Alki Beach Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Alki Beach Park?
What makes it 80% Kids-Friendly: Children can dig in wide sandy areas, use the nearby Alki Playground, and roast marshmallows at free fire pits, yet parents must watch for cold water and seasonal lifeguard hours, so suitability is high but not perfect.
![[4K] ALKI BEACH PARK in West Seattle Washington - Sunset Walking Tour Vlog & Travel Guide](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/vWQQR9z-QQw/hqdefault.jpg)
Positives:
- Easy restroom access: Find single-occupant restrooms at 57th and 63rd Ave SW with bottle-filling fountains nearby.
- Smooth paved path: The flat, 2.5-mile promenade is ideal for strollers, scooters, and family bikes.
- Free core activities: Sand play, drop-in volleyball, and nearby playground cost $0.
- Summer lifeguards: Lifeguards watch the swim zone near 63rd Ave SW from mid-June to early September.
Challenges:
- Limited parking: Street parking fills up by mid-morning on weekends; consider the water taxi.
- Wind and chill: Puget Sound breezes can feel cold; pack windbreakers and layers for kids.
- No guaranteed fire pits: Fire pits are first-come; arrive early in summer evenings to claim one.
What is Alki Beach Park?
- A historic coastal park that stretches along 2.5 miles of Elliott Bay shoreline, with a sandy beach, picnic tables, public restrooms, and metal fire pits
- A municipal park managed by Seattle Parks & Recreation, featuring a paved waterfront promenade, open green spaces, and public volleyball courts
- Features the 1907 Alki Point Pioneer Monument and the restored Alki Beach Bathhouse, commemorating the area’s first white settlers
What is so special about Alki Beach Park for with kids?
- Build sandcastles and play in shallow water
- Picnic and grill at free tables by the beach
- Rent a family Surrey bike on a smooth, 2.5-mile path
- Enjoy seasonal bonfires and lifeguarded swim area
- Visit Alki Playground with slides, swings, and the Whale Tail sculpture
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to build sandcastles, picnic, and visit the playground without tiring younger kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Alki Beach Park
Build sandcastles:
Use the soft sand along the shore to sculpt towers and dig moats.
Tip: Bring small buckets and shovels and pick a quieter spot near 57th Ave SW.
Picnic and grill:
Cook family meals on public grills or eat at picnic tables right by the sand.
Tip: Bring charcoal, utensils, and arrive early to claim a table.
Explore Alki Playground:
Slides, swings, sand play areas, and the Whale Tail sculpture two blocks south.
Tip: Combine with beach time and use shaded spots during midday.
Rent a Surrey bike:
Ride a four-wheeled bike built for families along the 2.5-mile paved path.
Tip: Reserve online in advance and split the rental into 30-minute sessions if kids tire quickly.
Join a beach bonfire (seasonal):
Roast marshmallows in metal fire pits for cozy evening fun.
Tip: Bonfire season runs May through Labor Day; bring your own wood and fire starter.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Alki Beach Park
- Take the water taxi: Enjoy a scenic 15-minute ride from downtown and skip parking hassles.
- Visit off-peak: Arrive before 10am or after 3pm on weekends for easier access to tables and grills.
- Reserve rentals: Book Surrey bikes or kayaks online to secure your preferred time slot.
Reviews of Alki Beach Park
Sampath D
Found this beach Park in Seattle with good views of the Olympic Mountains, and the slight skyline. The walking / biking path is ideal, the sand is perfect for relaxing, and there’s plenty of places to grab a bite nearby. Great spot for a sunset stroll or a low-key beach day.
Cindy Madar
While visiting Seatle I had the opportunity to visit Alki Beach Park during the off season in September. The weather couldn't be nicer and crowds were minimal. Alki beach park offers a georgeous walkway as well as a view of Seatles skyline. Its a photographers dream come true with the skyline ocean shops boats restaurants and shops nearby to take plenty of photographs of. Ample wildlife also giv...
Larry Howard
I adore Alki Beach Park for many reasons. The serene ambiance envelops visitors in peace and tranquility, allowing for a deep connection with nature that always lifts my spirits. With its stunning views of the Seattle skyline across the water and the gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore, it's a picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. I often take long walks along t...
Angelina Huang
Always one of my favorite spots in Seattle! The weather was wonderful and traffic was great. There were people having BBQ and playing sand volleyball. The waves were huge as it’s a low tide day. Very cool to see how the stairs were revealed! I could also spot tiny space needle from the beach! Very peaceful.
Mr. No Tengo Dinero
We visited Alki Beach Park on a Saturday afternoon, and it was the perfect way to enjoy the weekend! The weather was absolutely beautiful—sunny skies, gentle breeze, and ideal for soaking up some much-needed vitamin D. Like us, many others were out enjoying the day, with plenty of people sunbathing, playing, or just relaxing on the beach. The atmosphere was lively yet laid-back, making it a great...
When is the best time to visit Alki Beach Park (Seattle, United States)?
Summer lifeguards patrol near 63rd Ave SW and fire pits open May–Labor Day. In fall and winter, pack waterproof jackets and plan shorter visits on windy days.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Surrey bike rental (4-seater, 1 hr) | USD 29 |
| Water taxi (family one-way) | USD 23 |
| Kayak rental (two-person, 1 hr) | USD 32 |
| Total Estimated | USD 84 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Alki Beach Park
Address: 2665 Alki Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98116, USA
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About Alki Beach Park
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
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