Howell Park and Beach, Seattle

No lifeguards, no concessions, no toilet. Swim at your own risk! Not recommended for children. Dogs are subject to $500 fine. Street parking is limited and fills up early. Best to arrive on foot or bike. Small grassy lakefront beach down a steep gravel path. Not easily accessible. This is a very chill spot with no dogs, no radios, and no BS. Lots of tattoos, piercings, same-sex couples, and "full tan" sunbathers. Respect and tolerance rule here. If you are offended by the sight of skin, please visit Denny Blaine just 100 yards north of here. That is a more traditional legs-crossed "family friendly" beach. This park is a gem as it captures an open-minded live-and-let-live vibe which sadly seems to be vanishing from Seattle. Can't we all just get along? At Howell, everyone does. When swimming out to the buoy, please be aware that some disrespectful motorboaters cut in too close to shore, so watch out. Gawkers will bring boats dangerously close to beach. They are to be pitied but not tolerated. Leave no trace. That includes cigarette butts, buttheads.