Matthews Beach

Quick Facts

• Location: Northeast Seattle, Washington
• Address: Seattle, WA 98115
• Water Type: Lake Washington
• Beach Type: Public freshwater park beach
• Sand Type: Sand and small pebbles
• Water Conditions: Calm lake waters
• Best For: Swimming, family recreation, picnicking
• Best Time to Visit: June–September
• Beach Hours: Dawn to dusk
• Pet Policy: Dogs not allowed on swimming beach areas
• Beach Cleanliness: Well maintained park beach
• Average Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.7/5)
• Pricing: Free public access
• Parking: Parking lot and street parking nearby
• Accessibility: Easy access from park paths
• Crowd Level: Moderate during summer

Overview

Matthews Beach is the largest freshwater swimming beach in Seattle, located along the northern shoreline of Lake Washington. The beach sits within Matthews Beach Park, a popular neighborhood park with large grassy areas and scenic lake views.

During the summer months, the beach becomes a favorite gathering spot for locals who come to swim, relax on the sand, and enjoy warm weather along the lake.

Amenities & Access

• Sandy swimming beach
• Picnic tables and grassy lawns
• Playground and restrooms
• Walking paths along Lake Washington

Safety & Water Conditions

• Calm freshwater lake conditions
• Seasonal lifeguards typically present in summer
• Swim only in designated areas

Things to Do

• Swimming
• Paddleboarding
• Picnicking
• Beach volleyball and recreation

Nearby Attractions

• Burke-Gilman Trail
• Magnuson Park
• University of Washington waterfront

Where to Stay

• Seattle downtown hotels
• University District accommodations
• Seattle vacation rentals

Tips & Rules

• Arrive early during warm summer days
• Bring sunscreen and water
• Follow posted swimming guidelines

Who This Beach Is Best For

• Families visiting Seattle lake beaches
• Swimmers and paddleboarders
• Visitors exploring Lake Washington parks

Bottom Line

Matthews Beach offers one of the best freshwater beach experiences in Seattle, combining calm Lake Washington waters with spacious park areas and family-friendly recreation.