Sand Harbor, Incline Village, Nevada

Incline Village is the second largest community on Lake Tahoe. The city stretches from the shores of Lake Tahoe to the mountains from Crystal Bay, which is to the north east. The Town was named for the Great Incline Railway. The railway was built in 1874 to bring logs to Carson Range where a flume helped move the logs by water to Washoe Valley.

In Incline Village there is the Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park entrance that takes visitors to Sand Harbor. Like its name suggests, Sand Harbor is a water land for outdoor recreation on Lake Tahoe. Sandy beaches will await the visitor, as well as mildly silted water. Despite the sand that can be stirred up while in the water, the lake is turquoise in color.

To enter the park is $8 per vehicle, though for larger vehicles like campers the fee can be a little more. There is plenty of parking at Sand Harbor. It is possible to bring boats. An additional charge for boats also exists. At Sand Harbor a boat launch between the sandy beaches, rocky coves, and views is available. From the beaches visitors can stare out at the majestic mountains or walk along the rocky shores.

Boating is not the only option at the lake. It is possible to go swimming during the summer months when the water has been warmed by the sun. Often times local residents will visit Sand Harbor for the watery fun, either swimming or boating. For a more adventurous individual scuba diving is allowed at the lake.

Scuba diving in the lake is not going to be as wonderful as ocean diving. Crawfish and a few trout may be all divers see in the lake. There are no sunken boats to find. As an open water dive spot, it offers a good place to get certified or practice as a new open water diver. During the winter months ice diving is available.

Winter sports at Sand Harbor also include cross country skiing. The lake does freeze enough at the edges to traipse across it,though one should be cautious and speak with a park ranger before attempting skiing on the lake.

Other seasons of the year at Sand Harbor allow visitors to take treks around the lake, through the forests, and away from the beaches. Picnic tables are available for spending the entire day at Sand Harbor.

Incline Village offers more than the state park for entertainment. It is a quiet corner of Lake Tahoe with a small commercial district. After spending the day at Sand Harbor tourists can take in the Thunderbird Lodge Historic Site or drive to Diamond Peak. The architecture at the lodge presents "Old Tahoe'' with a slightly rustic log cabin appeal. There is a 600 foot tunnel at the lodge which leads to the private casino named "Whittel's.'' It provides a nice evening after spending the day on the lake or in it. At Sand Harbor it is also possible to rent boats.