Des Moines between the Coast and Puget Sound

Six miles of coastline, public beaches, and waterfront promenades shape Des Moines on Puget Sound. A waterfront park, the marina, a Saturday market, and maritime culture offer different perspectives on the city. Local places and attractions provide concrete points of reference for making your choice.

Beaches, Waterfront, and Views

Saltwater State Park covers 137 acres and has a sandy beach. Tide pools and a driftwood-strewn shore also invite exploration. There is also an artificial underwater reef for scuba diving, giving the park another maritime feature. Alongside the beach and shore, the reef offers a distinctly different focus beneath the water. From Des Moines, you can enjoy views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and Mount Rainier. Public beaches and waterfront promenades complement the parkland along the coast.

Marina and Boating Facilities

Des Moines Marina is a fully equipped recreational harbor on Puget Sound and has a public fishing pier. Redondo Boat Launch has a two-lane boat ramp and 170 feet of side-tie moorage. For trip planning, the two locations offer different points of interest: the marina focuses on recreational boating and public fishing, while Redondo Boat Launch offers a boat ramp and side-tie moorage. The two locations therefore appeal to different maritime interests.

Market and Seasonal Events

The Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market takes place every Saturday on the waterfront at Des Moines Marina. Its offerings include fresh local produce, artisan foods, handmade goods, and live music. The market pairs goods and music with a specific day of the week. Annual event highlights include Summer Concerts & Beach Park Events, featuring free outdoor concerts and seasonal waterfront events. In terms of timing, Saturday is the regular day for the market, while the other events are seasonal. If you plan to attend one of these offerings on a specific day, check the latest dates in advance.

Maritime Exhibit and Historic Event Venue

A permanent maritime exhibit at the Des Moines Historical Society Museum explores Des Moines’ connection to Puget Sound. The theme ties in with the coastal and harbor perspective but focuses on the city’s relationship with the Sound. The Des Moines Beach Park Event Center offers a different historical connection: it is a historic waterfront venue with event spaces in timber-frame buildings. The center also has an outdoor lawn overlooking Puget Sound. The two places offer distinct areas of focus: the museum’s maritime exhibit, and the event venue’s construction and outdoor setting. This makes it possible to choose the cultural part of your trip based on your interest in exhibits or in architecture and surroundings.

Discover more destinations: Bothell, Tukwila, Mercer Island, Snoqualmie, Vashon Island, Federal Way, Woodinville, Issaquah

For the broader travel overview: King.