Incline Village NevadaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Incline Village, Nevada.
1. Sand Harbor
PRISTINE BEACH PARADISE
Sand Harbor is a scenic lakeside beach with clear waters and sandy shores, ideal for paddle boarding and kayaking. The area features a picturesque boardwalk and tranquil walking trails for visitors to enjoy. This popular Incline Village attraction is also the renowned home of the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival held annually in the summer.
2. Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park
NATURAL LAKESIDE WONDER
Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park offers breathtaking views and numerous recreational activities along Lake Tahoe's northeastern shore. Visitors can enjoy hiking, swimming, boating, and photography within this expansive natural preserve. The park encompasses several beaches and trails, providing a perfect setting for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
3. Secret Cove Beach
HIDDEN TURQUOISE GEM
Secret Cove Beach is one of Lake Tahoe's iconic beaches, adorned with round granite boulders and sparkling turquoise waters. This clothing-optional beach provides scenic views of the lake in a more secluded setting than other public beaches in the area. Visitors will need to hike a short trail to access this hidden gem, adding to its exclusive charm.
4. UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center
EDUCATIONAL LAKE SCIENCE
The UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center features science exhibits with various hands-on activities, a 3-D theater, and a virtual laboratory. Visitors can learn about the ecology and environmental challenges of Lake Tahoe through interactive displays and educational programs. Reservations are required to experience this unique blend of science and education focused on preserving Lake Tahoe's ecosystem.
5. Diamond Peak Ski Resort
PANORAMIC MOUNTAIN SKIING
Diamond Peak Ski Resort is a community-owned resort with breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and miles of welcoming, uncrowded runs. The resort offers easy access from the parking lot to the slopes and features a dedicated Child Ski Center for families. Known as the first resort in the West to have snow-making capability, Diamond Peak provides reliable winter recreation for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
6. Tahoe East Shore Trail
SCENIC LAKESIDE PATH
The Tahoe East Shore Trail offers pedestrians and cyclists breathtaking views along Lake Tahoe's northeastern shoreline. This paved path connects Incline Village to Sand Harbor, providing safe and scenic access to some of the area's most beautiful beaches. Visitors can enjoy stunning panoramas of crystal-clear waters and Sierra Nevada mountains while traversing this well-maintained recreational trail.
7. Thunderbird Lodge
HISTORIC LAKESIDE ESTATE
Thunderbird Lodge is a lakeside estate built in 1936 that now serves as a lovely spot for weddings and other events. Tours are provided of the grounds and house, allowing visitors to experience the unique architecture and history of this Lake Tahoe landmark. The lodge's eccentric original owner even kept a pet elephant named Mingo on the estate, adding to its fascinating story.
8. Incline Beach
LOCAL FAVORITE SHORELINE
Incline Beach offers a picturesque sandy shoreline with stunning views of Lake Tahoe's crystal-clear waters. This local favorite provides amenities including picnic areas, volleyball courts, and rental equipment for water activities. Access is typically restricted with preference given to Incline Village property owners and their guests, creating a less crowded atmosphere than public beaches in the area.
9. Incline Village Mountain Golf Course
ELEVATED ALPINE GOLFING
Incline Village Mountain Golf Course offers a challenging alpine golfing experience with spectacular mountain and forest views. The course features dramatic elevation changes, narrow fairways, and strategically placed bunkers that test golfers of all skill levels. Players can enjoy the crisp mountain air and scenic beauty of the Sierra Nevada while navigating this meticulously maintained 18-hole championship course.
10. Hidden Beach
SECLUDED SHORELINE ESCAPE
Hidden Beach offers a more secluded shoreline experience along Lake Tahoe's northeastern shore. Visitors can enjoy the rocky coves and crystal-clear waters without the crowds often found at more accessible beaches. The beach is reachable via the Tahoe East Shore Trail, making it a rewarding destination for those willing to walk or bike a short distance from designated parking areas.
11. Burnt Cedar Beach
FAMILY-FRIENDLY LAKE ACCESS
Burnt Cedar Beach provides family-friendly access to Lake Tahoe with amenities including a heated swimming pool, children's play area, and picnic facilities. The beach offers a mix of sandy shoreline and grassy areas for sunbathing, plus kayak and paddleboard rentals for water adventures. Like Incline Beach, access is primarily for Incline Village property owners and their guests, creating a community atmosphere.
12. Tahoe Rim Trail
EPIC MOUNTAIN HIKING
The Tahoe Rim Trail is a 165-mile single-track trail that encompasses the ridge tops of the Lake Tahoe Basin. The trail is open to hiking, equestrians, and mountain biking in most areas, providing diverse recreational opportunities with dramatic views of Lake Tahoe. Access points near Incline Village make it convenient for visitors to experience longer day hikes with spectacular alpine scenery.
13. Flume Trail
LEGENDARY MOUNTAIN BIKING
The Flume Trail is renowned as one of the most scenic mountain biking trails in America, offering breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe from high above the eastern shore. The moderate to difficult trail follows the route of an old logging flume, combining technical sections with incredible panoramic vistas. Easily accessed near Incline Village, this iconic trail attracts outdoor enthusiasts seeking a memorable alpine experience.
14. Crystal Bay Casino
HISTORIC GAMING ENTERTAINMENT
Crystal Bay Casino is a historic gaming establishment that harkens back to Lake Tahoe's glamorous past when Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack frequented the area. The casino offers gaming tables, slot machines, and live entertainment in an atmosphere that blends vintage charm with modern amenities. Located just minutes from Incline Village, this throwback to Lake Tahoe's golden era provides an interesting mix of history and entertainment.
15. Kings Beach State Recreation Area
POPULAR NORTH SHORE BEACH
Kings Beach State Recreation Area features a spacious sandy beach along Lake Tahoe's north shore, just a short drive from Incline Village. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and watersports in this lively beach environment with stunning alpine views. The adjacent town of Kings Beach offers restaurants, shops, and additional amenities, making this a complete destination for a day at Lake Tahoe.