Guide to Aquatic Sports at Pope Beach

Jul 8

Pope Beach in South Lake Tahoe is a top destination for anyone who wants to get out on the water. The beach itself is ¾ mile long with a sandy shore. The beach slopes down gently into the water, which is almost always calm.

These features make Pope Beach ideal for everything from wading to launching your watercraft from the shore. But before you pick up your kayak or stand up paddleboard, here is what you need to know about Pope Beach in South Lake Tahoe.

Tips for Enjoying Pope Beach in South Lake Tahoe

Pope Beach is located a 5 minute drive from South Lake Tahoe, accessible by car from Emerald Bay Road, as well as easily accessible via bike on the Pope Baldwin Bike Path that runs along several of South Lake Tahoe’s beaches.

If you choose to drive there is a day use entry fee. This entry fee is also higher during the Fourth of July holiday weekend.

Some of the features of this beach that make it perfect for aquatic sports and hanging out in Lake Tahoe include:

Great Kayak or SUP Launch Spot - Because the beach is flat and sandy, it is possible to easily wade out and get on to your kayak or stand up paddle board. This is convenient from beginners or more experienced boarders.
Beautiful Beach- If you prefer to swim or need a break from kayaking, the beach is a beautiful place to swim or even to sit on the sand and take in the beautiful view of the surrounding Sierra Nevadas.
Picnicking Options - The beach has picnic tables when you need a snack break and plenty of shaded areas to relax. There is also a food stand at the beach if you want to buy snacks.
Dogs are Not Allowed - Pope Beach is not a dog friendly beach, so if you will be swimming or stand up paddleboarding with your dog, you will need to plan to visit or depart from a mother beach.

If you are considering renting a stand up paddleboard or kayak in South Lake Tahoe, Pope Beach is also one of our recommended beaches to head to at SUP Tahoe, the best kayak and SUP rental in Tahoe with affordable rates. Our high quality paddle boards and kayaks and flexible rental terms are a great choice for getting out onto the water. As the only SUP rental in Tahoe that includes car racks with your rental, we also made it possible for you to start at Pope Beach or travel to any of the beaches you want to see in South Lake Tahoe. Reserve your kayaks or SUPs now for your Tahoe vacation.