Sun-seekers at Lake Tahoe’s wildly popular Sand Harbor Beach will have to plan their trips ahead later this year as the state park tests a new reservation system to combat overcrowding and traffic.
The new reservation system, which will last from August 17 to October 13, is aimed at reducing crowds on the beach and combating the illegal line of traffic down Highway 28 that begins around 5:30 a.m. most days, said Tyler Kerver, education & information officer for the Nevada Division of State Parks.
“We hope this mediates that,” Kerver added.
In the initial trial period, reservations will only be required for weekends and holidays, Kerver said. Weekdays will remain first-come, first-serve. Reservations can be made 90 days in advance and will open on July 1.
Making a reservation requires a nonrefundable $5 reservation fee, Kerver said. The fee is waived when making a same-day reservation, but Kerver noted that getting a same-day reservation will be very difficult because of the beach’s popularity.
The new system has received a “mixed reaction,” Kerver said. “I think the majority of people are happy with it and excited for it to be implemented.”
Kerver added that the new system will help beachgoers plan their trips in advance as those with a reservation are guaranteed entry. It will also give Lake Tahoe residents, many of whom have not been able to go to Sand Harbor in years because of the early-morning lines, a better chance at a local beach day.
“No one wants to sit on the beach at 7 a.m.,” Kerver said. “We are hoping this helps with that.”