Lakeside Beaches Nearby

Madison Park. In the late 19th century, Madison Park was the most popular beach in the city, with a promenade, floating bandstands, gambling halls, and ship piers. Now it's a lakefront park with sloping lawns, a swimming area, playgrounds, and tennis courts. The whole area is usually bustling with activity—there are a number of upscale coffee shops, restaurants, and boutiques nearby. It may not be obvious at first, but this is where the city's old money runs deep. The beach has picnic tables, restrooms, and showers, and lifeguards on duty in summer, and the recently renovated children's playground is among the city's best. From Downtown, go east on Madison Street; it'll take you straight down to the lake. Madison St. and 43rd Ave., Madison Park, Seattle, Washington, 98112.

Madrona Park. Several beach parks and green spaces front the lake along Lake Washington Boulevard; Madrona Park is one of the largest. Lifeguards are on duty in the summer and young swimmers have their own roped-in area, while teens and adults can swim out to a floating raft with a diving board. The mile-long trail along the shore is a great jogging spot. Grassy areas encourage picnicking; there are grills, picnic tables, phones, restrooms, and showers. From Downtown, go east on Yesler Way about 2 miles to 32nd Avenue. Turn left onto Lake Dell Avenue and then right; go to Lake Washington Boulevard and take a left. 853 Lake Washington Blvd., Madrona, Seattle, Washington, 98144.