Alki Beach Park

1702 Alki Ave. S.W.

Alki Beach Park stretches for 2.5 miles along Alki Avenue Southwest. In the summer, the sandy beachfront is often compared to Southern California, with sunbathers and volleyball players crowding the beach. The beach has no lifeguards, so swimmers need to use care. The park also has plenty of picnicking opportunities including a shelter, picnic tables and, well, the beach. Those wishing to warm themselves by a fire are reminded to use only clean firewood in designated fire pits. Fires must be doused with water before departing the site.

The Alki Beach Trail lies parallel to the park, offering a nice view (and workout) for in-line skaters, bicyclists, runners and walkers. Wheeled and pedestrian lanes are marked. The trail is compliant with guidelines established by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), as are the restrooms on the beach.

Don't forget to visit the place where the first white settlers arrived in 1851, at the Birthplace of Seattle Monument. The pared-down version of the Statue of Liberty, across from 60th Avenue Southwest, is another attraction.