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 some of the best beaches to check out this season around Seattle.

Of note: If you plan to swim, beaches are monitored regularly with up-to-date water test results available online. Be sure to check them out before your next swim!

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Denny-Blaine Park

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.

Where: 200 Lake Washington Blvd E

Alki Beach

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

Madison Park Beach

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

Matthews Beach Park

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

Besides being one of the city’s most loved parks, Green Lake Park has two lifeguarded swimming areas: the west beach at 7312 West Green Lake Dr N., near what has been called the Bathhouse Theatre, and is now Seattle Public Theatre, and the east beach at 7201 East Green Lake Dr. N., near the Green Lake Community Center and Evans Pool.

Where: 7201 E Green Lake Dr. N

Discovery Park

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. Oh and the beach shuttle is running this summer.

Where: 3801 Discovery Park Blvd

Golden Gardens Park

Ah yes, probably Seattle’s most classic beach, Golden Gardens is the ultimate summer hang out spot. This park features two wetlands, a short loop trail, and restored the northern beach.

Where: 8498 Seaview Place NW

Carkeek Park

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

Madrona Park

Madrona Park and Beach is located along the waterfront on Lake Washington. The park includes a wooded hillside that slopes down to a grassy beach and swimming area, and this beach has lifeguards are on duty in the summer!

Where: 853 Lake Washington Blvd

Seward Park

Last but not least, we have Seward Park! According to the city, this park “boasts 300 acres of beautiful forest land, home to eagles’ nests, old growth forest, a 2.4 mile bike and walking path, an amphitheater, a native plant garden, an art studio, miles of hiking trails, shoreline, beaches and more.” This beach also has lifeguards during the summer.

Where: 5900 Lake Washington Blvd. S