Nestled along the eastern shore of Lake Washington, Medina is a prestigious enclave that epitomizes luxury living in the Pacific Northwest. Often referred to as the “Gold Coast” of Lake Washington, this exclusive community offers an unparalleled blend of privacy, convenience, and natural beauty.
With its prime location just minutes from Seattle and Bellevue, Medina provides residents with a tranquil retreat while maintaining easy access to urban amenities. The town’s four square miles are home to just over 3,000 residents, creating a close-knit community atmosphere in a tranquil and laid-back setting.
Medina’s appeal extends beyond its stunning waterfront properties and lush landscapes. The area boasts excellent schools, making it a coveted destination for families. From the Overlake Country Club to the charming Medina Beach Park, residents enjoy a variety of recreational opportunities that compliment their luxurious lifestyle.
If you’re seeking an exclusive address that combines natural beauty, privacy, and proximity to urban centers, Medina offers a living experience that is truly second to none.
Interested in homes for sale in Medina, WA? Here, we give you a closer look at the community, where you’ll get to learn more about its history, the lifestyle it offers, the real estate options, the best attractions and destinations, and all of the things that make it an exceptional place to call home.
Homes For Sale In Medina
Overview of Medina, WA
Location
Medina is nestled on a peninsula in Lake Washington, directly across from Seattle. The city encompasses more than four square miles and is bordered by Clyde Hill and Hunts Point to the east, with water on all other sides.
Medina is connected to Seattle via the Evergreen Point Floating Bridge, the world’s longest floating bridge, carrying State Route 520 across Lake Washington.
Medina’s history at a glance
- Medina was founded in the 1870s as a community of berry farms and orchards.
- The town was named “Medina” in the late 19th century, after a city in Saudi Arabia.
- Medina developed rapidly after 1914 when ferry service connected it to Seattle.
- In the 1920s, it became known as the “Gold Coast” as wealthy Seattleites built mansions there.
- The city was incorporated in 1955 to maintain local control over zoning and development.
- The Evergreen Point Floating Bridge (SR-520) opened in 1963, connecting Medina directly to Seattle.
- Medina experienced another influx of wealth starting in the 1980s with the rise of the tech industry.
- Today, Medina is known for its exclusive residential character, large homes, and high-profile residents like Bill Gates.
Climate
Medina, Washington enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. While there’s a chance of rain year-round, summer offers little precipitation. Expect highs in the upper 70s to low 80s with comfortable evenings. Winter temperatures hover in the 40s, with occasional dips below freezing.
Education
Public schools in Medina are administered by the Bellevue School District, a highly rated public school district known for its commitment to academic excellence and student well-being.
The district’s vision is to inspire and empower students as creators of their future world. With core values of service, integrity, compassion, excellence, respect, and collaboration, the district strives to provide an equitable and exceptional education. Serving Medina, Bellevue, and surrounding communities, the district focuses on innovative and individualized learning experiences to meet the diverse needs of its student population across all grade levels.
Medina Elementary School serves the citys younger students, while older students attend Bellevue School Districts Chinook Middle School and Bellevue High School.
Homes for Sale in Medina, WA
Those interested in homes for sale in Medina, WA will be able to choose from a wide selection of real estate options guaranteed to impress even the most discerning homebuyers. Medina’s real estate market consists almost entirely of single-family homes, and there are opportunities available for those planning to build their dream custom home from the ground up.
This exclusive community offers a diverse array of properties, from waterfront estates to family homes with stunning views of downtown Bellevue, Seattle, or Lake Washington. You’ll find properties with lot sizes ranging from 16,000 square feet to multi-acre estates, ensuring ample space and privacy. Many homes feature private docks for water activities, while others are nestled in lush, green surroundings, perfect for those looking forward to a laid-back lifestyle in an idyllic setting. With nearly a quarter of Medina dedicated to green spaces, parks, and a golf course, residents enjoy a perfect balance of natural beauty and sophisticated living, making it one of the most sought-after locations on the Greater Eastside.
Homes for sale in Medina, WA are available in a range of elegant architectural styles like Craftsman, Colonial Revival, Mediterranean, and Tudor. Those seeking the finest homes in Medina will be able to choose from an impressive selection of luxurious residences offering a seamless combination of privacy, elegance, and livability. These exceptional properties often feature expansive floor plans and high-end amenities such as private docks, infinity pools, and state-of-the-art home theaters.
Interior highlights frequently include soaring ceilings, walls of windows to maximize natural light and views, gourmet kitchens with top-of-the-line appliances, and opulent primary suites with spa-like bathrooms. Smart home technology, energy-efficient systems, and custom finishes throughout exemplify the attention to detail and quality craftsmanship found in Medina’s luxury real estate market.
If you want to browse the best homes for sale in Medina, start by taking a look at our listings.
Living in Medina, WA
Outdoor Destinations
Medina’s parks and outdoor destinations are sure to delight nature enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you’re looking forward to a quick morning jog, a picnic with family and friends, a relaxing hike, or just some fresh air, it’s easy to find the perfect spot.
Be sure to visit some of these top-rated outdoor venues in and around Medina:
Fairweather Nature Preserve
Fairweather Park and Nature Preserve in Northpoint offers a perfect blend of recreational facilities and natural beauty. This picturesque green space features a small field ideal for casual sports, two well-maintained tennis courts, and a lush wooded area. Nature lovers can explore a network of scenic trails winding through the preserve, providing a serene escape into local flora and fauna.
Medina Beach Park
Nestled on Lake Washington’s shores, Medina Beach Park is a year-round haven for locals and visitors alike. This scenic spot features 50 feet of sandy beach with easy water access, a dock, and a swim float. Visitors can relax on benches or enjoy picnics at tables overlooking the lake. The park also offers convenient launch points for paddleboards and kayaks, making it a perfect destination for those who enjoy activities on the water.
Medina Park
Situated at NE 12th Street and 82nd Avenue NE, Medina Park offers diverse recreational options for all ages. It features a playground, tennis and bocce ball courts, two picturesque ponds with fountains, and scenic trails. The park includes a sheltered picnic area and both on-leash and off-leash dog zones, ensuring a delightful experience for families, sports enthusiasts, and pet owners alike.
Bellevue Downtown Park
Located less than ten minutes away from Medina, Bellevue Downtown Park is a 21-acre urban oasis equipped with first-rate amenities. Its centerpiece is a 240-foot-wide waterfall cascading into a reflecting pond, bordered by a half-mile promenade with shade trees. The park features a spacious lawn, perfect for picnics with views of Bellevue’s skyline and Mount Rainier. Visitors can also enjoy play areas and formal gardens, making it ideal for family outings and community events.
Leisure and Relaxation
For golf enthusiasts, Medina is home to the prestigious Overlake Golf & Country Club, which offers an unparalleled golfing experience.
The club’s crown jewel is its Arthur Vernon Macan-designed 18-hole course, which offers a challenging yet fair test of golf for players of all skill levels. Established in 1927, Overlake Golf & Country Club has hosted numerous regional amateur and professional championships, cementing its reputation as a premier golfing destination.
Set in the heart of Medina, the course is known for its classic, walkable layout that seamlessly blends with the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. The club’s rich history, including its closure during the Great Depression and subsequent revival in 1952, adds to its storied character. Today, Overlake Golf & Country Club stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of golf in the region, providing members with a meticulously maintained course that combines tradition with modern golfing excellence.
In addition to its top-rated golf course, Overlake Golf & Country Club offers a comprehensive range of amenities for its members and guests. The clubhouse provides a contemporary and welcoming environment for dining and social gatherings. Members can enjoy exceptional cuisine prepared by renowned Chef Alex Nemeth, complemented by an extensive wine selection and friendly service.
The club’s social calendar is filled with year-round events catering to all ages, giving members something exciting to look forward to year-round. During the summer months, the six-lane pool becomes a popular spot for families, featuring a spacious deck and various aquatic activities. Tennis enthusiasts can take advantage of well-maintained courts, while fitness facilities cater to those looking to maintain their physical well-being. The club’s commitment to providing a complete family-oriented experience makes it a cornerstone of the Medina community, offering a perfect blend of athletic, social, and leisure activities.
Shopping
Love shopping? Bellevue Square is a stone’s throw away from Medina, providing residents with easy access to a dazzling assortment of boutiques and restaurants. This premier shopping destination boasts an impressive collection of contemporary, upscale, and luxury brands, thoughtfully arranged into distinct retail neighborhoods.
This venue’s strategic layout not only highlights its collection of renowned brands but also simplifies the shopping experience, allowing customers to easily locate their preferred labels. Anchored by one of the top-performing Nordstrom stores in the US, Bellevue Square has maintained an impressive record of consistent sales growth for over 75 years. The mall’s carefully curated selection caters to a wide array of shoppers, ensuring a comprehensive shopping experience that appeals to a wide range of tastes and preferences. For Medina residents, Bellevue Square offers a world-class retail therapy experience just minutes from home.
Dining
While Medina itself offers limited dining options, the vibrant culinary scene of nearby Bellevue is just minutes away, providing residents and visitors with a wealth of choices. Whether you’re gathering with friends for brunch, celebrating a special occasion, dining out with the family, or simply satisfying a craving, the diverse array of restaurants in the area caters to every palate and occasion, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
Below are some top-rated dining destinations for you to check out.
520 Bar & Grill
10146 Main Street, Bellevue, WA
Located in old Bellevue on Main Street, 520 Bar and Grill offers a lively atmosphere and vibrant menu featuring classic comfort food with seasonal twists. The restaurant serves a wide variety of quality spirits and expertly crafted cocktails, blending local and global inspirations.
With a focus on both traditional and trendy offerings, 520 also provides a perfect setting for private events, offering customized experiences for memorable gatherings. It’s the go-to spot for locals seeking great food, lively fun, and expertly crafted cocktails.
Carmine’s
88 102nd Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98004
Carmine’s Bellevue, an offshoot of Seattle’s renowned Il Terrazzo Carmine, brings the same exceptional quality to the Eastside. Nestled in Old Bellevue’s historic district, this restaurant offers a rustic yet timeless ambiance that provides a welcome retreat from urban life.
While upscale and elegant, Carmine’s maintains a warm, unpretentious atmosphere. The Smeraldo family’s Italian cuisine tradition shines through in every dish, making it ideal for business meetings, special occasions, or intimate dinners. Carmine’s Bellevue has quickly established itself as a culinary destination, offering a taste of Seattle’s iconic dining experience in a picturesque setting highlighted by views of Bellevue Park.
Central Bar + Restaurant
10475 NE 6th Street, Bellevue, WA
Central Bar + Restaurant offers a vibrant local experience in the heart of downtown Bellevue A vibrant, local bar surrounded by a bustling restaurant, Central presents Northwest fare and small plates inspired by regional offerings. It’s about the food, the people, and the atmosphere.
With a deliberate menu aimed to honor the Pacific Northwest and hand-crafted cocktails at the forefront of what’s trending, Central’s food is fresh, prepared in house and is a perfect complement to its welcoming atmosphere.
Central is available for private parties with several options for large groups including buying out half or all of the restaurant.
Events and Festivals
There’s a stellar lineup of community events in and around Medina throughout the year! Remember to mark your calendar for these fun events:
Medina Annual Egg Hunt (March/April)
Sponsored by the Medina Parks and Recreation Board, the Medina Easter Egg Hunt is an eagerly anticipated annual event at the picturesque Medina Park. This family-friendly tradition brings the community together for a day of springtime fun.
Bellevue Family 4th (July)
Medina’s proximity to Bellevue makes it easy for residents to join the festivities at the Bellevue Family 4th, the Eastside’s largest Independence Day celebration. This annual event, organized by the Bellevue Downtown Association, transforms Downtown Park into a hub of patriotic excitement. Attendees can enjoy a day filled with free live music performances, family-friendly activities, and food trucks offering culinary delights. As night falls, the highlight of the evening is the spectacular fireworks display, which illuminates the sky and can be viewed from various vantage points in Medina and Bellevue.
Medina Days (August)
Medina Days is an annual community celebration featuring a variety of engaging events. Activities include a concert and picnic in the park with food trucks and a beer garden, a pickleball tournament, neighborhood block parties, and a community parade.
The festivities also include a kid’s carnival, a pet parade, Lake Washington cruises, a beach party with fireworks, and a community breakfast paired with a car show. This multi-day event brings together residents of all ages for fun and camaraderie.
Annual Argosy Christmas Ship Festival (November/December)
The Argosy Christmas Ship Festival is a beloved holiday tradition in the Puget Sound area. From late November to December, a flotilla of illuminated boats, led by the Christmas Ship, creates a magical floating parade.
The ship’s choir performs at various waterfront locations, including Medina Beach Park, where spectators gather to enjoy the festive music and twinkling lights. Some stops feature cozy bonfires, adding to the warm holiday atmosphere.
Recent sales in Medina
FIND YOUR DREAM HOME IN MEDINA, WA TODAY WITH THE BRAZENS
Choose from the finest homes for sale in Medina, WA by working with The Brazens, one of the top-performing real estate teams in Washington.
With a stellar reputation built on successful transactions and strong relationships, The Brazens excel in marketing, negotiations, and client communication. Their commitment to transparency and integrity ensures a seamless home-buying experience in the Puget Sound area.
Get in touch with the team today by calling 425.454.4141 or sending an email.