East Mercer is where many early island settlers clustered their homes along the shoreline. There were docks where a supply boat from Seattle would stop and unload. The East Mercer pioneers were a close-knit group, due to necessity, and Mercer Island Beach Club’s beginning reaches back to those early island days.
Home to one of the most unique settings on Mercer Island, East Mercer features a rain forest setting, with deep ravines and steep hill sides. East Mercer Way does have hairpin style curves running through this neighborhood. This area of the island tends to get more rainfall than other neighborhoods.
Mercer Island Beach Club (MIBC) was formally established in 1953, when several local families gathered together to purchase the 12 acres the club resides on. Members of the club have access to all MIBC facilities, which include two pools, six tennis courts, a fitness center, beach, volleyball court, basketball court, pickle ball court, boat launch ramp and picnic areas. Members can also participate in the variety of athletic and moorage programs offered by MIBC. There is currently a $6200 new member initiation fee and monthly dues of $168 to belong to MIBC. At times there is a waiting list. The club can accommodate a maximum of 500 active families.
By Lisa Lewis. Copyright 2012 WRE/Mercer Island.