“Inside Bellevue”, the Bellevue neighborhood spotlight series, is a unique collaboration between The Brazen’s at Windermere Real Estate/Bellevue Commons and Downtown Bellevue Network. Drawing upon their over 30 years of experience living, working, and selling in Bellevue, the esteemed Brazen family provides an exclusive insider’s perspective on living in Bellevue and the real estate market.
We are delving into the Bellevue neighborhood of Enatai, home to approximately 950 households. Enatai sits on the eastern shores of Lake Washington, providing convenient access to downtown Bellevue and Seattle. The neighborhood boasts family-friendly amenities, including beach parks and lush green spaces. Known for its top-rated schools and proximity to recreational activities along the waterfront, the area fosters a strong sense of community among its residents.
Enatai Real Estate by the Numbers
| Average Price of Home Sold* | Average Price Per Sq Ft* | Average Days on the Market* | Number of Homes Sold in the Last 12 Months | Highest Priced Home Sold in the Last 12 Months | Lowest Priced Home Sold in the Last 12 Months |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $3,147,268 | $835.70 | 50 | 41 | $9,075,000 | $1,300,000 |
** NWMLS Data from June 1, 2023 – May 31, 2024
Enatai Amenities
Enatai boasts a range of amenities for families and those who enjoy the outdoors. Enatai Beach Park, spanning almost three acres, serves as a gateway to Lake Washington and the water trails of Mercer Slough Nature. Here, visitors can enjoy a swimming area, dock, boat house, picnic spots, and seasonal canoe and kayak rentals courtesy of REI. Nearby, Enatai Neighborhood Park offers 4.16 acres of recreational space, including tennis and sports courts, picnic areas, and a play zone.
For aquatic fun, Triangle Pool, located at 1919 108th Ave SE, offers heated outdoor swimming with four lanes and a diving board. Additionally, Mercer Slough Nature Park, spanning 329 acres, provides a peaceful environment for walking, biking, and nature observation, featuring boardwalks and gravel trails. The Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center offers educational programs.
Development History and Transformation of Enatai
Enatai’s history dates back to the late 1800s when pioneers were drawn to its fertile land and proximity to Lake Washington, transforming the area into a rural landscape, made up of farms and orchards.
The name “Enatai,” is believed to stem from a Native American term meaning “on the other side” or “across the water.” This reflects the name’s location across the lake from Seattle.
As the Seattle area quickly grew in the mid-20th century, Enatai underwent suburban development, with large plots of land subdivided into residential lots and new homes constructed to meet the growing population’s needs. This era marked the neighborhood’s transition from a rural outpost to a thriving suburban area.
Following World War II, Enatai experienced a population surge, driving further residential development and infrastructure expansion to meet housing demands. Throughout its evolution, Enatai has adapted to changing demographics and needs while striving to maintain its natural charm and tight-knit community feel.
Style of Homes
Enatai’s architectural style blends both traditional and modern elements. Among the homes within the neighborhood, are mature trees and quiet streets, providing residents with a sense of privacy and calm.
From Craftsman and Tudor designs to Colonials and Contemporary residences, Enatai features a diverse array of single-family homes, each situated within spacious lots and well-manicured lawns. Amidst its affluent status and proximity to downtown Bellevue, many of the properties are luxurious, offering upscale amenities, high-end finishes, and sprawling living spaces.
Some of these residences have waterfront views or exclusive access to Lake Washington. The neighborhood’s evolution is evident as older homes are replaced with new constructions by builders such as MN Custom Homes and JayMarc, catering to modern preferences while preserving Enatai’s timeless charm.
While single-family homes dominate the landscape, condominium complexes offer an alternative for those seeking a low-maintenance lifestyle. Whether in search of a spacious family abode, a luxurious waterfront retreat, or a hassle-free condominium, Enatai promises a home tailored to individual needs and desires.
Noteworthy Events
Enatai’s proximity to downtown Bellevue offers residents access to various events and activities, including the Bellevue Arts Fair and festivities at Downtown Bellevue Park, like the annual 4th of July celebration.
Additional Facts about Enatai
Known as a wooded residential sub-area of Bellevue, Enatai offers convenient access to major transportation routes including I-90, I-405, Mercer Island, and Seattle.
Within Enatai lies Beaux Arts, a neighborhood established in 1908 with approximately 300 residents. Members of Beaux Arts enjoy exclusive access to a private beach spanning 1,100 feet of waterfront, along with additional amenities such as a grassy park, swimming dock, community moorage, play area, picnic tables, tennis and basketball court, and a fire pit.
Residents value the small-town ambiance of Beaux Arts Village, often referring to themselves as “Villagers.” The neighborhood’s streets are narrow and tree-lined, featuring a charming mix of vintage and modern homes. All Villagers and their guests have access to the private beach, maintained by resident volunteers.
Discover more Bellevue neighborhood spotlights curated by The Brazen’s in our “Inside Bellevue” series.
