Ferrari Playground at Kings Beach: A Beachfront Playground in Lake Tahoe for Kids
If you’re planning on visiting Lake Tahoe with kids, don’t miss the Ferrari Playground at Kings Beach State Recreation Area. This North Lake Tahoe family-friendly stop is a must. This playground is on the beach in the sand with easy lake access and jaw-dropping views of Lake Tahoe. Even if playgrounds aren’t your thing, it’s worth a stop alone to enjoy lake access while letting kids play on the sandy shore.
There are also plenty of fun things to do in North Lake Tahoe and Incline Village with kids, making it simple to have a memorable day trip from Sacramento to North Lake Tahoe or to extend the stay overnight and explore more of what Tahoe has to offer families.
Summer and winter are the most popular seasons to visit Lake Tahoe, and traffic and crowds can get overwhelming. I recommend visiting Lake Tahoe during the fall. Autumn in Lake Tahoe is an off-peak and underrated time for visitors.
Why Families Love Ferrari Playground
Playground Right on the Beach
You can’t get a playground closer to the beach than this one, as it’s literally in the sand! The structure is better for older toddlers and elementary-aged children. My 1-year-old really couldn’t do anything at this playground, and there are no swings.
While the playground is not unique and is a typical playground you’ll find anywhere, the location of the playground sets it apart as being one of the best playground views you’ll ever see.
Stunning Lake Tahoe Views
Honestly, it’s a distracting playground not just for kids but parents, too. You’ll be mesmerized by the incredibly up-close views of Lake Tahoe. It might be challenging watching the kids!
Seriously, the views are spectacular and worth it alone for a quick stop at Kings Beach State Recreation Area. But please do keep a close eye on children, especially little ones and kids who are runners, since they will be right next to the water, as the lake’s edge comes right up to the shore.
It’s also a great option for shallow water access in Lake Tahoe for families who want to get in the water and take a dip in the summer months.
Restrooms
Bathrooms are directly next to the playground at Kings Beach State Recreation Area.
Parking & Fees
There are plenty of parking spaces, but go early during peak summer months to grab one. Parking is pay-to-park at $10 per vehicle for the day, year-round.
Picnic Tables
There are a few picnic tables next to the Ferrari Playground. In the busy summer months, expect these to get taken quickly. No matter which season you choose to visit, bringing a blanket and having a picnic on the sandy shores of Kings Beach State Recreation Area might even be a better way to go.
What to Know Before You Go
- 📍 Located at Kings Beach State Recreation Area
- 🚻 Public restrooms available nearby
- 🅿️ Paid parking available for $10 per vehicle, all-year
- 🩱 Bring towels or swimsuits if kids want to play by the water
- 🏖️ Summer weekends can get busy
Things to Do Nearby in North Lake Tahoe with Kids
You can easily pair Ferrari Playground and Kings Beach with:
Kings Beach Mini Golf — Kings Beach
Nearby, also in Kings Beach, is Kings Beach Mini Golf. This is a seasonal Lake Tahoe mini golf course that’s only open during the summer. It’s not a large mini golf course with cascading waterfalls; rather, it’s a small course in a parking area. That said, it’s still a fun activity for families in Lake Tahoe.
➡️ Love mini golf? Check out the best mini golf in Sacramento for families.
Tree House Cafe — Kings Beach
This family-friendly cafe makes the list because its back, outdoor patio area has a kids’ play area. From staple breakfast fare to BBQ lunch options, there’s a variety of food families will be able to eat. Just be aware that finding parking near the cafe can be challenging.
Tahoe Vista Treetop Adventure Park — North Tahoe Regional Park
A thrilling adventure for kids and adults is the Tahoe Vista Treetop Adventure Park. While there are multiple locations in Tahoe (each with different courses), the Tahoe Vista one is closest to Kings Beach in North Tahoe Regional Park. This course will have you swinging and climbing through the Tahoe treetops with 27 ziplines and various courses. Kids need to be at least 6 years old to do the course.
North Tahoe Regional Park is also one of our family’s favorite spots for winter sledding in Lake Tahoe. They have multiple sledding hills for kids of all ages, from a Mellow Meadow for young kids to a Sunny Slope for families looking for a bigger and faster sled hill. Check out my Instagram Reel of sledding at Mellow Meadow in North Tahoe Regional Park with my toddlers.
East Shore Trail — Incline Village, NV
One of the best family-friendly trails in Lake Tahoe is the East Shore Trail. It’s a paved, stroller-friendly trail with beautiful panoramas everywhere you look. There are some small inclines on the trail, but nothing too challenging that active kids can’t handle. While the full out-and-back trail is 5.2 miles, we usually walk a portion of it, then head back.
The East Shore Trail is also a popular biking trail. You could bring kids’ bikes and pedal the whole trail instead of walking it. The best place to park for the East Shore Trail is at the designated spots near Tunnel Creek Cafe. Note that the cafe has its own parking. Parking is pay-by-meter, and the cost varies per hour depending on the season (summer weekends are the most expensive).
➡️ Discover the best places for kids to ride bikes in Sacramento.
Preston Field & Playground — Incline Village, NV
If you’re looking for another playground in Lake Tahoe for kids, Preston Field & Playground in Incline Village is another option. While the Ferrari Playground is on the beach, the Preston Field & Playground is in a park, surrounded by beautiful trees. This Lake Tahoe playground also has swings, including bucket swings for babies.
The Ferrari Playground at Kings Beach and the Preston Field & Playground at Incline Village are only an 8-minute drive apart.
Bowl Incline — Incline Village, NV
Bowl Incline is a great spot in Lake Tahoe for kids, with a bowling alley and arcade. This bowling alley is also known for its fantastic food. Sam Choy’s Ohana Diner serves up classic dishes with a Hawaiian twist, like Kalua BBQ Pizza, poke bowls, and Korean Fried Chicken Sandwich. There are sweet treats and a kids’ menu with a variety of the usual kid-friendly staples. Families will also enjoy playing lawn games on the outdoor patio.
Tahoe Waterman’s Landing — Carnelian Bay
Tahoe Waterman’s Landing is a secret gem near North Lake Tahoe. First, you can get coffee, pastries, and lunch fare, and enjoy them at this beachside cafe. You really can’t get a better casual breakfast with a view than this spot. It’s family-friendly with some kid-specific menu options.
Second, you can rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards from here as well. If you’re looking for a family-friendly way to get out on the water, this might be a great option. Rentals are available seasonally in the summer, but the cafe is open year-round.
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Where to Stay Overnight
While it’s easy to make Lake Tahoe a day trip from Sacramento, it might be easier to stay the night, especially when traveling with kids.
Hyatt Regency Incline Village
The Hyatt Regency Incline Village stands out not just for its location, but for its Family King Suite. This room is ideal for families as it includes a king bed and bunk beds. There’s plenty of space in a fantastic location close to many popular North Lake Tahoe trails and attractions. This hotel is one of the very few in Lake Tahoe I’ve come across with bunk beds for kids.
Final Thoughts
Ferrari Playground at Kings Beach State Recreation Area is one of the most unique playgrounds near Lake Tahoe, due to its beachfront location and jaw-dropping views. Whether you’re planning a full beach day or just looking for an easy stop for kids along the north shore to get their wiggles out, this playground is worth adding to your family itinerary when visiting Lake Tahoe with kids.
➡️ Looking for more Lake Tahoe tips and guides? Check out the perfect fall day trip from Sacramento to Lake Tahoe with kids.
