Whether you drive there or take the water taxi, arriving on Alki Beach is a must-do on a sunny day in the city. Offering spectacular views of the Seattle skyline and Puget Sound, Alki is wonderful in the late afternoon to early evening as a perfect place to admire the sunset. You should know though that since you’re on the water, the temperature will dip significantly afterwards, making it a good time to throw on a sweater. 

The boardwalk runs 5.4 miles along the pebble beach. We usually walk the distance as a way to get in our weekend exercise when we don’t want to do anything too strenuous. Last time we took our son in the stroller and passed lots of dogs and people playing frisbee. We stopped and watched a memorial service on the shore. You can also park yourself by the Statue of Liberty and enjoy the people watching and the gentle lapping of waves. We’ve also kayaked and played beach volleyball.

I would save my appetite for Spud or Sunfish and enjoy a few baskets of fish and chips. Feast on cod or halibut and chips with malt vinegar, some containers of tartar sauce. Don’t forget the stack of recycled napkins. 

Last I was there, I also noticed a number of awesome-looking cars rolling in, and read this is the spot for car shows.

The parking can be challenging, but drive along the side streets and you are sure to eventually find something.