10 BEST Things to Do at Lake Sammamish State Park

Lake Sammamish State Park is on Seattle’s Eastside near Issaquah. It’s one of Seattle’s most popular parks, attracting 2 million visitors each year!

This 531-acre park has two sandy beaches; Sunset Beach and Tibbetts Beach. The beaches are very popular in summer, however, unfortunately there are no lifeguards. Seasonal kayak and paddleboard rentals are also available just off Tibbetts Beach.

Lake Sammamish State Park is very popular for large gatherings of family and friends, with three picnic shelters available to rent, and dozens of picnic tables throughout the park. Kids can also choose from three playgrounds.

There’s also plenty of trails to explore through the park’s diverse terrain, including a wetlands area, forest, open grassed areas, and three creeks.

A Discover Pass is required to visit Lake Sammamish State Park.

10 best things to do at Lake Sammamish State Park

1. Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach is the biggest and most popular beach at Lake Sammamish State Park, and has a roped off area for swimming. Enjoy the gorgeous views across Lake Sammamish, and don't forget to bring a tent or umbrella for shade. There are change rooms in the building directly behind the beach, and outdoor showers.

2. Sunset Beach Cafe

The seasonal Sunset Beach Cafe is directly behind Sunset Beach, with a kiosk for snacks, ice-cream and lunch.

3. Tibbetts Beach

Tibbetts Beach is a smaller beach, directly south of Sunset Beach, with a sand/pebble mix. It takes about 10 minutes to walk along a path between the beaches. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available directly behind the beach.

4. Playgrounds

There are 3 playgrounds at Lake Sammamish State Park. The best playground is directly behind Sunset Beach, with plenty of slides and climbing equipment. There's also another playground behind Tibbetts Beach, and a smaller playground between Tibbetts and Sunset Beach.

5. Kayaking and paddle-board rentals

Rent a kayak or paddleboard from Issaquah Paddle Sports. It's just a short distance from Tibbetts Beach, inside the beige building. Paddle out on Lake Sammamish, or up the quieter Issaquah Creek.

6. Biking and hiking trails

Lake Sammamish State Park has plenty of biking and hiking trails, including the Issaquah Creek Trail (1-mile), Wetland Intepretive Trail (0.2 miles), and Homestead Trail (0.5 miles). The trail pass through forested areas, wetlands, and past the two main beaches. Don't forget to follow the short boardwalk trail directly north of Sunset Beach, that ends at a secluded, sandy beach.

7. Picnics

Enjoy a picnic at one of dozens of picnic tables throughout Lake Sammamish State Park, or book one of three picnic shelters for larger groups. The Rotunda Shelter has a fire-pit inside, and the Creek Shelter has the best water views.