Swimming

Cool off at some of the best Lake Tahoe and Reno swimming holes! The Reno Tahoe region has a variety of places where you can make a splash. On a summer day, there are plenty of options for cooling off. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful dip in Lake Tahoe’s waters, hanging poolside with friends or some thrill-seeking fun at a water park, there’s a swimming spot for you.

RENO SWIMMING

Reno has swimming spots for everyone. There are natural swim holes for the summer months and year-round pools for those cooler days. If you have kiddos, or you’re a kid at heart, there’s also a water park will exciting slides and relaxing pools.

Get Wild at Wild Island: Reno-Sparks’ Water Park

Looking for something a little wilder? Reno’s water park, Wild Island, offers fun for the whole family. It’s a great way to wear out the kids while you work on your tan. Or, if you’re feeling a little more adventurous, you might end up on a water slide or two yourself. Wild Island Family Adventure Park is more than a water park, with go-karts, mini-golf and bowling – at Wild Island, there is something fun for everyone. There are tons of water slides and a wave pool. This family adventure water park is located in Sparks, near the Outlets at Legends. Enjoy smooth sailing on the lazy river. For those over 21, stop by Kokomo’s Island Bar for a refreshing tropical cocktail and a hot tub soak.

Other Reno Swimming Options

Truckee River

For some river action, Wingfield Park is nestled in the heart of downtown Reno. Family and friends can enjoy swimming or floating the Truckee River. With a handful of events that take place at the park throughout the year, you can swim in the river, bask in the sun, and partake in the festivities all in one day!

Lake Tahoe Swimming

There’s no better place to go for a swim than in the crystal-clear water of Lake Tahoe. Some of the better Lake Tahoe swimming beaches include:

Kings Beach State Recreation Area

Kings Beach State Recreation Area features 979 feet of beautiful frontage property along the North Shore of Lake Tahoe. This day-use only area has a large sandy beach and multiple picnic tables under the shade of Jeffery pines.

Sand Harbor State Park

On the eastern shores of Lake Tahoe, you’ll find gently sloping beaches, crystal-clear water, and interesting rock formations which allow for wonderfully sublime swimming, kayaking and scuba diving at Sand Harbor State Park. Boaters, water-skiers, and fisherman can easily launch from one of the park’s two ramps. Visitors who would like a peaceful retreat from surf and sun can picnic in the shade of cedars and Jeffrey pines in one of many picnic sites equipped with barbecues and tables.

These are just a couple of Lake Tahoe’s great beaches. Find more swimming spots by visiting our beaches at Lake Tahoe page.

Sparks and Reno Swimming Pools

Sometimes there is nothing better than your typical day at the pool. Browse our lodging options and see some of the amazing resort pools we have to offer. The Reno-Sparks area has some great swimming pools, both indoor and outdoor. For outdoor options, you’ll want to check out either Idlewild Pool or Traner Pool in Reno or Deer Park & Pool in Sparks. Or if you are looking to get your laps in during any season, check out these indoor pools: Northwest Pool and the Evelyn Mount Community Center Pool

The Pool at Grand Sierra Resort

For a pool experience with resort amenities, The Pool at Grand Sierra Resort is the place to be. Enjoy the resort pool, infinity pool and kids splash area, as well as food and a full bar with your admission. You can upgrade your experience with a cabana or daybed rental on the Infinity VIP Pool Deck or Serenity Deck. And you don’t need to pack up when the sun goes down. On Fridays and Saturdays, The Pool transforms into a nightlife hotspot when Late Night Swim starts at 10 p.m. with DJs and drink specials.

Idlewild Pool

Idlewild Pool is great for families and serious swimmers alike. The main pool has tons of swim lanes for laps, a diving board area and a small training pool area. If you’re a lap swimmer, they supply kickboards and paddles upon request. This is an outdoor pool, so it’s only open during the summer months. This pool is also at the same park that hosts Reno Food Truck Fridays, which happens every Friday from May to September.

Traner Pool

Located in north Reno, Traner Pool is a great outdoor option for families. It has two water slides and a water playground for the kids, and there’s still plenty of room for adults to have their own swim space. Since this pool is outdoors, it’s only open during the summer season.

Deer Park and Pool

Deer Park and Pool is located in Sparks, at Rock Blvd and Prater Way. Open daily during the summer, this pool is great for families and doesn’t have lap lanes.

Northwest Pool

Except for holidays, Northwest Pool is open year-round. Family Public Swim is offered on Sunday afternoons, and lap lanes and fitness classes are available Monday-Friday.

Evelyn Mount Community Center Pool

This indoor pool is open year-round, except for main holidays. The Evelyn Mount Community Center Pool is best for lap swimming and only has a max depth of five feet. It has three, generously sized lap lanes that can fit two swimmers each. Lap lanes are open Monday through Saturday, and family swim is open on the weekends.

Lake Tahoe Swimming FAQ

Got a question? We’ve got the answers. Check out the most frequently asked questions below about Lake Tahoe swimming and Reno swimming pools.

Is the Water Warm Enough To Swim In at Lake Tahoe?

While the water in Lake Tahoe is warm enough to swim in during the summer months, taking precautions for your next Lake Tahoe swimming trip is always a good idea in order to avoid an uncomfortably cold trip or even dangerous situations that could lead to hypothermia.

Getting out of the water frequently to warm up is helpful, as is wearing a long sleeved sun shirt. After you are done swimming, make sure to dry off, change into dry clothes and enjoy a hot beverage. This will help bring your body temperature back up quickly, keeping you comfortable and safe. It is not advised to swim in Lake Tahoe in the cold months, and never swim alone.

Is Lake Tahoe Swimming Safe?

Lake Tahoe swimming is safe and enjoyable if visitors follow the recommended safety precautions:

Take your time getting into the water to avoid a shock response from the cold.
Get out of the water frequently to warm up in the sun and stay hydrated.
Always swim with one or more people. Never swim by yourself.
If you are bringing children, watch them at all times.
Check the weather conditions.
Watch out for debris in the water that could lead to injury.
Always stay in the swimmer-designated areas. Leaving these areas can put you in dangerous situations with boats, jet skis and large waves.

Are There Freshwater Sharks in Lake Tahoe?

While legends abound about Tahoe Tessie and freshwater sharks lurking in the depths of Big Blue, there are no confirmed sightings of any of these mysterious sea monsters residing in Lake Tahoe. Some sightings of “shark-like” creatures have been recorded by underwater cameras taken at depths of over 1,000 feet, but experts believe them to be large lake trout.

How Cold Is the Water in Lake Tahoe?

Lake Tahoe’s water can reach up to about 70 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer and can dip to below 40°F during the winter season. The average temperature of the lake is 63°F. Because the water in Lake Tahoe comes from rain and snowmelt in the mountains, the water is always chilly. If you are planning a Lake Tahoe swimming trip, be sure to take safety precautions and stay warm.