Chimney Beach, a secluded dog-friendly spot on Tahoe’s Nevada side, sits just off Highway 28 in Incline Village and draws fewer crowds than the busier West Shore beaches. The half-mile walk from the parking area down to the shoreline is easy enough, though the path can get sandy underfoot. Arrive early—parking spaces are genuinely limited, and by mid-morning on summer weekends, you’ll see a full lot.

Once you reach the beach itself, it’s worth the walk. The lake here is remarkably clear, and the rocky shoreline gives way to some sandy patches where dogs can actually get comfortable. Because this is an off-leash area, your dog can swim and play freely without the constant tension of keeping them close. The water stays fairly shallow for the first bit, which is helpful if you’ve got a younger or less confident swimmer. Plenty of owners bring their dogs in to cool off while they sit on the rocks or find a shaded spot to settle in.

The setting is genuinely peaceful—you won’t feel crowded here the way you might at some of the more famous Tahoe access points. It’s a good spot if you want to let your dog burn off some energy in the water and then dry out on the walk back to the car. The scenery is pretty without being the “postcard perfect” vibe that sometimes comes with heavy tourism.

Bring more water than you think you’ll need, since there aren’t facilities down on the beach itself. The walk back uphill after a swim can make dogs thirsty, and you’ll want to rinse off any salt or algae before heading home if you don’t want your car to smell like lake water for days. The website Tahoeactivities.com has directions and additional details if you want to check conditions before heading out.