You don’t have to travel far from Seattle to find peaceful shorelines and breezy waterfront strolls—I found some of my favorite spots just a short drive away. When I needed a quick escape, these beaches near Seattle offered exactly what I was looking for: calm, beauty, and that refreshing Pacific air.

I spent afternoons walking along the water, spotting seals and seabirds, and settling into quiet picnic spots with a view. If you’re craving a little serenity without leaving the city behind, I really think you’ll love these nearby escapes. They gave me a whole new appreciation for Seattle’s natural side—and I’m pretty sure they’ll do the same for you.

Highlights:

  • Relax at the driftwood-strewn Golden Gardens Park.
  • Enjoy the sweeping views from Alki Beach in West Seattle.
  • Stroll the sandy shores of Seahurst Park in Burien.
  • Explore the tide pools at Richmond Beach Saltwater Park.
  • Take photos of the skyline from Discovery Park’s hidden beaches.

Unique Beaches Near Seattle:

Alki Beach - 20-minute drive from downtown Seattle

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Alki Beach - 20-minute drive from downtown Seattle - Walk along sandy shores, see stunning Seattle skyline views, and enjoy beachfront cafés.                                    

Birch Bay State Park - 2 hours from Seattle

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Birch Bay State Park - 2 hours from Seattle - Explore tide pools, go clamming, or enjoy a peaceful coastal picnic.                                    

Carkeek Park - 25 minute drive from Seattle

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Carkeek Park - 25 minute drive from Seattle - See breathtaking Puget Sound views while hiking forested trails and exploring tidal beaches.                                    

Dash Point State Park - 40-minute drive south of downtown Seattle

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Dash Point State Park - 40-minute drive south of downtown Seattle - Walk on sandy beaches, bike wooded trails, or go fishing in this scenic waterfront park.                                    

Golden Gardens Park - 25-minute drive via Ballard and Seaview Avenue NW

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Golden Gardens Park - 25-minute drive via Ballard and Seaview Avenue NW - Visit for stunning sunsets, sandy shores, and relaxing beach bonfires.                                    

Green Lake Park - 20 minute drive from Seattle

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Green Lake Park - 20 minute drive from Seattle - Bike or walk the scenic loop around this popular freshwater lake.                                    

Leschi Park - 10-minute drive from Seattle

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Leschi Park - 10-minute drive from Seattle - Discover a charming lakeside retreat with shaded walking trails and peaceful picnic spots.                                    

Locust Beach - 1 hours and 45 minutes from Seattle

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Locust Beach - 1 hours and 45 minutes from Seattle - Go kiteboarding, enjoy quiet beach strolls, and admire sweeping bay views.                                    

Madison Park - 15-minute drive or scenic bike ride from Seattle

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Madison Park - 15-minute drive or scenic bike ride from Seattle - Walk through tree-lined paths, relax by the beach, or visit local shops.                                    

Mount Baker Park - 10-minute drive from Seattle

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Mount Baker Park - 10-minute drive from Seattle - Explore a serene lakefront park with open meadows and walking trails.                                    

In Summary...

(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)