What is Alki Beach Park known for?

Alki Beach Park is known as the birthplace of Seattle, where the Denny party landed in 1853. It was also the first public salt-water bathing beach on the west coast of the United States.

What are the hours for the park?

Hours vary by season: from May 1 to September 30, it is open daily from 4:00 AM to 10:30 PM, and from October 1 to April 30, it is open daily from 4:00 AM to 11:30 PM.

What activities and amenities are available at the beach?

The park features a sandy saltwater beach with fire pits, picnic sites, sand volleyball (including seven reservable courts and one drop-in court), and a paved multi-use path for biking and rollerblading. There is also a bathhouse/art studio.

Is there parking available at Alki Beach Park?

No, the park does not have a parking lot.

What can I see at the park?

Visitors can see stunning views of the downtown skyline and a replica of the Statue of Liberty that was installed in 1952.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

Alki Beach Park in Seattle

Alki Beach Park

A historic 135.9-acre beachfront in West Seattle, Alki Beach Park offers stunning downtown skyline views, a lively boardwalk vibe, and the distinction of being the first public salt-water bathing beach on the US West Coast.

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What to know

Alki Beach Park is a sprawling 135.9-acre destination located in the West Seattle neighborhood on the shores of Elliott Bay. The park extends along the coastline between Alki Point and Duwamish Head, providing visitors with a scenic beachfront strip that runs roughly from 64th Place SW to Duwamish Head. It is celebrated as the birthplace of Seattle, marking the spot where the Denny party landed in 1853 aboard the schooner Exact. The park is renowned for its recreational amenities, featuring a paved multi-use path ideal for rollerbladers and bikes. Visitors can enjoy sand volleyball on seven reservable courts or a single first-come, first-served drop-in court. The landscape is further equipped with fire pits, picnic sites, and a bathhouse that also serves as an art studio. Adding to its unique character, the beach features a replica of the Statue of Liberty, which was installed in 1952. As the first public salt-water bathing beach on the west coast of the United States, it maintains a lively boardwalk atmosphere that attracts dog walkers and cyclists. The park provides an expansive 0.5 miles of beachfront for public enjoyment. Managed by Seattle Parks and Recreation, the site is open daily. While hours fluctuate by season, the park generally opens at 4:00 AM, with closing times ranging from 10:30 PM during the summer months to 11:30 PM during the remainder of the year.

Visitor tips

Be aware that the park has no parking lot, so plan for street parking or public transit.
Visit between May 1 and September 30 if you plan to stay late, as summer hours close at 10:30 PM.
Bring your own gear for the fire pits and picnic sites to enjoy a full day on the sand.
Wear comfortable walking or skating shoes to take full advantage of the paved multi-use path.

Nearby context

Located in the West Seattle neighborhood, Alki Beach Park serves as the primary coastal attraction of the area, stretching across Elliott Bay from Alki Point to Duwamish Head.

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