Seahurst Park

Burien’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.