An Ode To West Seattle A Waterfront Dream

By Author: Eric Badgley
Total Articles: 8
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West Seattle incorporates a large chunk of Seattle, and includes all of Seattle that is west of the Duwamish river. This area is particularly well known for its incredible parks that lie along the ocean. Alki beach is one of these famous landmarks, and it lies on the Alki point. Alki point is a spit that reaches far into the Puget Sound, and is the westernmost part of Seattle. Alki Point is also considered the southern border of Elliot Bay, with is the bay that downtown Seattle is nestled inside.

Alki beach is a particularly popular destination, where its absolutely stunning views of the ocean, Olympic Mountains and downtown Seattle are a huge draw during the summer. While the water is too cold to make it a huge swimming destination, barbeques and beach parties are a regular sight during the warmer months. The beaches are dotted with firepits for bonfires as well. During lowtide, residents have the opportunity to explore tidepools and marine life to an extent that no other beach in Seattle has to offer. Alki beach has also been hosting music festivals and concerts for an absurdly long time; it can be dated back to the ...
... early 20th century. Alki beach is one of the best venues for a local concert in the state, and should not be missed. Other noteable parks to visit include Hamilton Viewpoint Park, which has the best views of Elliot Bay and is the best picnic destination is West Seattle, and Schmitz Park, which contains the only old-growth forest within the city limits of Seattle.

Alki looks and feels like a California beach town. It lays sprawled lazily along the water, with a plethora of medium-rise waterfront apartment buildings, mid-century bungalows and waterfront businesses. The beach is bordered by a pedestrian/bike trail that runs parallel to the ocean for several miles. Harbor Avenue is lined with condominiums that have some of the best ocean views in the state, and nestled intermittently between them are bungalows. These adorable, historic homes are remnants from the late nineteenth and early twentieth century, leftover from the Arts and Craft movement, and are a classic sight in West Seattle.

Kayaking is a very exciting way to experience West Seattle – it is easy to rent one and explore the ocean waters, and take in the beautiful homes along the beach. Kayak tours are popular, and are a classic way to take in the beauty of the Northwest.

The highest point in Seattle is located in West Seattle, and can be found in the Gatewood neighborhood. The highest point stands 520 feet above sea level, and Our Lady of Guadalupe School rests at its peak. Seattle's westernmost point, Alki Point, is where the historic Denny Party (who founded Seattle) first landed. There is a historical reenactment of this annually that takes place during the Seafair celebration, a giant marine festival that spans Seattle. The West Seattle Summer Fest is a street festival that takes place annually in July, and is a summer celebration that highlights all of the incredible things that West Seattle has to offer.

This article was produced by Eric Badgley; specializing in West Seattle Real Estate and Seattle Real Estate. For more details visit http://www.kreick.com