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.
11. Carkeek Park Beach – Best for Nature Lovers
For nature enthusiasts seeking a beach experience intertwined with lush greenery, Carkeek Park Beach is the perfect choice. Nestled in Carkeek Park, this beach offers a unique blend of sandy shores and forested trails. The park itself is a haven for wildlife, featuring salmon spawning in Pipers Creek and an environmental learning center. Visitors can enjoy beachcombing, tide pool exploration, and scenic hikes along the trails that provide breathtaking views of the Puget Sound. Carkeek Park Beach, with its diverse ecosystems, provides a serene escape where land and sea harmonize in a natural symphony.
12. Saltwater State Park – Best for Underwater Exploration
Dive into the underwater wonders of Seattle at Saltwater State Park. This beach, located between Des Moines and Tacoma, boasts a designated underwater artificial reef, making it an excellent spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. Explore the marine life beneath the waves, including rockfish, sea stars, and colorful anemones. The park also offers picnic areas and hiking trails, creating a perfect day out for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Saltwater State Park is not just a beach; it’s a gateway to an enchanting underwater world waiting to be discovered.
13. Seward Park Beach – Best for bird-watching
For a beach experience combined with bird-watching opportunities, Seward Park Beach is a hidden gem. Located on Bailey Peninsula, this beach within Seward Park provides stunning views of Lake Washington and is a haven for birdwatchers. The park is home to a diverse range of bird species, including bald eagles, herons, and waterfowl. Visitors can stroll along the lakeside paths, participate in organized bird walks, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this nature-rich beach. Seward Park Beach not only offers scenic beauty but also a unique chance to observe Seattle’s feathered inhabitants.
14. Matthews Beach – Best for Water Sports
Matthews Beach stands out as a hub for water sports enthusiasts. Situated along the northern shores of Lake Washington, this beach offers ample opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. The calm waters of the lake provide an ideal setting for both beginners and experienced water adventurers. The beach also features a playground, picnic areas, and a spacious lawn, making it an excellent spot for families and friends looking to enjoy a day of water-based activities. Matthews Beach, with its vibrant water activities, transforms the lake into a playground for water lovers of all ages.
15. Best for Scenic Lighthouse Beach
Embark on a journey to Discovery Park’s West Point Lighthouse Beach for a unique coastal experience. This beach not only provides stunning views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains but also offers a chance to witness the historic West Point Lighthouse. Stroll along the sandy shoreline, explore tidal pools, and marvel at the panoramic vistas. The presence of the lighthouse adds a touch of maritime history to this picturesque beach, making it a must-visit for those seeking both natural beauty and cultural heritage. West Point Lighthouse Beach is not just a scenic spot; it’s a living testament to Seattle’s maritime legacy.
16. Richmond Beach Saltwater Park
For a tranquil and romantic beach experience, Richmond Beach Saltwater Park is the ideal destination. Nestled in the neighborhood of Shoreline, this beach offers a serene atmosphere with its sandy shores and picturesque views of the Puget Sound. The park features picnic areas and a charming promenade perfect for a leisurely sunset stroll. As the sun dips below the horizon, visitors can enjoy the breathtaking hues of the sky reflecting on the tranquil waters, creating a romantic setting for an evening escape. Richmond Beach Saltwater Park, with its romantic ambiance, is not just a beach; it’s a canvas for nature’s captivating twilight display.
17. Juanita Beach Park – Best for Lakeside Relaxation
Escape the urban hustle and unwind at Juanita Beach Park, situated on the shores of Lake Washington. Known for its peaceful ambiance, this beach offers a spacious sandy shoreline, making it an ideal spot for lakeside relaxation. Visitors can bask in the sun, have a lakeside picnic, or take a refreshing dip in the clear waters. With amenities like volleyball courts, a playground, and designated swimming areas, Juanita Beach Park provides a perfect blend of recreation and tranquility. Juanita Beach Park invites not just visitors but storytellers to create memories by the lakeside.
18. Owen Beach – Best for Waterfront Trails
Owen Beach, located in Point Defiance Park, stands out for its scenic waterfront trails and pristine shoreline. This Tacoma-based beach allows visitors to explore the waterfront through picturesque trails while enjoying stunning views of the Puget Sound and the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. The beach is a popular spot for beachcombing, picnicking, and taking leisurely walks along the promenade. The combination of natural beauty and well-maintained trails makes Owen Beach an excellent choice for those seeking a refreshing coastal escape. Owen Beach, with its intertwining trails, is a symphony where every step is a note in a melody of coastal serenity.
19. Fox Island Beach – Best for Island Getaway Vibes
For a true island getaway experience, Fox Island Beach offers a tranquil retreat from the mainland. Accessible by a short bridge from Gig Harbor, this beach provides a secluded and peaceful setting. Visitors can enjoy sandy shores, rocky tide pools, and breathtaking views of the surrounding waters. The island ambiance, coupled with the sound of gentle waves, creates a relaxing atmosphere, making Fox Island Beach an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful escape without venturing too far from the city. Fox Island Beach beckons not just beachgoers but dreamers to experience a slice of island paradise near Seattle.
20. Houghton Beach Park
Nestled in the heart of Kirkland, Houghton Beach Park offers an urban lakeside charm with its sandy beach and panoramic views of Lake Washington. This family-friendly beach features a playground, picnic areas, and a designated swimming area. The park’s vibrant atmosphere invites visitors to enjoy a day of recreational activities, from paddleboarding to beach volleyball. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Houghton Beach Park is a picturesque destination that captures the essence of lakeside living in the midst of the city.
