Denny Blaine Park

A Lakeside Spot

Situated in Seattle's Denny-Blaine neighborhood, this compact 2-acre waterfront park provides a little glimpse of tranquility along Lake Washington Boulevard. The views here stretch across Lake Washington to Bellevue's skyline, with Mount Rainier visible on clear days.

What makes this park architecturally interesting is the old stone wall that wraps around the beach area - a silent reminder of the original shoreline before the lake was lowered 9 feet back in 1917 when the Lake Washington Ship Canal was built. This creates a natural two-level layout: you can hang out on the upper grassy area to chill, or head down to the waterfront for some quiet time with your thoughts (or your picnic basket).

Beach Vibes

The beach itself isn't huge - just a narrow strip of sand that transitions into a pebbly, somewhat rocky waterfront. On hot summer days, the crisp, refreshing water beckons swimmers looking to cool off. Fair warning though: when the sun's out in full force, this little spot fills up quickly. If you're hoping to claim your patch of paradise, arriving early is your best bet.

Parking can be a bit tricky with only about 14 spaces in the small lot, so many folks park in the surrounding area and walk over. During summer months, you'll find a porta-potty on site, but don't expect much in the way of amenities beyond that.

Beyond a Beach

Since the 1970s, Denny Blaine Park has held a special place in Seattle's LGBTQ+ community as an unofficial queer- and trans-friendly clothing-optional beach. The vibe here is refreshingly laid-back and body-positive, with an unspoken code of respect for everyone's privacy and personal choices.

There's some interesting history here too - the park was one of five small green spaces donated by the Denny-Blaine Land Company, a real estate venture run by Elbert F. Blaine and Charles L. Denny during Seattle's earlier days.

How to Enjoy Your Visit

Most people come here for simple pleasures: picnicking, sunbathing, and taking refreshing dips in the lake. On weekend afternoons in summer, you might catch the sound of music playing at considerate volumes as the beach takes on a casual social atmosphere. Keep in mind that there are no lifeguards on duty, so you'll need to take responsibility for your own safety in the water.

The secluded setting makes this an ideal retreat for anyone needing a nature fix without leaving the city. While summer weekends draw crowds, stopping by on a weekday or during the shoulder seasons rewards you with a more peaceful experience.

Good to Know Before You Go

Note that due to its clothing-optional nature, this park is generally more appropriate for adults. If you're bringing your four-legged friend, they're welcome in the grassy upper section, but not down on the beach itself. The park welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to 10PM, giving you plenty of time to experience this unique Seattle spot at different times of day.