🌄 Dog-Friendly Guide to Lake Tahoe — South Shore Edition

The South Shore is where adventure meets energy — full of sunny beaches, scenic hikes, and dog-loving locals who don’t mind a little sand or snow on the floor. Whether your pup loves the water, the woods, or a patio hangout, there’s a South Shore spot calling your name. 🐾

🌊 Best Beaches & Swim Spots

• Kiva Beach — The crown jewel of South Shore dog beaches. Off-leash friendly (under voice control), calm water, and breathtaking views of Mt. Tallac. Bring a towel — and maybe two.
• Fallen Leaf Lake — A quieter spot tucked behind Camp Richardson. Narrow trail, shady trees, and multiple water access points — ideal for dogs who like to explore.
• Regan Beach (South Lake Tahoe) — The city’s official dog beach, complete with a shallow swimming area and nearby restrooms. Busy in summer but always full of happy tails.
• Pope Beach (leashed) — Beautiful, long, and peaceful in shoulder seasons. Great for sunrise or fall walks when crowds are low.

🌲 Favorite Trails

• Taylor Creek Rainbow Trail — Easy, flat, and perfect for a quick morning walk. Dogs are allowed on leash outside the visitor center boardwalk area.
• Powerline Trail — Local go-to for trail runners and mountain bikers, but it’s wide enough for walkers too. Dogs love the open terrain and forest breeze.
• Van Sickle Bi-State Park — Gorgeous mix of pine forest and panoramic views just minutes from Stateline. Start early for cooler temps and fewer hikers.
• Meyers Bikeway / Upper Truckee River Trail — Shady, mellow path that follows the river — perfect for pups who like to sniff and splash along the way.

🍽 Dog-Friendly Eats & Drinks

• Cold Water Brewery & Grill — Great patio, craft beers, and a warm welcome for four-legged guests.
• The Hangar Taproom & Bottle Shop — Huge outdoor beer garden, food trucks, and dog-loving staff — it’s basically a Tahoe Dog social hour.
• Artemis Lakefront Café — Mediterranean favorites with a lakeview patio and water bowls for pups.
• Revive Coffee & Wine — Cozy garden patio near Al Tahoe Blvd — perfect for a post-walk latte.

🏕 Stay the Night

• Hotel Azure — Stylish, lakeside, and super dog-friendly. Request a lakeview room with patio access.
• Basecamp South Lake Tahoe — Fun, community vibe and modern rooms — dogs are welcome (and likely to make friends).
• Camp Richardson Cabins — Historic charm and unbeatable access to trails and beaches.

❤️ Local Tips for South Shore Dog Parents

• Morning is best — parking fills fast and sand heats up quickly.
• Bring your leash, even for “off-leash” areas — enforcement can vary.
• Keep an eye out for coyotes near forest edges.
• Always pack out waste — the lake depends on it. 💧

From the calm of Kiva Beach to the trails of Van Sickle, the South Shore has something for every Tahoe Dog — adventure, sunshine, and that easy-going mountain spirit. 💛

🐾 Join the Pack

Shop Tahoe Dog Co. hats, stickers, and bandannas at tahoedogco.com — designed for real dogs, real adventures, and the people who love them.