Location: Mercer Island
Address: S.E. 58th St. and 80th Ave. S.E., Mercer Island
Acreage: Approx. 3
One of only two Mercer Island beaches that are guarded in the summer (the other is Luther Burbank Park), Groveland Beach looks across Lake Washington from the island’s western shore. This park’s location is especially pleasing because the view on the other side is of Seattle’s Seward Park, where you can just barely make out activity on that popular park’s biking and walking path.
Groveland Beach spreads from the parking lot down a steep hill to the shoreline. Halfway through your descent along a paved path you’ll find the playground. Set on wood chips, the plastic structure is a good stopping point to burn off energy before continuing to the beach to swim.
When you arrive at the park’s lowest section you’ll find a wide lawn with a strip of kid-friendly sand. Two docks wrap around the swimming area, which is accessed by several ladders. This easy-going park seems to mostly be used by islanders–it was quiet on a Friday August morning, and the park is mostly shady until noon. Relax on the lawn or bring something for the barbecue grills. You’ll also find a volleyball court near the shore. Next to the dock (and near the restrooms) is a great place to launch kayaks or SUPs.
#445 (Visited 8/7/15)