Alki
Alki Beach offers stunning Seattle skyline views, vibrant boardwalks, and unique local charm, perfect for sunsets and seaside relaxation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best sunset views
Alki
Best Time
Best sunset views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Alki Beach offers stunning Seattle skyline views, vibrant boardwalks, and unique local charm, perfect for sunsets and seaside relaxation.
"The sunsets here are absolutely breathtaking, and the vibe is just perfect for a chill day by the water."
🚗 Parking can be tough!
Arrive early or use the water taxi to avoid parking headaches.
🌅 Catch the sunset
Alki's west-facing shore offers incredible sunset views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Alki Beach Boardwalk
Alki Avenue SW
Stroll or bike along the scenic waterfront, enjoying ocean breezes and vibrant city skyline views.
West Seattle Flower Houses
Along Alki Avenue SW
Discover charming, historic homes adorned with vibrant, overflowing flower gardens – a unique local sight.
Sunset Views
Alki Beach
Witness spectacular sunsets painting the sky over Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
Squid Fishing
Alki Beach Pier
Join locals for a unique nighttime fishing experience, especially popular during certain seasons.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Parking Crunch
Embrace the Sunset Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking can be tough!
Arrive early or use the water taxi to avoid parking headaches.
🌅 Catch the sunset
Alki's west-facing shore offers incredible sunset views.
🌸 Admire the Flower Houses
Don't miss these unique, bloom-covered homes along Alki Ave.
🎣 Try night squid fishing
A unique local activity, especially popular at night.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking can be tough!
Arrive early or use the water taxi to avoid parking headaches.
🌅 Catch the sunset
Alki's west-facing shore offers incredible sunset views.
🌸 Admire the Flower Houses
Don't miss these unique, bloom-covered homes along Alki Ave.
🎣 Try night squid fishing
A unique local activity, especially popular at night.
🌮 Halal options available
Fire Tacos offers delicious halal birria and bowls.
💧 Water is chilly!
Puget Sound water averages 50F in July; embrace the cold or float on incoming tides.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Alki Beach's stunning Seattle skyline views and beautiful sunsets, making it a prime spot for relaxation and photography. The beach offers a lively atmosphere with plenty of dining options and unique local sights like the Flower Houses. However, parking can be a significant challenge, especially during peak seasons, and the water is quite cold for swimming.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most scenic and convenient way is to take the West Seattle Water Taxi from Pier 50. It drops you directly at Seacrest Park in Alki. Alternatively, you can use public buses or drive, but parking can be challenging.
Yes, King County Metro buses serve the Alki area. Additionally, a free waterfront shuttle may operate seasonally, so it's worth checking for that option.
To avoid the stress of finding parking, especially during peak times, consider using the West Seattle Water Taxi or arriving very early in the morning.
Yes, Alki is bike-friendly, and there are dedicated paths along the waterfront. You can also bring your bike on the water taxi.
The boardwalk and many areas along Alki Beach are generally accessible, offering paved paths for easy navigation. Specific accessibility details may vary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Alki Beach is a public park and there is no entrance fee to access the beach or the boardwalk.
Alki Beach is open to the public from dawn until dusk. Specific facilities like restrooms may have their own hours.
Yes, the West Seattle Water Taxi requires a fare. You can pay with an ORCA card for a discounted rate or purchase a ticket directly.
Alki Beach occasionally hosts events like the Alki Art Fair. It's best to check local event listings for specific dates.
Dogs are generally allowed on Alki Beach but must be kept on a leash. Always check local signage for any specific restrictions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Salty's on Alki Beach is famous for its seafood buffet, especially on Sundays.
Yes, you can find places like Spud Fish and Chips for a quick bite and Fire Tacos for halal options.
Marination Ma Kai offers cocktails and appetizers with a great outdoor patio and waterfront views.
Absolutely! Alki Beach has plenty of open space and picnic tables, making it a perfect spot for a picnic.
Many restaurants along Alki Avenue offer diverse menus. It's recommended to check individual restaurant menus for specific vegetarian and vegan choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire waterfront offers great views of the Seattle skyline, especially at sunset. The Flower Houses are also a unique photographic subject.
Golden hour before sunset and the blue hour just after sunset provide the most dramatic lighting for skyline photos.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, be mindful of private residences and avoid intrusive photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive skyline and beach. A telephoto lens can be useful for details across the water. A tripod is helpful for sunset shots.
While you can photograph the exterior of the Flower Houses from the street, remember they are private residences. Be respectful and avoid trespassing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day when the water is calmer and the beach is less crowded. While the Puget Sound water can be chilly, many kids enjoy splashing at the edge. The West Seattle Water Taxi can also be an exciting part of the adventure for children, offering great views of the city.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opting for public transportation like the West Seattle Water Taxi or local buses is more economical than driving and paying for parking.
Look for casual eateries like Spud Fish and Chips for affordable meals. couples
For a unique evening, try squid fishing together for a memorable and quirky date night experience.
The relaxed atmosphere and beautiful scenery make Alki a perfect spot for a date. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing Alki Beach: A Local's Guide
Beyond the beach itself, Alki Avenue is lined with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, offering diverse culinary options from casual fish and chips to more upscale dining. The area is also known for its unique charm, including the historic West Seattle Flower Houses, which are a delightful surprise for those who stumble upon them.
For those looking for a more active experience, consider renting a bike or paddleboard. In the evenings, Alki transforms into a prime spot for watching the sunset, with the sky often putting on a spectacular show. It's a place that truly offers something for everyone, embodying the relaxed yet lively spirit of West Seattle.
Getting to Alki: Smart Travel Tips
For those who prefer public transit, King County Metro buses serve the Alki area. It's advisable to check routes and schedules in advance, as they can vary. Some visitors have also noted the potential for a free waterfront shuttle during certain times of the year, which could be another convenient way to get around the area without a car.
If you do decide to drive, be prepared for limited parking, particularly on sunny weekends and evenings. Arriving early in the day or during weekdays can significantly increase your chances of finding a spot. Consider parking a few blocks away and enjoying a short walk to the beach.
Unique Alki Experiences: Beyond the Beach
These aren't official landmarks but are a beloved part of the neighborhood's charm.For a truly local and somewhat unusual activity, consider squid fishing at night. Alki Pier can become a hub of activity with people trying their luck at catching squid, especially during certain seasons. It's a fascinating glimpse into a unique aspect of Seattle's coastal life.
Food enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse culinary scene. Fire Tacos offers delicious halal birria and burrito bowls, making it a great option for those seeking specific dietary choices.
And for a classic Seattle seafood experience, Salty's on Alki Beach is renowned for its Sunday buffet. 
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