Kiva Beach

Kiva Beach is the shoreline at the Forest Service's Kiva Picnic Area on Lake Tahoe's south shore. It sits along Highway 89 about three miles from the City of South Lake Tahoe, between the Taylor Creek Visitor Center and the Tallac Historic Site, on National Forest land run directly by the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit.

Why people come

Kiva is one of the few south shore beaches where leashed dogs are allowed: in the picnic area, at the Taylor Creek Visitor Center and at the Tallac Historic Site. Swimming, non-motorized boating and windsurfing are all listed activities, and there's no fee for the site.

Layout

The picnic area has tables and seasonal restrooms. From here you can walk to the Tallac Historic Site's old estates or to the Taylor Creek Visitor Center. Dogs aren't allowed in or near Taylor Creek Marsh, so keep them on the beach side.

Before you go

Kiva is day use only, with no overnight camping. Restrooms close in winter, but foot traffic is welcome year-round. Campfires of any solid fuel are banned; portable stoves with an on/off valve need a valid permit. Forest Service beaches and picnic areas are generally open from Memorial Day weekend through mid-October, and the Forest Service posts harmful algal bloom alerts for Tahoe, so check before you swim.