If you’re looking for a stunning destination filled with gorgeous beaches, Seattle may not be the first place that comes to mind. However, the city boasts some of the most breathtaking hidden gems when it comes to beaches. From picturesque coastlines to serene shorelines, Seattle has something for every beach-goer.

Whether you’re a local or a tourist, exploring the best beaches in Seattle can be an unforgettable experience. From sunbathing to whale watching, these beaches offer a range of activities to indulge in. So pack your beach bag and let’s dive into the top 10 best beaches to visit in Seattle in 2021!

Get ready to discover a new side of Seattle as we bring to you some of the most beautiful and pristine beaches that the city has to offer. With crystal clear waters, lush green surroundings, and calming waves, these hidden gems offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Let’s not waste any more time and begin our journey to explore the top 10 best beaches to visit in Seattle in 2021.

Golden Gardens Park Beach

Golden Gardens Park is a beautiful location located in Ballard, Seattle. This park offers one of the best beaches in Seattle for visitors to enjoy, with stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. The beach is a great spot for sunbathing and swimming, with plenty of space for beach volleyball and other outdoor activities.

Golden Gardens Park Beach is also a popular spot for bonfires and picnics, with fire pits and BBQs available for use. The park itself has a number of hiking trails for visitors to explore, as well as a playground for children.

If you enjoy watching wildlife, Golden Gardens Park Beach is also home to numerous bird species and marine life. You may spot seals, sea lions, and even whales swimming in the waters off the beach.

• Location: 8498 Seaview Pl NW, Seattle, WA 98117
• Facilities: Restrooms, showers, fire pits, BBQs, picnic tables, playground, parking lot
• Things to do: Sunbathing, swimming, beach volleyball, hiking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, picnicking, bonfires

Alki Beach Park

Located in West Seattle, Alki Beach Park is a long stretch of sandy beach that offers stunning views of the Seattle skyline. The beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball. The park also features several walking and biking trails, as well as picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.

For those who want to learn about the beach’s history, Alki Beach Park is home to the famous statue of Chief Seattle. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the history of Seattle and its waterfront.

Alki Beach Park is also known for its wide range of water activities, including kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, and sailing. There are local rental shops that provide all the equipment required for these activities.

If you’re looking for a quiet and peaceful spot to sit and watch the sunset, Alki Beach Park is the perfect destination for you. The beach offers breathtaking views of the sunset and provides a peaceful ambiance to visitors.

Richmond Beach Saltwater Park

Located in the suburban area of Shoreline, north of Seattle, Richmond Beach Saltwater Park is a hidden gem that offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. This expansive park has a mix of sandy and rocky beach areas, perfect for a picnic or a summer swim.

Aside from beach activities, visitors can explore the park’s walking trails, play volleyball, or enjoy a game of tennis. The park also has a play area for kids and a picnic shelter available for reservation.

One of the park’s highlights is the historic Richmond Beach Saltwater Pool, which was built in the 1930s and is still in operation today. This unique pool is filled by the high tide of Puget Sound and provides a one-of-a-kind swimming experience.

Whether you’re looking for a serene spot to watch the sunset or a fun day out with family and friends, Richmond Beach Saltwater Park has something for every type of traveler.

Carkeek Park Beach

Located in the North Seattle neighbourhood of Broadview, Carkeek Park Beach is a breathtaking natural site for anyone looking to unwind and relax in the company of nature. The beach stretches over 220-acres and gives visitors a chance to soak up the sun whilst enjoying the beautiful views of Puget Sound.

Carkeek Park Beach is much loved by both locals and tourists, and there are plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained. You can enjoy the stunning natural beauty with a variety of activities such as hiking on trails, birdwatching, fishing, picnicking, and building sandcastles on the shore.

• Hiking trails
• Bird watching
• Fishing
• Picnicking
• Building sandcastles

Carkeek Park also provides beachgoers with the unique opportunity to explore and discover the hidden treasures of the Elliot Bay. Interesting to note, the park is also used as an environmental learning center, and visitors can take a detailed guided tour of the park.

Overall, Carkeek Park Beach is a must-visit for those who want to explore somewhere new and soak in the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Lincoln Park Beach

Located in West Seattle, Lincoln Park Beach is a great destination for families and water enthusiasts. The park covers more than 130 acres and offers a variety of recreational activities, from swimming and sunbathing to picnicking and hiking.

The beach itself features smooth sand and shallow water, making it ideal for children to play and splash around in. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months for added safety. Additionally, there are volleyball courts and a playground nearby for more family fun.

If you’re looking to explore beyond the beach, Lincoln Park has several hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Puget Sound. The park also contains a saltwater swimming pool, a wading pool, and a picnic area with grills for a full day of fun and relaxation.

Overall, Lincoln Park Beach is a hidden gem in Seattle that everyone should add to their must-visit list. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day by the water or an adventure in nature, this beach has something for everyone.

Discovery Park Beach

Discovery Park Beach, located in the Magnolia neighborhood of Seattle, is a hidden gem that offers visitors a serene and picturesque experience. This beach is known for its stunning vistas of the Olympic Mountains and the Puget Sound.

The beach is perfect for a quiet afternoon picnic or a refreshing dip in the water on a hot day. The water is cool and refreshing, and the sand is soft and inviting. Visitors can also take a stroll along the beach and explore the nearby hiking trails and wooded areas.

One of the unique features of Discovery Park Beach is the historic lighthouse that sits at the edge of the cliff overlooking the sound. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and learn about its history and importance to the local coastline.

This beach is perfect for families or anyone who wants to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a peaceful day by the water. With its breathtaking views and tranquil atmosphere, Discovery Park Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Seattle.

Matthews Beach Park

Located in the northeast part of Seattle, Matthews Beach Park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. With 22 acres of waterfront access, there are plenty of activities to enjoy, including swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and boating in Lake Washington.

The beach also offers a volleyball court and playground for those with children. And for those who enjoy a scenic stroll, there’s a walkway that runs alongside the beach for a peaceful waterfront walk.

Matthews Beach Park is a great option for a day trip or a weekend getaway. With its breathtaking views of Lake Washington and plenty of activities to keep you busy, it’s no wonder this beach is one of Seattle’s hidden gems.

Seahurst Park Beach

Seahurst Park Beach is a hidden gem tucked away in Burien, just a short drive from downtown Seattle. This mile-long shoreline offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and the Puget Sound.

One of the unique features of this beach is the natural saltwater pool formed by the rocks at low tide. Kids can safely swim and play in the calm waters, while adults can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

The park also features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playground, making it a great place for families or anyone looking to spend a day in nature.

Seahurst Park Beach is open year-round and has free admission. Come and discover this hidden gem for yourself!

Manchester State Park Beach

Located on the Kitsap Peninsula on the Puget Sound, Manchester State Park Beach is a hidden gem that offers a quiet and relaxing beach experience. The beach is only accessible by a .75-mile trail through a forest, which adds to the tranquility of the area.

The wide sandy beach provides ample space for activities such as beachcombing, sunbathing, and picnicking. The water is also great for swimming and fishing.

The park also features picnic tables, restrooms, and a playground for children. For those interested in camping, Manchester State Park offers campsites with RV hookups and a primitive campground for hikers and bikers.

Overall, Manchester State Park Beach is a great destination for those looking for a peaceful retreat away from the crowds of more popular beaches in the Seattle area.