What to Do in West Seattle

Why West Seattle Is a Must-Visit?

West Seattle is more than just a neighborhood. It’s a scenic, welcoming area packed with character, local flavor, and things to explore. With stunning Puget Sound views, beach walks, indie restaurants, and parks, it’s a favorite for both locals and curious travelers. If you’re wondering what to do in West Seattle, here’s your complete guide.

Explore Alki Beach Park

Alki Beach Park is one of West Seattle’s most iconic attractions. The paved beachside path stretches over two miles and offers a postcard-perfect look at the Seattle skyline and Olympic Mountains. You can bike, jog, rollerblade, or just stroll while watching ferries float by.

On warm days, locals gather for beach volleyball, paddleboarding, or sunbathing. The beach has picnic tables, fire pits, and a calm, laid-back vibe. Alki Point Lighthouse, located at the western end, is open for seasonal public tours and makes a great photo stop.

Walk, Dine, and Shop on California Avenue

California Avenue SW runs through the heart of West Seattle and is packed with restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and services. It’s a lively stretch with everything from breakfast spots to nightlife.

Grab coffee at Freshy’s Coffee or Bakery Nouveau. Stop for a hearty brunch at Easy Street Records Café, or sit down for a more upscale dinner at Raccolto, known for handmade pasta. Cupcake Royale is a local gem if you want something sweet.

For shopping, browse local stores like Capers Home and Click! Design That Fits for art, home goods, and gifts.

Visit the West Seattle Junction

The Junction is the neighborhood’s social center. Located at California Avenue and Alaska Street, this pedestrian-friendly area hosts year-round events and a Sunday farmers market featuring fresh produce, flowers, and artisan products.

The area also has bookstores, bars, record stores, and bakeries. You can catch live music, enjoy sidewalk seating at small restaurants, and often stumble upon outdoor art or performances. It’s one of the best spots to experience West Seattle’s local feel.

Take in City Views from Hamilton Viewpoint Park

Hamilton Viewpoint Park in the Admiral District is a quiet lookout with sweeping views of downtown Seattle, Mount Rainier, Elliott Bay, and Harbor Island. It’s a peaceful space for a picnic or short walk, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Locals come here for photos, reading time, or a calm break in the day. It’s also dog-friendly and never too crowded, even during busy weekends.

Hike Through Schmitz Preserve Park

Just blocks from Alki, Schmitz Preserve Park offers a totally different experience—dense, shaded forest trails right in the city. It’s one of Seattle’s few remaining old-growth forests and includes about 1.7 miles of well-maintained walking trails.

Birdsong, tall trees, and soft ground make this a popular spot for joggers and nature lovers. If you’re looking for something peaceful and natural, it’s a hidden treasure.

Catch a Show at ArtsWest

ArtsWest Playhouse is an intimate theater and gallery space offering thought-provoking plays, musicals, and contemporary art exhibits. It’s a small venue with big talent and a strong focus on local artists and diverse stories.

Whether you’re into visual art or live performance, ArtsWest provides a dose of creativity and inspiration in a comfortable, community-driven setting.

Ride the Water Taxi to Downtown Seattle

Skip the traffic and take the King County Water Taxi from Seacrest Park to downtown Seattle. The boat ride is short but scenic, especially during golden hour. You’ll see the city skyline unfold as you cross Elliott Bay.

Near the dock, stop at Marination Ma Kai for Hawaiian-inspired dishes like kalua pork tacos or kimchi rice bowls. It’s one of the best waterfront dining spots in West Seattle.

Sunset Spot: Emma Schmitz Memorial Overlook

This oceanside viewpoint near Me-Kwa-Mooks Park is a peaceful, rocky shoreline great for sunset views. With the Olympic Mountains in the background and waves hitting the seawall, it’s a quiet, photogenic spot that’s often missed by tourists.

There’s limited parking, so arrive early in the evening or walk from Alki. Bring a blanket, sit on the rocks, and watch the light change over the water.

Family Day at Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park is one of Seattle’s biggest and most diverse parks. Located near the Fauntleroy Ferry Terminal, it features wooded trails, beach access, picnic areas, sports fields, and an outdoor saltwater pool open in the summer.

The waterfront path connects playgrounds, shaded benches, and pebble beaches. Wildlife like eagles and seals are common sights. It’s perfect for families looking to combine nature, exercise, and open space.

Try Local Craft Beer at West Seattle Breweries

West Seattle has a growing craft beer scene. Stop by Good Society Brewery for a relaxed taproom with award-winning small-batch brews. Ounces Taproom offers a rotating lineup of local beers, an outdoor beer garden, and regular food truck events.

Many taprooms are pet-friendly, offer board games, and host trivia or community nights. Whether you’re a beer nerd or just want something cold on a summer day, there’s a spot for you.

Relax and Recharge at Local Wellness Spots

West Seattle has several wellness studios and spas for those needing rest. Try Be Well Massage for deep tissue and Swedish massages. Ladywell’s Vitality Spa offers hydrotherapy, saunas, and guided wellness sessions in a women-only space.

If yoga is more your style, studios like Breathe Hot Yoga and Twist Yoga offer both beginner and advanced classes throughout the week.

West Seattle by Season

  • Spring: See cherry blossoms at Hiawatha Playfield or stroll Lincoln Park trails as flowers bloom.

  • Summer: Beach bonfires, sunset walks, and outdoor dining dominate the season.

  • Fall: Enjoy colorful leaves, cooler beach walks, and fall markets in the Junction.

  • Winter: Take in clear views of snow-covered peaks, shop local during the holidays, or visit cozy cafes.

Helpful Visitor Tips

  • Getting there: Accessible via West Seattle Bridge, Water Taxi, or local Metro routes.

  • Parking: Free in most neighborhoods; metered parking near Alki and Junction.

  • Transit: RapidRide C Line connects with downtown and North Seattle.

  • Walkability: Most areas, including Alki and the Junction, are very pedestrian-friendly.

  • Bikes: Rentals available along the beach, and most routes are cyclist-safe.

West Seattle blends natural beauty with a tight-knit community feel. Whether you’re hiking in an urban forest, sipping local beer, or strolling along a quiet beach at sunset, it’s a place that invites you to slow down and enjoy.

It’s also an easy day trip from downtown Seattle, making it perfect for visitors who want a more relaxed local experience without leaving the city. From beach days to art nights and forest hikes, West Seattle gives you a little of everything.