Beat the Heat: Seattle Summer Escapes

It’s going to be a hot week, Seattle—historically hot. In the forecast is Seattle's fourth triple-digit day since numbers were first recorded in 1894, and only a third of Seattle residents have air conditioning. Fortunately the natural geography surrounding Seattle affords residents some incredible options to cool off outside; with cool, clear swimming holes, sandy shores, and freshwater lakes, there are more than a few ways to cope with this heat. Cut to: the image of you on a beach under an umbrella toweling off cooler waters. This isn’t paradise, though it is almost unprecedented. It’s just summer in Seattle. No big deal.

Your escape awaits.

Carkeek Park
Skykomish River at Big Eddy Park: a sandy beach, pebble protected pools, and scenic views.
South Fork Snoqualmie River Picnic Area: one of the best swimming spots on Snoqualmie Pass.
Eagle Falls
South Canyon Trail Loop: Saint Edwards State Park's little-known gem.
Alki Beach: A broad sandy beach in the middle of the city.
Houghton Beach Park: great for families, and they come in droves.
Juanita Beach Park: another family-friendly beach perfect for the kids, and you’ll find it more open on weekdays.
Matthews Beach Park: plenty of open grass along the Lake Washington shore.
O.O. Denny Park: shaded barbecue areas and views of massive Mount Rainier.
Golden Gardens Park: ballard's summer beach paradise.
East + West Green Lake Beach: beach, boat rentals, and summer concession stands!
Marsh Park: Kirkland's quieter waterfront park.
Magnuson Swim Beach: diving boards, shaded lawn, and plenty of real estate for a towel.
Lake Sammamish State Park: ice cream, boat rentals, and a broad beach!
Enatai Beach Park: Bellevue's best beach, plus kayak rentals for exploring Lake Washington.
Snoqualmie River, Plum Boat Launch: sandy beach and the put-in location for floating the Snoqualmie.
No summer in the Seattle area would be complete without a Snoqualmie River Float on your inner tube!
Newcastle Beach Park: sandy beach, swimming and fishing pier, and a large field.
South Fork Snoqualmie River at Homestead Valley Road Bridge: tranquility and no crowds!
Skykomish River at Al Borlin Park: 1,000-foot-long pebble beach and floating take-out spot.