Swim, Sun, And Chill
Zephyr Cove, North Beach: No trip to Tahoe is complete without a splash around the picturesque Zephyr Cove. The jutting stones, nooks and crannies, crystal water, and lush timber provide a backdrop seemingly ripped from the pages of a travel glossy. We recommend heading here with a good read, tasty eats, and plenty of time to unwind and soak in the panoramic sights.
Zephyr Cove, North Beach, 460 Highway 50 (near Clawson Road), Zephyr Cove, NV; No phone.

Nevada Beach: Surrounded by mountains in every direction and with a super-wide stretch of beach to spread out on, this is another ideal spot for lounging. For those wanting to grub, there are tables placed under shady trees for a little sunshine relief, and it's a stone's throw from Basecamp Hotel (if that's where you're resting your head).
Directions: Just North of the California/Nevada state line, take Highway 50 North, then a sharp left on Kahle Drive. Park, and start walking (15 minutes) on a protected trail out to the gorgeous beach.

Honorable Mentions: Skunk Harbor (just be prepared to hike down ... and back up) and Sand Harbor.

Photos (clockwise from left): Skunk Harbor Courtesy of Joanna Riedl; Zephyr Cove Courtesy of Angela Tafoya; Secret Cove and Nevada Beach Courtesy of Katie Hintz-Zambrano.