Beach guide
Pope Beach
South Lake Tahoe, El Dorado County, CA
Overview
Pope Beach is a sandy U.S. Forest Service beach on the south shore of Lake Tahoe, about three miles west of South Lake Tahoe on Highway 89. It runs about three-quarters of a mile, backed by pines, and it's a classic family swimming and picnic beach with views across the lake.
Who runs it
The Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit owns the site, and a concessionaire, California Land Management, operates it under a Forest Service permit. Access is gated, and the beach is open seasonally from about Memorial Day weekend through mid-October.
What you can do
Swimming, picnicking and non-motorized boating are the main draws. Kayak rentals and a food concession are typically available on site, and there are flush toilets and picnic tables for individuals and groups. There's no drinking water, so bring your own. Fences protect the rare Tahoe yellow cress plant, so stay out of enclosures.
Rules to know
Pets aren't allowed. Campfires using wood, charcoal or any solid fuel are prohibited; portable propane stoves with an on/off valve are allowed with a valid California campfire permit. No overnight camping. If you bring a kayak or paddleboard, it must be clean, drained and dry before and after launching to protect the lake from invasive species.
Getting there & access
Driving and parking
Pope Beach is about three miles west of South Lake Tahoe on Highway 89. The lot is gated with a $10 per vehicle day-use fee, and fees can rise over the Fourth of July weekend. Season passes are sold at the kiosk.
Paddling
Non-motorized boating is allowed, and kayak rentals are typically available on site. All watercraft and gear must be clean, drained and dry before and after launching.
Season
The beach operates from about Memorial Day weekend through mid-October. It's day use only with no overnight camping.
Amenities
- Swimming beach — About 3/4 mile of sandy shoreline
- Kayak rentals — Typically available on site
- Food concession — Typically available on site
- Picnic areas — Single and group picnic tables
- Restrooms — Flush toilets
- Accessibility — Accessible features listed by the operator
Rules & official resources
- No pets
- Campfires using wood, charcoal or any solid fuel are not permitted; propane stoves with on/off valves allowed with a valid permit
- Day use only; no overnight camping
- Stay out of fenced Tahoe yellow cress enclosures and never feed wildlife
- All watercraft must be clean, drained and dry before and after launching
Common boat service needs here
Kayak and SUP transport
Visitors bringing their own kayaks or paddleboards up to Tahoe sometimes hire transport for larger or multiple craft.
Find Boat Transport, Towing & Delivery providers →Clean, drained and dry
Paddlecraft must arrive clean, drained and dry. Owners who move boats between lakes keep them washed and fully dried between trips.
Find Boat Detailing & Washing providers →Guides & FAQs
Nearby providers
No providers listed near this location yet — check back soon.
Sources
Last verified October 7, 2026