Fodor's Expert Review Golden Gardens Park

The waters of Puget Sound may be bone-chillingly cold, but that doesn't stop folks from jumping in to cool off. Besides brave swimmers, who congregate on the small strip of sand between the parking lot and the canteen, this Ballard-area park is packed with sunbathers and walkers in summer. In other seasons, beachcombers explore during low tide, and groups gather around bonfires to socialize and watch the glorious Seattle sunsets. The park has drinking water, grills, picnic tables, a playground, restrooms, and a snack shop. It also has two wetlands, a short loop trail, and unbelievable views of the Olympic Mountains. The park has two dedicated parking lots, but they fill up quickly on summer weekends.