Cool off with a family-friendly day at Kings Beach on Lake Tahoe
Kings Beach, Calif. – South Placer County's summer heat is notoriously scorching on many days. When the mercury pushes into the triple digits, residents head for relief either to the California coast or Sierra Nevada mountains.
If your budget or time is tight this summer, staying cool in Placer County is as simple as a quick drive up the hill to North Lake Tahoe. Pack up the buggy for the less than 2-hour drive to Kings Beach at Lake Tahoe. Naturally, weekdays are best to avoid crowds if you can swing it.
Parking is $10 per vehicle and fills very quickly on hot days. Side streets offer free options and a short walk.
Kings Beach State Recreation Area in Placer County provides a spacious beach, sweeping mountain vistas on the cool waters of super-scenic Lake Tahoe. Pack the cooler, grab your beach chair and definitely be sure to bring plenty of sun block. Our overly tanned skin learned that lesson the hard way. Also, don't forget good footwear as entering the Lake is very rocky, before it gives way to super soft and comfortable sand.
Popular with families
One of the great features of Kings Beach is the shallow shelf which extends surprisingly far out from the shoreline. It's warmer than most of the lake and ideal for those with small children. We plopped our beach chairs at the water's edge and settled in for a day of fun.
Enjoying a day at Kings Beach doesn't have to break the bank and can be as affordable as the price of gas and a well-stocked cooler.
Water Play
Kayak and paddleboard rentals are also available without ever leaving the beach. Expect to pay a premium for the convenience with prices higher compared to other locations we've visited around the lake.
WhiteCaps Pizza
If you don't mind spending a few bucks, there are plenty of spots within easy walking distance where you can grab a casual bite to eat or cold drink. WhiteCaps Pizza is just off the beach and offers a wide selection of tasty bites and brews with a view. Consider heading upstairs to belly up at the bar with a view of the lake and lively conversation with the locals. A solid on tap beer selection included some craft brew classics such as Pliny the Elder, Deschutes Pilsner and local faves from Knee Deep Brewing in Auburn.
Staying cool in Placer County is not only fun, it can be easier, closer and more affordable than you think.
Kings Beach | Quick Go Guide
- Beach chairs & hat
- Cooler
- Sunscreen and Towel
- Change of clothes
- Good water shoes (Before giving way to soft sand, entering the lake is rocky and painful for those unprepared)
For more details on Kings Beach State Recreation Area, check out http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=511