Chism Beach Park
A serene, hidden gem on Lake Washington offering stunning views and a peaceful escape from the city bustle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Chism Beach Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, hidden gem on Lake Washington offering stunning views and a peaceful escape from the city bustle.
"Beautiful little park that’s hidden away from the main roads. Gorgeous views of the water even on a cloudy day."
🚶♀️ Prepare for the hill
The walk down to the beach is steep; wear comfortable shoes and be mindful if you have mobility concerns.
☀️ Pack for sun & swim
Bring sunscreen and towels, as swimming is popular but there's no lifeguard. Water can be cold!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Washington Views
Beachfront
Panoramic vistas of Lake Washington, with glimpses of the Seattle skyline. Perfect for sunset photography.
Secluded Beach Access
Lakeshore
A charming, often quiet beach perfect for relaxing, picnicking, or enjoying the water.
Playground Fun
Near the park entrance
A well-maintained playground offering a fun space for children to play.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Steep Descent, Rewarding Views
Hidden Gem with Limited Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Prepare for the hill
The walk down to the beach is steep; wear comfortable shoes and be mindful if you have mobility concerns.
☀️ Pack for sun & swim
Bring sunscreen and towels, as swimming is popular but there's no lifeguard. Water can be cold!
🧺 Picnic spots are limited
Only one picnic table is available; consider bringing a blanket for a more flexible setup.
🤫 Seek quiet moments
This park is known for its tranquility; perfect for a peaceful escape.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Prepare for the hill
The walk down to the beach is steep; wear comfortable shoes and be mindful if you have mobility concerns.
☀️ Pack for sun & swim
Bring sunscreen and towels, as swimming is popular but there's no lifeguard. Water can be cold!
🧺 Picnic spots are limited
Only one picnic table is available; consider bringing a blanket for a more flexible setup.
🤫 Seek quiet moments
This park is known for its tranquility; perfect for a peaceful escape.
🚗 Parking is at the top
The main parking lot is at the top of the hill, requiring a walk down to the park.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Chism Beach Park is praised as a well-maintained, clean, and quiet park with beautiful views of Lake Washington and the Seattle skyline. Visitors appreciate the beach, playground, and restrooms, making it a good spot for family visits. However, the steep hill access and limited picnic tables are noted drawbacks.
"Pretty view. Super clean park. Nice public restrooms. Very quiet. It's not suitable for trails or walking."
Kelly Lee
"A wonderful park. It has everything you need for both activity and relaxation. A beach, a park, a small trail, and a beautiful view of the lake."
Serhii Krasnikov
"The park is very well managed and maintained. Lifeguards are also available there. Very good for one day family visit."
Ashok madne
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chism Beach Park is located in Bellevue, Washington. While it's a bit of a hidden gem, GPS will guide you. Be aware that the main parking lot is at the top of a steep hill, requiring a walk down to access the beach and park facilities.
Yes, there is a separate parking lot closer to the park that offers better accessibility compared to the main lot at the top of the hill.
From Seattle, you can drive to Chism Beach Park, which typically takes around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Public transportation options are available but may involve multiple transfers and longer travel times.
Chism Beach Park is situated on the shores of Lake Washington, offering views of the water and surrounding areas. It's a good spot to consider if you're exploring other parks in Bellevue like Meydenbauer Bay Park or Enatai Beach Park.
There is a parking lot at the top of the hill, and a separate, more accessible lot closer to the park. Parking can fill up, especially on nice days.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Chism Beach Park is a public park and does not require an entrance fee. It's free to visit and enjoy the amenities.
Chism Beach Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific hours may vary seasonally, but it's typically accessible throughout the day for visitors to enjoy.
There is no need to book tickets in advance as Chism Beach Park is a public park. You can visit anytime during its operating hours.
Generally, there are no specific entry restrictions beyond standard park rules. However, during special events like Seafair, it can get crowded.
While it's a public park, large organized events might require permits. It's a popular spot for casual gatherings and picnics.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can relax on the beach, enjoy the playground, have a picnic, and take in the beautiful views of Lake Washington. Some visitors enjoy the small walking path.
No, there is no lifeguard on duty at Chism Beach Park. Swimming is at your own risk, and the water can be quite cold.
Yes, the park has nice public restrooms available for visitors.
Yes, you can swim in Lake Washington from Chism Beach Park, but be aware that there is no lifeguard and the water is typically cold.
Absolutely! The park offers stunning views of Lake Washington and the Seattle skyline, making it a fantastic spot for photography, especially during sunset.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Chism Beach Park does not have on-site restaurants or cafes. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks for a picnic.
You'll find various dining options in the nearby Bellevue downtown area, offering a range of cuisines from casual to upscale.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity at Chism Beach Park. There is one picnic table, but many visitors bring blankets to enjoy their meals on the grass or beach.
It's not common for food trucks to be regularly stationed at Chism Beach Park, but they might appear during special local events like Seafair.
Bring your own food, drinks, utensils, and a blanket or chairs, as picnic table availability is limited.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire shoreline offers beautiful views of Lake Washington and the Seattle skyline. The beach itself and the surrounding trees provide lovely backdrops.
Late afternoons and evenings are ideal for photography, especially during sunset, to capture the golden hour light and scenic views.
Yes, on clear days, you can get good views of the Seattle skyline across Lake Washington from Chism Beach Park.
Drone usage in city parks is often restricted. It's best to check with Bellevue Parks and Recreation for current regulations regarding drone operation.
It's excellent for landscape, sunset, and casual portrait photography due to its scenic waterfront location.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there's no lifeguard, the park is generally peaceful and offers lovely views. Pack a picnic, as there's only one picnic table, but plenty of space to spread out a blanket. It's a good option for a relaxed family day out in Bellevue.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
The park is perfect for a leisurely stroll, a quiet picnic, or some contemplative time by the water. The beautiful scenery, especially during sunset, makes it a romantic or inspiring location for individuals and pairs alike.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Aim for the late afternoon or evening to capture the magical golden hour light. The combination of water, sky, and natural surroundings provides endless opportunities for capturing beautiful, memorable images.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Terrain: The Steep Descent
For those seeking easier access, a separate, more accessible parking lot is available closer to the park facilities. This thoughtful provision ensures that more people can enjoy the park's beauty. Despite the incline, many visitors find the effort worthwhile for the stunning views and tranquil atmosphere that Chism Beach Park offers.
When planning your visit, it's wise to wear comfortable, non-slip footwear. If you're bringing a picnic, consider packing light or opting for a blanket that's easy to carry down the slope. The park's unique topography is part of its character, offering a sense of discovery as you make your way to the lakefront.
A Photographer's Paradise: Capturing the Views
+1The park's natural beauty, combined with its relatively uncrowded nature, makes it an ideal spot for landscape photography. Whether you're capturing the expansive lake, the gentle lapping of waves on the shore, or the silhouettes of trees against the twilight sky, Chism Beach Park offers a picturesque setting. Many visitors recommend visiting in the late afternoon to catch the best light for their shots.
Beyond landscapes, the park also provides a lovely backdrop for casual portraits or even event photography, such as during local celebrations like Seafair. The combination of water, sky, and greenery creates a versatile canvas for any photographer looking to capture the essence of the Pacific Northwest.
Family Fun and Relaxation
While there's no lifeguard on duty, the park's generally calm atmosphere and the presence of restrooms make it a convenient spot for a family outing. The beautiful views of Lake Washington add to the overall pleasant experience, providing a scenic backdrop for picnics and quality time together.
It's important for families to be prepared for the steep walk down to the beach, especially with strollers or very young children. However, the accessible parking lot helps mitigate some of these challenges. Overall, Chism Beach Park offers a delightful, albeit slightly challenging to access, family-friendly escape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit