Hitting the Beach in Seattle: Don't Worry, We Have Sand (Ish)
Seattle? Beaches? You might be picturing raincoats and Starbucks, but hold onto your flip flops, because the Emerald City boasts a surprising number of beachy escapes. Now, these aren't exactly the tropical paradises you see on Instagram (think more pebbles than palm trees), but they offer stunning scenery, plenty of activities, and the perfect escape from the urban jungle.
Tip: Skim only after you’ve read fully once.
QuickTip: Slow down when you hit numbers or data.
Tip: Reread if it feels confusing.
Reminder: Reading twice often makes things clearer.
 |
| What Beaches Are In Seattle |
Beach Bums Welcome: Top Seattle Spots to Soak Up the Sun (or Maybe Just Pretend To)
Alki Beach: This West Seattle classic is a local favorite for a reason. Wide open spaces, incredible views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, and a concession stand that serves up legendary corn dogs - what's not to love? Just watch out for the seagulls; they're like the pigeons of the beach, but with better aim.
Golden Gardens Park: If sprawling lawns, beach volleyball courts, and a driftwood fort building competition sound like your jam, then Golden Gardens Park is your spot. Bonus points: you might even catch a glimpse of a bald eagle soaring overhead.
Discovery Park: This 534-acre park is a hiker's paradise with trails offering panoramic views of the city and the Sound. It also has a hidden gem: a small, secluded beach perfect for a quiet afternoon reading a book (or pretending to read a book while people-watching).
For the Less Sandy Set: Look, Seattle beaches aren't known for their powdery white sand. But fear not, urban beach lovers! There are plenty of waterfront parks with grassy areas perfect for spreading out a blanket and soaking up the rays (or, more likely, the dappled sunlight filtering through the clouds). Check out Lincoln Park, Myrtle Edwards Park, or West Point Lighthouse Park.
Beach Hacks: How to Avoid Looking Like a Tourist (Even If You Are One)
Dress in Layers: The Seattle weather is notorious for its fickleness. You might start with sunshine and end up in a drizzle. Pack a sweatshirt and a raincoat, just in case.
Bring Your Own Fun: Seattle beaches are pretty bare-bones amenity-wise. Pack a frisbee, a kite, a book, or your competitive spirit for a beach volleyball showdown.
The Great Seattle Freeze? It applies to the water too! While some beaches technically allow swimming, the water temperature rarely rises above refreshing. Pack a wetsuit if you're feeling adventurous (and possibly a little crazy).
Respect the Locals: Seattleites have a deep love for their beaches. Keep it clean, be courteous, and maybe even bring a reusable cup for your coffee to avoid littering.
FAQ: Beachin' in Seattle Like a Boss
How to get to the beach? Seattle has a great public transportation system. Buses can get you to most beaches, and ferries are another fun option for some destinations.
How to find parking? Parking near beaches can be tricky, especially on weekends. Be prepared to walk a bit or try your luck with street parking.
How to know if it's beach weather? Download a weather app that shows the chance of rain and cloud cover. Even a cloudy day at the beach can be enjoyable!
How to avoid crowds? Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. If you're looking for complete solitude, try exploring some of the smaller, lesser-known beaches.
How to spot a sea creature? Keep your eyes peeled for seals, otters, and the occasional eagle. Just remember, respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance.
 |
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
