Best LGBTQ+ Beaches in Nevada

Secret Cove Beach is a secluded gem located on the eastern shore of Lake Tahoe, offering a tranquil and picturesque beach experience. The beach is about a quarter-mile long with soft white sand, perfect for sunbathing or building sandcastles. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The beach is also recognized as a clothing-optional site, providing a unique experience for those seeking a liberating sunbathing and swimming environment. Visitors can explore nearby hiking trails or take a boat tour around Lake Tahoe for additional adventure. The beach has limited amenities, so planning ahead is essential.

The journey to Secret Cove involves a 3/4-mile walk from designated parking lots or a more adventurous trek from the south side of Highway 28. Along the way, you may encounter vibrant wildflowers and native wildlife, adding to the charm of the journey. Upon reaching the beach, the reward is the sun-kissed shoreline and the sense of accomplishment and connection with nature.

Secret Cove Beach is a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat. Its unique features and breathtaking views make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Lake Tahoe.

Whale Beach, located on the eastern shore of Lake Tahoe in Nevada, is a picturesque and secluded destination. Known also as Black Sand Beach due to its dark sand, it is situated within the city limits of Carson City. The beach is named after a large rock formation that resembles a sperm whale bursting from the water. It offers stunning views of Lake Tahoe and is a popular spot for watching sunsets. The beach is accessible via a challenging hike from Highway 28 or the Secret Harbor parking area, making it less crowded than other nearby beaches like Sand Harbor.

Whale Beach is renowned for its natural beauty, featuring turquoise water and large granite boulders that provide excellent spots for sunbathing. The beach is a favorite among those seeking a more private experience, with several secluded alcoves along the shoreline. However, it lacks facilities such as picnic tables and campfire pits, emphasizing the need for visitors to bring their own supplies and respect the environment.

Whale Beach is also known for being a nude beach, adding to its unique appeal among visitors looking for a more relaxed and natural experience.

Lake Mead National Recreation Area, located in Moapa Valley, Nevada, is a breathtaking destination offering a mix of water activities and outdoor adventures. Spanning over 820 miles of shoreline, it includes both Lake Mead and Lake Mohave, providing a diverse landscape of soft and rocky sand beaches. The area is a popular spot for swimming, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and hiking. It is situated near the historic Hoover Dam and the scenic Valley of Fire State Park, making it an ideal location for those interested in both natural beauty and historical landmarks.
The recreation area attracts millions of visitors annually, offering a wide range of activities and amenities such as picnic areas, restrooms, and showers. Dogs are allowed on leashes, though there are no lifeguards on duty, so visitors must take appropriate precautions when swimming.
The area's unique blend of desert landscapes and vast water bodies creates a visually stunning environment, perfect for appreciating spectacular scenery and engaging in various outdoor pursuits.

Sand Harbor Beach is a stunning destination located on the northeastern shore of Lake Tahoe in Nevada. It is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The beach offers a variety of activities such as swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. It is also a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts due to its scenic beauty. Sand Harbor hosts several events throughout the year, including the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, which takes place every summer. The festival features performances of Shakespearean plays in an outdoor amphitheater with the lake as the backdrop.

Sand Harbor has a rich history, having been a center for logging operations in the late 19th century. It became part of the Lake Tahoe – Nevada State Park in the late 1960s. The park is open year-round, offering a visitor center, picnic areas, and a concession stand. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails like the Sand Harbor Overlook Trail, which provides panoramic views of the lake.

The beach's popularity can make it challenging to visit during peak periods, but it remains a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Lake Tahoe.

Zephyr Cove Resort Beach, located on the southeast shore of Lake Tahoe, offers a stunning mile-long beach with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The resort is a full-service destination, providing amenities like a restaurant, beach bar and grill, and a general store. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including boating, parasailing, kayaking, and beach volleyball. The resort also offers year-round cruises to Emerald Bay on the M.S. Dixie II paddlewheeler. Managed by Aramark Corp. under a special use permit with the USDA Forest Service, Zephyr Cove is open year-round from sunrise to sunset, making it an ideal spot for both summer and winter activities.
The beach is well-equipped with picnic tables, public bathrooms, and shade areas, ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors. However, it's important to note that dogs are not allowed, and certain items like glass containers and charcoal grills are prohibited to maintain the area's natural beauty.
Zephyr Cove is nestled near other popular spots like Kings Beach and Incline Village, making it a great base for exploring Lake Tahoe's diverse landscapes and attractions.