Kings Beach is one of the most popular summer lakeside hubs along Lake Tahoe. The shore is lined with towering ponderosa pines, and the clear water is safe for swimming and easily accessible by boat. The town offers a variety of dining options and entertainment within walking distance.About 3,800 people call Kings Beach home, but many more flock here every summer for a lakeside holiday. The area has an interesting history: it was named after Joe King, who won the town site during a poker game from the wealthy playboy George Whittell in the 1930s. Previously, the town had been called by several other names, including Lake Bilger. The beach has a children’s playground, a pier, volleyball nets, a barbecue area and shallow water for swimming — if you don’t mind cold water. There are plenty of outdoor entertainment options for the entire family. Rent a Jet Ski, kayak, or paddle boat to explore the lake. Get a bird’s eye view while parasailing. For breakfast on the beach, buy sandwiches or donuts from the local bakery and grab a takeaway coffee near the lake.After a morning in the sun, browse the shops at Kings Beach Plaza, relax at one of the town’s charming cafés, or have microbrew with lunch on a terrace with a view over Lake Tahoe. For family fun, visit the vintage miniature golf course or the movie theater. Book a fishing trip on the lake in summer and try to catch a trout. In the winter, you can join a guided snowmobiling tour. At night when the recreational area closes, head into town to dine on Italian, Mexican or all-American food in one of the many restaurants.Kings Beach is located on the northern shore of Lake Tahoe, less than 10 miles (16 kilometers) from Tahoe City, California, with the Nevada border about a mile (1.6 kilometers) to the east. The beach has paid parking and restrooms.
Kings Beach State Recreation Area Tours and Activities
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Thunderbird Resort Club
Reviewed on Mar. 11, 2024
Popular places to visit
Agate Bay
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Agate Bay during your travels in Brockway. Wander the lakeside and beaches in this family-friendly area.
North Shore Parasail
Take the family on an outing to North Shore Parasail during your trip to Kings Beach. Stroll along the lakeside in this quaint area, or seek out the ski slopes.
Kings Beach Miniature Golf
Take the family on an outing to Kings Beach Miniature Golf during your trip to Kings Beach. Discover the mountain views in this quaint area, or enjoy its ski slopes.
Old Brockway Golf Course
Play a round of golf in Kings Beach at Old Brockway Golf Course, and enjoy other activities such as skiing. Wander the lakeside and beautiful beaches in this quaint area.
Moon Dunes Beach
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Moon Dunes Beach during your trip to Lake Tahoe?
North Tahoe Marina
Explore the waterfront of North Tahoe Marina and enjoy activities such as skiing in Tahoe Vista. Stroll along the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this quaint area.
Best Lodging Options Near Kings Beach State Recreation Area
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- Sweetbriar Garden Suite in King's Beach just a few steps away from Lake Tahoe
- Red Wolf Lakeside Lodge
- Cozy, enchanting retreat with hot tub, stunning deck, & balcony - close to beach
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- Firelite Lodge
- Tahoe Time on North Shore - 4 BR Cabin w/ Private Hot Tub, Pet Friendly, Walk to Dining
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