SUSTAINABLE SUNDAY
SUSTAINABLE SUNDAY: SECRET COVE AND STRANGE BIKINIS
This post is sponsored by Strange Bikinis. All opinions are my own! Thank you for supporting the brands that make my blog, Shelbssays, possible!
Since moving to Tahoe, I have become more aware of the importance of sustainability and what my role is in protecting our natural resources. Here in Tahoe, I am surrounded by a like-minded community that really makes an effort to protect the natural beauty that surround us. There are so many amazing small businesses and I happened to have stumbled upon what is now my favorite local brand–Strange Bikinis! For a small company, they sure are making big waves in women’s swimwear! Strange Bikinis is based in Reno where their first brick and mortar shop is located, and they also just opened up a new shop in Santa Cruz! If you aren’t located near the Bay or Tahoe, don’t worry because you can find everything online as well. Aside from offering options like biodegradable fabrics (like the bikini I am wearing in these photos), their swimwear is made in tiny batches and cautiously crafted so that less energy and water are being used during the process. It is nice to know that their efforts to be an eco-conscious brand run through every step of the way. If you are interested in learning even more about their production process, check out their page here!
The styles truly seem endless when browsing their suits and it is even cooler that some of the fabrics are reversible (which means you technically get two bikinis for half of the fabric). I chose the biodegradable fabric, and am in love with how soft it feels. In these photos, I am wearing the Bliss Minimal Coverage Top and Santa Cruz bikini bottoms in the color Plum Lane. While a biodegradable swimsuit might sound a little scary at first, the quality and durability of the swimsuit is no different than regular synthetic material your swimsuits are most likely made of. This is because it won’t break down with normal use; it will take an environment with low oxygen levels, high humidity, and high bacteria levels, such as in a landfill. Pretty rad, right?! After a full day on the lake, I can say I’m a huge fan of the way the suit fits and the quality of the material.
My friend and I hit up this new (to us) beach on Lake Tahoe, and to our surprise, it was more awesome than we anticipated! I’m talking turquoise water dotted with beautiful rocky coves. We trekked to the East Shore (Nevada side of the lake) and stumbled upon the Secret Cove early enough to beat the crowd. And trust me, you’ll want to head here early too–because this beach is no secret to locals and tourists alike. Waking up at 5 AM was totally worth it to grab a spot to social distance and swim during these strange times. There are plenty of boulders to lounge on and jump off of. Between the clear water and golden sand, you are sure to be in for a wonderful morning at one of the most beautiful beaches in the area.
If you are visiting for the first time, take note that the East Shore is less developed. It is what makes this part of Lake Tahoe so breathtaking, but there are definitely some struggles that come with this during peak season, such as parking. Also remember to bring decent shoes–it is a short hike to the beach, so flip-flops may not be the best choice! Be prepared to wander because Secret Beach is not easily marked–keep Google Maps open–signs are few and far between once you get on the trails near this beach.
While I can’t easily travel to the ocean during the pandemic, I feel extremely lucky to have crystal clear water to play in. This beach gives me major mermaid vibes. My inner mermaid-obsessed child was freaking out at the site of this beach. Lake Tahoe is truly a magical place. If you are thinking of visiting, please pay attention to the constantly changing rules of tourism here, and PLEASE be respectful and responsible. Wear a mask in places where you can’t social distance, and always pack out your trash. Keep Tahoe blue 
I knew I had to share this sustainable-focused brand in my Sustainable Sunday series because of how great the bikinis are, as well as their entire process of production! If you are in the area of Tahoe, be sure to visit the local shop, and be sure to rock your suit on the shore here! Do you have any favorite environmentally conscious fashion brands or tips? Feel free to share them below in the comments!
