Boulder Beach sits along the Spokane River just east of downtown Spokane in Spokane County on the river's north bank, taking its name from a set of boulders sitting beneath the stairway leading down from the parking area to the beach. The Spokane River flows westward from Coeur d'Alene Lake through the city of Spokane and continues to its confluence with the Columbia River at Lake Roosevelt, creating recreational corridor through Washington's second-largest city. The beach provides one of several public access points along the Spokane River where residents and visitors can enjoy freshwater recreation within the urban environment, with the Centennial Trail hike and bike path running alongside the river at Boulder Beach Park connecting to the extensive regional trail system. The beach area offers sandy areas, boulders for climbing, picnic spots, and shared showers creating popular summer destination for Spokane residents seeking to cool off and play in the water on hot days.
Swimming in the Spokane River attracts visitors during warm summer months when the river warms and flow moderates creating favorable conditions, though swimmers should use adequate precaution and life preservers if wading past standing height as the river moves with gentle current. Kayaking uses the beach as put-in spot for paddling the Spokane River downstream through the city or upstream toward Spokane Falls, with the river providing urban paddling opportunities through diverse landscapes including downtown, residential areas, and natural corridors. Paddle boarding has become popular activity launching from Boulder Beach for exploring calm river sections and practicing balance skills in the gentle current. Fishing from the boulders and shoreline provides almost certain activity with anglers seeking trout, bass, and other river species, particularly from the prominent boulders that give the beach its name. Beachcombing along sandy areas reveals smooth river stones polished by constant water flow, interesting rocks from the Spokane River watershed, and driftwood deposited during spring runoff and high water events. Wildlife watching includes osprey fishing the river, bald eagles particularly during winter months, great blue herons, diverse waterfowl including mergansers and goldeneyes, and occasional river otters. The beach becomes lively during summer months with families, young adults, and outdoor enthusiasts enjoying Spokane's premier river beach destination. The Centennial Trail provides walking and cycling access connecting Boulder Beach to other Spokane River parks and recreation areas extending many miles along the river corridor.
Spokane dining offers diverse restaurant options throughout the city near Boulder Beach and downtown. Mizuna serves as downtown Spokane staple offering tantalizing seasonal menu utilizing fresh local ingredients in fine dining atmosphere. Spencer's creates fine dining steakhouse experience in the DoubleTree by Hilton Spokane City Center. The Steam Plant occupies historic building not to be missed on any trip to greater Spokane area. Indicana celebrates flavors of India and Mexico with dinner menu offering elevated experience with innovative delicious entrees. Tavolata in historic Old City Hall building across from Riverfront Park focuses on fresh pasta produced daily by chef team. Spokane's dining scene emphasizes locally-sourced seasonal ingredients ranging from craft breweries to fine dining, Latin-inspired cuisine to Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Asian fusion, and classic American fare creating foodie paradise with outstanding restaurant choices.
