Seattle · Washington · USA
Alki Beach
You'll smell charcoal from the fire pits before you see the water—Alki sprawls two and a half miles along West Seattle, where joggers pass rental kayaks and the Space Needle reflects in the tide pools. Driftwood logs anchor the strand where locals stack bonfires and tourists squint toward the San Juan Islands.
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Live from Open-Meteo · sea surface temperature and wave data modelled at 1-km grid resolution for Alki Beach. Numbers refresh at the hourly tick.
- Purity
- 0%
- Conditions
- 0%
- Crowd
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- Vibe
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The OnlyBeaches Index weighs four pillars against your chosen persona. Purity comes from water clarity and air-quality heuristics; Conditions from Open-Meteo waves, wind and temperatures; Crowd from historical patterns; Vibe from nearby events within 50 km. The score rebalances throughout the day.
You'll smell charcoal from the fire pits before you see the water—Alki sprawls two and a half miles along West Seattle, where joggers pass rental kayaks and the Space Needle reflects in the tide pools. Driftwood logs anchor the strand where locals stack bonfires and tourists squint toward the San Juan Islands.
Photos
8 captures from Alki Beach
About this beach
Where it is
Alki Beach
Seattle, Washington, USA
47.5769°, -122.4216°
Top things to do
At Alki Beach
Paddle Elliott Bay
Alki Kayak rents from the shore
Photograph the Skyline
Morning light hits downtown buildings
Duke's Chowder House
Deck tables overlook the water
Walk to Lighthouse
Two miles southwest on pathway
Near this beach
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Alki Beach.
Questions people actually ask about Alki Beach.
Is it safe to swim at Alki Beach in Seattle?
Swimming at Alki Beach is generally safe during summer months, though the Puget Sound water remains cold year-round (typically 45-55°F). Lifeguards are on duty during peak summer season only. The beach has gentle waves and gradual entry, making it family-friendly. Water quality is monitored regularly, but avoid swimming after heavy rains when runoff can affect conditions. Most visitors prefer wading or sunbathing. Jellyfish occasionally appear in late summer. Always check current conditions and posted signs before entering the water.
What is the best time to visit Alki Beach?
Summer (July-September) offers the best weather, with temperatures reaching 70-80°F and less rain, making it ideal for beach activities and stunning sunset views. However, Alki is enjoyable year-round. Spring brings longer days and fewer crowds. Winter offers dramatic storm-watching and peaceful beach walks, though expect rain and temperatures around 40-50°F. Weekday visits are less crowded than weekends. Visit during low tide to explore tide pools. For the famous Seattle skyline views, clear days provide the best photography opportunities, typically after rain systems pass.
