North Beach sits at Spanaway Park in Spanaway in Pierce County, providing swimming beach access to Spanaway Lake which covers approximately 272 acres in the South Puget Sound region. The beach takes its name from being the northern of two swim beaches within the 135-acre Spanaway Park, offering year-round recreational opportunities with scenic waterfront views. Spanaway Lake itself was named for the Spanaway Prairie area, with the name Spanaway derived from Chinook Jargon or Salish origin, though various interpretations exist including references to a Native American leader, Spanueh, who settled in the area, or Chinook jargon words relating to features of the landscape. Pierce County developed Spanaway Park as a major recreational facility providing public lake access with amenities including two swim beaches, boat launch, fishing pier, picnic areas, play equipment, paved and dirt walking trails, open fields, softball fields, and basketball courts.
Swimming from the sandy beach attracts families during warm summer months when freshwater lake temperatures provide comfortable conditions compared to cold saltwater beaches, with the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department monitoring water quality and bacteria levels during peak swimming season, though visitors should check current water advisories as toxic algae blooms occasionally occur requiring beach closures. Fishing from shore, the fishing pier, and boats yields largemouth bass, rainbow trout, and other warmwater species, with the fishing pier currently undergoing complete reengineering and reconstruction scheduled to reopen in 2027 following more extensive damage than initially expected. Boating launches from the park's boat ramp with routes exploring Spanaway Lake's shoreline, wakeboarding, water skiing, and recreational motorboat use popular during summer months. Beachcombing along the shoreline reveals smooth stones, driftwood, and interesting finds deposited by lake currents and wind. Wildlife watching includes great blue herons stalking shallow waters, bald eagles perching in lakeside trees, osprey fishing the lake, diverse waterfowl including mallards, wood ducks, and grebes, and small mammals visiting shoreline areas. The park's trail system provides walking and hiking opportunities through forests and open areas surrounding the lake. Picnic areas with tables and shelters accommodate family gatherings and group events with lakeside views.
Spanaway area dining offers diverse restaurants near Spanaway Park and throughout Pierce County. Mary Mary's Cafe serves classic American comfort food favorites with hearty breakfast and lunch options. Tonala Mexican Restaurant prepares authentic Mexican cuisine with vibrant flavors. Kelley's Kafe creates casual dining atmosphere with American eatery fare including burgers and fresh salads. Samurai's Japanese Steakhouse offers variety of Japanese dining options with expertly prepared dishes and steakhouse selections. El Charrito Mexican Restaurant features traditional Mexican menu items with family-friendly atmosphere.
