Parque Estatal de Saltwater

Saltwater State Park combines the best of forest and sea. Located along the coast of Puget Sound about 20 minutes south of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) by car, this natural playground offers 137 acres of evergreen-lined trails, a protected sandy beach, and a popular scuba diving site. It’s also a Marine Protected Area, making it a great place to spot wildlife.

Note: You need to purchase a Discover Pass to visit. The campsites are currently closed. Check the Washington State Parks website for updates.

Nature's Playground by the Sound

Sandy Beach: The large, driftwood-strewn beach is the park’s biggest draw. At low tide, the beach reveals a network of tidepools teeming with sea stars, crabs, and other small marine life. On select dates in the summer, volunteer naturalists with Friends of Saltwater State Park are stationed at the beach to answer questions. Look for them in bright yellow vests, and check the organization’s website for Beach Exploration dates.

Forested Hiking Trails: Follow the trails through lush forest and along McSorley Creek, where you can sometimes spot salmon.

Picnic-Perfect Spaces: The park features more than 100 picnic shelters, fire pits and grills, and open grassy areas perfect for group gatherings.

Marine Sanctuary & Scuba Diving: Saltwater State Park is home to an artificial reef, making it a hotspot for scuba diving. Divers often spot rockfish, anemones, and octopuses in the cold, vibrant waters.

The Vibe
Like all great state parks, Saltwater State Park feels both well-maintained and a little wild and rugged. You get to feel like you’re off the beaten path, while knowing you’re close to amenities.