Matthews Beach Park

Matthews Beach Park is Seattle's largest freshwater beach, located on the picturesque shores of Lake Washington in the Sand Point neighborhood. This inviting natural spot in the USA spans about 22 acres (9 hectares) and is a favorite retreat for both locals and travelers seeking tranquility by the water.

The park is a harmonious blend of a sandy beach, spacious green meadows, and well-equipped recreation areas. One of the unique features of the location is Thornton Creek, which flows into the lake in the southern part of the park, forming a natural sand spit. This spot is perfect for those who appreciate outdoor relaxation surrounded by old-growth trees and the calm surface of the lake.

The park's significance is highlighted by its historical past: it was once the site of the homestead of pioneer John G. Matthews, and later served as docks for the city's first commercial seaplanes. Today, it is a modern recreational area traversed by a popular cycling trail that connects the park with other interesting districts of the city.

For your convenience, we have gathered the latest contact information to help you prepare for your visit. You can contact the park administration directly to clarify event details or picnic shelter reservation rules. Below is the essential information for reaching the recreation area staff.

The main magnet for visitors during the summer is freshwater swimming in the lake. Boasting the longest beach in the area, there is always a spot to sunbathe or enjoy beach games. For families with children, there are modern playgrounds and wide lawns where you can fly kites or simply have a family picnic in the shade of the trees.

Active tourists will appreciate the park's proximity to the Burke-Gilman Trail. Cyclists and runners often stop here to take advantage of the showers and changing rooms in the historic bathhouse. Additionally, the southern part of the beach features a hand-launch site for kayaks, canoes, or small boats for a paddle along the shore.

If you happen to be in the area on January 1st, don't miss the chance to witness or participate in the famous Polar Bear Plunge. This traditional mass dip into the icy waters of Lake Washington attracts hundreds of brave participants and turns into a true city festival. During the rest of the year, the park remains a wonderful place for birdwatching and peaceful walks along the winding course of Thornton Creek.

There are several ways to reach this scenic natural spot, but the most picturesque is by bicycle. The park is located directly off the famous Burke-Gilman Trail, which follows the route of an old railway line. If you prefer walking, the stroll from the residential neighborhoods of Meadowbrook or Sand Point takes only about 15–20 minutes.

For those planning to arrive by car, take Sand Point Way NE to the intersection with NE 93rd Street, where there is a convenient parking entrance. The drive from downtown Seattle usually takes 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic on I-5 and WA-520. Public transportation is also available: city buses stop right at the park entrance on 93rd Street.

If you prefer comfort, taxis or ride-sharing services are always an option. GPS coordinates will help you quickly find your way, and the proximity to the large Magnuson Park makes the logistics even simpler and more straightforward for travelers.

The history of this area dates back to ancient times when the too-HOO-beed village of the Duwamish tribe was located on the shores of Lake Washington. Later, in the 1880s, a pioneer from Kentucky named John G. Matthews settled here. He established his homestead, and the park was eventually named in his honor. Interestingly, before 1916, the water level in the lake was significantly higher, but after the construction of the ship canal, it dropped by nearly ten feet (three meters), exposing new land.

In the early 20th century, the site served as an industrial zone—the Maple Saw Mill operated here starting in 1894. However, the Matthews family retained their land rights, sharing access to the beach with neighbors even during the most difficult times of the Great Depression. In the 1940s, the southern part of the current park was used by Pan American World Airways as a base for the legendary Clipper Ships flying boats.

The area only received official city park status in 1951, when the authorities purchased the site from the Matthews heirs. The development process was gradual: at first, livestock grazed here, and it wasn't until the late 1950s that the first infrastructure appeared. The park acquired its modern look, including the recognizable bathhouse building, in 1961 thanks to the work of architects from the firm Lamont & Fey.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere of this place, a typical visitor will need 2 to 4 hours. This is plenty of time for a leisurely stroll along the shore, relaxing on the grass, and taking in the views of Lake Washington. If you plan to have a picnic or are visiting with children to use the playground, it's worth setting aside a bit more time.

For those using the park as a stopover during a bike ride on the Burke-Gilman Trail, an hour will be enough to recharge and admire the mouth of Thornton Creek. However, if your visit coincides with a special event like the New Year's Day plunge, plan to spend half a day here, as the festive excitement and socializing with locals can be quite captivating.

The park is welcomingly open to visitors daily. You can plan your visit from early morning until late evening: official operating hours are from 06:00 to 22:00, seven days a week, including holidays. This allows you to enjoy both the sunrise over the lake and the peaceful evening twilight.

Please note that access to some services, such as lifeguard stations or changing rooms, may be seasonally restricted. Before your trip, we recommend checking the official website of the Seattle Parks Department to ensure you have the latest information on facilities and any scheduled private events.

Exploring the surroundings of Matthews Beach Park will allow you to get a better feel for the neighborhood and find interesting dining spots to round out your day. Nearby, you will find historical landmarks as well as cozy establishments where you can relax with the whole family or enjoy local craft beer.