Location
United States
Status
Informal / Traditional
Suitable for
Families and adults
Terrain
Mixed
Best season
June to September
About Chimney Beach
Chimney Beach is a boulder-studded sandy beach on the Nevada east shore of Lake Tahoe, named after the stone chimney of an old caretaker's cabin. The water is very clear, and the backdrop is pine forest. Nude sunbathing here is sporadic and found mainly among the rocks at the quieter ends. The well-known clothing-optional beach, Secret Cove, is a short walk north along the shoreline trail. There are no facilities on the sand, so bring water and pack out what you carry in.
Getting there
Use the US Forest Service Chimney Beach/Secret Harbor trailhead lot on NV-28, about 2 miles south of Sand Harbor (around 20-30 spaces, often full by mid-morning in summer), or use roadside pull-outs. From there it is about a 0.5-mile descent on a forest trail; wear shoes.
Amenities
Legal context
The beach is on Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit (US Forest Service) land, which has no nude designation. Nudity on the east-shore beaches has long been tolerated, but Nevada's indecent exposure law (NRS 201.220) still applies if someone complains.
Naturism at Chimney Beach sits under United States's rules for traditional tolerance — custom more than statute.
Full country law: United States public nudity guide.
Researched 24 October 2026. No official source confirms naturist status, so treat it as unverified.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 39.1655, -119.9336
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in United States
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
Members’ reviews
Write a review →Loading member reviews…