Howell Park is a small waterfront park in Seattle’s Madrona neighborhood, on the shore of Lake Washington. A wooded, steep path leads down to a quiet beach where you can swim, sunbathe or sit by the water on log benches. The beach is clothing-optional and draws visitors from across the LGBTQIA+ community. Grassy areas and a stone wall add places to pause, but there are no restrooms and parking is limited, so plan your visit before heading down.
A small beach on Lake Washington
Howell Park sits in Seattle’s Madrona neighborhood, just north of Madrona Park and beside Denny Blaine Park. It is a compact waterfront spot, with a wooded path leading down a sloping hill to Howell Beach.
At the shore, log benches, grassy areas and a stone wall provide places to sit. The setting is suited to a quiet break by the lake, a picnic or a few laps in the water. The park is small, so its appeal is the direct access to the beach rather than a long list of facilities.
Clothing-optional beach
Howell Beach is clothing-optional and attracts a diverse mix of visitors, including people from the LGBTQIA+ community. Sunbathing and swimming are among the ways to spend time here. Be considerate of other beachgoers and their privacy.
The path from the small parking area is steep. Walk down rather than trying to drive closer, and take care on the slope. Parking is limited, and there are no restroom facilities in the park, so arrive prepared. Trees can also shade the beach near sunset.
Perguntas frequentes
Is Howell Park a clothing-optional beach?
Yes. Howell Beach is clothing-optional.
Can you swim at Howell Park?
Yes. The beach is on Lake Washington and is used for swimming.
Are there restrooms at Howell Park?
No restroom facilities are available at the park.
Is parking available at Howell Park?
There is a small parking area, but spaces are limited. The path down to the beach is steep.
