Strandglück in Seattle Southside
Seattle Sommer Strandführer
Seattle Southside's tranquil beaches might be the region's best-kept secret.
While the Greater Seattle Area has miles of gorgeous coastline to explore, some of the best, under-the-radar beaches are south of downtown. Along Puget Sound, there's a whole world of marine life to observe, from the tiny critters living in tide pools to flocks of squawking gulls overhead. Visitors sometimes even spot otters, seals, porpoises, or orcas. Further inland, you'll find parks along freshwater lakes that make for a different but equally relaxing waterfront experience.
Below are some of our favorite beaches around the region.
Ab an den Strand!
Best for a Picture-Perfect Summer Day
Des Moines Beach Park
Located just about 20 minutes south of SEA Airport, Des Moines Beach Park is an under-the-radar gem with sweeping views of Puget Sound. While it's a favorite for locals, the park has far fewer crowds to fight through than many beaches in Seattle, striking the perfect balance between lively and quiet. You'll feel far away from the hubbub of city life as you walk along the water or out onto the long, well-maintained pier, taking in views of the Des Moines Marina. Meander down to the beach to check out the tide pools or post up on a grassy field for a picnic. If you're up for a workout, turn away from the beach and walk east to Des Moines Creek Trail, a popular trail for jogging, biking, and walking.
On Saturdays during the summer, the Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market makes for an idyllic scene. If you're craving a beer and a bite, check out nearby Quarterdeck. This locally owned bar and cafe is the closest you can get to being invited to a friend's waterfront backyard party. Sip a coffee, order a beer or mimosa flight, and soak up the sun. Or, for a more formal meal, head to Anthony's HomePort and Lower Deck, which combines two restaurants in one. Enjoy an upscale seafood dinner, or relax on the more casual Lower Deck. Either way, you'll enjoy a view of the Sound. In less than five minutes, you can drive to downtown Des Moines, where you'll find many local eateries, like Marina Mercantile, Auntie Irene's, and Arturo's Mexican Restaurant.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for summer events, like Waterland Pride in June, The Waterland Festival in July, and the Poverty Bay Blues and Brews Festival in August.
Best for Getting in the Camping Spirit
Salzwasser-Staatspark
A little further down the coast, Saltwater State Park in Des Moines is a lovely place to spend a day, with more than 1,000 feet of beachfront and a walking path along the water. While the park's campsites are currently closed, it retains a campground spirit, with 147 picnic tables and plenty of grills to cook up the perfect summer meal. Or, you can grab an all-beef hot dog from the Des Moines Snack Shack in the park (open only during the summer). While you're there, check out the park's wooded trails. And if you're feeling adventurous, try scuba diving! It's the only state park with an underwater artificial reef that serves as a refuge for marine life. Because it's a protected habitat, you'll see an abundance of sea life, including sea stars, urchins, anemones, rockfish, and ling cod that can grow up to five feet long. No matter how you spend your time, you'll enjoy the serene landscape, which makes it a favorite of nature photographers.
Pro Tip: If you're curious about scuba diving (or a seasoned diver looking for new gear), head to Eight Diving in downtown Des Moines, where you can rent or buy gear, get gas fills, and get expert advice.
Best for Learning About Marine Life
Redondo Beach
Not to be confused with its California counterpart, Washington's Redondo Beach is a tranquil escape about 10 minutes from downtown Des Moines. This rugged, quiet spot has a boardwalk that's perfect for a seaside stroll; walk to the end and back, and you'll clock about a mile. At its opening is Redondo Arch, a moving piece of public art that stands like a "gateway to the sea" and stands as a testament to resilience (it was made by blowing apart a huge piece of granite and piecing it back together).
Right next door is the Marine Science & Technology (MaST) Center, which is free and open to the public every Saturday. An extension of Highline College, the MaST Center is devoted to educating students and the public about local marine life. Reach your hand into a touch tank to (gently) feel an anemone and admire mesmerizing sea creatures like jellyfish, sea stars, and a teeny tiny octopus. Knowledgeable staff and volunteers are there to help guide you through the viewing room.
Pro Tip: The MaST Center is super popular in the summer, so leave enough time for your outing to wait in line and bring snacks! Fortunately, there's a beautiful view to enjoy while you wait your turn.
Best Nature Escape
Seahurst Park
Seahurst Park in Burien offers 2,000 feet of beach, a lush forest, and one of the most picturesque playgrounds in the area. This 178-acre stretch of land is teeming with wildlife, making it a popular spot for photographers, tide poolers, and bird watchers. It's also a dream for families, with a nature-inspired play structure that resembles logs and stones, making it both interesting to look at and fun to climb. If you're planning a party, there are tables, reservable picnic shelters, and plenty of open spaces for gatherings and outdoor activities. While there, you can explore several trails within the park, such as the Seahurst Park Loop Trail, which is just under two miles and takes about an hour to complete. Open year-round, it’s a popular trail for hiking, running, and walking. Leashed dogs are welcome, too. And if you're worried about parking, don't be! While it's a valid concern at many popular beaches, this one has nearly 200 free parking spots.
Pro Tip: Pack a pair of binoculars to help spot birds and sealife you might otherwise miss.
Best for Swimming and Splashing
Angle Lake Park
You don't need an ocean to have a great beach day! At Angle Lake Park in SeaTac, you can swim and splash in a calm, clear, freshwater lake, then spend the day playing, picnicking, or fishing. A favorite of local families, the park features a designated swimming area with a sandy beach where you can easily pass hours running in and out of the water. One feature that makes this park a destination for families near and far is the elaborate spray park, which is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Kids go crazy over the interactive water features! A nearby playground is encircled by grand Evergreen trees, providing much-welcome shade during hot days. More interested in fishing than frolicking? A boat launch and fishing pier make the park a popular spot for catching rainbow Trout, Largemouth Bass, Black Crappie, Yellow Perch, and Kokanee.
Pro Tip: If you're planning a party or group BBQ, you may want to reserve a picnic shelter in advance.
Best for Beach Volleyball
Alki Strand
Alki Beach in West Seattle is popular with both locals and tourists, so you'll see big crowds there on summer days. With views of downtown Seattle, this rocky beach is great for stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and beach volleyball, while the paved path along Alki Avenue invites bikers, skaters, and walkers to soak in the salty breeze. Whether catching a sunset bonfire, watching ferry boats glide, or simply relaxing with a coffee in hand, Alki Beach delivers that perfect Pacific Northwest summer escape. Lined with charming cafes, seafood joints, and ice cream shops, the area buzzes with a laid-back, beach-town vibe that feels worlds away from the city. Fair warning, though: parking can be tricky (you may need to spend a while finding street parking).
Pro Tip: Our favorite place to grab a bite is Natalie's Sugar Cane & Dessert. If you love it, be sure to try out the original location in Tukwila (inside Lam's Seafood Asian Market), where you'll find even more delicious flavors and Vietnamese street food.
Best for Bonfires
Golden Gardens
About 30 minutes north of downtown Seattle by car, you'll find Golden Gardens Park, an expansive stretch of land overlooking Puget Sound. It's a popular spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, beachcombing, and volleyball, while the surrounding forested trails provide a peaceful escape into nature. With fire pits for evening bonfires and a picturesque backdrop, Golden Gardens blends outdoor adventure with laid-back beach party vibes. Bring a group, a cooler full of food and drinks, and roll out the beach blankets. Come early enough, and you can lay claim to a firepit before the sun sets, though these coveted spots often get taken early.
Pro Tip: The beach can get rowdy on summer evenings, so if crowds aren't your thing, come earlier in the day or avoid weekends.
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FAQs for Beaches Near Seattle Southside
Q: Which Seattle-area beach is best for families with young kids?
A: Angle Lake Park in SeaTac is a favorite for families, thanks to its shallow swimming area, shaded playground, and epic spray park open Memorial Day through Labor Day. It’s freshwater, so no salty eyes!
Q: Where can I have a beach bonfire in Seattle?
A: Golden Gardens Park in Ballard is one of the few places in Seattle where bonfires are allowed. Fire pits are available on a first-come, first-served basis—get there early to claim yours!
Q: Are there any beaches near SEA Airport?
A: Yes! Des Moines Beach Park is just 20 minutes south of SEA and offers stunning views, a peaceful pier, and easy access to great local eats and summer events.
Q: Which beach is best for spotting sea creatures and learning about marine life?
A: Head to Redondo Beach, where the MaST Center offers free public marine life exhibits every Saturday. You can gently touch sea stars, see jellyfish, and learn from expert volunteers.
Q: Can I go scuba diving anywhere nearby?
A: Absolutely! Saltwater State Park in Des Moines is the only Washington state park with an underwater artificial reef, making it a unique and exciting spot for scuba diving and marine photography.
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Map of Beaches Near Seattle Southside
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Des Moines Beach Park
Wegbeschreibung erhaltenEntdecken Sie die Gelassenheit des Des Moines Beach Park
Just three miles from the airport, Des Moines Beach Park sprawls across 19.6 acres of scenic waterfront bliss. A sanctuary where tranquility meets the rhythmic sounds of the sea, this park offers an array of activities set against the backdrop of Puget Sound's majestic views. Whether it's a peaceful stroll, a family picnic, or a day spent collecting seashells by the shore, Des Moines Beach Park serves as a perfect retreat for those seeking solace or adventure in the embrace of nature.
Das muss man wissen:
- Aktivitäten im Überfluss: Von gemütlichen Wanderungen und Picknicks am Strand bis hin zu Wasserspielen bietet der Park Aktivitäten für alle Altersgruppen und Interessen.
- Spektakuläre Aussichten: Bekannt für einige der schönsten Ausblicke auf den Puget Sound, die besonders bei Sonnenuntergang bezaubernd sind.
- Historische Essenz: Die reiche Geschichte des Parks, die bis in die Zeit des Covenant Beach Bible Camps zurückreicht, verleiht Ihrem Besuch eine zusätzliche kulturelle Tiefe.
- Saisonale Veranstaltungen: Im Des Moines Beach Park finden häufig öffentliche und private Veranstaltungen statt, darunter Konzerte im Freien und das Poverty Bay Blues & Brews Festival.
- Günstige Lage: In der Nähe des Yachthafens von Des Moines und des Stadtzentrums von Des Moines finden Sie zahlreiche Restaurants und Freizeitangebote für die Zeit vor oder nach Ihrem Strandausflug.
Die Stimmung:
Der Des Moines Beach Park ist eine ruhige Oase, die Besucher dazu einlädt, die Seele baumeln zu lassen und sich mit der Natur zu verbinden. Das lebendige Ökosystem des Parks, kombiniert mit seinem historischen Charme, bietet eine friedliche, aber dennoch anregende Umgebung für alle, die auf seinen Wegen wandeln. Es ist ein Ort, an dem Lachen und Freizeit nahtlos mit dem beruhigenden Ambiente der Küste verschmelzen und jeden Besuch zu einem unvergesslichen Erlebnis machen.
Gut zu wissen:
Tauchen Sie ein in die Schönheit und die Aktivitäten, die der Des Moines Beach Park zu bieten hat. Mit seinem weitläufigen Strand, den Picknickplätzen und den historischen Sehenswürdigkeiten ist der Park ein Paradies für alle, die auf Entdeckungstour gehen oder sich entspannen möchten. Ein Besuch hier verspricht nicht nur einen Tag voller Spaß und Entspannung, sondern auch die Gelegenheit, die ruhige Schönheit von Washingtons geliebtem Puget Sound zu erleben. Ob Einheimischer oder Besucher - ein Tag im Des Moines Beach Park ist ein Tag, an dem die Seele erfrischt wird und die einfachen Freuden des Lebens genossen werden können.
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Salzwasser-Staatspark
Wegbeschreibung erhalten (360) 902-8844Saltwater State Park combines the best of forest and sea. Located along the coast of Puget Sound about 20 minutes south of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) by car, this natural playground offers 137 acres of evergreen-lined trails, a protected sandy beach, and a popular scuba diving site. It’s also a Marine Protected Area, making it a great place to spot wildlife.
Note: You need to purchase a Discover Pass to visit. The campsites are currently closed. Check the Washington State Parks website for updates.
Nature's Playground by the Sound
Sandy Beach: The large, driftwood-strewn beach is the park’s biggest draw. At low tide, the beach reveals a network of tidepools teeming with sea stars, crabs, and other small marine life. On select dates in the summer, volunteer naturalists with Friends of Saltwater State Park are stationed at the beach to answer questions. Look for them in bright yellow vests, and check the organization’s website for Beach Exploration dates.
Forested Hiking Trails: Follow the trails through lush forest and along McSorley Creek, where you can sometimes spot salmon.
Picnic-Perfect Spaces: The park features more than 100 picnic shelters, fire pits and grills, and open grassy areas perfect for group gatherings.
Marine Sanctuary & Scuba Diving: Saltwater State Park is home to an artificial reef, making it a hotspot for scuba diving. Divers often spot rockfish, anemones, and octopuses in the cold, vibrant waters.
The Vibe
Like all great state parks, Saltwater State Park feels both well-maintained and a little wild and rugged. You get to feel like you’re off the beaten path, while knowing you’re close to amenities. -
Redondo Beach
Wegbeschreibung erhaltenDiscover Redondo Beach: A Serene Coastal Retreat
Nestled along the serene shores of Puget Sound, Redondo Beach in Des Moines, Washington, is a beloved local gem that offers the perfect mix of tranquil waters, scenic views, and a family-friendly boardwalk. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning sunsets, this beach is a favorite spot for those seeking a quiet coastal escape.
HighlightsScenic Boardwalk: Stretching alongside the beach, the Redondo Boardwalk invites visitors to take in the breathtaking views of Puget Sound. It’s a perfect spot for a morning jog, evening walk, or to sit and admire the horizon.
Marine Science Attraction: Near the beach, the MaST Center Aquarium provides an opportunity to learn about the local marine life on free Discovery Days every Sautrday. With touch tanks and informative exhibits, it's a family-friendly activity that adds an educational twist to your beach visit.
View Marine Life: You can spot lots of marine life at this beach, including seals, sea lions, river otters, and whales. It's even a stop on the Whale Trail, an international trail spanning the west coast from California to British Columbia.
Explore at Low Tide: Check the tide charts and schedule a beach walk at low tide. You might see sea stars clinging to the pier, clams squirting water through the sand, and crabs and small fish hiding in the pools.
Get On the Water: Go kakayaking, paddleboarding, or even subca diving! This beach is one of the most popular scuba diving destinations in the PNW, in part because it's one of the best places in the world to see sixgill sharks. In 2025, it became the "Sixgill Shark Capital of the World"!
Rest and Refresh Hub: A sleek new facility opened in 2025 across the street from the beach with restrooms and concessions.
The Vibe
Redondo Beach exudes a laid-back vibe that makes it easy to unwind. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, inviting you to savor the simple pleasures of a beach day. -
Seahurst Park
Wegbeschreibung erhaltenBurien’s Seahurst Park is a beloved local secret, with far fewer crowds than many of the region’s waterfront parks but no less natural beauty. With a rocky beach hugging Puget Sound, stunning views of the Olympic Mountains, and trails winding through lush forests, wetlands, and streams, it offers a quiet escape where you can truly appreciate the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Explore the woods, admire the marine life teeming the tide pools, or take a seat on a smooth, white piece of driftwood and gaze out into the ocean—you might even spot an otter or whale swimming in the distance.
Key Features of Seahurst Park
Wildlife Haven: This 178-acre park, which includes a forest and 2,000 feet of beach, is teeming with birds and marine life. Visitors sometimes even spot otters, seals, porpoises or orcas. Photographers and bird watchers love this spot because of its incredible biodiversity. It’s also a popular destination for those interested in peering into the tide pools.
As The Seattle Times wrote in November 2024, “If the tide is out, a vast field of exposed seabed stretches out before you, seemingly barren when viewed from afar. Formerly frequented by the Duwamish for fishing and shellfish-gathering, the wet sand and tide pools teem with tiny winking lives, shy sea squirts and tiny crabs and shellfish that fascinate the flocks of birds that gather for a squawking smorgasbord. For the frequent human tide-poolers, Seahurst Park is a well-established destination (though it is a marine reserve area, so look, but don’t take).”
Easy Hiking Trails: Explore several trails within the park, such as the Seahurst Park Loop Trail, which is just under 2 miles and takes about an hour to complete. Open year-round, it’s a popular trail for hiking, running, and walking. Leashed dogs are welcome, too.Family-Friendly Amenities: Seahurst Park’s playground, which overlooks the water, is a cut above the rest. This nature inspired structure has features that resemble logs and stones for little ones to climb on. There are also reservable picnic shelters and tables, and plenty of open spaces for gatherings and outdoor activities.
Convenient Access: With 184 parking stalls and an additional 5 accessible spaces in the lower parking lot, the park ensures easy access for visitors.
The Vibe:
Seahurst Park is a serene haven where anyone can enjoy nature's tranquility. Its well-maintained trails and shoreline foster a welcoming atmosphere, ideal for reflection and exploration.History:
The park was established in 1975, but people have been enjoying it since time immemorial–first the Duwamish people, and then settlers who would picnic there in the 1900s. -
Angle Lake Park
Wegbeschreibung erhaltenA Lakeside Escape at Angle Lake Park
Angle Lake Park, located in SeaTac, Washington, is a delightful urban oasis that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation. Nestled around the serene waters of Angle Lake, this 10-acre park provides a refreshing escape from city life with its lush greenery, sandy beach, and wide range of amenities. Whether you're planning a family picnic, a day of swimming, or simply want to unwind by the water, Angle Lake Park is a local favorite that promises fun and tranquility for visitors of all ages.
Features and Highlights- Sandy Beach and Swimming Area: The park features a designated swimming area with a sandy beach, making it a popular spot for families during the summer. The calm, clear waters are ideal for a refreshing dip.
- Picnic Shelters and BBQ Stations: Perfect for gatherings, the park is equipped with multiple picnic shelters, barbecue stations, and ample grassy areas. Families and groups can reserve shelters for events, or simply bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic under the sun.
- Fishing and Boating: Angle Lake is well-known for its fishing opportunities, with species like trout and bass waiting to be caught. The park also has a boat launch for non-motorized boats, allowing visitors to paddle out and enjoy the calm waters.
- Playground and Spray Park: Kids can have a blast at the large playground or cool off at the interactive spray park, which features water jets and splash zones. It’s a great way to keep little ones entertained on warm days.
- Scenic Walking Trails: The park’s trails meander through the lush surroundings, offering a peaceful way to explore the natural beauty of the area. Walkers, joggers, and those looking for a bit of fresh air will find the trails a lovely addition to their park visit.
The Vibe
A Relaxing Retreat with a Splash of Fun
Angle Lake Park exudes a laid-back, friendly vibe that makes it an ideal retreat for both locals and visitors. Families gather on weekends for picnics, kids run through the spray park with laughter, and friends enjoy a casual game of volleyball on the grassy fields. The serene lake backdrop adds to the park’s charm, creating a picturesque setting that invites you to relax, play, and soak in the sun.Red Tricycle Spray Park Bewertung:
Wir sind der Meinung, dass dies der coolste Spray Park südlich des Ship Canal ist. Der zentrale Punkt dieses "King of All That Is"-Sprühparks ist eine leuchtend rote 50-Gallonen-Schüssel - genauer gesagt der Mega Splasher -, die sich langsam und geräuschlos mit Wasser füllt, 20 Fuß über Teenagern und Kleinkindern gleichermaßen. Wenn sich die Schüssel füllt, können Sie beobachten, wie sich die mutigeren Kinder unter der Spritzzone aufstellen, und dann machen Sie sich auf die Flutwelle gefasst - die Schüssel kippt langsam um, und die sorgfältig gesammelten Liter Wasser schwappen auf das Meer der Kinderschar herab und durchnässen alle, die sich getraut haben, dort zu bleiben. Ein großartiges Vergnügen für Sie und ein cooler Nervenkitzel für die Mutigsten unter den Planschern.Besides the awesomely entertaining Mega Splasher--the only one in Washington--there are smaller tipping bowls that also spin by kid power, a spray circle, spray guns and various gentle ground sprayers, including four “flowers” that send a sweet spray two feet in the air, and can be turned on with little toes. The spray area is surrounded by a low cement wall, perfect for parents to sip their iced lattes and steer clear of the sun. Bathrooms and water fountains are right next to the spray zone, just the right distance for the potty-trainers who just gotta go.
Insider Mega-Splash Zone Tip: Keep an eye on your tots and steer them away from the Mega Splasher—because of the amount of water, we suggest this area for kiddos 5 and up. -
Park der goldenen Gärten
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