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Best of Seattle

Beaches and parks

A stretch of sand that feels like a true park rather than just a narrow strip of shoreline.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated April 2026
01
Golden Gardens Park image 1
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Scenic beach park with breathtaking water and mountain views and picturesque sunsets. Open grassy areas and volleyball courts create a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Visitors enjoy fire pits and picnic facilities alongside walking paths and an off-leash dog area.

Huge, spacious beach with sandy shore and ocean views across Puget Sound. Easy access and roomy layout make it great for frisbee, parties, and family gatherings.

Offers great beach and water views with walking trails and stairs. Features a playground for kids, a pond with ducks and turtles, and plenty of free parking. Popular spot for picnics, family gatherings, and watching sunsets over Puget Sound.

People are saying

"I found the beach beautiful with stunning views of the Olympic Mountains."

"I thought the sunsets here were amazing and beautiful."

"The park offers beautiful views of the Olympics and the water."

Good to know

1

Parking can be extremely difficult on busy weekends; arrive early to find a spot.

2

Restrooms are available at the park for visitor convenience.

3

The concession stand closes at 6pm, so plan accordingly.

02
Golden Gardens Beach image 1
Beach pavillion

Beach pavilion offers soft sandy shore and panoramic mountain views with a laid-back family-friendly vibe. Large grassy fields and picnic areas provide space for outdoor games and gatherings. Calm atmosphere blends natural beauty with amenities like event halls and a pier overlooking a marina.

Soft sand and amazing views of mountains and water define this beach. It offers a clean, family friendly environment with plenty of space and good facilities.

Beautiful beach park with mountain views and a laid-back, family-friendly vibe. Picnic areas, fire pits, and a pier offer spots to relax and enjoy the marina view.

People are saying

"This beach is beautiful with amazing views of the water and mountains."

"It's a great kid-friendly spot with a large playground and open spaces."

"The park's beach offers amazing views of Puget Sound and the mountains."

Good to know

1

There is always something going on at Golden Gardens Beach, like kite flying events.

2

Parking at Golden Gardens Beach can be chaotic, especially on weekends.

3

Arriving early is recommended on weekends or holidays because it can get busy.

03
Carkeek Park image 1
City park

City park offers beach access and well-maintained hiking trails through forested areas. It has a family-friendly vibe with playgrounds, picnic spots, and educational features like a salmon slide. Views include Puget Sound and Olympic mountains, creating a peaceful and scenic atmosphere.

Access to the beach comes via a high bridge leading to areas with tidepools and views of passing trains on scenic tracks. Activities include rock balancing and watching wildlife like eagles and seals.

A large, scenic park with sandy beach and railroad views along the ocean. It offers many lovely trails for walking, hiking, and jogging, plus picnic areas suitable for large groups.

People are saying

"The beach here is perfect for watching a spectacular sunset."

"It's a kid-friendly place with a fun playground."

"I considered this one of my favorite local parks."

Good to know

1

The park offers plenty of space for group events.

2

You can dig for seafood at the park.

3

In November, the salmon come back to spawn, which is fun to watch.

04
Lowman Beach Park image 1

Small city park offers calm water views and grassy areas with swings. Atmosphere stays peaceful and quiet, especially mid-week, attracting people who relax on the grass or launch kayaks. Less crowded than nearby spots, it provides a natural, neighborhood feel with scenic walkways and benches.

A stone beach offers easy launch spots for kayaks and paddleboards. The park features almost 360-degree water views and is a popular spot for sunset watching and picnics.

Small and well kept, this park offers almost 360-degree water views and easy access to the beach. It serves as a popular spot for launching paddleboards and kayaks, with plenty of space for picnics and watching sunsets.

People are saying

"It's a nice little beach park with a great view of the sound."

"It's a great spot to relax and get away from the city bustle."

"I found the park to be lovely and beautiful."

Good to know

1

There are no restrooms available at Lowman Beach Park.

2

Parking is very limited, especially on sunny days.

3

The park is great for launching water sports like paddle boarding.

05
Carkeek Park Beach image 1

Beach with calm waves and quiet atmosphere offers beautiful mountain views and wooded trails nearby. Spacious parking and picnic areas support a relaxed, peaceful vibe where people enjoy nature and playgrounds. Dog restrictions on the small beach contrast with the rest of the park's openness.

A beautiful, quiet beach offers clean sand and views teeming with sea life at low tide. The area includes spacious parking, picnic tables, and easy beach access with nearby trails and grassy fields.

Beautiful waterfront park with clean beach access, plenty of green space, and many great trails. Features include playgrounds, picnic shelters, restrooms, and spots to watch salmon and sunsets.

People are saying

"I found the beach here to be beautiful and teeming with sea life."

"I loved the beautiful sound views and mountain scenery."

"The beach at this park is beautiful and peaceful."

Good to know

1

The beach has a spacious parking lot, amenities, and many picnic tables.

2

Access to the beach involves a steep footbridge, not suitable for mobility issues.

3

Expect limited walking space during high tide, but plenty during low tide.

06
Colman Park Beach image 1

Beach park offers peaceful atmosphere with breathtaking views of surrounding landmarks and water. Visitors enjoy easy water access and shaded areas for relaxation. Parking is limited but nearby options provide access for various activities.

Beautiful views of Mt Rainier and downtown Bellevue stretch over the water. The beach offers easy water access and plenty of shaded spots to relax under.

Views of Mt Rainier, Seward Park, and downtown Bellevue stand out over the I-90 bridge. The park offers a small beach, playground, and picnic area with easy water access and a peaceful vibe.

People are saying

"I loved the nice view of Mt Rainier and downtown Bellevue."

"It's a beautiful beach with refreshing water and great views."

"The views from these parks are breathtaking, especially of Mt Rainier."

Good to know

1

Parking can get tight at the beach, so arrive early.

2

There are only 20 parking spots in the lot, making parking limited.

3

Ample parking is available one street over, with easy access to the beach.

07
Madison Park image 1
City park

City park offers quiet beach and lake views alongside a playground with climbing structures and swings. Two distinct areas create different vibes: one family-friendly and calm, the other lively and noisy with a queer, fun energy. Lifeguards watch over the swimming area with diving boards, making it suitable for all ages.

A clean beach with both grass and sand areas offers a dock for swimming and a diving board. Lifeguards watch from noon to 7 PM daily through Labor Day.

A clean beach park with a great playground featuring swings, slides, and a zip line. Lifeguards watch the gorgeous lakeshore, and food spots are just a short walk away.

People are saying

"This park has a great playground for kids of all ages."

"I thought the beach here was magnificent and clean."

"I enjoyed the beautiful view on a nice clear day."

Good to know

1

The beach has lifeguards on duty from 12 to 7 daily through Labor Day.

2

Parking can be challenging, especially on sunny days.

3

Food options are within walking distance from the park.

08
Seacrest Park image 1
City park

Waterfront park offers stunning city skyline views and a peaceful atmosphere with calm spaces for strolling and relaxing. Kayak rentals and water taxi services add active water access, while nearby condos and vibrant beach activity create a balanced urban and natural vibe.

Beach access comes with free parking and a low-key vibe. The shore lacks sand, which suits parents looking for a different beach experience.

Waterfront location offers great views of the city and a peaceful vibe. Facilities include kayak rentals and water taxi services, making it easy to enjoy the water and watch ferries.

People are saying

"The scenic views of the Seattle skyline across the water are beautiful."

"The parks offer stunning views of the Seattle skyline across the water."

"I loved the free parking and beach access."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky during peak times, so arrive early.

2

The West Seattle Water Taxi provides easy access to downtown Seattle.

3

Nearby Marination Ma Kai offers tasty bites with a waterfront view.

09
Howell Park image 1
City park

Small waterfront park offers a clothing optional and LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere with a quiet, peaceful vibe. Visitors find limited parking and a rocky water's edge, with grassy and stone seating areas slanting toward the lake. The beach hosts a diverse crowd and tends to get shady in the afternoon.

A small, all-male nude beach sits on a lake with water warmer than Puget Sound. It feels private and friendly, mostly welcoming to LGBT+ but open to everyone, with no toilets or benches and shade arriving in the afternoon.

A hidden waterfront park offers a quiet and peaceful spot with a clothing optional nude beach. Access involves obscure side roads and limited parking in the neighborhood.

People are saying

"It's a lovely, peaceful park hidden away."

"I found the nude beach to be nice and private."

"I found this nude beach to be a very positive and private experience."

Good to know

1

The park is clothing optional and LGBTQ+ friendly.

2

Expect rocky water's edge; bring old sneakers or flip-flops.

3

There are no toilets, benches, or tables at the beach.

10
Seward Park image 1

Expansive park features old-growth forest, waterfront views, and rugged hiking trails. Serene atmosphere includes gentle sounds of lapping waves and peaceful spots for relaxation. Amenities support families and groups with playgrounds, picnic areas, and an amphitheater.

Swimming beaches sit along the lake with a flat trail nearby for easy walks. The area offers sunset views and a mix of forested hiking and picnic spots. Activities include biking, running, and playing on the beach or playground.

Offers walking trails, a kids' playground, and picnic areas with plenty of parking and restrooms. Features easy, flat hikes with stunning views of Mount Rainier and a coastal bay, making it a peaceful spot for nature and relaxation.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful views of Mt. Rainier and the lake."

"I found the park's scenery to be beautiful, with stunning forest and lake views."

"I enjoyed the beautiful beach and lovely lake views."

Good to know

1

Parking is busy on weekends, but free parking is available.

2

Restrooms are clean and well-maintained throughout the park.

3

The park has trails suitable for running and walking dogs.

11
Warren G. Magnuson Park image 1

Large city park offers spacious open fields, off-leash dog areas, and beachfront access with scenic views of lake and mountains. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful during the day, turning lively with noise and activity late at night. Features include historic buildings, athletic fields, walking trails, and community spaces.

Sandy beach fronts offer a gradual decline into the lake, making access easy. Facilities include outdoor showers, bathrooms, and nearby athletic fields for added convenience.

Offers a huge off-leash dog area with a trail leading to a dog beach and plenty of doggy friends. Features large open fields for sports, many trails, a beach, and free parking for easy access.

People are saying

"It's so Dog Friendly, with tons of room for pups to run."

"Parking at the park is easy and abundant."

"The dog beach here is beautiful and has lots of land for dogs to play."

Good to know

1

Parking is available for $12 for trailers, but free parking can be hard to find.

2

Restrooms at the beach are open, but facilities may be limited during events.

3

The hangar hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts and thrift markets.

12
Olympic Sculpture Park image 1

Outdoor space combines unique sculptures with spectacular water views and peaceful walking trails. Atmosphere stays quiet and relaxing despite nearby urban activity. Seating areas and a small beach offer spots to rest and enjoy nature.

Small beaches with pebble shores and rocky spots offer peaceful places to sit. Driftwood pieces and benches line the water, creating nice viewpoints over the city and water.

Free access and artistic sculptures create a unique park experience. Visitors enjoy waterfront views including Mount Rainier, the Space Needle, and the Olympic Mountains while strolling or relaxing.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the nice view of the water and mountains."

"The parks here offer beautiful views of the water and mountains."

"I loved sitting at the mini beach watching the sunset."

Good to know

1

The park is free to enter.

2

There is a bathroom deep into the park near Centennial.

3

Parking is available, but may require walking a bit further.

13
Mount Baker Park image 1

City park offers waterfront views with a small sandy beach, pier, and lush greenery. It has paved and natural trails winding through tall, mature trees including many Japanese maples. The atmosphere is quiet and family friendly, with spaces for swimming, fishing, jogging, and outdoor play.

A small beach with all sand makes swimming easy and safe for bare feet. The area includes a pier, restrooms, and plenty of space for family swimming.

Lush greenery and Japanese maple trees surround winding trails and a clean, well-maintained playground. The park offers stunning views of Lake Washington and a quiet, family-friendly vibe with a small beach area.

People are saying

"I loved the waterfront view with the beach and pier."

"I found the park to be gorgeous, quiet, and a serene escape."

"It's a waterfront view with a small beach and pier."

Good to know

1

The park offers a waterfront view with a small beach, pier, and restrooms.

2

Limited parking and occasional overcrowding during peak times detract from the experience.

3

The playground is well maintained and clean.

14
Myrtle Edwards Park image 1

Long narrow park along the waterfront offers sweeping views of Olympic Mountains and Mount Rainier. Peaceful paths invite walking, biking, and jogging with scenic waterfront access. Expansive grassy areas and picnic tables create a calm setting for relaxation near the water.

Small beach areas offer water access for swimming even in the frigid Pacific Ocean. Watching the tide rise and fall adds to the relaxing atmosphere by the shore.

A long narrow park along the waterfront offers sweeping waterfront views and a peaceful path. It features amazing views of the city, the Olympic Mountains, and Mount Rainier on clear days, plus water access with beaches suitable for swimming and kayaking.

People are saying

"The sunset views over the bay were amazing."

"I found the beach here to be a great urban park gem."

"The parks here offer gorgeous waterfront views and a peaceful place to lounge."

Good to know

1

The park is currently undergoing construction, limiting access to certain areas.

2

Bike trails are open, providing a scenic route along the waterfront.

3

Expect beautiful views of the Olympic Mountains and Mount Rainier on clear days.

15
Jack Block Park image 1

Park offers spectacular views of a city skyline and bay from an observation deck and treelined paths. It feels quiet and hidden, with few crowds and a peaceful atmosphere. Features include a small play area, picnic facilities, and beach access, making it suitable for walks and relaxation.

A clean beach offers panoramic views of the port and downtown cityscape. It stays less crowded than nearby beaches and sits near shuttle stops and green space.

A quiet, tucked-away park offers panoramic views of the city skyline and waterfront. Smooth, clean paths make it easy to walk or roll around, while the mix of industrial and natural elements creates a unique, peaceful setting.

People are saying

"I loved the nice view of the Seattle skyline."

"I loved the park's amazing Seattle skyline views."

"I loved the beach with its amazing views of the Seattle skyline."

Good to know

1

The park closes at 4:30 PM.

2

The restrooms are locked when the park is closed.

3

The restrooms have a keypad; call for a code to enter.

16
Pritchard Island Beach image 1

Small sandy shoreline and grassy areas create a peaceful retreat with stunning lake views. The park stays quiet and uncrowded, offering easy water access for swimming and kayaking. Visitors enjoy a scenic, family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of green space to relax.

Peaceful retreat with stunning views of Lake Washington offers a quiet beach experience. Walking trails and lake wildlife add to the charm, while the spot serves as a launch point for kayaks and stand-up paddleboards and a viewing area for airshow events.

Clean and quiet with lots of green space. Suitable for kayaking in Lake Washington. The beach area is somewhat clean with some trash but cleaner than other city parks. No playground available.

People are saying

"It's a peaceful beach with beautiful, quiet views."

"It's a clean, quiet Meditation Spot, perfect for escaping the city bustle."

"This park is a peaceful, quiet retreat with beautiful lake views."

Good to know

1

Limited parking spots are available, so arrive early.

2

Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months.

3

Bathrooms are available for visitor convenience.

17
32nd Avenue West Beach Access image 1

Small beach offers beautiful views of Elliott Bay and Mt Rainier with free parking nearby. The atmosphere is secluded and peaceful, making it ideal for quiet moments or launching man-powered boats. Dogs occasionally appear, adding to the relaxed vibe.

Small and charming, this beach offers beautiful views and a secluded, peaceful atmosphere. Free parking sits close by, making it easy to access on foot or by car.

Small park with space for about six cars offers chill spots and nice views. Quiet enough to get some work done or relax for the day.

People are saying

"I loved the peaceful, secluded beach access at this park."

"I enjoyed the nice view of the bay and Mt Rainier."

"The beach views of Elliott Bay and Mt Rainier are beautiful."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available at the beach access.

2

There is limited parking space for about six cars.

3

Access to the beach can feel a bit sketchy.

18
Madison Park Beach image 1
Public beach

Public beach offers beautiful lakeside views including a skyline and mountain backdrop. Atmosphere ranges from quiet and peaceful to lively with frequent announcements during swim hours. Large open spaces with diving boards and a zipline provide varied recreation options.

Sandy beach with a freshwater lake offers great swimming and a diving board. Facilities include showers, easy parking, and lifeguards for all swim levels, plus spots for paddle boarding and a zipline.

Natural beauty shines with many types of trees, plants, and flowers. The park offers a huge beach area with lifeguards and a zipline, plus clean spaces perfect for picnics and relaxing.

People are saying

"This beach is beautiful and a great place to relax."

"I loved the nice view of Lake Washington and Mount Rainier."

"It's a beautiful park with a lovely beach."

Good to know

1

Open swim hours wrap up at 7 pm.

2

Parking is limited but generally acceptable near the beach.

3

Lifeguards are on duty most of the day, ensuring safety.

19
Denny Blaine Park image 1

Clothing-optional beach and park with a relaxed, body-positive atmosphere and queer-friendly energy. Quiet, private space featuring beautiful lake views and a serene, green escape within the city. Visitors include a diverse mix of open-minded people enjoying a no-judgment zone.

A small, very private beach offers a clothing optional experience with clean, respectful surroundings. Visitors enjoy wading and swimming while a diverse crowd shares the space peacefully.

A clothing-optional lakefront park offers a quiet, peaceful spot with a friendly, welcoming vibe. The park features a serene green escape by the water, ideal for sunbathing and walking to nearby memorials.

People are saying

"I found a welcoming, nude sunbathing spot with a relaxed atmosphere."

"This beach is known as a clothing-optional spot."

"This park is known as a clothing-optional beach."

Good to know

1

Denny Blaine Park is a clothing-optional beach, popular for sunbathing.

2

Parking is extremely limited, with only about 14 spaces available.

3

Biking or taking the bus is recommended due to parking difficulties.

20
Green Lake Park image 1

Massive park with amazing lake views and historic bathhouse offers a peaceful atmosphere and diverse recreational options like swimming, kayaking, and sports courts. Huge trees and well-maintained paths create a relaxing, walkable space in the city. The vibe is calm and inspiring, attracting people seeking both activity and tranquility.

Multiple beaches and grassy areas offer spots to sit and relax. A beach area with a dock and a water park provide options for wading and play, alongside walking trails and sports courts nearby.

A large park with dedicated paths for walking and riding circles a lake. It offers a serene escape with plenty of space for walks, skating, and picnics.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with amazing lake views and stunning scenery."

"I found so many fun activities, from walking to pickleball."

"The beach here is beautiful, especially the amazing sunset."

Good to know

1

The Lantern Parade occurs annually and is a must-see event.

2

Summer brings boat races and music events at Green Lake Park.

3

Free dodgeball games are held every Wednesday night at the community center.

21
Constellation Park image 1

Rocky shoreline offers diverse marine life and frequent sightings of seals and birds. Benches face stunning views of Puget Sound, Olympic Mountains, and sunsets. Embedded bronze plaques provide a hands-on solar system scale, blending natural beauty with educational elements.

Small beach offers stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. It provides a serene spot for walking and watching sunsets.

Low tide reveals diverse marine life and tide pools perfect for exploring. Stunning views of Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains create a peaceful beach walk experience.

People are saying

"The sunset views here are beautiful and serene."

"You can see so much marine life at these parks during low tide."

"The beach offers beautiful views of Puget Sound and the mountains."

Good to know

1

Constellation Park offers stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.

2

Low tide reveals tide pools that are fun to explore for marine life.

3

Parking is available in the winter, but street parking may be limited.

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