quieter beach experience.

Pros of Richardson Beach: quieter and less commercialized, scenic surroundings, picnic spots, good for photography or a more peaceful experience.
Cons: less direct access to nearby dining or shops, and some areas may have rockier shorelines, making swimming less ideal for kids or those preferring sandy bottoms.

Other smaller beaches around the North Shore worth considering if you want to avoid crowds include Sand Harbor (requires early arrival for parking) and Tahoe Vista Recreation Area. Overall, Kings Beach is a solid choice for convenience and amenities, while Richardson Beach is better if your priority is a more tranquil setting.