Best Non-Smoking Beaches in Washington

Alki Beach offers a true beach experience in the heart of West Seattle. While most beaches of the Puget Sound are covered with rocks and pebbles, Alki Beach boasts fine, white sand reminiscent of a Southern California beach. There are several beach volleyball courts, grills and fire pits available for use, as well as local vendors offering kayaks and paddleboards for rent. Bring the kids and build some sandcastles or explore the tide pools that form at low tide. A bike path running parallel to the beach is ideal for runners, bikers, and rollerbladers. While playing volleyball or paddling hard out on the water, look east to see the Seattle skyline punctuated by the Space Needle. Even though the bustling city of Seattle looms in the background, Alki Beach boasts a quaint Pacific Northwest charm. Before exploring all that Alki Beach has to offer, stop by Top Pot Doughnuts to grab a coffee and a warm doughnut. After a long day enjoying the beach, grab a pint at West Seattle Brewing Company and watch the sunset over the Puget Sound. History enthusiasts might visit Alki Beach to see what the first settlers to the Pacific Northwest saw, as the Denny party landed on Alki Beach in 1851 before settling in Seattle. After a rainy Seattle winter, there is no better place to enjoy the sun than Alki Beach.

Golden Gardens Beach Park is a stunning waterfront destination in Seattle's Ballard neighborhood, offering breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. Spanning 87 acres, it features a large sandy beach, lush coastal vegetation, and rugged coastline, making it perfect for various activities like swimming, kayaking, and hiking. The park has a rich history, having been developed as part of a Works Progress Administration project in the 1930s and later becoming a hub for counterculture movements in the 1960s. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views, wildlife spotting, and a range of amenities including restrooms, showers, and picnic areas.
The beach is known for its cold but inviting waters, attracting swimmers year-round. It's also a popular spot for beach bonfires and sunset viewing, especially during summer evenings. Golden Gardens is a quintessential Pacific Northwest experience, blending natural beauty with recreational opportunities.
The park's accessibility and amenities make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering a unique blend of relaxation and adventure.

Rialto Beach is a stunning coastal destination located within Olympic National Park, near La Push, Washington. It is renowned for its picturesque pebble shores, driftwood, and tidepools, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy spotting wildlife such as seals, otters, and bald eagles, and during summer, gray whales can be seen migrating. The beach is accessible via a short path, making it a popular spot for both relaxation and outdoor adventures.
Rialto Beach offers a serene environment perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. Its proximity to the Quileute Indian Reservation adds a rich cultural dimension to the area.
The beach's unique combination of natural beauty and accessibility makes it an ideal location for family outings and romantic getaways alike.

Ocean Shores, located on the Pacific coast of Washington, offers a serene and vibrant beach experience. The town is surrounded by six miles of smooth white sand beaches, perfect for activities like building sandcastles, flying kites, and digging for razor clams. It's a haven for nature lovers, with opportunities for birdwatching and exploring the nearby Oyhut Wildlife Recreation Area. The beach is also a popular spot for festivals, including the annual kite festival in June. Visitors can enjoy stunning sunsets over the Pacific Ocean and explore the town's charming shops and eateries.
The beach is part of a larger peninsula, offering diverse landscapes from the ocean to Grays Harbor. This unique geography provides a variety of beach experiences, from calm sandy shores to more rugged areas like North Jetty. The area is also known for its wildlife, including bald eagles and snowy owls during winter migrations.
Ocean Shores is a small community with a population of about 5,500 residents, but it attracts many visitors seeking a relaxing coastal getaway. The town's laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Lincoln Park, located in West Seattle, is a vibrant multi-purpose park offering stunning views of Puget Sound, Vashon Island, and the Olympic Mountains. It features a diverse range of amenities, including walking and bike trails, playgrounds, picnic shelters, and an outdoor heated saltwater pool. The park's unique landscape includes rocky beaches, grassy forests, and meadows, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Its proximity to the Fauntleroy Ferry Terminal adds to its scenic appeal, with frequent ferry traffic creating a picturesque backdrop. The park is designed to be accessible, with wheelchair-friendly trails and facilities, ensuring that everyone can enjoy its natural beauty and recreational activities.

Lincoln Park is also known for its rich history and design, attributed to the Olmsted Brothers, who contributed to its stunning layout. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from hiking and biking to picnics and beach strolls. The park's diverse wildlife and maritime views further enhance its appeal, making it a must-visit destination in Seattle.

The surrounding neighborhood offers a blend of beach-town vibes and city convenience, with nearby attractions like Alki Beach and California Avenue providing additional dining and shopping options.