Eastside Summer Guide: The Best of Bellevue, Kirkland, and Beyond

Eastside Summers revolves around the lakes. As the weather warms up in May, the waterfront becomes the community’s living room.

Juanita Beach Paddleboarding

Kirkland Waterfront: Marina Park is the place to be. You can rent a powerboat or electric boat for a sunset cruise, or simply grab a gelato and walk the promenade. Juanita Beach has a playground, Paddle boarding and kayak rentals and the best Sandy Beach to lounge during our warmer days.
Enatai Beach Park (Bellevue): This is a hidden gem for kayakers. You can rent a paddle board and glide through the Mercer Slough Nature Park, where you’ll feel miles away from the city in a lush, wildlife-rich wetland.
Lake Sammamish State Park: Ideal for a full day out. With two expansive swimming beaches (Tibbetts and Sunset) and a massive new playground, it’s the premier spot for a summer BBQ.

The Eastside knows how to throw a summer party. Mark these on your 2026 calendar:

Redmond Urban Market

Bellevue Arts Museum (BAM) ARTSfair (July): One of the largest and most prestigious open-air arts festivals in the Northwest. Over 300 artists take over the streets around Bellevue Square.
Kirkland Uncorked (July): A waterfront wine festival at Marina Park featuring Washington’s best vintages, food trucks, and a “Bark-testant” dog show.
Sammamish Commons Concerts: Pack a picnic and a blanket for free outdoor concerts on the hill—one of the best views of the sunset on the Eastside.

The Eastside’s culinary scene shines when the patios open up.

Wilmot Gateway Park, Woodinville

Woodinville Wine Country: Just north of Kirkland and 5 minutes off of 405, Woodinville is home to over 130 wineries. In the summer, the lawns at Chateau Ste. Michelle host world-class outdoor concerts. You can also walk along wine alley and stop at boutique shops and restaurants. Bring the whole family to their Summer Concert Series at the slough. Enjoy food, drinks, games and lots of good music each week in July.
The Farmers Markets: * Bellevue (Thursdays): Great for a post-work organic haul.
- Kirkland Wednesday Market: Located right on the water at Marina Park.
Remlinger Farms (Carnation): A short drive east, this is a summer rite of passage for families. U-pick berries, a steam train, and a farm-themed fun park.

You don’t have to drive to the Cascades for a great hike.

Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park: Over 35 miles of trails right in Bellevue/Issaquah. In the summer, the shade of the forest canopy keeps these trails perfectly cool.
Bridle Trails State Park: A 482-acre oasis of old-growth forest between Kirkland and Bellevue, perfect for a peaceful walk or horseback riding.

Why Summer is the Best Time to Explore Your New Neighborhood

If you are considering buying a home on the Eastside, there is no better time than the summer to “test drive” the lifestyle.

Blue Angles

See the “Real” Neighborhood: Walk the streets in the evening to see how active the parks are and how the community interacts.
Evaluate the Amenities: Visit the local pools, tennis courts, and HOA-managed beaches while they are in full use.
The Specialist Edge: As an Eastside resident and local agent of over 12 years, I don’t just know the houses; I know which streets have the best 4th of July block parties and which buildings have the best rooftop views for the Seafair Blue Angels (or join me to view the Blue angles in person at the Museum of Flight in Renton).

Thinking of buying or selling this summer? Reach out today so I can help you start planning your next move.

Alicia Ewbank, CCS
Windermere Real Estate East, Inc,
Founder of Sellmycondo.org
aliciae@windermere.com
(206)446-1952
aliciaewbank.withwre.com
sellmycondo.org