Lake Tahoe’s Little Kept Secret: Here’s the Skinny on Nude Beaches.

No this isn’t Europe. It’s just the least hidden secret in Tahoe.

For those of you who like to feel the wind in your… well, everywhere, we’ve got the lowdown on the nude beaches in Lake Tahoe. Whether you forgot your trunks, left your bikini back at the hotel, or just prefer to bathe in the buff, we’ve got you covered – or not covered, as the case may be.

Your journey begins on the East Shore, roughly 6 miles north of Highway 50 on Highway 28. Look out for a parking lot on the lakeside, park your ride, and start your adventure southward down a fire road. Here, you’ll have a bunch of turn-offs leading you to your choice of nude beaches.

For a chill day of sun-soaked relaxation, North and South Whale beaches are your ticket. They offer up white sand and a laid-back vibe, though do note, not everyone ditches their swimwear here. Now, if you’re looking to make some naked friends, Secret Harbor Creek Beach is where it’s at. Here, you can engage in everything from clothing-optional grilling (watch out for those hot sparks!) to volleyball and paddleball. Plus, there are three awesome hiking trails for those wanting to be one with nature in the buff.

Secret Cove, also known as Paradise Cove or Paradise Rock, is a top pick for many Tahoe nudists. It’s one of the area’s most chilled-out beaches, with about 90% of beachgoers opting for their birthday suits on any given day.

If North Lake Tahoe is more your scene, start your nude beach hunt from Sand Harbor State Park. Head south just over a mile until you reach a gated Forest Service parking lot on the mountainside of the road. From here, cross the highway, stroll down a sandy path, and within 5 minutes, you’ll land on Chimney Cove’s curving sandy beach, adorned with boulders aplenty. Be warned though, Chimney Beach itself tends to draw in the family and suited swimmer crowd, so it’s probably more of a last resort for the naturists among us.

For the more secluded Hidden Beach, head south on Highway 28 to the Memorial Point Visitors Center parking lot. This spot is about a half-mile north of Sand Harbor. You’ll need to find street parking here, but watch out for those no parking signs – the rangers here don’t mess around! Then, it’s a short walk along the highway until you spot the nude beach over the guard rail. With low water levels, this beach is pure magic, and the sand? Absolutely divine. So strip down, NorCal adventurers, and let that sunshine in!