Patch Picks: Get Thee to a Beach

You don't have to dream of escaping to Hawaii to enjoy a beach. (Though, it can't hurt.) The Eastside is a great place for beach fun, so we thought you might like to check out some of these awesome local sand haunts while the nice weather is here.

Medina Beach Park

is a great spot to go for a dip on a sunny day. Amenities include a sandy beach, floating dock and several benches. The park is right next to the town's historic city hall building. Dogs are not permitted in the park, but there are barbecue grills and the site is handicap accessible, with paved walkways leading to the beach.

Newcastle Beach Park

is the largest beach park in Bellevue. Its long grass field leads up to a large 300-foot dock and a wonderful stretch of waterfront access. The park's views are breathtaking, the children's play structures are colorful and fun and the large covered picnic area is ideal for parties. It offers swimming, sunbathing and a relaxing nature trail. Bonus for parents: there is a lifeguard on duty from late June through Labor Day.

Meydenbauer Beach Park

is Bellevue's hidden gem. It is tucked within a residential area. Its long and narrow entrance leads to an idyllic waterfront setting. Visitors can be found fishing off the dock or swimming laps from buoy to buoy. It has a quaint play area, several picnic benches and fabulously upkept grounds, perfect for a family summer outing. From late June through Labor Day, a lifeguard is on duty.

Luther Burbank Park (Mercer Island)

Just a bridge hop from Bellevue sits , located on 77 acres of the northeast corner of Mercer Island, featuring three quarters of a mile of Lake Washington waterfront and many walking trails. A variety of recreational facilities are available including tennis courts, play structures, a public dock (fishing and boating) and a swimming beach with lifeguards until Labor Day. Picnic tables, a picnic shelter, off-leash dog runs and an amphitheatre are other amenities enjoyed by visitors. The park also features the city's only Pea Patch community garden.

Juanita Beach Park (Kirkland)

If we're lucky, Kirkland's was slated to