Alki Beach and Seattle Skyline

Alki Beach, at 2717 Alki Ave SW in West Seattle, Washington, gives photographers a sandy foreground and a long view across Elliott Bay to the downtown skyline. The frame looks northeast, so the skyline is lit from behind the photographer when the sun sets in the west, and the towers glow in warm light while the bay turns pink and orange. Driftwood, volleyball nets, kayaks and passing ferries and container ships add foreground interest, and the Seattle Great Wheel and Space Needle can be picked out in the distance. The best season is May through September, when the sun sets far enough north to cast pleasing light and evenings are mild, though clear winter evenings can be sharper and less crowded. Sunset on warm summer weekends brings crowds, bonfires in the permitted fire rings, and a busy promenade, so tripod space along the waterfront is easy to find only by arriving early or walking farther along the sand. The beach and promenade are public, free to enter, and tripods are generally acceptable if placed away from foot and bike traffic. Drone use is restricted in Seattle city parks. A 16-35mm wide-angle lens captures the sweep of beach and skyline, while a longer lens isolates the towers and ships. Low tide exposes more sand and tidepools. Parking along Alki Avenue fills on sunny days, and restrooms are available in the beach park. Blue hour offers glowing city lights and smooth long exposures of the water.