Beaches & Waterfront Activities in Seattle, United States
1. Alki Beach
Relax on the sandy beach at Alki, offering stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and downtown Seattle. Perfect for picnics and beachcombing.
- Pet-Friendly: Dogs are welcome on leash
- Sunset Views: Ideal spot for watching the sunset
- Close to Restaurants and Shops: Conveniently located near dining and shopping options
2. Golden Gardens Park
Experience a vibrant beach community with surfing, kite flying, and volleyball at Golden Gardens. Enjoy scenic views of the Puget Sound.
- Surf Spot: One of the best spots for surfing in Seattle
- Large Green Spaces: Plenty of space for picnics and outdoor activities
- Nighttime Fires: Permitted beach fires during designated hours
3. Myrtle Edwards Park
Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront trail at Myrtle Edwards Park, offering panoramic views of Seattle's skyline and the Space Needle.
- Waterfront Trail: Ideal for walking, running, or cycling
- Public Artwork: Featuring several pieces of public art along the park's pathway
- Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking views of Seattle's skyline and Mount Rainier on clear days
4. Lincoln Park
Discover a secluded beach at Lincoln Park, with opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking. Take in the scenic views of the Puget Sound.
- Fishing Pier: Popular spot for saltwater fishing
- Kayak Launch: Provides easy access for launching kayaks
- Secluded Beach: A more tranquil and less crowded beach experience
5. Magnuson Park
Explore the sandy shores of Lake Washington at Magnuson Park. Enjoy a variety of water activities, such as swimming, sailing, and paddleboarding.
- Lake Activities: Offers lake-based activities like swimming, boating, and fishing
- Historical Hangar: Features a historic WWII-era hangar museum
- Large Green Spaces: Provides ample space for picnicking and outdoor activities
6. Seward Park
Relax at the serene Seward Park, featuring a beach on Lake Washington, walking trails, and stunning views of the city skyline.
- Lake Beach: A small, pebble beach along Lake Washington
- Walking Trails: Features several scenic walking trails
- Historic Asian Art Museum: Includes a museum dedicated to Asian art and culture
7. Carkeek Park
Explore the natural beauty of Carkeek Park, with its sandy beaches, forest trails, and scenic waterfall.
- Sand Dunes: Features a unique sand dune area
- Nature Trails: Offers several trails for hiking and birdwatching
- Waterfall: Features a picturesque waterfall along the trail
8. Discovery Park
Experience the natural beauty of Discovery Park, with its sandy beach, forest trails, and scenic lighthouse.
- Beach and Forest Combo: Combines both a beach and forested areas for exploration
- Historic Lighthouse: Includes an iconic lighthouse overlooking the Sound
- Nature Trails: Offers several trails for hiking and birdwatching
9. Dock at the Pier
Take in the sights and sounds of Seattle's iconic waterfront from the dock at the Pier. Watch street performers, enjoy food vendors, or visit the Aquarium.
- Iconic Waterfront Experience: Offers a quintessential Seattle waterfront experience
- Street Performers: Features street performers and live music during the summer months
- Seafood Market: Home to Pike Place Fish Market, where fresh seafood is aplenty
10. Argosy Cruises
Embark on a sightseeing cruise with Argosy Cruises and explore Seattle's waterfront from the Puget Sound. Choose from various themed cruises for an unforgettable experience.
- Sightseeing Cruises: Offers a variety of themed cruises, including dinner and wine cruises
- Seattle Skyline Views: Provides stunning views of Seattle's iconic skyline
- Historic Ships: Visits historic ships docked at the Pier, such as the USS Constitution replica
11. Seattle Water Taxi
Travel from downtown Seattle to neighboring cities like West Seattle and Vashon Island using the Seattle Water Taxi. Enjoy scenic views of the Sound during your journey.
- Water Transportation: Provides a convenient way to travel by water
- Scenic Views: Offers beautiful views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains
- Multiple Destinations: Serves multiple destinations in the Seattle area
12. Seattle Great Wheel
Take a ride on the iconic Seattle Great Wheel for breathtaking views of the Puget Sound and the Seattle skyline. Perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike.
- Iconic Landmark: An iconic symbol of Seattle's waterfront
- Scenic Views: Offers stunning views of the Puget Sound and downtown Seattle
- Nighttime Rides: Available for rides during the evening, showcasing a beautifully lit cityscape
13. Seattle Center Monorail
Travel between downtown Seattle and the Seattle Center using the monorail. Visit the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, or experience an event at the KeyArena.
- Efficient Transportation: Provides a fast and convenient way to travel between downtown Seattle and the Seattle Center
- Iconic Landmarks: Connects to iconic attractions like the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass
- Events and Shows: Allows easy access to events, concerts, and shows at the KeyArena
14. Seattle Bike Rentals
Explore Seattle's waterfront and neighborhoods on two wheels by renting a bike. Discover hidden gems and scenic spots around the city.
- Flexible Transportation: Allows for flexibility in exploring Seattle at your own pace
- Scenic Routes: Offers routes along the waterfront and through picturesque neighborhoods
- Affordable Rates: Provides affordable options for renting bikes by the hour or day
15. Seattle Kayak Tours
Experience Seattle's waterways up close on a kayaking tour. Choose from guided tours or rent a kayak for a self-guided adventure.
- Up-Close Views: Offers unique and intimate views of Seattle's waterways
- Guided or Self-Guided: Provides options for guided tours or self-guided adventures
- Scenic Spots: Accesses scenic spots that are difficult to reach by land