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Seattle, Washington / Viewpoints

Alki Point

The westernmost point of Seattle, Alki Point is the historic birthplace of the city, offering panoramic views of the skyline, sandy beaches and a historic lighthouse.

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Alki Point
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What is Alki Point known for?

Alki Point is widely known as the birthplace of Seattle and was the original settlement for the first Euro-Americans to homestead the area.

What activities can I do at Alki Point?

It is a destination for outdoor activities including kayaking, paddle boarding, whale watching, tide exploring, and viewing sunsets and the mountains.

What are the hours for Alki Beach Park?

From April 15 to October 1, hours are daily from 6:00am to 11:00pm. From October 2 to April 14, hours are daily from 4:00am to 11:30pm.

What amenities are available at the park?

The beachfront strip features fire pits, sand volleyball, picnic sites, and a paved path for bikes and rollerbladers. The south end at Alki Point also has a restroom, picnic tables, and a bathhouse that houses an art studio.

Is there a lighthouse at Alki Point?

Yes, the Alki Point Light station was established in 1887, with the current masonry octagonal tower first lit in 1913.

What should I check before going?

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

What to know

Alki Point is a neighborhood in western Seattle, Washington, serving as the westernmost landform in the West Seattle district. It marks the southern extent of Elliott Bay, jutting into the Puget Sound. This area is widely recognized as the birthplace of Seattle, as it was the original settlement for the first Euro-Americans to homestead the region. On a cold, stormy day in November 1851, the first white settlers arrived here, with a monument at the south end of the beach commemorating the arrival on November 13, 1851. Beyond its historical significance, Alki Point is a regional destination park and marine reserve habitat. The Alki Beach Park, which extends 2.5 miles from Alki Point to Duwamish Head, features a beachfront strip with fire pits, sand volleyball, and a paved path for rollerbladers and bikes. Visitors can engage in kayaking, paddle boarding, and whale watching, while exploring the low tides of the marine reserve. Standing as a beacon of maritime history, the Alki Point Light station was established in 1887. The current masonry tower, which is octagonal in shape and attached to a signal building, was first lit in 1913. It originally featured a fourth-order Fresnel lens, a precision instrument of early 20th century navigation. As a community hub, the area has long been a gathering place. The Alki Bathing Pavilion, erected in 1910 and opened in 1911, once served as a community gathering place and sports venue. The waterfront remains central to the neighborhood's identity, continuing its legacy as a recreational area for residents and tourists alike.

Visitor tips

  • Visit during the sunset to take in the views of the mountains and the city skyline.
  • Use the paved path for a scenic walk or bike ride from Alki Point to Duwamish Head.
  • Check the seasonal hours for Alki Beach Park: April 15 to October 1 (6:00am to 11:00pm) and October 2 to April 14 (4:00am to 11:30pm).

Nearby context

Alki Point is the westernmost point of West Seattle, anchoring the 2.5-mile stretch of Alki Beach Park that extends eastward toward Duwamish Head.

Sources

Evidence and links