Alki Beach Park

Beachfront Bliss

Perched in the West Seattle neighborhood, Alki Beach Park stretches across 135.9 acres of prime waterfront real estate. This long strip runs about 2.5 miles along Elliott Bay, from Alki Point to Duwamish Head, offering a relaxing coastal escape in the city.

From the shoreline, you'll see impressive views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and the Seattle skyline across the water. It's pretty cool to think that this very spot marked the first landing of Seattle's founding settlers back in 1851. Today, it's a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Get Moving or Just Chill

A wide, paved path runs parallel to the beach, well-suited for morning jogs, leisurely bike rides, rollerblading, or just taking a stroll while sipping your coffee. The sandy beach itself invites you to spread out a towel and soak up some rays - though fair warning: the water stays pretty chilly year-round, even on the hottest summer days.

During summer months, volleyball courts pop up along the beach, drawing players of all skill levels. If you're serving and spiking or just people-watching, there's an undeniable energy here. It's also a fantastic spot to pause and watch ferries, sailboats, and kayaks glide across the Sound.

Sand Between Your Toes

What makes Alki somewhat unique among Pacific Northwest beaches is its sections of soft sand, but you'll discover rockier patches too. The water's edge slopes gently, making it great for wading - especially at low or medium tide. Kids can splash around safely while parents keep a relaxed eye from the shore.

For the nature enthusiasts among us, keep your eyes peeled for seals, sea lions, and if you're really lucky, the occasional porpoise breaking the surface. During low tide, natural tide pools form, creating miniature marine worlds to explore.

Facilities

Near Alki Point at the south end of the park, you'll discover a bathhouse with restrooms and an art studio. Additional public restrooms dot the beachfront, along with outdoor showers and foot-washing stations - super handy after a sandy day.

Feel like dining al fresco? The park offers picnic areas with tables and grilling areas with BBQ pits, some nicely tucked under shady trees. One of the park's beloved traditions is evening bonfires in designated fire pits along the beach (just remember they close at 10 PM).

A Touch of History

History buffs will appreciate the monument at the south end commemorating the arrival of Seattle's first white settlers in 1851.

At the north end, something a bit more whimsical awaits - you can spot the remaining pilings from the old Luna Park amusement park that entertained Seattleites in the early 1900s.

Eats and Explorations

When hunger strikes, you're in luck. Across the street, Alki Avenue hosts a diverse lineup of restaurants, cafes, and shops offering everything from fresh seafood to casual bites. During busy times, food trucks line up along the beach with even more options.

There's something special about this area's laid-back, beachy vibe that feels miles away from downtown Seattle, even though you're just a short distance from the city center. If you're staying downtown, consider taking the water taxi directly across the bay - it's a scenic mini-cruise in itself.

Good to Know

The park welcomes visitors from 4 AM to 10:30 PM daily. A word to the wise about parking: street spots along Alki Avenue and nearby residential areas can be incredibly scarce during peak times, especially on sunny summer days and weekends. Your best bet is arriving early or using public transportation.

Note that while your four-legged friends are welcome to join you on the paved path and grassy areas, dogs aren't allowed on the beach itself, per Seattle park regulations.