Alki Beach, Golden Gardens early summer hours extended

2 Seattle beaches to close early this summer

Golden Gardens and Alki Beach will be closing early during the summer. Changes to hours of operation went into effect Friday at both beaches, prompting them close earlier than usual, shutting at 10:30 p.m.

SEATTLE - Seattle Parks and Recreation has announced modified operating hours once again for Alki Beach and Golden Gardens for the upcoming summer season.

Changes to hours of operation went into effect Friday at both beaches, prompting them close earlier than usual, shutting at 10:30 p.m.

"It’s a good idea at these types of parks on the waterfront," said musician and beachgoer Thomas "Cosmo" Harper. "I think it’s a good thing to nip these things in the bud."

Last year, operating hours were adjusted to run from 4 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. through Labor Day. This year's shorter hours will extend two more weeks, until September 22.

Staff from Seattle Parks and Recreation, with assistance from the Seattle Police Department, will begin closing the beaches at 10 p.m.

This decision follows community concerns about safety and illegal activities during late evenings. Shortening operating hours aims to address these issues and ensure a safer environment for visitors and nearby residents.

"I’m not sure what an hour difference will do," said beach goer Jeremy Rubingh. "You’re going to have to enforce this rule and that’s a whole other issue. I think we really need to look at what’s causing the crime and problems and tackle that."

Children play in the water at Alki Beach during a heatwave in Seattle, Wash., on Sunday, June 27, 2021. ( Chona Kasinger/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

In addition to the schedule changes, designated fire pits will be available at both beaches starting Friday. These pits will be accessible seven days a week on a first-come, first-served basis. They will be unlocked daily between 4 and 5 p.m.

Visitors are reminded to follow rules governing beach fires, including extinguishing fires by 10 p.m. and using only clean, dry firewood. Seattle Parks and Recreation staff will oversee fire management and ensure compliance.

Seattle Parks and Recreation remains committed to creating a welcoming and secure environment for all beach enthusiasts. Adjusted hours and designated fire pits aim to enhance the recreational experience while prioritizing public safety.

For further details on beach fire rules and park regulations, visitors can refer to the Beach Fires Policy provided by Seattle Parks and Recreation.