Lake Burien

A private, peaceful haven on the lake awaits inside the coveted Lake Burien neighborhood.

The Lake Burien neighborhood surrounds the pristine waters of the same name. The public doesn’t have access to this 44-acre paradise that sits just blocks from the Puget Sound shoreline. “That makes it super appealing for those who live on the lake,” says Angie Hall, Realtor at Windermere Real Estate and Belle Residence team member. “You buy and stay. People love it. It's very peaceful and calm.”

Lake Burien is filled with a splendid mix of single-family, modern rambler-style houses, bungalows and luxurious waterfront homes. Most were built in the 1950s and range from $530,000 to $800,000. Lakefront homes go for up to $3 million and boast outdoor kitchens and firepits, spacious patios and large docks. Some even come with sports courts, English gardens and yards with apple and pear orchards and kiwi and grape arbors. Most homes come equipped with spacious garages and driveways – perfect for parking boats or campers. Lot sizes are mostly around 7,200 square feet, but higher-end homes offer 15,000 square-foot sprawling, lush lawns, ideal for entertaining. “You get a nice combination of grass and yard area leading out onto the waterfront, so you have the best of both worlds,” Hall says. While residents are immersed in nature with majestic views of the glimmering lake and towering evergreens, city amenities are just minutes away.

Students attend Seahurst Elementary, Sylvester Middle School and Highline High School. Seahurst hosts an annual mathematics student competition and offers after-school art, soccer and Spanish clubs. Niche ranked Highline with a B- for college prep and sports. The diverse high school has baseball and football titles and offers clubs for drama, digital media and an Asian Student Union.

With Lake Burien only open to its residents, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor fun in your own backyard, from taking your small boat or canoe out, hiking with your furry friend or taking a dip. “You can go in and swim. There are a ton of swim docks out there,” Hall says. “Kayaking is big on that lake, too.” Or venture outside your oasis to Lake Burien School Memorial Park, a four-acre green space in the neighborhood with a recently renovated playground. Walk the trails, catch a show at the summer concert series or a Shakespeare play. Residents can also access the public beach along the Puget Sound, just two miles away.

In the morning, you can walk to The Bean for your favorite hot or iced beverage. PCC Community Markets is the closest grocer, less than two miles away, but for mom-and-pop shops and restaurants, head to the historic town center, Olde Burien. “It’s less than a five-minute walk,” says Hall. “It's so convenient.” Enjoy a movie and a pint at the beloved Tin Room Bar & Theater, a locally owned institution for nearly 20 years. Get your comfort food fix at Classic Eats, grab sweets at the bright pink bakery, Treat Cookies and peruse quaint boutiques selling jewelry, home goods and clothing. For fresh produce and flowers, visit the year-round Burien Farmers Market in the Town Square.

The Lake Burien Shore Club holds the annual fireworks display over the lake, and much of this close community gets together to organize a winter festival and other events. “They do celebrate and have their own little private things,” Hall says. “You see many of the schoolchildren and families have school parties on the lake as well. It’s a really festive vibe.” And despite the private lake and secluded location, Hall says it’s still very much friendly and inviting. “It’s super welcoming and warm,” she says. “It’s very tight knit. Even though it’s a smaller pocket and secluded, it’s not exclusive. There’s a vibrant energy, and it’s fun.”

For a placid oasis away from busy city life, choose Lake Burien.

Written By

Amy David

Photography Contributed By

Carter Rogers

Video By

Jessica Johnson