Established in 1907 by Harry W. Treat to encourage electric-car owners (yes, they existed back then) to take a Sunday drive out of the city, Golden Gardens offered an opportunity for a swim or a picnic and—Treat hoped, at least—also inspired them to purchase some of the local real estate along the way. Regardless of your real-estate needs, this beach is still worth the trip, featuring commanding views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, an event space, firepits, an off-leash dog area, handicap-accessible restrooms, and much more. 8498 Seaview Pl. N.W., 684-4075

First runner-up: Alki Beach

Second runner-up: Madison Park Beach

Honorable mention: Seward Park, Lincoln Park

Read about the rest of the Best of Seattle Reader Poll winners here. If you didn’t get a chance to vote this go-round, make sure your voice is heard next year. Email us at bestofseattle@seattleweekly.com and we will let you know when nominations open for BoS 2017.