Summer Beach Fun in Western Washington
Read to the bottom for a very important summer tip.
Western Washington is a beautiful region with a variety of fun summer activities to enjoy. From swimming to hiking, there's something for everyone in this area. Here are some top spots to check out during the summer months.
Shoreline Park: Joint Base Lewis-McChord, American Lake, Lakewood, WA 98433, Phone: (253) 967-7744
Shoreline Park, located on Joint Base Lewis McChord, is another great option for swimming in Western Washington. This park features a large, sandy beach area on American Lake, with lifeguards on duty during the summer months. In addition to swimming, visitors can rent paddle boats, canoes, and kayaks to explore the lake, or simply relax on the beach and take in the scenery. The park also has picnic areas, a playground, and volleyball and basketball courts, making it a perfect spot for a day out with family and friends. However, access to the park is limited to those with military or civilian DOD ID cards or those with a valid visitor pass, so be sure to plan ahead if you want to visit this picturesque park.
McChord Pool: 729 5th St, JBLM, WA 98433, Phone: (253) 982-5324, Website:
McChord Pool, located on Joint Base Lewis McChord, is a great place to have fun with the kids during the summer. The pool offers a range of aquatic activities, including lap swimming, water aerobics, and open swim times for families. The pool also features a splash pad area and small water slide, which are sure to keep kids entertained and cool on a hot day. In addition to swimming, the pool hosts a range of special events throughout the summer, including pool parties, movie nights, and other family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking to beat the heat or simply enjoy some family fun, McChord Pool is a great option.
JBLM Splash Park: 2272 Liggett Ave, JBLM, WA 98433, Phone: (253) 967-7744
Another great place to have fun with the kids during the summer is the JBLM Splash Park. This park features a large splash pad area with a variety of water features, including sprinklers, fountains, and water cannons. The splash pad is perfect for younger children, as it provides a safe and controlled environment for them to cool off and play in the water. In addition to the splash pad, the park also has a playground, picnic areas, and a nearby skate park, making it a great place for a full day of family fun. The JBLM Splash Park is free and open to the public, making it an accessible and affordable option for summer entertainment.
If you're looking for a more adventurous water experience, check out Wild Waves Theme and Water Park in Federal Way. This popular attraction features dozens of water rides, including slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, making it a perfect destination for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Another must-visit summer spot is Ocean Shores, located on the Pacific coast. This charming beach town boasts miles of sandy beaches, a bustling boardwalk, and a range of water activities, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and beachcombing. Be sure to bring a jacket, though, as the water temperatures in the Puget Sound and Pacific Ocean can be quite chilly, even during the warmer months.
Millersylvania State Park: 12245 Tilley Rd S, Olympia, WA 98512, Phone: (360) 753-1519
One hidden gem in the region is Millersylvania State Park, located just outside of Olympia. This beautiful park features a large freshwater lake, hiking trails, and camping facilities, making it a great destination for a weekend getaway. Visitors can swim, fish, or paddleboard in the lake, or explore the park's extensive trail system. In the summer, the park hosts a range of events, from outdoor concerts to guided nature walks. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape in nature or an active adventure, Millersylvania State Park is definitely worth a visit.
Long Lake Park: 2790 Carpenter Rd SE, Lacey, WA 98503, Phone: (360) 491-0857
Long Lake Park in Lacey is another great spot for swimming during the summer months. The park boasts a sandy beach area with lifeguards on duty, making it a safe place for families to enjoy the water. Visitors can also rent paddle boats and kayaks to explore the lake, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. The park has picnic areas, a playground, and volleyball courts, making it a great place for a full day of fun and relaxation. Whether you're looking for a refreshing swim or a fun day out with friends and family, Long Lake Park is definitely worth checking out.
In addition to water-based activities, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the summer in Western Washington. Take a stroll through the Point Defiance Park in Tacoma, which features beautiful gardens, walking trails, and a zoo and aquarium. Or head to Tumwater Falls Park in Tumwater, which offers scenic waterfalls, picnic areas, and hiking trails.
While Western Washington may not be known for its warm water temperatures, there are still plenty of great places to enjoy the water during the summer months. Whether you're looking to swim, paddle, or simply soak up the sun, these locations offer something for everyone. Be sure to check out these spots and make the most of your summer in Western Washington.
FINALLY, this is something that you should know. It might not get hot until July. If it does get hot and you don't have air conditioning, it can be miserable. Especially since you are used to cooler weather year round. July and August can get hot. Everyone rushes to try and find a portable air conditioner and sometimes that can be hard to get. The question is, do you get one or one for each bedroom? We normally bought two. One we used in our master bedroom and the other we put in our living room and the kids would 'camp out' during those summer nights. You can find the type we used HERE. Get one NOW. You'll thank us later.
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