Warmer days are here and we’re ready to head outdoors. One of our favorite spring and summer activities is heading to the beach to soak up the sun and enjoy a dip. But with so many beaches in Seattle and around the state, it’s hard to choose one. Well, that’s where we come in! Here are 15 of the best beaches around Seattle.
Denny-Blaine Park
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First off, this is a great spot if what you really want to do is sit on Lake Washington. What’s extra nice about Denny-Blaine is that it’s not your typical beach. In fact, it has a terraced grass design so you don’t have to worry about getting sand everywhere. Oh, and it’s clothing-optional!
Where: 200 Lake Washington Blvd E
Howell Park
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This is one of the only other places in Seattle where you can sit in the sun and not worry about getting a tan line. Because Howell Park is a nude beach! It’s a smaller-sized park with a sloping hill that leads right down into Lake Washington. So you can either lay in the sun, go for a dip, or both!
Where: 1740 Howell Pl
Alki Beach
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Alki is an easy inclusion on this list. After all, it’s one of the best places to enjoy the Puget Sound and views of Seattle. Not to mention there are tons of restaurants in the area that will ensure you have the tastiest day at the beach. Doesn’t get much better than that if you ask us.
Where: 1702 Alki Ave SW
Olympic Sculpture Park
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The Olympic Sculpture Park is just straight up one of the coolest spots in the city. You can enjoy a nice stroll and see major artworks by both local and international artists. Plus the water happens to be just down the hill from the park so you can lay on the hill and take in views or walk along the multi-use trail and beaches that run along it.
Where: 2901 Western Avenue
Madison Park Beach
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This is another great spot for enjoying all that Lake Washington has to offer. You can relax on the grassy hill and take a quick dip in the sectioned-off swimming area. Plus you can always stop at one of the restaurants in the area for a tasty bite to eat.
Where: 4201 E Madison St
Magnuson Park
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You might be scratching your head at this one. Because well, Magnuson doesn’t really have any beaches. Well, beaches in the classic sense that is. But what Magnuson does have is many great spots along the shoreline to chill and swim. And in our books, that’s a beach and more!
Where: 7400 Sand Point Way NE
Mt Baker Beach
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You’ll find a large grassy area at Mt Baker Beach perfect for laying out in the sun. When it comes to the water there’s a dock and also a floating platform that you can swim out to. So soak in the rays or take a splash, whatever floats your boat.
Where: 2521 Lake Park Dr. S
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Matthews Beach Park
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Matthews Beach is Seattle’s largest freshwater bathing beach so how could you say no? You’ll find a beach, swimming area, lifeguard, and also a large grassy area to lay out after you’re done with your swim. Keep in mind it can be quite busy.
Where: 5100 NE 93rd St
Green Lake Park
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Green Lake is yet another spot where they don’t exactly have beaches. But what Green Lake does have is tons of grassy fields and some amazing docks that you can sit on. It’s great for soaking up the sun and maybe even a little fishing action if you feel so inclined.
Where: 7201 E Green Lake Dr. N
Discovery Park
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If you want a little bit of everything in a day spent at the beach then you should head to Discovery Park. This park has it all, hiking, beaches, and a whole lot more. Plus it has one of the best beaches on the sound and the lighthouse is pretty dang cool if you ask us.
Where: 3801 Discovery Park Blvd
Golden Gardens Park
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Ah yes, probably Seattle’s most classic beach, Golden Gardens is the ultimate summer hang out spot. And it just so happens to be huge which is great if you’re planning on going with a few friends. Just be prepared because this beach is pretty much always packed.
Where: 8498 Seaview Place NW
Carkeek Park
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If you like going for long walks on the beach Carkeek Park is the place to do it. Just be sure you know your tide tables because if you don’t you could get stuck. That being said, this is one of the best beaches for views of the Olympics and also for catching little glimpses of marine life.
Where: 950 NW Carkeek Park Rd
Chism Beach Park
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If you’re up to make the trek across the lake this is a great and somewhat secret spot. Plus it has picnic benches, a dock and lots of space to soak up the sun. Not to mention you can see across to Seattle on sunny days, we always love a good view.
Where: 9600 SE 11th St, Bellevue, WA
Lincoln Park
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Here’s another West Seattle gem. Lincoln Park is a great place to take a nice stroll and enjoy a waterfront trail. What’s best of all is due to the size of the park, there are tons of places to relax and picnic either solo or with friends. This one is worth the trip west.
Where: 8011 Fauntleroy Way
Andover Place
Well, it turns out West Seattle really has us covered when it comes to Seattle beaches. Andover Place is another very sneaky beach that you might otherwise miss. Because of its hidden nature, you might just get a somewhat private beach experience.
Where: 4000 Beach Drive SW
That’s what we have for you when it comes to the best beaches in Seattle. We hope that you enjoy our picks and treat yourself to some beach days. Keep in mind that just because the air outside is warm, it doesn’t mean the water is. Local bodies of water may still be freezing this time of year so know your limits and enjoy the water responsibly.
