Best Beaches to Hit Before August Cools Off

Seattle’s coastal charm isn’t confined to its iconic skyline and bustling waterfront. The city and its surrounding areas boast a variety of beaches, each offering unique experiences – from sunbathing and swimming to tidepool exploration and serene sunsets. Here’s a guide to some of the best beaches in and around Seattle.

Top Beaches in Seattle

1. Alki Beach Park (West Seattle)

Alki Beach is Seattle’s quintessential beach destination, stretching along Elliott Bay with views of the city skyline and, on clear days, Mount Rainier. The 2.5-mile promenade is perfect for biking, rollerblading, or leisurely walks.

2. Golden Gardens Park (Ballard)

Located in the Ballard neighborhood, Golden Gardens offers a sandy beach with stunning views of the Olympic Mountains. It’s a popular spot for picnics, beach volleyball, and enjoying Seattle’s sunsets. The park also features a boat launch and walking trails.

3. Discovery Park (Magnolia)

As Seattle’s largest green space, Discovery Park encompasses 534 acres of forested trails and rugged coastline. The North Beach Trail leads to a sandy beach with panoramic views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. It’s an ideal spot for hiking, wildlife watching, and quiet reflection.

4. Madison Park Beach (East Seattle)

Situated on Lake Washington, Madison Park Beach is a family-friendly spot with a grassy area for picnics, a swimming raft, and lifeguards on duty during summer months. The nearby Madison Park neighborhood offers cafes and shops for a relaxed outing.

5. Pocket Beach at Myrtle Edwards Park (Downtown)

Tucked between the Olympic Sculpture Park and Elliott Bay, Pocket Beach is a small, less crowded beach offering views of the Space Needle and the Olympic Mountains. It’s a peaceful spot for a stroll, tidepool exploration, or simply unwinding away from the city’s hustle.

Beaches Near Seattle Worth the Trip

6. Owen Beach (Tacoma)

Located in Point Defiance Park, Owen Beach features soft sand, calm waters, and scenic views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. It’s a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding, with free parking and dog-friendly policies.

7. Double Bluff Beach (Whidbey Island)

Accessible via ferry from Edmonds, Double Bluff Beach is known for its expansive sandy shore and off-leash dog area. The beach offers stunning views of Mount Rainier and is ideal for beachcombing and picnicking, especially during low tide.

8. Marina Beach Park (Edmonds)

Just north of Seattle, Marina Beach Park offers a sandy beach with views of the Olympic Mountains. The park features a picnic area, playground, and opportunities for beachcombing and wildlife watching.

9. Rockaway Beach Park (Bainbridge Island)

A short ferry ride from Seattle, Bainbridge Island’s Rockaway Beach Park offers a rugged coastline with tidepools, pebbly shores, and views of the Seattle skyline. It’s a peaceful spot for exploring marine life and enjoying the island’s natural beauty.

Whether you’re seeking a lively beach scene or a tranquil natural retreat, Seattle and its surrounding areas offer a diverse array of beaches to explore. Pack a picnic, bring your sunscreen, and enjoy the beautiful waterfront that the Pacific Northwest has to offer before it’s too late!