Carnelian West Beach

Lake Tahoe, with its mystical stance, is a jewel in the crown where the sun-kissed state of California greets the snow-capped mountains of Nevada.

Its breathtaking beauty captures the artists brush and reminds you there is a heaven on earth. Lake Tahoe residents are truly blessed to have dog-friendly beaches, with Carnelian West a popular choice. Packing up the car and heading to the lake without your Labradoodle, Basenji, or Chow is never good, but at this picturesque lake-side beach your fur-baby can come and be part of the summer fun.

Carnelian West is a pretty, pebbly beach stretching around 530 feet in length with benches, picnic tables, and barbeques. The water is serene and inviting with established trees and bushes for shade plus there are well-maintained restrooms. Parking is free and shared by a popular, local restaurant connected to a wooden pier that lights up romantically at night.

The beach has a holidaymakers appeal and is ideal for bringing the pooch for a day of walking, playing or swimming. Your fur-babies must be leashed at all times and be happy to be on their best behavior. Dog owners are asked to watch over and clean up after their pups so the beach remains pet-friendly and clean

There are some shady spots but its best to play it safe and bring an umbrella or pop-up tent. It’s also a good idea to pack fresh water as your dog could ingest harmful bacteria or blue/green algae, often found in lakes.

Carnelian bay hosts annual boat shows to highlight the locals love-affair with getting out on the water. Kayaking and paddle-boarding are top pursuits on the mill-pond lake, with breathtaking scenery at every turn.

Dogs get super-buzzed when they arrive at the beach, ready to sniff out the scents of other pups and explore every nook and cranny on the shore. If your woofer hasn't learned to swim, it might pay to put a life-jacket on them. They say dog-paddling comes naturally, but some little pups might struggle in the deeper lake waters.