On the shores of Elliott Bay, Alki Beach is where the first white settlers landed in Seattle. There’s a landmark—and also volleyball courts, bike paths, picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, and plenty of sand. The water is chilly, but there’s plenty to do beyond sand-worshipping or going for a nippy dip. Nab fantastic views of the Olympic Mountains, tour Alki Lighthouse, see its mini Statue of Liberty, recreate, or stop at a nearby restaurant.
Unlike most Seattle parks, beach fires are allowed in summer. They must stay in the provided fire rings.
You can reserve a volleyball court online at the park's website.
Dogs are allowed in the park—but not on the sand.
Parking is available along Alki Avenue SW. If you’re downtown and want to avoid the drive and parking hassle (or don’t have a car), you can also take a water taxi across Elliott Bay to within steps of Alki Beach. The schedule varies by season; making a reservation is highly recommended.
The beach is open from 4am to 11:30pm, daily. To avoid the crowds—which are especially apparent on warm, sunny days—come well before noon or well after dinner. Otherwise, pack a rain jacket; in more inclement weather, crowds won’t be a problem, and the views will still be spectacular.
Alki Beach’s Statue of Liberty—a considerably smaller replica, of course—was a gift from the Seattle Boy Scouts in 1952. It’s one of several interesting landmarks at the beach, including the Alki Lighthouse, a marker commemorating the Dix shipwreck, and the monument to the arrival of the first white settlers on November 13, 1851.
