Chimney Beach
A secluded Lake Tahoe beach on the Nevada side, known for its crystal-clear waters, unique chimney landmark, and rewarding hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm water, fewer crowds
Chimney Beach
Best Time
Calm water, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded Lake Tahoe beach on the Nevada side, known for its crystal-clear waters, unique chimney landmark, and rewarding hike.
"The water was some of the clearest, bluest water in a lake I’ve swam in. Came out refreshed!"
🚗 Parking is Limited
The small lot fills quickly; street parking is an alternative. Arrive early! ,
🥾 Wear Hiking Shoes
The trail is steep and can be slippery; sturdy footwear is a must. ,
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Chimney
Shoreline
The unique, solitary chimney is a remnant of an old cabin and the beach's namesake.
Crystal Clear Waters
Lake Tahoe
Swim in some of the clearest, bluest lake water you'll ever experience. ,
Rocky Coves
South of the main beach
Discover secluded rocky areas perfect for relaxing or even jumping off into the water. ,
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Arrive Early
The Hike In & Out
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is Limited
The small lot fills quickly; street parking is an alternative. Arrive early!,
🥾 Wear Hiking Shoes
The trail is steep and can be slippery; sturdy footwear is a must.,
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends! Chimney Beach is a great spot for dogs.,
📱 Be Phone-Aware
Waves can be strong; be cautious with your phone near the water.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is Limited
The small lot fills quickly; street parking is an alternative. Arrive early!,
🥾 Wear Hiking Shoes
The trail is steep and can be slippery; sturdy footwear is a must.,
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends! Chimney Beach is a great spot for dogs.,
📱 Be Phone-Aware
Waves can be strong; be cautious with your phone near the water.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
There are no facilities, so bring everything you need for the day.
🚫 Leave No Trace
Help keep this beautiful spot clean by packing out all trash.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Chimney Beach's stunningly clear blue water and unique chimney landmark, calling it a 'hidden gem' and a 'happy place.' The hike down is manageable, but the climb back up is a workout. While parking is limited, the serene atmosphere and natural beauty make it a worthwhile destination for relaxation and swimming.,
"A bit of a hike but that keeps it uncrowded. Nice place to relax in the sun and swim in the crystal clear water. Sandy shores make it easy getting in and out of the water. Trees close by for hammocks."
Don Bergan
"This is the spot. Had the most relaxing time here! Came in thinking I was just going to spend a small amount of time and ended up spending a few hours. The parking lot is small but there’s a bunch of parking spaces along the road. The hike down is not bad nor long but the hike back up does get your heart pumping for a bit. The water was some of the clearest, bluest water in a lake I’ve swam in. Came out refreshed!"
Willie Ruiz
"I grew up in Reno, Nv. I have been coming to Chimney Beach my entire life. It’s such a wonderful place. Great work out with the hike in/out. The rocks are perfectly situated so you can swim to them. Some people jump off of the rocks too. It’s just a great place! Not a nude beach fyi. Family oriented! Great place for the doggies too. Everyone is laid back, CB is such a vibe!"
Angela Starr•Bluestarr8 Fullmer-Oguz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chimney Beach is located on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe. You can use 'Chimney Beach' in your GPS. Parking is available in a small lot or along the street. From the parking area, a moderate, steep trail leads down to the beach.,,
Yes, there is a small parking lot, but it fills up very quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Many visitors park along the side of the road. Arriving early is highly recommended.,
The hike down to Chimney Beach is described as moderate and steep, while the hike back up is more challenging and will get your heart pumping. It's about a half-mile one way.,
Yes, Chimney Beach is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for families with pets.,
No, Chimney Beach is generally considered a family-oriented beach and not a nude beach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Chimney Beach does not have an entrance fee. It's a free public access beach.
Chimney Beach is accessible during daylight hours. There are no official operating hours, but it's best to visit during daylight for safety and enjoyment.
No advance booking is required as there is no entrance fee. However, due to limited parking, arriving early is crucial.
There are no facilities such as restrooms or concessions at Chimney Beach. Visitors should come prepared with everything they need.
To avoid crowds, aim for early mornings, especially on weekdays. The hike down also deters some visitors, making it less crowded than other Tahoe beaches.,
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Visitors can swim in the crystal-clear water, relax on the sandy shores, explore rocky coves, sunbathe, and enjoy the scenic views. It's also a great spot for dogs.,
Lake Tahoe water is known to be cold year-round, but it's refreshing on a hot summer day.
Bring essentials like sunscreen, water, snacks, towels, swimwear, and sturdy hiking shoes. Consider a hammock for the nearby trees.,
Absolutely! The unique chimney, the clear blue water, rocky formations, and stunning lake views offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.,
Yes, Chimney Beach is family-friendly and dog-friendly. The sandy shores and clear water are great for kids, though the hike requires some effort.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings offer calm water and soft light, while late afternoons and sunsets provide dramatic colors and long shadows. The iconic chimney is a great subject any time of day.,
The combination of the unique chimney landmark, the incredibly clear and blue water of Lake Tahoe, and the surrounding natural beauty makes it highly photogenic.,
The chimney itself is a must-capture. Also, explore the rocky coves to the south for unique perspectives and compositions with the lake.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake views. A polarizing filter can enhance the water's color and reduce glare.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check current FAA and local park rules before flying a drone in the Lake Tahoe area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a fantastic spot for a picnic, but be sure to pack all your food and drinks as there are no facilities. The dog-friendly nature of the beach also means families can bring their furry companions along for the adventure. The unique chimney adds an element of discovery for curious young minds.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Pack your hiking boots and enjoy the scenic route. The surrounding environment offers opportunities for exploration beyond the immediate beach area. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the pristine condition of this natural gem.
🐶 Dog Owners
Just ensure your dog is leashed when necessary and always clean up after them. The hike down and back up is manageable for most dogs, but keep an eye on their energy levels, especially on hot days. It's a great way to ensure your entire family, including the four-legged members, has a memorable time.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Chimney and Its History
Many visitors are drawn to the story behind the chimney, imagining the lives of those who once inhabited the now-vanished cabin. It stands as a solitary sentinel against the vastness of Lake Tahoe, creating a striking contrast that photographers and nature lovers alike find captivating. The chimney's presence transforms a beautiful beach into a place with a narrative, inviting contemplation and discovery.
Navigating the Chimney Beach Trail
The climb back up can be a good workout, so be prepared for a bit of exertion. Bringing water is essential, especially on warmer days. While the trail is generally well-trodden, it's not always clearly marked, so paying attention to your surroundings is helpful. The effort is well worth it, as the reward is a secluded beach with stunning views and crystal-clear waters.,
Experiencing the Waters of Lake Tahoe
Despite the chill, swimming is a popular activity. The sandy shores make for easy entry, and the rocky outcrops provide opportunities for those seeking a bit more adventure. The calm conditions, particularly in the early morning, make it ideal for a refreshing dip and enjoying the pristine environment.,
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit