Best playgrounds near beaches south of Seattle

What’s better than getting your kid outside to burn off some energy at the playground? Enjoying a gorgeous view of Puget Sound while doing it. These South End playgrounds near beaches offer just that, plus more!

Seahurst Park has a nature-themed play area, beach access and lots of trails for walking.

Seahurst Park

1600 S.W. Seahurst Park Road, Burien

Seahurst Park’s nature-inspired playground features play equipment that resembles logs, stepping stones and boulders. It is a modest layout, but rich with opportunities for imaginative play and making friends. The playground is directly adjacent to the beach, which is quite expansive when the tide is out. From the playground, you can also head out on Seahurst’s 1.8-mile loop trail that parallels the beach before weaving through the forest.

Dash Point Park & Pier

1500 Beach Drive N.E., Tacoma

While Dash Point’s playground itself is pretty outdated, accessibility to the beach is unmatched. Kids can hop from the swings to the sandy beach and stay within a parent’s view. The parking lot is right next to the playground as well, making trips back to the car for snacks or forgotten items easy. Looking for a hassle-free beach day? Head here. There are public restrooms and a large fishing pier at this park as well. The Lighthouse Market, just south of the park, is a great stop for beach snacks.

Point Ruston’s Promenade Playground

Point Ruston, Tacoma

The Ruston Waterfront has a ton to offer the whole family. You can park at Dune Peninsula Park (for free) and walk along the paved waterfront path to get to the playground in 5 to 10 minutes. It’s a lovely walk (seals often bask on the rocks just off the peninsula and on a clear day you can see Mount Rainier), and the promise of a playground usually keeps little ones moving their feet! Alternatively, you can park in the Point Ruston garage, grab an ice cream cone at Ice Cream Social, and get your parking validated. There is also a splash pad right behind the playground, so bring swimsuits on hot days. If you are looking for even more family fun, rent a Surrey from Wheel Fun Rentals and cruise the waterfront promenade.

Playground by the Sound

Chambers Creek Park
4870 Grandview Drive W., University Place

Located upon a hill in Chambers Creek Park, the Playground by the Sound provides sweeping views of Puget Sound and Chambers Bay Golf Course. The large, castle and nautical-themed playground features lots of challenges for young climbers as well as a sectioned-off area for toddlers. If you’re feeling ambitious, bring your preferred choice of wheels (bike, scooter, stroller) and explore the paved trail that circles the park. There is also a well-positioned little library at the entrance to the playground that always seems to be filled with gems.

Sunnyside Beach Park

2509 Chambers Creek Road, Steilacoom

Sunnyside Beach Park is just as bright and welcoming as its name suggests. Tall, beautiful trees gently shade the playground area, making it comfortable even on a hot day. The playground has two play structures, along with swings, giving kids lots to do. The park also boosts two sandy volleyball courts, some prime climbing trees, and a great beach to launch a kayak or paddleboard. Train tracks run parallel to the playground, and kids run from whatever they are doing to line up at the fence as trains pass. The parking lot for this park is privately owned, so (unless you are a Steilacoom resident) you will need to pay $5.

Frye Cove Park

4000 61st Avenue NW, Olympia

This South Sound playground is definitely off the beaten path, but absolutely worth the drive (which passes by an alpaca farm!). Not only can you enjoy a unique view of the Puget Sound’s Ed Inlet from here, but, on a clear day, you’ll also see Mount Rainier. This is an ideal location for a picnic and some playtime on the climbing structure, followed by beach exploration and wave-jumping. There are also about 2 miles of hiking trails here.

Published Aug. 15, 2021

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