Lake Tahoe's Secret Beach Offers Secluded Swimming With Scenic Views

When it comes to lakes in the United States, Lake Tahoe is often considered one of the most beautiful. The crystal-clear lake straddles the borders of California and Nevada and is an ideal location for outdoor activities all year-round. But its famous beauty means it's particularly busy in the summer, known to have big crowds and high prices during peak season. If you want a spot a little more intimate and private, then your best bet is to head toward the east shore of Lake Tahoe to Secret Cove.

Despite its name, Secret Cove can get very popular during the summer months, meaning it's not so much of a secret after all — or at least not with the locals. However, it does have some elements that give it a secret sort of energy, like that it requires a short hike from Highway 28 on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe. It's also a clothing-optional beach. That's not exactly something you see in the U.S. very often (it's even illegal in some states like Alabama). Even if you don't plan to go nude, when planning a trip to Lake Tahoe, Secret Cove is absolutely worth checking out.

Although you can't drive right up to Secret Cove, you can park at Secret Harbor — another stunning spot — and hike in about half a mile along the fire access road to the cove. Once you pass the vault bathrooms, turn right, and you have about another half mile to go down a more narrow trail until you reach the shore. What this also means is that the closest bathroom is the one you pass roughly half a mile away, so keep that in mind and consider making a strategic stop on your way to Secret Cove.

Not only are there no bathrooms at Secret Cove, but there aren't any picnic tables, places to barbecue, or trash cans. So what you pack in, you need to pack out. While dogs are allowed, they must be leashed, and, of course, it's expected that you'll clean up after them. Secret Cove is also accessible by boat and makes for a great stopping-off point on your way to other beaches, like Whale Cove Beach, which is another hour away on foot.

Because Secret Cove is a clothing-optional beach, it's important to remember that some people will be naked. Unlike other parts of the world, Americans still struggle to be comfortable in the buff, and because of this, too many tourists skip Europe's most relaxing experience due to its dress code — or lack thereof. That being said, although you don't need to be naked to enjoy Secret Cove, if you're not comfortable seeing others naked, then you might want to skip this idyllic spot. Here are five campsites to check out around Lake Tahoe for more scenic views.