Seattle is not just about rain and gray skies, especially during the summer months. With clear blue skies and long days that extend to breathtaking sunsets at 9 pm, Seattle has much to offer. If you are looking for the best beaches in Seattle, you are in luck! With over 200 miles of shoreline, Seattle boasts a multitude of parks and beaches that are perfect for swimming, hiking, and simply unwinding.
One of the most popular beaches in Seattle is Alki Beach. Located in West Seattle, Alki Beach offers stunning views of the Seattle skyline and the Olympic Mountains. Golden Gardens Park is another popular destination for beachgoers, with its sandy beach, hiking trails, and stunning sunset views.
For those seeking a quieter and more secluded beach experience, Lincoln Park Beach is an excellent choice. With its rocky shores and forested trails, it offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Overall, Seattle’s beaches offer a little something for everyone.
1. Discovering the Natural Wonders of Discovery Park
Seattle has always been a city known for its natural beauty, and Discovery Park is a shining example of that beauty. Whether you are strolling along the sea cliffs or exploring the forest groves, you will be treated to stunning views of the Cascade and Olympic Mountains that will leave you in awe.
With so much to explore, Discovery Park is the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in the natural wonders of Seattle.
Read More: 10 Best Beaches In The Bahamas
2. Alki Beach Park
If you are looking for the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a laid-back beach day, Alki Beach Park is the spot for you. Located in West Seattle, this beautiful beach is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Whether you are looking to soak up the sun, take a refreshing swim, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach, Alki Beach has it all. In addition to its natural beauty, Alki Beach is also home to a variety of amenities, including volleyball courts, fire pits, and a boardwalk lined with shops and restaurants. And if you are in the mood for some water sports, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard from one of the nearby rental shops.
So why not slow down and enjoy a lazy afternoon on Alki Beach? With its friendly locals and unbeatable views, it’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the Seattle sun.
Overall, Alki Beach Park is one of the best beaches in Seattle to unwind and enjoy a day with the locals.
3. Magnuson Park and Wedgwood
Magnuson Park is a stunning 350-acre park located in Sand Point at Pontiac Bay, Lake Washington, and it’s the second-largest park in Seattle. This park is a perfect place to relax and unwind in the sun while enjoying the beautiful scenery of the lake. The park’s beach boasts a tiny pebble shoreline, which is the ideal gateway to the refreshing waters that maintain an average temperature of 67 degrees from June until Labor Day.
Another great beach to check out in Seattle is Wedgwood Beach. Located in Northeast Seattle, it’s a quiet and peaceful spot that offers stunning views of Lake Washington. Wedgwood Beach is a perfect spot to relax, have a picnic, or watch the sunset.
It’s an excellent place for families with children, as there are several playgrounds and picnic areas. The beach is also ideal for swimming, fishing, and boating. Don’t miss out on visiting these two amazing beaches when in Seattle.
4. Idylwood Beach Park
Located overlooking Sammamish Lake, Idylwood Beach Park is a serene and beautiful park that is perfect for a day out with family or friends. This beach park is a great place for swimming, picnicking, or just taking in the lovely scenery.
Idylwood Beach Park is located close to several businesses such as Microsoft, Safeco, and Nintendo, making it a convenient location to visit. The swimming beach is the main attraction here, featuring a bathhouse and restrooms that are well-maintained and clean.
5. Golden Gardens Beach
Golden Gardens Beach is a favorite among families looking for a fun day in the sun. With its stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, it’s the perfect place to relax and take in the beauty of Seattle. Picnic areas and BBQ grills are available for those who want to make a day of it, and there are even fire pits for roasting marshmallows as the sun sets.
One of the highlights of Golden Gardens is its dog-friendly beach area, where furry friends can enjoy a swim alongside their human companions. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months, ensuring that swimmers stay safe in the water.
Overall, Golden Gardens is the best beach in Seattle for families looking for a fun, relaxing day out. So pack a picnic, grab your sunscreen, and head down to Golden Gardens for a day of sun, sand, and sea.
6. Gene Coulon Memorial Beach
Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park is one of the best beaches in Seattle for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Located in Renton, just 15 miles from downtown Seattle, this beach park offers a plethora of activities and amenities for visitors.
With its sandy swimming beach, boat launches, and beautiful trail that runs alongside Lake Washington, Gene Coulon is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. The park also has playgrounds, tennis courts, a fishing pier, and picnic shelters, making it the perfect spot for families to spend a day in the sun.
The park’s beach area is a great place to cool off on hot summer days and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the lake. There are plenty of picnic tables and grills available for those who want to enjoy a meal or snack while taking in the view.
Its range of activities and amenities make it one of the best beaches in Seattle, and its stunning location on Lake Washington makes it a beautiful and memorable spot for visitors of all ages.
7. Lake Washington Cruise – Kirkland
When it comes to experiencing the beauty of Seattle, there’s no better way than by water. One of the best ways to do this is by taking a Lake Washington Cruise from Kirkland. The cruise departs from the public docks at Marina Park in Kirkland and offers a relaxing tour of Lake Washington. The tour is provided by Argosy Cruises and is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers.
During the Lake Washington Cruise, you will be treated to stunning scenery and fascinating trivia and tidbits about the area’s history and famous residents. The cruise is a great way to unwind and relax while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding areas. Whether you are a local or a tourist, this cruise is an excellent way to experience Seattle’s beauty from a unique perspective.
So, ahoy matey! Come aboard and see for yourself why Seattle’s bodies of water are one of its best features. Don’t miss out on this amazing Lake Washington Cruise from Kirkland.
8. Best Beaches in Seattle: Gas Works Park
If you are looking for a unique park in Seattle, Gas Works Park is a must-visit. This 21-acre park was once an industrial area, but it was transformed in 1975 into a recreational complex, making it the first of its kind in the world. Located on the north end of Lake Union, the park offers visitors stunning views of the city from its 60-foot hilltop.
There’s no shortage of things to do in Gas Works Park. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, sailing, picnicking, and cycling. The park is also a popular spot to watch Seattle’s Fourth of July fireworks display. For special occasions, the park offers a 200-seat picnic shelter that can be reserved by calling 206-684-4081.
Gas Works Park is an excellent destination for families, groups of friends, or anyone looking for a unique and memorable experience. Don’t miss the chance to explore this one-of-a-kind park when you are in Seattle.
9. Green Lake Park
Green Lake Park is one of Seattle’s most popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. With a stunning view of the lake and a variety of activities to enjoy, it’s no wonder that Green Lake Park is considered the best beach for a workout.
Whether you are a runner looking for a scenic route or a fitness enthusiast wanting to take advantage of the workout stations dotted around the park, Green Lake has everything you need. The park’s lush greenery and natural beauty make it a perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day at work.
Green Lake Park is also an ideal location for families with young children. The park boasts a playground and a wading pool, making it a great spot for a family picnic or a day out with the kids. With its beautiful scenery and endless activities, it’s easy to see why Green Lake Park is a favorite among Seattle residents and visitors alike. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience one of Seattle’s best beaches.
10. Madison Park – Best Beach for Sunbathing
If you are looking for a great spot to soak up the sun and enjoy some fun in the water, Madison Park Beach is a top choice. Located on the shores of Lake Washington, this beach is easily accessible via the old trolley route down E Madison St. It was once a popular seaside resort in Seattle and still retains its charm and character today.
Visitors to Madison Park Beach can enjoy a variety of activities, including frisbee, swimming, and sunbathing. The beach is perfect for those who want to relax and soak up the sun while enjoying a refreshing dip in the lake. After a day of fun in the water, visitors can grab a bite to eat at one of the short strips of glass-fronted cafes that line the beach.
Madison Park Beach is a great destination for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to enjoy the best of Seattle’s beaches. With its beautiful setting, fun activities, and great food, this beach is not to be missed.
