01
Best overall pick
Lake Davis
Just North Of Portola • Wide-Open High-Country Reservoir Beach • Local Favorite For Long, Relaxed Days
Lake Davis is the go-to beach day from Clio, with open shoreline, mellow water, and plenty of room to spread out.
Head for spots like Lightning Tree or Honker Cove, where gently sloping shorelines make it easy to wade in and launch floats or kayaks. The vibe is slow and social, with anglers working the points and families posting up for the afternoon barbecue. Come prepared with shade and supplies, and you can easily turn this into an all-day lakeside hangout.
02
Best for quiet swims
Frenchman Lake
Near Chilcoot In Sierra Valley • Quiet Coves With A Rugged, Piney Backdrop • Best For Uncrowded Shoreline And Simple Camping
Frenchman Lake offers a more low-key beach experience, with pocket coves and broad, gravelly banks that rarely feel busy.
Many locals slip over Beckwourth Pass to Frenchman when they want space and still water. You will find informal beach areas near boat launches and campgrounds where you can set up chairs right at the water's edge. It is a great choice if you prefer a simple, bring-your-own-everything day with easy access to paddling and fishing.
03
Most dramatic scenery
Sardine Lake
Lakes Basin Near Sierra City • Compact Alpine Shore With Big Mountain Views • Best For Scenery-First Lounging
Sardine Lake trades long sand beaches for a small, useable shoreline framed by the jagged Sierra Buttes.
This is the spot you choose when you care as much about the view as the swimming. The usable beach area is modest, but the emerald water and sheer rock walls rising above the lake make every dip feel special. Pack light chairs or a blanket and plan to split your time between short swims, slow paddles, and easy walks around the basin.
04
Best for families
West End Beach, Donner Lake
Truckee • Managed Town Beach With Lawns And Sand • Best For Classic Staffed Beach Amenities
West End Beach on Donner Lake feels like a traditional town beach, with roped swim areas, sand, lawns, and plenty of facilities.
If you want structure and services, this is where to go: there are restrooms, picnic tables, a playground, and a broad sandy stretch that gently grades into the lake. Lifeguards are typically on duty in season, and the roped swim zone keeps things calm for younger kids. Expect more people than at the Plumas lakes, but also an easy, all-ages setup that makes the drive worthwhile.
05
Best full-day outing
Kings Beach State Recreation Area
North Lake Tahoe • Lively Mountain Town Beach With A Long Sand Strip • Best Mix Of Beach Time And In-Town Options
Kings Beach delivers a classic Tahoe sand beach paired with walkable cafes, shops, and rental stands right across the street.
The broad, south-facing shoreline warms up nicely by afternoon, and the shallow entry makes it easy to wade far out before the water gets deep. It is one of the most social options on this list, with paddleboard and kayak rentals, snack spots, and people-watching built in. Come early for parking, then plan on lingering for sunset or grabbing dinner in town before heading back toward Clio.