Howell Park: A Small Lake Washington Beach in Madrona

Frequently asked questions

Howell Park is at 1740 Howell Pl, Seattle, WA 98122, in the Madrona neighborhood. The park sits on the shore of Lake Washington.

Yes. Howell Park is used for nude recreation and has historically been popular with gay men.

Howell Park is also known as Howell Beach Park and Howell Street Park.

Viretta Park is about 0.1 mile away, and Denny Blaine Park, Denny Blaine Lake Park, Stevens Triangle and Madrona Briar Patch are each about 0.2 mile away.

One Beach, Three Names

Don't be surprised if you hear the park called something else. Howell Park also goes by Howell Beach Park and Howell Street Park, and any of the three may turn up on maps or in conversation. Whatever name you use, expect a compact spot with a short stretch of beachfront where the land meets the lake.

This little shoreline has earned a place among Seattle's standout beaches, landing on a 2018 roundup of a dozen favorite spots along the city's shorelines.

Before You Go

Arrive knowing that Howell Park is used for nude recreation, so clothing-optional beachgoers are part of the scene. The beach has historically drawn a mostly gay male crowd, and it holds a recognized place in Seattle's LGBT culture.

Since the park is small, plan on a quiet afternoon by the water rather than a big group outing. Before you head out, check the Seattle Parks and Recreation page for the park to confirm current rules, hours and any seasonal notices.

Nearby Parks and Landmarks

Make a longer outing of it. Howell Park sits among a cluster of small lakeside green spaces in the Madrona area, part of the Central Area district, and several are close enough to fold into the same visit:

Viretta Park, about 0.1 mile away
Denny Blaine Park, about 0.2 mile away
Denny Blaine Lake Park, about 0.2 mile away
Stevens Triangle, about 0.2 mile away
Madrona Briar Patch, about 0.2 mile away

Round out your stroll with a few local landmarks, each roughly 0.3 mile from the beach: the Rohrer House, Epiphany Chapel and the Ellsworth Storey House. Keep in mind these are straight-line distances, so your route along the hilly streets may run a bit longer.

Ready to spend more time in the area? Browse our guide to the Madrona neighborhood, or compare other green spaces in our full list of Seattle parks.