Did you know Seattle is home to some of the most stunning beaches the West Coast has to offer? Nestled along the shores of Puget Sound and Lake Washington, you’ll find over 200 miles of coastline waiting to be explored.
Seattle beaches offer more than just postcard-perfect views of the Pacific Northwest—they’re also ideal outdoor gathering spaces for friends and family. Whether you’re here to picnic, hike, partaking in water sports, or simply want to soak in the region’s natural beauty, you’ll soon discover that these beaches are the perfect backdrop for all the memories you’ll make. While you’re at it, check out some of our other favorite things to in Seattle.
Best Seattle Beaches for Every Type of Visitor
Come one, come all. Here are the best Seattle beaches with something sure to please every visitor to the area.
Alki Beach
Spanning 135 acres, Alki Beach is a beach near Seattle, Washington, where Seattle’s first white settlers arrived in 1851.
These days, it has over half a mile of beachfront and was the first public-salt water bathing beach in the country.
The beach is a popular spot for anyone all year, especially those who like to take lengthy walks along its shores. Come summer, its boardwalk becomes a hotbed of activity: folks flock here to play volleyball, roller skate, bicycle or just hang out with friends. There’s a 2.5-mile paved path here, making it an ideal spot for anyone looking to work out.
One attribute that distinguishes it from other Seattle beaches? Alki Beach is also home to a replica of the Statue of Liberty, the famous landmark in New York City. This was a gift from a man by the name of Reginald H. Parsons and the Seattle Council of the Boy Scouts of America in 1952 and has remained a part of the beach ever since.
Golden Gardens Park
Located in Ballard, Golden Gardens Park is one of Seattle’s few sandy beaches, making it a prime location for volleyball courts or just vibing, and one of the city’s hidden gems. Here, you’ll see plenty of scenic views of the Olympic Mountains. It also happens to be one of the few beaches in town that allows bonfires.
If you’re keen on doing some wildlife spotting, Golden Gardens Park is teeming with marine life during low tide. There’s a reason why outdoor enthusiasts say this may be the best beach in Seattle.
Discovery Park Beach
Welcome to Discovery Park, also known as Seattle’s largest park. Large indeed: The beach spans over 500 acres, with two miles of tidal beaches.
With its well-travelled hiking trails, Discovery Park Beach is a favorite among hikers. That’s because its natural surroundings are thriving with diverse ecosystems. Not only that, but it offers stunning views of the Cascade and Olympic Mountains. If you’re the type who’s all about going for nature walks and checking out local wildlife, Discovery Park Beach has it all. It’s in the name, after all.
Madison Park Beach
Madison Park Beach, on Lake Washington, is a favorite for families. That’s because it features a large grassy area (ideal for picnics), children’s play equipment and, during the summer months, has lifeguards on duty every day from noon until 7 PM.
For these reasons, Madison Park Beach has become a popular spot for families of young kids, offering plenty of family activities in Seattle. Children love to frolic in the beach’s shallow waters while parents enjoy the calm vibe. What’s more, the neighborhood features plenty of nearby cafés and restaurants, making it a great spot for day trips. Lunch, anyone?
Carkeek Park
Carkeek Park is an area brimming with forest, wetlands, and beach. All of Seattle’s habitats are found here, in other words. If you’re keen to learn more about the region and its natural vegetation, be sure to check out the environmental learning center catering to visitors on the local flora and fauna. In fact, this is a popular spot for bird watchers who flock to the region all seasons of the year and see what wildlife they’ll encounter.
Beyond that, Carkeek Park is well-known for its hiking trails, picnic areas, and breathtaking views of Puget Sound and Whidbey Island.
Seward Park
Located in the South End of Seattle, Seward Park is a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike. It’s easy to get to, given that it’s located within the city. Call it a welcome respite from all the hustle and bustle.
The park itself features 300 acres of sprawling land, complete with old-growth forests, hiking trails, and a shoreline, where visitors can park for a day of lounging by the waters of Lake Washington.
Considered one of Seattle’s top beaches, Seward Park is a favorite among nature lovers for its lush, forested trails and waterfront access. For kids, playgrounds just waiting to be scaled.
Denny Blaine Park
Denny Blaine Park is a popular spot for adults. Along the shores of beautiful Lake Washington, the park is surrounded by a stone wall for additional privacy. Since the 1970s, this has become Seattle’s preferred beachside destination for the LGBTQ community. It’s a clothing-optional beach, too, so privacy is a must.
Green Lake Park
Green Lake Park has something for everyone, from the outdoor adventurers to families with young children. If the perfect mix of fitness and relaxation is what you’re after, you’re bound to find it along the beaches near Seattle.
Green Lake Park happens to be a favorite among fitness buffs. It features a 2.8-mile walking and biking path that surrounds the serene freshwater Green Lake. What’s more, it’s a great spot for jogging, biking, or leisurely strolls. Taking in the scenery never felt so good.
Whether you’re breaking a sweat or spending quality time with loved ones, Green Lake Park is picture-perfect for swimming, family activities, or simply soaking up the sun.
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Other Notable Beaches in and Around Seattle
It isn’t just the ones we’ve mentioned above. There are heaps of beaches near Seattle, Washington, deserving of a visit.
In and around Seattle’s coastline, you’ll find a whole bunch of other notable beaches, including these spots.
Lincoln Park: Lincoln Park is a West Seattle gem, offering visitors the chance to soak up nature and enjoy outdoor activities. This picturesque spot is known for its saltwater pool, scenic walking and biking trails, and expansive picnic areas. Need a day to relax and unwind? This park is worth a visit.
Angle Lake Park: Just south of Seattle, you’ll find Angle Lake Park. With its spray park, well-equipped playground, and spots for fishing, there’s plenty to do here on a given sunny day. Because it’s a little smaller in size, it’s a favorite among locals.
Saltwater State Park: Located between Seattle and Tacoma, Saltwater State Park is a must-visit for marine enthusiasts. Here at this park, you’ll find an artificial reef, great for spotting aquatic wildlife like starfish.
It’s one of the hotspots in the area for scuba diving and kayaking. Whether you’re a fan of what happens below the surface or prefer the views from the comfort of a kayak, Saltwater State Park should be at the top of your list if you’re a nature lover.
Secret Beaches and Hidden Gems
Longing for some privacy? These secret beaches and hidden gems in Seattle are ideal for anyone looking for a private retreat.
Road End Beach, Yarrow Point
A trip to Road End Beach is one of the best-loved Washington beaches near Seattle. A short drive from downtown, Yarrow Point is a quaint town located on a peninsula surrounded by Lake Washington.
Road End Beach is a quiet spot to visit, surrounded by grassy knolls and a beautiful dock accessible to the public. Head here for the afternoon if you’re looking for a serene escape. There’s plenty of room for picnicking here, too.
Lowman Beach Park
Lowman Beach Park is a small, rocky beach in West Seattle. This popular spot is a favorite among those in the know. Its spacious, grassy lawn makes the park ideal for outdoor hanging or just kicking a soccer ball or Hackey sack around. A nearby swing set offers scenic views the little ones will love.
Though the rocky shores mean wearing shoes is a good idea, driftwood washed ashore creates plenty of makeshift seating. So go ahead, grab a spot and stay awhile.
Martha Washington Park
Martha Washington Park boasts a quieter beach along the shores of Lake Washington. If you’re looking for a peaceful beach day, this is your spot. Here, you’ll get to enjoy scenic lake views while escaping the hustle of the city.
Practical Tips for Visiting Seattle Beaches
Planning a Seattle beach day? Here are a few handy tips you should know.
Beach Rules and Regulations
Before you head off to Seattle’s beaches, know the rules. Though many of the more popular areas are staffed with lifeguards during peak months, you should still always check swimming regulations for safety—and fun. Especially if you’re planning to bring the little ones with you.
Feeling adventurous? Some areas—like specific spots along Lake Washington’s shoreline—are clothing optional. Be sure to plan accordingly (and don’t forget the sunscreen while you’re at it).
Parking and Accessibility
Because Seattle’s beaches are so popular, parking can be a bit of an arduous task. Spots tend to fill up quickly—especially on those sunny, summer weekends.
Many beaches offer free parking, but others are paid or can only promise limited street parking. Like anything, planning ahead for your beach day is always a sound idea.
For those with reduced mobility, a number of Seattle’s beaches provide ramps and pathways to accommodate wheelchairs (or strollers, for parents of very young children).
Our best tip? Arrive early to snag a spot—and beat the rest of the crowds.
Water Quality and Safety
Good news: King County takes water safety seriously. Water quality technicians regularly monitor and test the water quality to ensure it’s safe for swimming.
Be sure to check for any beach closure updates before you hit the beach—often, these are posted online or at the beach entrance. Staying informed is your one-way ticket to enjoying the water worry-free.
Essentials to Bring
Having all your beach day essentials is how you can ensure you’ll have the best time enjoying Seattle beaches.
Pack sunscreen to protect against UV rays, water shoes for navigating rocky shorelines (somewhat common on West Coast), and picnic supplies, of course, so you can enjoy a meal by the water. Oh, and don’t forget to bring along extra layers—Seattle’s weather can be downright unpredictable at times, so you never know when a light jacket or sweater might come in handy.
Ready for a beach day?
After you’ve spent a day at the beach, why not pay us a visit at one of our shows in Seattle? Though the scenic views at a Cirque du Soleil performance don’t necessarily mean the natural beauty of a beach or rolling mountains, rest assured they are breathtaking in their own special way.