Kings Beach is Lake Tahoe’s North Shore at its most laid back. Sitting right along the California-Nevada border, this small lakeside town has a strong sense of community, with local businesses, art around every corner, and a stretch of beach lined with pine trees that grow right in the sand. It’s a place that invites you to slow down and stay longer.
Fun fact: local lore says Kings Beach owes its name to a card shark named Joe King, who won the town in a poker match.
Where to Stay in Kings Beach
Right at the heart of Kings Beach, The Crown Motel offers a recently renovated take on the classic roadside motel. It’s a casual stay where you can walk straight down to the beach from the property, or right to the main street, and some rooms even offer lake views with the sound of the water right outside your window.
For more space, or if you’re planning a longer stay, browse the short-term rental options in town. Tahoe Luxury Properties has a great lineup of upscale short-term rentals, while Tahoe Getaways offers a wide range of options for families and groups looking to spread out.
Where to Eat & Drink in Kings Beach
In the mornings, grab a coffee at JavaHut before heading on a walk to take in the artsy community, or settle-in at Tree House Cafe for a full breakfast, with everything from breakfast burritos to a smoked brisket bagel, all made with meats smoked on site.
Tucked in the community-minded corner of town, Bear Belly Brewing Company is a nanobrewery with outside seating. It’s part of the same lively space as Tahoe Backyard, an outdoor community with food trucks, and a laid-back neighborhood feel. Chickadee Art Collective is right next door – it showcases local artists and hosts a lively makers market on Saturdays throughout the summer.
White Caps Pizza has a quaint cabin feel, delicious slices, an extensive wine menu, and lake views from the dining room with an outdoor rooftop and patio. The Roasted Beets and specialty pizzas are can’t miss. Lanza’s is the spot for Italian. It’s a family-run restaurant with a rich history and a warm, traditional feel that’s been part of Kings Beach for years. You’ll leave feeling like family. For a classic beachside meal, Jason’s Beachside Grille delivers with its laid-back, lakefront setting. Las Panchitas is across the street from the beach, and serves Mexican favorites like tacos, tamales, quesadillas, and more.
After a day spent exploring, enjoy a treat at Sweet Tahoe Time Ice Cream. It has outdoor seating perfect for people-watching, or stop by Log Cabin for both ice cream and coffee.
What to Explore in Kings Beach
Kings Beach State Recreation Area is the heart of it all. It’s a sandy beach with pine trees growing directly along the shore, a scenic walking path, picnic areas, and play structures for the kids. It also has a pier to walk out on with gorgeous views of the lake. In the summer, Music on the Beach features live performances right on the sand. It’s one of the North Shore’s most beloved seasonal traditions.
The North Tahoe Pickleball courts are also just a five-minute drive from Kings Beach
Get out on the water right at Kings Beach, or head just about a mile away to Tahoe Vista for time with Tahoe Adventure Company, known for its kayak tours and popular full moon kayak outings, or rent a boat through North Lake Tahoe Boat Rental for a self-guided day on the lake.
History buffs and golfers alike should make time for Old Brockway Golf Course. It hosted Bing Crosby’s first “Crosby” tournament in 1935, and is one of the most scenic and photogenic courses on the lake. Spindleshanks, the restaurant connected to the course, is a great stop for a post-round meal. For a more casual round, Kings Beach Mini Golf is a fun outing for families, though it’s open seasonally, so be sure to double check the hours ahead of visiting. The North Tahoe Pickleball Courts are also just a five-minute drive from Kings Beach, another easy way to stay active during your stay.
Kings Beach has an unmistakably artsy, community-driven spirit, and it shows. Keep an eye out around town for public art installations all around Kings Beach and small galleries tucked into the local shops.
The North Tahoe Event Center sits right in town and hosts a rotating calendar of community events worth checking before your visit. The venue also has some rock and roll history, having hosted a young band called the Grateful Dead in 1967. For a great music lineup today, check out Crystal Bay Club & Casino, just minutes from Kings Beach. Stop by the Visitors Center to pick up a souvenir or get recommendations on the best hikes leaving right from Kings Beach.
Whether you’re paddling out at sunrise or catching live music on the sand at sunset, Kings Beach captures the easygoing, community-first spirit that makes the North Shore so special. Start planning your trip to Kings Beach in Lake Tahoe.
