Pope Beach

This is the trail near the entrance to Pop Beach. The entrance to Pop Beach was tightly closed because it snowed so much. All the beaches in this area were blocked, so I couldn't leave because I couldn't go in and see the pretty beach. In the meantime, I saw a trail that was neatly maintained, so I walked for a while. (Tahoe's ability to clear snow is truly amazing.) Although I don't think I went to Pop Beach, the scenery around it is so beautiful that I share it here.

Love this place! We went on a Friday and there was almost no one there. It didn't feel busy until almost 1pm. There are picnic tables and 6 bathrooms spread almost a mile of beach. The pine trees behind the beach provide some shade. Almost all the beach has super close parking. The beach is sandy and so is the water. The wind blows from behind the beach so byour not being bombarded by wind the entire day. I've been to King's Beach and Sand harbor beach and I feel like this is my favorite. It's way less crowded and you don't have to haul your stuff for ever to get to a spot. This beach is definitely worth the extra drive time.

The best spot to relax in the shade and enjoy the lake and mountain!!! Friendly beach for kids

Here’s what Pope Beach looks like in the winter😍 It’s worth it though🙌🏽 You have to pay for parking during the season but there are a handful of parking spots on the street if you don’t mind walking .25 mile, carrying all your stuff. There are picnic benches, tree shade, and plenty of parking inside. I imagine this is a very popular place during the summer….

Very awesome beach. Lots of fun and amazing.

Very nice beach. Good sand and lots of it. Very popular. So it's crowded.

Beautiful Tahoe views. Nice beach with some shade, picnic benches, clean bathrooms. Lots of people but we were still able to physical distance 6 feet. Arrived around noon on Fourth of July weekend and there is still parking in the back lot. However the sand is very coarse and my feet were raw from extreme exfoliation after walking for 40 minutes.

Very nice and calm beach with lots of room to play football, volleyball or just throw a Frisbee around. It's a start beach so it cost $10 dollars per car to get in.

So good to be back in the old neighborhood. Quality/Quantity - Nice easy bike ride from the old neighborhood. We prefer the paid beaches as there are less people. Not too crowded today. Everyone on the beach seemed to be having a good time. Atmosphere - Cut and pasted from their website: "Pope Beach is located on National Forest land and is approximately three-quarter miles long with a sandy beach, excellent swimming and picnicking opportunities and incredible views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra Nevada. Kayak rentals and a food concession are available on site." Accessibility. Food Concessions. Paddleboard/Kayak Rentals. Parking/Day-use Fee ($10 per vehicle) . Picnic Tables. Public Bathrooms - No soap or paper towels... Public Transit Nearby. Shade Available. Watertrail Trailhead. Grills = Gas only to reduce fires. Swim = Cold waters. No dogs allowed. Fishing = Need license, CA or NV. Service - N/A. Price - Free for us as we rode our bikes to the beach. Owner Comments - Thank you Forest Service for maintaining this beach.

Such a nice beach. We got here around 9 and it was already getting busy. It does cost $10 to get in but it's totally worth it since the parking lot is near the beach. Lots of trees for possible shade. Bathroom was near the parking lot as well. Water was chilly but not bad. The sand was a bit rocky so it did hurt when the sand scraped my skin. As we were leaving there were so many cars parked along the road outside the entrance so I would recommend getting there early.

We went here on a Saturday morning in July. It's $10 to get in they accept cash and cards. We arrived at 8:27am and their was already a line to get in. The parking is right next to the lake so theirs no long walk. We got a nice parking spot and a great place to sit. If you're coming on the weekend, I'd definitely get their as soon as they open at 8 am. Especially if you want to secure a nice spot or have a big group. The lake was so pristine! The water was beautiful and clear. The pictures dont do it justice. Even when your swimming deep in the lake you could see all the way down to your feet. The water wasn't too cold, at least not as cold as half moon bay ocean water. Their are trees close to the lake if you want to sit in a more shady area. The restrooms were single restrooms so their was always a line to use it. They had Kyak Rentals for about $150 for all day. They don't allow charcoal BBQ but they do allow propane grills. I've been to four lake locations in Tahoe, and this has to be my new favorite spot. I'd definitely recommend checking it out.

There are so many beaches in the area, it was hard to choose where to spend our Sunday afternoon this past weekend. I'm glad we chose this spot, as it gave us the option of sitting under the shade of the many pine trees lining the beach, with picnic benches scattered throughout as well, or to lay our mat on the soft and smooth sand under the warmth of the sunshine (ideal for this day with such confused weather). We basked in the sun, relaxing and admiring the scenery as well as the many geese waddling around on the sand, sometimes getting up close to beachgoers, but also minding their own business. The view of the clear blue-green water with the snow-capped mountains in the background was mesmerizing, and my bf went swimming in the lake and noted the pleasant temperature of the water as well. Kayak rentals were available on the beach, and lots of boats could be seen in the water (kayaks, motorboats, and even sailboats in the distance). The $10 parking fee was totally worth the convenience of parking right along the beach, and the day parking pass can also be used at other nearby beaches. With so much space, plenty of shade, and other amenities, this is a pretty ideal beach for families, couples, or anyone (except dogs, cuz they're not allowed here).

Nice uncrowded beach on a weekday, unsure how it would be on the weekend. I would highly recommend going down beyond the "roundabout" for less populated areas. If you claim one of the picnic tables underneath the pine trees, expect a bunch of baby spiders to be dropping on you. lol!

One of my favorite beaches in South Lake Tahoe. Bathrooms are clean, the beach itself is clean. Love how the parking lot is literally right by the beach so you don't have to walk so far when taking all your beach items with you. Parking is $10 per vehicle. No pets allowed. You are allowed to bring your own mini bbq grills. Tip: make sure to get there early. I believe they open at 8am. I got there at 7:30am and a line was forming at the gate entrance.

Great way to relax! tree lined beach. clean sparkling water and refreshing view! Kayak welcome.

There are signs to get here from the main road. We paid $10 for parking. There are lots of picnic tables if you don't want to sit on the sand. The water is clear. You share your swimming experience with ducks and wild birds. There are shady parts where there are trees. There is a public restroom. Great views and serene atmosphere.

Beautiful Long Beach with parking along the beach. Shade bathrooms and nice environment. Only thing is there are a lot of twigs and things in the sand to poke your feet but that's nature with all the pine trees around. Close to shore easy walking not close need sandals.

Went to swim in the water, and it did not disappoint I was able to find a parking spot with ease after 4pm as well as a spot on a bench. Bring sandals for the bathrooms, they get wet and sandy. Did not see any showers, but not an issue for us. Will definitely come back again!

Water is so nice heree, it is clear and has light waves unlike some other beaches that has stronger waves. It also doesnt have rocks and is JUST sand so it IS swimmable. Do come early if you want parking and a spot on the beach like around 10am. There arent many tables but you can always sit on the sand so dont forget to bring towels and blankets. When I came here they also had a kayaking booth where people can rent some for an hour or two. Overall, one of the best beaches in lake tahoe.

After reading some online reviews I was hesitant to visit this beach but decided to give it a go on our last night in Lake Tahoe. We were pleasantly surprised at the beauty of this area and while we did visit it in what may be considered the off season (mid September) there were still folks swimming and it was just mesmerizing watching the water and hearing the small waves crash on the shoreline. I will definitely visit this beach again on future Tahoe trips and would love to spend a whole day here just enjoying the beauty. There are restrooms located along the beach and plenty of picnic tables as well. The cost was $10 per vehicle, and there was a 7pm closing time when we visited.

This place is beautiful. $10 per vehicle. Pope Beach. Everyone stayed their 6 feet apart, due to COVID19. People were friendly. We ran into 1 Karen on the beach, but ignored her. She's not worth our time ruining our vacation. Sand is soft, but has pieces of pine cones that pokes your feet. It hurts. Pros: 1) There's paddle board, kayak, etc rentals here. I believe it was $30/hr. 2) Trees everywhere for shade. We still used our umbrella for shade as the sun sets. 3) sand is soft. 4) bathrooms were close by. 5) parking close by. 6) water clear and cold. But your body adjusts to it once you get in. 7) the cool breeze feels good. Cons: 1) the pieces of pine cone in the sand can hurt your feet while walking. 2) the ducks are not afraid of you. They'll try to come right up to you to look for food. I must say, I like this beach. It's nice for a mini vacation get away to de-stress.

Water is very clear but cold. We went on a weekday but Kayak rentals were closed. I guess they are there only on weekends. Pros :- - The beach is very close to the parking lot - only about 0.4 miles. - There were even picnic tables and clean bathrooms. - There are trees everywhere for shade No cons as such. But you have to pay $10 an hour for parking. A very clean beach and less crowded. Must go. And lots and lots of ducks so kids will love it.

Great beach, perfect for us and our toddler. We got here at around 9am and the beach was pretty empty. Most people started to get here at around noon. Beware we did have a bear encounter!

Great beach, more space than Zephur Cove. Loved getting the gentle waves from the boats passing by! The shallow end goes so far out, i love it, it makes me feel at ease giving my 4 year old a little more freedom to play!

I've been to this beach years ago with a friend. Remembered this spot and had to bring my boyfriend and it was super quiet. Not too many people. When we arrived the parking lot was pretty empty. By the time we left around like two the parking lot was starting to fill up.

Get here early or if will sell out. The beach is beautiful (and so is the view of the lake and surrounding mountains, including Mt. Tallac), but keep in mind that the $10/vehicle you're paying to access the parking lot give you just that: access. Restrooms are dirty, no fountains to rinse, trash is visible on the beach. It's a great beach for toddlers, as it's probably the shallowest place in the lake.

our fav spot in the summer, except on the 4th of july because it's too busy. plenty of real bathrooms, a safe swim zone and trees for shade. no doggos allowed. sometimes we take take a walk to visit in the winter too

Pros: ample bathrooms. Bring your own soap/antibacterial/wet naps though! And toilet seat covers, unless you can pop a squat you good! If you got kiddos, toilet seat covers! The sand is pretty close to the lake and parking lot, so you won't have to walk far from the parking lot. And you get a close view of the lake without a lot of people blocking your view. The texture of the sand is grainy, so don't expect soft powdery sand. The water is clear. I can see my toes in the water. The water was cold during my visit. Cons: Parking is $8 (cheaper than round hill beach). It is a family type lake. With that, you have kids running around making alot of noises while you try to nap. If you decide to pick a spot near the bathroom, it's a good thing BUT expect the doors to be constantly shutting.

This beach was incredible. We got there early in the morning, around 9, and had the entire beach almost to ourselves for hours. Even at the peak time (around 1pm), it wasn't too crowded where it was unenjoyable. The lot did get full though, so if you go later in the day you'll likely need to plan on parking further away. For us, we got there early enough to park right at the front.

Drove all the way out from the bay area not knowing what to expect, when i got there the lady upfront was super nice and friendly she made me feel welcomed. Drove out to the beach parking lot area and it was conveniently close to the shore. There are picnic tables there but they are first come first serve so if you go later in the day make sure to pack your own. Would recommend 10/10 the water is nice and cold with gives you a relaxed atmosphere.

Good beach for kids. It's shallow and not covered in rocks like it is near Camp Richardson Marina just down the street. The day pass is $10 per car and the woman in the booth was very friendly both times we visited. The parking lot is a good size and close by. There are picnic benches on the sand, some decent shade trees, and multiple bathrooms along the beach. I wish there were foot hoses to rinse off but I didn't see any. The water is clear and chilly though you get used to it pretty quickly. Our sand castle was destroyed by a flock of geese chasing a goose with a tortilla but the memory was worth the repairs.

The first time I came to Pope beach I was unhappy. The water was murky and it had a strange smell. The beach was extremely overcrowded and I was unhappy. My cousin raves about it so I thought I would give it a second shot. I did and wow what a different experience. First of all I went on a week day. There were few families out and so much space to walk around; the water was clear but cold. The kids enjoyed themselves and I was relaxed. Kayak rentals only open during the weekends so plan on getting rentals outside the beach if you plan to go week days

Pretty good beach. Has lots of parking. As long as you get here before 10am, parking shouldn't be a problem. It's also a convenient distance from the beach to unload and load your stuff. It's the first weekend of September and there's still quite a lot of people. The water isn't too cold at all. Love that there are trees to provide plenty of shade. There are a lot of tables so as long as you get here before 10am, you should be able to get one. Bathrooms are nice and clean! The weather during this time is a little chili here as there are some wind.

We have been visiting this beach for many years. Now they have $10 per car fee and don't provide half off with senior parks card as they use to. No toilet paper in the bathroom that you would expect for $10 entrance fee

It cost $10 to park (CASH ONLY). You might want to get their early. We got there around 9:30am and as we were leaving at about 1:00 they closed the entrance. People were parking on the street and walking up, which was pretty far. They have bathrooms, which were clean. The beach was beautiful and the view was amazing. The water was really cold. There was so many geese. You can't have food out at all. The geese come up to anyone with food.

Enjoyed our afternoon here. Overall, way more positives than negatives. Upside- Found parking easily, gorgeous water, beaches were pretty clean, public restrooms, and pleasant people along the beaches. Downsides- pretty crowded, $10 for parking, no dogs aloud. We would visit this beach again.

We were in the area and wanted to check out a beach. We saw some good and bad reviews of the beaches in the local park we were visiting and we chose to go to pope. Let me tell you make sure you get there early because they are campers and Travelers all over this area and it was super busy and some of the lights you were trying to park in were packed and clothes before you can even get there even if you got there mid morning, so plan to stay the night. Can't bear or get there super early and get set up. It was a pretty crowded beach and I can tell you the sand was kind of dirty well actually it was really dirty we were told parts of pole beach is really clean and parts of it is filled with dirt and trash. That's kind of sat over the years because the lack of cleanup. However, we did enjoy the water was not as blue as Tahoe. It said to be but the kids had a little bit of fun, so that was fine however, make sure you get there early get super crowded. Make sure you bring something you don't mind getting it dirty because the dirt from the sand in the water can ruin whatever you bring with you and maybe try to head down to the more resort side of pope beach near the hotel, and restaurants versus at the end by the homes that people run out to people however, there's lots of beaches in the area you can check out and there is plenty of beach for you to park and relax and enjoy yourself and have fun with your family or just you and the kids or yourself

There was a beach within walking distance of our house but my older brother suggested this beach instead. At first, I was finally lazy because we had 7 adults and 5 kids to bring with us - so, naturally it would be easier to walk 2 mins across than to pack up into 3 separate cars. 100% glad we went to pope beach! There is an entrance that includes a parking fee of $8; some wrote $5 on their yelp review. I'm not too sure myself but the actual website indicates a few of $8. There is also parking along the main road if you're lucky to find it. All three of our drivers found street parking which is way im not too certain on the parking fee. We heading over to the beach at 11am (16 mins away) on a Saturday and there was heavy traffic towards that directions Know that you will have to walk about 10 -15 mins from the road to the beach; so, if you have a ton of things to bring i would recommend a pushing cart. Going anywhere with 12 people is hard. Especially when there are four kids under the age of 6, we have to consider multiple factors to make the time spent more valuable. Three reasons make this beach perfect: (1) decent amount of space. (2) the water was quite clean. (3) plenty of shade from trees. (1) we were worried the beach would be packed because the weather was about 83 degrees. But luckily we found a spot under two trees and the family next to us happened to be leaving at the same time so there was PLENTY of space for us to settle on the beach. (2) the lake water was clear. That is, I could still see my feet visibly as i walked into the water. It makes me feel better going into water when i can see through it. The main thing i will say is there is a lot of tree bark in the water and on the sand. this is definitely not like a hawaii beach where the sand is soft. You might have to wear footwear. For kids, I highly recommend scandals. (3) another great thing about this beach is the amount of trees. So many trees that provide natural shade! For 2/3rds of the day there, the trees helped a lot but as the sun shifted we had to set up covering or we would feel the sun rays hit us. Highly advise visiting this beach. I can't speak for how crowded it can get but the time I had spent there was perfect.

Very nice beach, family friendly, especially for little ones but no dogs allowed. Have to pay for parking but biking and walk ins are free. Friendly on feet lots of sand, not many rocks on shore. Location can get a bit crowded but still has a private beach feel.

Nice beach and you have to come early to save a table. There's also rental for Kayak and Paddleboards. Will be back again.

Love this beach spent a few days close by and made sure we went a couple times to this beach it is pretty calm and not to crowded during the week but on the weekends it can definitely get packed so make sure you arrive early with your beach set up to enjoy the beautiful waters and fresh crisp air. Definitely going in the spring and summer months to follow.

Love this beach! Family friendly and absolutely gorgeous. Can't wait to come back to this beautiful spot. The farther you drive the better the views, and it's also less crowded.

After hiking at Eagle Falls, we decided to come to the beach. The beach had a good amount of shade for us to lay our towels down and just lounge around. The first thing I noticed is the water. There were these yellowish things in the water which later on I found out was pollen. People can be allergic to pollen and will irritate their skin. I also noticed how hard it was to step bare footed in the sand/wood chips it felt like. Every step I took barefoot I couldn't stand because it would hurt my feet. So I suggest people to wear water shoes or sandals at all times. I came here on a Saturday and the line for parking was crazy!! We park on the outside, sidewalk and walk all the way inside to the beach. It was sort of a far walk with cheap sandals I had bought from Kmart because I left my sandals (gave me blisters) at home by accident! Would I come back to this beach? Probably not.. just because when I think of beach I think of soft sand while stepping barefoot.

We went to this beach on a Sunday, day after the 4th of July. We arrived around 10am and there was plenty of parking and room on the beach. Beach was great and there are bathrooms available. By noon the place got really packed. Lake water was pretty crisp but you are able to get in and swim around. Awesome time!

Nice little beach parking is $10 but right at the beach. There are kayak and board rentals available. Also picnic tables and BBQ grills.

Nice clean beach. Not the best in Tahoe, but definitely a great place to spend the day. Nice sandy beach, blue waters, and the wonderful Tahoe mountains on the horizons to feast your eyes. Some drawbacks: -it gets crowded, especially in summer weekends -Ducks, geese, and gulls are aggressive -Some Yellowjackets may invited themselves to your picnic Parking is $8 but arrive early to secure a spot. Hint: the beach is only 30 min walk, or 10 bike ride from the last street in town (west way). Make it a nice family stroll or bike to the beach.

This beach is nice - all sand, no rocks, including in the water. It's a smaller beach, so make sure you go early. Parking is $10 - Cash only. You can walk in, but it's a bit of a trek with all of your beach stuff, plus there is not sidewalk. If you're driving in, keep an eye out for pedestrians on the road! Overall, great beach! We will be back!

We had the wrong pass to get into federal beaches. We figured that out at a previous beach, but we were allowed to drive around to check it out to see if we wanted to pay the fee and come back tomorrow. At this beach, the worker rudely told us we could not drive around and check out the beach. She flat out told us "well I'm not the other lady, you can't drive here". RUDE LADY

Pope Beach is located on the south shore of beautiful Lake Tahoe. This quiet beach location is nestled among native pine trees. Parking lot runs along the beach so there are no long walks and easy access to vehicles. Pope Beach is a National Forest day use area operated by private concessionaire, California Land Management. There are restrooms, picnic tables, and standing BBQs. BBQ use is sometimes limited if fire danger is high, so don't count on them unless you call ahead. Lots of shade within 30 feet of shore. Camp chairs are great since the sand has a lot of tree debris. Summers are typically warm and dry in Lake Tahoe, though nighttime temperatures can be cold and afternoon thundershowers often build over the mountains. Snow is possible during any month of the year. Be prepared for changeable weather and bring clothing that will keep you warm and dry. Directions: Pope Beach is located on the south side of Lake Tahoe, approximately 3 miles north of the "Y" (the intersection of Highway 50 and Highway 89) in South Lake Tahoe. Location Latitude :38.9371 Longitude :-120.0309 Elevation :6229 Parking: $7/car No pets allowed

.... Very nice beach , thinking this is one of the best that Sierra Nevada can offer ... thank you to the State for saving it for people ...... The other subject is the staff ..... completely rude , arrogant.... want even listen and get to any of details ... or is it becoming a very busy visiting spot and they start to get tired of people ??? ... been coming to the place for 20 years ... Never had issues until late few years ... one day came on 2 vehicles ( paid and parked ) , few hours later - needed to go to the nearest store , tried to save the parking place .... 30 min later , a stuff member comes to the parking lot - not even said hi or anything - just start yelling right away - move or get towed .... all shaking , yelling ..... ...... of course I tried to explain the curation in a nice way ... - total ignorance !! " YOU DONT SAVE SPOTS !!!! " - yells again .... What kind of people we become ???? ... on the other hand I would suggest to number each spot and if you paid for the whole day - reserve it , not a hard procedure after all or you have to be " chained " like a dog and yelled at ???

I've been lazy and haven't wrote a review about this spot until now!This beach probably is the most popular spot for day use on south lake,it's really perfect in almost ever way!water is beautiful,beach is great probably a mile long if not longer,plenty of room (until there large parking lot gets full) then they close the entrance where you would drive in.There is so much information I could give you as we have been coming here with our 3 kids for many years.Gates open at 8:00 cost is 10.00 dollars per car load,get here early as this place fills up fairly quick on the weekends especially.I believe if you bring in your own kayaks it's free or any other water toys you may have,blow ups,paddle boards etc.they have kayaks and paddle boards there to rent by the hour.Restrooms are spread out up and down the beach.You can bring bbqs (propane only no charcoal)it's very family friendly unless you have a close neighbor cranking up loud obnoxious music so everyone can hear.The staff here have been nothing but nice to me and my wife over the years.It's a very clean beach,we all need to do our small part in taking out everything we bring there,dumpsters available in parking lot at different points to dump all our garbage in.Just remember go early!

Pros: Very easy to access off the freeway, good amount of space, clean sand, kayak rentals ($35 for a two-person kayak for one hour), stand-up paddle board rentals Cons: Not as pretty as Emerald Bay or Zephyr's Cove, no dogs allowed, the lady who gave parking permits ($8 on usual days) asked if we had inflatables (we did and they were brand new, never been used, but the way she asked makes me think you can only use brand new inflatables), lots of birds, the (co-ed) bathrooms had no soap and were super gross

Great place to experience Lake Tahoe. Long line to wait to get in but an excellent experience. The beach is shaded by pines and the water is cool and so clear, clean and cook. Definitely one of our favorite beaches so far to date.

This was a great spot. We left Stockton Ca at 5:30am got there at 8:02am. Was behind two cars. $10 Cash Only. It was empty a dbeautiful. The water was crystal clear, but cold.Ducks everywhere..make sure you cover your foods. Tables and restroom are close to the beach. 11:00am -200pm was overcrowed.Get there before 9:00am if you want a table. We will go back before the summer is over.

Beautiful family friendly place. They have picnic tables, only allow propane grills. Get there early, to get a good table near shade. We took advantage and used up the kayak and paddle board rental located on the beach. We will definitely come back again and again! You get such a beautiful view of the lake!

Great beach that I've been coming to since I was a kid. It's actually pretty long, so easy to find a secluded spot. Picnic tables and grills are scattered about, so there's always somewhere to call home. What's nice is that you don't have to walk to far to get to your car. Restrooms were also REMARKABLY clean - and I'm picky! Probably since you have to pay to get it. Worth every penny. My last trip we walked over to Beacon Bar & Grill at Camp Richardson from Pope Beach. A nice short walk. Give it a try!

Came here ($10) and it's a okay beach. I honestly came here because I was tired from Mt/ Tallac and really didn't want to go too far after I got something to eat. I hung out here and watched the sunset. The parking lot is fairly huge and the beach is really wide and there are kayaks available to rent ! The only problem is you'll have to come in the morning/early afternoon because they don't rent out after 4PM. This is a okay beach and for the price it's decent. There are also Geese here which run in groups, I call them the Gang dem Geese. They will fight you and you better be afraid, really afraid!