During the summer, when all the thermometers are broken and everybody’s sweating like Nixon, there’s no substitute for a good day at the beach. And though the Emerald City boasts its fair share of quality beaches, the wealth of activities at the lovely and accessible Green Lake can’t be beat. For starters, it’s got two beaches. And that’s not even counting the fact that anyone can just jump in the lake pretty much anywhere. It’s got lifeguards and wading pools for the kids, plus rentable paddle boats, kayaks, and paddleboards. There are food stands and ample restaurants for snacking when you get tired of swimming or any other of the on-land activities you can partake in. The nod for best swim spot probably goes to the Bathhouse beach: It’s far away from the crowds at the equipment rental, and it’s always proved big enough to accommodate even the largest crowd of heat-weary Seattleites.