Table of Contents
Seattle Beaches: Your Ultimate Guide to Waterfront Escapes
When summer hits the Pacific Northwest, there’s no better way to soak up the sunshine than by visiting the beautiful Seattle beaches. Whether you’re looking to relax with a book, enjoy a family picnic, take a sunset walk, or just dip your toes into Puget Sound, there’s a perfect beach for you.
In this complete Seattle beaches guide, we’ll cover the best sandy spots, hidden gems, family-friendly locations, and water activities for a memorable day on the coast.
Top 10 Must-Visit Seattle Beaches
1. Alki Beach – The Iconic Seattle Experience
Located in West Seattle, Alki Beach offers breathtaking views of the Seattle skyline, the Olympic Mountains, and ferries gliding across Elliott Bay. You’ll find a long paved trail perfect for walking, biking, and rollerblading, as well as volleyball courts and fire pits for evening fun.
2. Golden Gardens Park – A Sunset Lover’s Paradise
Situated in Ballard, Golden Gardens is a local favorite for its sandy beaches, hiking trails, and one of the best spots to catch a Seattle sunset. It’s ideal for picnics, beach fires, and even paddleboarding.
3. Madrona Park Beach – Hidden Urban Gem
Tucked away in a residential area, Madrona Park Beach is a quiet lakeside escape on Lake Washington. With a swimming area and lifeguards on duty during summer, it’s perfect for families and swimmers.
4. Discovery Park Beach – Rugged Beauty
For those who love nature, Discovery Park Beach offers forest trails leading down to a remote, driftwood-strewn shoreline. The historic West Point Lighthouse adds a charming touch to your beach day.
5. Matthews Beach – Best for Swimming
Matthews Beach on Lake Washington is Seattle’s largest freshwater beach and offers designated swimming areas, picnic spots, and calm waters perfect for paddling.
6. Carkeek Park – Tide Pools and Trails
Carkeek Park boasts both a sandy beach and a network of forest trails. It’s one of the few Seattle beaches with tide pools where kids can explore marine life during low tide.
7. Lincoln Park Beach – Perfect for a Day Trip
In West Seattle, Lincoln Park has rocky shores, a saltwater pool, hiking paths, and scenic picnic areas. It’s ideal for a whole day of outdoor enjoyment.
8. Madison Park Beach – Classy City Escape
Popular among locals, Madison Park Beach offers a charming mix of grassy areas, sandy beach, and upscale cafés nearby. It’s great for lounging and lake swimming.
9. Seahurst Park – South Seattle’s Natural Gem
Located in Burien, Seahurst Park provides forested walking trails, a pebbly beach, and sweeping views of Puget Sound. It’s quieter than the central Seattle beaches.
10. Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park – Eastside Favorite
Though technically in Renton, this beach on the south end of Lake Washington is a great family-friendly destination with playgrounds, docks, and a great walking path.
What to Bring to Seattle Beaches
- Sunscreen (yes, even in Seattle!)
- Reusable water bottles
- Picnic supplies
- Foldable chairs or beach towels
- Sand toys for kids
- Binoculars for birdwatching or whale spotting
Water Activities to Try at Seattle Beaches
- Paddleboarding at Alki and Golden Gardens
- Kayaking on Lake Washington
- Swimming at Matthews Beach or Madison Park
- Beachcombing and tide pool exploring at Carkeek Park
- Picnicking and fire pit fun at Golden Gardens and Alki
Seattle Beaches Are Great All Year Round
Even in fall and winter, Seattle beaches are still worth visiting. They offer peaceful walks, moody coastal views, and even occasional whale sightings. Don’t forget a warm drink and a cozy jacket.
FAQ – Seattle Beaches
Are Seattle beaches sandy or rocky?
Seattle beaches offer a mix—Alki and Golden Gardens have sandy stretches, while beaches like Discovery Park and Lincoln Park tend to be rockier.
Can you swim at Seattle beaches?
Yes! Many Seattle beaches on Lake Washington and Puget Sound offer designated swim areas and even lifeguards in the summer.
Are dogs allowed on Seattle beaches?
Some beaches like Golden Gardens have off-leash dog areas nearby, but most Seattle beaches do not allow dogs directly on the beach.
When is the best time to visit Seattle beaches?
Late June through early September is best for sunny weather, swimming, and beach picnics.
Do Seattle beaches have fire pits?
Yes! Golden Gardens and Alki Beach both offer fire pits that are first-come, first-served in the summer.
Final Thoughts: Seattle Beaches Are Worth the Trip
Whether you’re a longtime local or just visiting the Emerald City, Seattle beaches offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, city views, and refreshing coastal charm. Plan your next outing with this Seattle beaches guide and soak in all the salty air and sunset magic the Pacific Northwest has to offer.