Around here, beach time is more than just play time. Beach time is an opportunity to count airplanes and boats, interact with other children, learn to share and catch some much needed Vitamin D. Rain or shine we try to visit the beach at least once a week. We like to visit a variety of beaches, both sandy and rocky ones. Although the sand ones are more comfortable for sitting, I much prefer the rocky ones for overall clean up and interest factor. When we are on a rocky beach we can throw rocks, look under rocks, pile rocks and count rocks. Sandy beaches are better for playing with beach toys and working on our tans.

In general, I try to pack as light as possible. In my beach bag I like to pack the following: sun hat, flip flops, a sarong which can double as a blanket to sit on and a towel, sunscreen, a variety of snacks, a small plastic bucket and a large water bottle. I have found the more I bring, the more stressed I feel about keeping track of it all. When you are out in nature, more toys generally does not equate to a better time. Also, unless Jasper is going swimming I do not bother to put him in his swimsuit or swim diaper. I find it to not be worth the hassle and most of his Summer clothes are quick dry anyways.

Some of our favorite beaches/parks:

Lincoln Park, located in West Seattle: This park has it all from rocky beaches and ferries breezing by, resident ducks to feed, well maintained restrooms, swings, fire pits, baseball fields and grassy areas to run around on.

Lowman Beach, located in West Seattle: This park is located at the north or back entrance to Lincoln Park. Very few people visit this beach which means we usually have the place to ourselves.

Alki Beach, located in West Seattle: This beach is perfect for people watching, lots of water and boat traffic, sandy beaches, fire pits, volleyball courts and lots of places to grab a bite to eat and get out of the sunshine.

Waverly Park, located in Kirkland: great swings, nice docks over the water for fishing, great little swimming area in the Summer time.

Discovery Park, located in North Seattle: Great rocky beach for exploring, a neat lighthouse and places for picnicking.

Volunteer Park, located in Capital Hill: massive green space in the city to run around on, great little playground, beautiful Conservatory, home to the Seattle Asian Art Museum.

Gasworks Park, located in the University District: large rolling hills, great for flying kites, frisbee and picnics. A favorite spot to catch a different view of the city and watch sail boats and kayaks go by.

South Lake Union Park, located in South Lake Union: My favorite spot to watch the seaplanes take off and land. This park has a small pond for sailing toy boats, a splash pad, an occasional food truck and is home to the MOHAI.