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Which Seattle beaches will open this summer?

Seward Park at sunset with a bench in the foreground and the beach in the background.

Seward Park may not have a lifeguarded beach this summer, but you can still stroll along the shoreline. | Photo by Zhangcreations via Instagram

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Oh, how we long to dip those toes in the sand sans hoodie once Juneuary finally goes away (hopefully). Yesterday, we gave you some advice on area watering holes — but now, splashing around Seattle Parks may require a bit more planning.

Due to a lifeguard shortage, the Seattle Parks & Recreation Department announced that three beaches usually under supervision will remain closed throughout the summer. However, that still leaves six other popular spots to swim around in safely — plus several other options where you can embrace those staycation vibes. 🏖️

Get those floaties out 🩴

Matthews Beach, Seward Park Beach, and East Green Lake Beach will all be closed this summer. But the following beaches will have lifeguards from 12-7 p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m.-7 p.m. on weekends starting Sat., June 25.

Pool + the gang 🤿

If you can’t hit the shores, don’t fret. The Rainier Beach, Ballard, Meadowbrook, Madison, Southwest, Colman + Mounger pools are all open. There are also 10 spray parks around the city open every day from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. until Labor Day. The one at Pratt Playground even got some slick-looking upgrades recently.

If you just want to live out your best “Lonely Island” dreams, you can always try one of the many boat rental activities at South Lake Union.

Beachy bars 🍹

Of course, there are ways to feel like you’re at the beach without the hassle of reapplying suntan lotion — these cocktail joints have tropical themes down pat.

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