Are you wondering which are the best beaches in Seattle?
Seattle is a great destination to visit, located on the West Coast of the United States. There are plenty of amazing things to do in Seattle, but there are also some beautiful beaches that are definitely worth a visit! Read on to find out all about the best beaches in Seattle and why you should visit them!
Tourism in Seattle
Tourism in Seattle is very popular for plenty of reasons, but first, here’s a little bit about Seattle: Seattle is a seaport city located on the West Coast of the United States of America – and the West Coast is recognised worldwide for bringing in tourists from all different corners of the world. It is one of the most major northern cities in the US and is only 100 miles from the Canadian border. It is also one of the fastest growing cities, as between 2010 and 2020 – it had a growth rate of 20.1% – so this means that there is plenty of great things to do in Seattle, and it is very popular for a reason!
Seattle holds lots of fairs and festivals that attract tourists from all over the globe who are interested in them. Some of the most popular ones include the 24-day-long Seattle International Film Festival, Seattle Asian American Film Festival, and numerous Seafair events during the summer months. In addition to this, Seattle also holds one of the largest Pride events in the country – making it a great destination to visit if you’re a part of the LGBTQ+ community and want to visit somewhere that you know will be welcoming.
Seattle is also very popular for cruise tourism as it is well known as a departure point for Alaskan cruises. In fact, in 2008, 886,039 cruise passengers passed through Seattle, which is a record number, and surpassed Vancouver, Canada, which is another major departure point for Alaskan cruises.
Some of the famous Seattle attractions are:
- Space Needle – an observation tower offering fantastic views of Seattle.
- Pike Place Market – a famous market which sells fresh produce from local businesses.
- Seattle Great Wheel – an observation wheel, which is one of the largest in the USA.
- Chihuly Garden and Glass – a beautiful garden and art gallery that is unlike any other.
How many beaches are there in Seattle?
How many beaches are there in Seattle? Seattle has 9 beaches in total and boasts 200 impressive miles of shoreline. Additionally, there are also other beaches located on the outskirts of Seattle, which are also worth a visit – and I’ve included some of these in this list as they’re very easy to get to. Many of the beaches in Seattle are very sandy; however, some are also very scenic and have a rugged terrain.
Many of the beaches offer something for everyone. For instance, some beaches in Seattle are better for swimming than others due to having lifeguards and changing facilities, and some beaches are better for people who just want to enjoy nature and relax. There’s a beach for everyone to enjoy in Seattle.
What to pack when visiting the best beaches in Seattle
What to pack when visiting the best beaches in Seattle? When visiting the best beaches in Seattle, don’t forget to pack these essential items:
- Top 10 Seattle Pocket Travel Guide – This amazing pocket guide is filled to the brim with information on things to visit in Seattle to make sure you have the best trip possible! There are lots of things to learn about to inspire you to visit some of the top attractions with ease. It’s a must-have for any trip to Seattle.
- Personalised Beach Tote – If you’re going to visit the best beaches in Seattle, you’re going to need a beach bag to carry all your stuff in – and this personalised beach tote is perfect for that! It is made from high-quality materials, so it won’t break from all the items, and it’s very big, meaning it will fit all you need for the day.
- iBlockCube Worldwide Travel Adapter – With the ability to work in over 150 countries, this travel adapter is ideal, especially if you’re visiting Seattle on a cruise. This travel adapter is very lightweight and practical and has been safety tested. In addition to all of this, it even has quick charge abilities and USB ports, meaning you can charge more than one item at once.
- 4Monster Microfibre Towel – Get dry fast with this handy microfibre towel by 4Monster. It comes in its own carry case, making it compact and easy to take around with you when visiting the beach, and it is ideal for people with sensitive skin due to the soft, smooth material that it’s made from.
- Insulated Cooler Bag – When visiting the best beaches in Seattle, this cooler bag is a must-have if you want to save some money and be prepared. It’s perfect for keeping your drinks and food cool all day long whilst you relax on the beach and soak up the sun. It’s very sturdy and made with high-quality, leak-proof materials, meaning you won’t have to worry about a thing.
The 11 best beaches in Seattle
1. Discovery Park
Discovery Park is one of the most popular beaches in Seattle and is perfect for those wanting to visit and are interested in nature tourism. Occasionally, you can spot seals resting on the beaches, and there are plenty of trees and beautiful landscapes surrounding the beach, such as cliffs and sand dunes. It is also a great beach to go swimming on, as the tides are often low and the water is relatively calm – just make sure to use common sense and observe the signs and warnings. In addition, there are also some amazing walking trails to explore, and there is even a lighthouse which makes for some great photos!
Where to stay: Stylish Getaway – This accommodation is beautifully decorated, both inside and outside. There is a stunning garden and patio with BBQ facilities for guests to use, as well as free WiFi and parking. There are 2 bedrooms to make use of, a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen and a comfortable seating area to relaxing in, making it a great choice for those travelling with friends or family.
2. Matthews Beach Park
Matthews Beach Park is the perfect beach to visit if you’re into water sports, such as kayaking, waterboarding or canoeing, as the water is perfect. In fact, Matthews Beach Park is the largest freshwater beach in the whole of Seattle! Furthermore, it’s another great choice to choose if you wish to go swimming also, and the beach is even lifeguarded during the summer months, so you have that extra bit of safety to help reassure you and enjoy yourself more.
Where to stay: Large Home with Hot Tub – A stay in this holiday home is ideal if you want to treat yourself to somewhere luxurious. The accommodation is spectacularly decorated, and there is a patio and free Wifi throughout the house. In total, there are 3 bedrooms and a fully equipped kitchen with everything you may need during your stay. There is also a cosy seating area and a cable TV to enjoy.
3. Pritchard Island Beach
Pritchard Island Beach is the beach you should visit if you want to visit somewhere peaceful and if you would like to escape the hustle and bustle of busy Seattle. It’s an idyllic beach to enjoy relaxing with a good book or listening to some good music. Furthermore, it’s surrounded by tall trees that offer lots of protection to help you forget about busy city life. It is definitely one of the best beaches in Seattle!
Where to stay: Brighton Retreat – If you’re looking for something a bit more basic, but still great value for money, then this accommodation is perfect. Located just a short walk from Pritchard Island Beach, this accommodation comes with a fully equipped kitchen, on-site parking, and express check-in/ check-out. Each room comes with free WiFi, a patio and a flat-screen TV to enjoy.
4. Carkeek Park
Carkeek Park is a whopping 200 acres big, making it a great beach if you want to visit somewhere with more space. When the low tide occurs, the beach is extended by an extra 20 acres, making it even better if you want to get the full experience of what Carkeek Park has to offer. It’s ideal for visiting if you’d like to go fishing, rock pooling, and sunbathing. The beach also has a great atmosphere if you’d like to have a picnic, as it’s surrounded by gorgeous nature, such as forests and wetlands.
Where to stay: Greenwood’s Tranquility – This holiday home is equipped with 2 bedrooms, a fully stocked kitchen, a seating area with a flat-screen cable TV, 1 bathroom and private parking for guests to make use of if they’re driving. It is also located just opposite from Carkeek Park, and there are plenty of shops and other attractions nearby, such as the Museum of Pop Culture and the University of Washington.
5. Madrona Park
Madrona Park is a charming little beach park that is quite hidden from the outside world. It’s got lots of places to sit, and there is plenty of greenery to provide shade and cool you down on hot summer days. Swimming at Madrona Park isn’t very popular, as the water is very cold in this area; however, if you don’t mind cold water – then feel free to give it a go. Instead, Madrona Park is best for picnics and enjoying the stunning scenery surrounding it.
Where to stay: Emerald City Retreat by HomeSlice Stays – Situated just a few blocks down from Madrona Park, this accommodation is the perfect place to stay if you would like a home away from home. There are 3 bedrooms in total, and there is a flat-screen TV, free parking and a fully equipped kitchen if you prefer to cook. In addition to this, there is even a beautiful garden to relax in and air-conditioning throughout the building to help cool you down on hot summer days.
6. Myrtle Edwards Park Beach
Myrtle Edwards Park Beach is well known by the locals, so if you’d like to visit a beach that is less touristy, then this is the one for you! It is only 5 acres big, so it’s guaranteed to be less busy than the other beaches in Seattle. Many people use the beach for exercise, such as jogging or doing yoga classes. In addition to this, there are plenty of benches to sit along and relax whilst admiring the stunning sea views on offer.
Where to stay: Homewood Suites by Hilton – This suite is the place to stay if you want to pamper yourself. It is fully furnished and has two rooms in total, as well as a fully equipped kitchen. Furthermore, there is also a buffet breakfast served every morning for guests to enjoy, as well as a fitness centre with lots of equipment and a bar with a great selection of drinks to choose from.
7. Green Lake Park
Green Lake Park is full of nature, making it the perfect beach to visit if you are a nature lover. There are two sandy swimming beaches to be enjoyed here, and they are both lifeguarded in the summer, making them great for swimming or for families. Additionally, there are plenty of things to do, such as paddleboarding, kayaking, tennis or basketball, and there is also a fabulous path that you can stroll around and take in the scenery.
Where to stay: Upscale Home – Offering 2 bedrooms in total, this charming holiday home is a great place to stay when visiting the best beaches in Seattle. There is a fully equipped kitchen, 2 bathrooms with a bath and shower, a washing machine and a comfortable seating area with a flat-screen TV. Additionally, there is free WiFi and free on-site parking for guests who are driving.
8. Denny Blaine
Denny Blaine is a great beach to visit if you’re visiting Madrona Park, as they are only half a mile from each other. What makes Denny Blaine different from other beaches in Seattle is that wearing clothing is optional – so just be prepared for this beforehand. This beach is very alternative and makes for a great visit if you’re looking for somewhere to visit with open-minded people and want something a bit different. In addition, it is also located near to Kurt Cobain’s former home, if you’re a fan of Nirvana!
Where to stay: Seattle Chalet – Situated only a few blocks from Denny Blaine, this holiday home is a fantastic place to stay. There are 2 bedrooms in total, a living room which has a flat-screen cable TV, a fully equipped kitchen with a coffee machine and a bathroom. It also includes free WiFi and free parking.
9. Seward Park
Seward Park is over 300 acres big and full of amazing things to do for almost everyone to enjoy. There are a lot of great hiking trails nearby, and it’s very popular for people who like going boating and swimming, as the water is very calm. The beach is a pebble beach, so make sure to bring some beach chairs to sit on instead of a towel, as it might be a bit uncomfortable otherwise. In addition to the beach, there is even an outdoor arena close to the beach, which is very popular for concerts and performances – so make sure to give Seward Park a visit if you want a fun-filled day out at one of the best beaches in Seattle.
Where to stay: The Mediterranean Inn – Each room at this inn comes with a flat-screen TV, a work desk, a coffee maker, and a kitchenette. There is also an en-suite bathroom that has luxury toiletries. Furthermore, there is a 24-hour reception and also a laundrette if you have any washing you need to do.
10. Golden Gardens Park
Golden Gardens Park is one of the most popular beaches in Seattle – and it’s popular for lots of good reasons. It is over 80 acres big, and the beach is very sandy, making it great to do a plethora of activities on, such as volleyball, flying kites, sunbathing and swimming. There is even a pier that sprawls into the ocean, making it a great place to fish if you like fishing. In addition to this, campfires are also allowed if used responsibly, so it’s a great place to visit if you want to have an evening out, toasting marshmallows on the fire.
Where to stay: Lotte Hotel Seattle – Offering a sauna, fitness centre, on-site restaurant serving a wide range of tasty food, a bar, room service and even a shuttle service. It has everything to make your stay amazing whilst visiting the best beaches in Seattle. Each room comes with stunning views, an ensure, and comfortable beds to fall asleep in.
11. Madison Park Beach
Madison Park Beach is only around 121 metres long, but it is well worth a visit if you’d like to visit a beach in Seattle, which is a hidden gem. It’s a great place to soak up the sun by sunbathing, and there is even a swimming area that has a lifeguard on duty, so it’s a great choice for families with small children who are learning to swim. What’s more is that there are lots of restaurants and cafes that are nearby, serving delicious food and drink to help make the most of your time at one of the best beaches in Seattle.
Where to stay: Seattle Gaslight Inn – This stunning inn is a must-stay if you want to experience luxury. There is free WiFi throughout the building, an outdoor pool, a library and a beautiful garden to enjoy, with a Koi pond. Each room comes with pretty views, an en-suite with luxury toiletries, and a cable flat-screen TV.
The 11 best beaches in Seattle – Conclusion
Hopefully, this post has inspired you to visit at least some of the 11 best beaches in Seattle! If you’ve ever been to Seattle, did you visit any of these beaches? Which of the best beaches in Seattle do you want to visit the most? Let me know in the comments down below. If you liked this post and would like to read some more similar ones, this is what I’d recommend:
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