Alki Beach, located in West Seattle, is a captivating destination known for its beautiful sandy beach, stunning skyline views of downtown Seattle, and rich historical significance. It provides an array of recreational activities, making it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors.

Things to Do

Alki Beach is primarily a beach destination; however, for a comprehensive beach experience, visit Alki Beach Park. Here, you’ll find numerous activities clustered together. The beach is ideal for relaxing, picnicking, or even building sandcastles, thanks to the presence of actual sand—an uncommon feature among Northwest beaches. Explorers can also enjoy tidepools and driftwood scattered along the shoreline, enhancing the tidepooling experience.

Moreover, Alki Beach Park boasts popular volleyball courts. These courts are in high demand during warmer months, so it’s advisable to bring your own volleyball and reserve a court by calling 206-684-4062.

In addition to active pursuits, this park is one of only two in Seattle where bonfires are permitted year-round, in designated fire pits available on a first-come, first-served basis. As a result, you can enjoy sunset views or stargaze while roasting s’mores with friends and family.

For those looking to explore more physically, a paved beach trail extends 2.5 miles, offering opportunities for walking, running, or rollerblading alongside picturesque views of the Puget Sound and cityscape.

A variety of dining options line Alki Avenue SW, the road parallel to Alki Beach. Restaurants near Alki Beach Park include:

• Cactus – A Mexican eatery offering cocktails and beach views.
• Duke’s Seafood & Chowder – A local favorite for diverse chowder options.
• Blue Moon Burgers – Burgers served in a repurposed auto garage.
• Spud Fish & Chips – A convenient walk-up counter for fish and chips.
• El Chupacabra – A casual Mexican restaurant known for its beachfront patio.

Further along the beach, upscale dining can be found at:

• Salty’s on Alki – An elegant seafood restaurant with breathtaking skyline views.
• Marination Ma Kai – Specializing in Hawaiian and Pacific Islands-inspired dishes.

Consequently, there are abundant dining options near Alki Beach, ensuring a delightful culinary experience whether you crave a quick snack or an exquisite meal with a waterfront view.

Things to See

In addition to its natural beauty, Alki Beach features several notable attractions. The Alki Point Lighthouse, operational since 1913, offers free tours on summer weekends. Visitors can view the lighthouse at 3200 Point Place SW.

Those interested in local history will appreciate the Birthplace of Seattle monument located at Alki Point. This significant site marks where the Denny Party landed in 1851 to establish a settlement called New York Alki—”alki” meaning “eventually” in Chinook. Unfortunately, the Denny Party abandoned the site within a year due to hardships.

Alki Beach park also features a miniature Statue of Liberty, originally installed by Boy Scouts in 1952. It stands six feet tall and was replaced with a replica in 2007 after being vandalized.

Location and How to Get There

Accessing Alki Beach can be done in two ways. First, drive using the West Seattle Bridge exit off I-5, just south of downtown Seattle. Navigate onto Admiral Way, where you can take a right turn onto any street between 59th Avenue SW and 63rd Avenue SW to enter Alki Beach Park. Street parking along Alki Avenue can be competitive, especially on beautiful days.

Alternatively, you may choose to ride the West Seattle Water Taxi from downtown Seattle Ferry Terminal. The fifteen-minute ferry ride delivers you to the eastern end of Alki Beach near key destinations like Marination Ma Kai and Salty’s, where you can capture stunning images of the Seattle skyline from the water.

Facilities

Alki Beach Park, located at 1702 Alki Avenue SW, offers various amenities, including picnic tables, restrooms at the southern end of the beach, fire pits, grills, and a bathhouse featuring an art studio. Additionally, there is hand-carry boat access available between 53rd Ave. SW and 55th Ave. SW, along the west beach shoreline.