Duwamish Head

Cliff Headland park area overlooking Elliott Bay, Seattle

Duwamish Head in West Seattle forms the rocky promontory by Alki and Elliott Bay; visitors come for Puget Sound and downtown skyline views, tide pools and coastal walks linking waterfront parks and ferry terminals.

Duwamish Head is a rocky promontory on the west side of Seattle, forming part of the shoreline of Elliott Bay in the West Seattle neighborhood. It marks the northwestern edge of the West Seattle peninsula and sits adjacent to the Alki Beach area.

The headland provides unobstructed views across Elliott Bay toward downtown Seattle and the Olympic Mountains, and is frequently visited for skyline and sunset photography. Its coastal trails and rocky shore are part of the built and natural shoreline used by residents and visitors.

The area lies within the city limits of Seattle on land long associated with the Duwamish and other Coast Salish peoples. Modern recreational use sits alongside interpretive references to the area’s Indigenous heritage.

Duwamish Head is located on the north side of the West Seattle peninsula, immediately across Elliott Bay from downtown Seattle and within a short drive of other West Seattle beaches and parks.

Views: Offers panoramic views of downtown Seattle and across Elliott Bay to the Olympic Mountains, making it a popular local viewpoint at sunset.

How to Get to Duwamish Head #

Duwamish Head is reached from central Seattle by crossing the West Seattle Bridge; allow 15-30 minutes by car depending on traffic. From downtown, King County Metro buses serve West Seattle neighborhoods - riders then walk along local streets toward Alki/Harbor Avenue and follow the coastal path to the head. Parking is limited on the residential streets nearby; using transit or arriving early is recommended.

Tips for Visiting Duwamish Head #

Walk the cliff path toward Alki to catch the sunset reflection on Elliott Bay - the light changes fast; bring a windproof layer.
Avoid the narrow shoreline at high tide; sections of the beach and lower paths are submerged at spring tides.
If there is sea mist, head for the highest headland: the downtown skyline will appear through the fog like a staged reveal.