Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
Howarth Park Beach sits at the wooded tip of a 28-acre peninsula, far removed from the industrial cranes and mill smoke that define most of Everett's waterfront. You arrive through stands of old-growth conifers, their bark still damp from overnight mist, then emerge onto a protected cove where smooth stones click underfoot and barnacle-encrusted rocks form shallow pools at low tide. The Olympic Mountains rise purple and serrated to the west; freighters glide silently toward the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Families claim picnic tables beneath the maples while kids scour tide pools for purple shore crabs and ochre sea stars. The water stays bracingly cold year-round—mid-fifties even in August—but wading is gentle, the slope gradual, the waves mere ripples. Driftwood forts sprout along the high-tide line, rebuilt by successive generations of children who treat the silvered logs like building blocks. What draws locals back isn't drama but dependability: the same heron fishing the shallows each morning, the same bench overlooking the marina, the same quiet removed from highway noise. You won't find surf shops or beach bars. Instead, there's a playground tucked in the trees, restrooms that actually have soap, and enough space that even on sunny Saturdays you can find an unclaimed stretch of shore where the only sound is the soft rattle of stones pulled seaward by retreating waves.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Howarth Park Beach.
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Howarth Park Beach on Puget Sound is generally safe for wading and playing, but swimming conditions require caution. The water is cold year-round (50-55°F), and there are no lifeguards on duty. The beach features calm, shallow waters ideal for young children to splash and explore tide pools. However, always supervise children closely due to cold temperatures, occasional currents, and changing tides. The sandy beach area is well-maintained and family-friendly, making it better suited for beach play, picnicking, and exploring rather than extended swimming.
Howarth Park Beach is accessible year-round, but summer months (June-September) offer the most pleasant conditions with temperatures between 65-75°F and minimal rainfall. July and August provide the warmest, driest weather ideal for beach activities and picnicking. Spring and fall can be beautiful with fewer crowds, though expect cooler temperatures and occasional rain. Winter visits are possible but bring rain gear and dress warmly. Low tide times are best for exploring tide pools and discovering marine life. Check local tide tables before your visit to maximize beach access.
Howarth Park Beach offers free parking in a lot adjacent to the beach and park area. The parking lot is easily accessible from East Marine View Drive in Everett. Spaces are generally available, though weekends and sunny summer days can fill up quickly, especially during peak afternoon hours. The beach is about 30 miles north of Seattle, approximately 35-45 minutes via I-5 North. Public transportation options to this beach are limited, so driving is recommended. The lot provides convenient access with a short walk to the beach area.
Howarth Park Beach features public restrooms and extensive picnic facilities, making it well-suited for family outings. The park includes numerous picnic tables, some covered shelters, grassy areas, and BBQ grills available on a first-come basis. There's a playground for children near the beach area. However, there are no food vendors or concessions on-site, so bring your own meals and snacks. The nearby Evergreen Way corridor (about 2 miles east) offers various restaurants and grocery stores. No overnight lodging exists at the park itself.
Yes, one unique feature of Howarth Park Beach is its proximity to Paine Field (Snohomish County Airport), where Boeing manufactures aircraft. Visitors can sometimes watch planes, including large Boeing aircraft during test flights, flying overhead or in the distance. While not guaranteed during every visit, aviation enthusiasts and families often enjoy this unexpected bonus. The beach also offers views across Puget Sound toward the Olympic Mountains on clear days. This combination of beach access, mountain views, and potential aircraft sightings makes it distinctive among Pacific Northwest beaches.
