Shilshole Bay Marina
A vibrant Seattle marina offering stunning waterfront views, abundant wildlife, and top-notch amenities for boaters and visitors.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Shilshole Bay Marina
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant Seattle marina offering stunning waterfront views, abundant wildlife, and top-notch amenities for boaters and visitors.
"Best marina facilities I have experienced, with thoughtful design and cleanliness."
🎯 Book Boat Rentals Early
Secure your spot for boat rentals or sailing lessons at Shilshole Marina by booking in advance.
🦭 Respect Wildlife
Observe sea lions and seals from a distance; they are a highlight but need their space.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sea Lion & Seal Spotting
H Dock
Witness playful sea lions and seals often found lounging on the docks, especially during salmon runs. A true wildlife spectacle!

Modern Marina Facilities
Guest Bathrooms & Showers
Experience top-notch, recently upgraded facilities with private shower stalls, ample hooks, and card-operated showers.

Waterfront Dining & Market
Near the Marina
Enjoy fresh seafood at Chinooks Restaurant or explore the fish market for a taste of local catches.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Nautical Vibe
Plan for Wildlife Sightings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Boat Rentals Early
Secure your spot for boat rentals or sailing lessons at Shilshole Marina by booking in advance.
🦭 Respect Wildlife
Observe sea lions and seals from a distance; they are a highlight but need their space.
🚿 Enjoy Upgraded Showers
Marina guests get 6 minutes of shower time with card access – no quarters needed!
🚶♀️ Stroll the Docks
Take a leisurely walk along the long docks for scenic views and a feel of the marina life.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Boat Rentals Early
Secure your spot for boat rentals or sailing lessons at Shilshole Marina by booking in advance.
🦭 Respect Wildlife
Observe sea lions and seals from a distance; they are a highlight but need their space.
🚿 Enjoy Upgraded Showers
Marina guests get 6 minutes of shower time with card access – no quarters needed!
🚶♀️ Stroll the Docks
Take a leisurely walk along the long docks for scenic views and a feel of the marina life.
☀️ Catch the Golden Hour
For moody, soft shots, visit just before sunset or on a foggy morning.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Shilshole Bay Marina for its beautiful setting, clean and modern facilities, and friendly atmosphere. The opportunity to see marine life like sea lions and seals is a significant highlight, alongside convenient amenities and nearby dining options.
"Beautiful Marina, clean facilities, friendly staff and neighbors. Lots of shopping and local fun very close by too. Great place all around."
Sarah B.
"Marina with plenty of services for boaters but most importantly were the sea lions hanging out on H dock! Apparently they migrate here for salmon and this is their favorite spot."
Rick Hadsall
"Sweet dock! Went fishing here and it was beautiful! Got to see some seals when we came back in and it was super cool! Great place to walk around! Clean bathrooms and a good place to get cleaned up after fishing or being out on the boat all day."
Luc Diefenbach
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shilshole Bay Marina is located in Ballard, Seattle. It's accessible by car, with free parking available for a set duration. Public transportation options are also available, connecting you to the wider Seattle area.
Yes, there is free parking available for a set duration, which is usually sufficient for dining, shopping, or strolling the docks.
While specific routes vary, Seattle's public transport network generally serves areas like Ballard. Check local transit schedules for the most convenient options.
Walking the docks is a popular way to experience the marina. You can also rent a boat or take a sailing lesson for a different perspective.
Yes, Shilshole Bay Marina is located right next to Golden Gardens Park, offering a beautiful combination of marina views and beach access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general access to walk around Shilshole Bay Marina is free. However, specific activities like boat rentals or sailing lessons will require booking and payment.
The marina itself is generally accessible, but specific businesses like restaurants or rental shops will have their own operating hours. For example, Secret Congee is open daily from 9 am-3 pm.
Marina guests and tenants can use the upgraded shower facilities for free with their access card, which grants about 6 minutes per shower. No quarters are needed.
Yes, boat rentals are available at Shilshole Bay Marina. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during busy periods.
Accessing the public areas of the docks is generally free. Mooring or docking a private vessel will incur fees.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy waterfront dining, explore the fresh fish market, go fishing, take a leisurely walk along the docks, or even book sailing lessons and boat rentals.
Shilshole Bay Marina is a great spot for wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of sea lions and seals, especially during salmon migration season.
The bathroom and shower facilities have been significantly upgraded and are considered among the best marina facilities, known for their cleanliness and thoughtful design.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity here. The marina provides a scenic spot to cast a line, and you might even see seals when you return.
For photography, the golden hour just before sunset offers magical light. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded and more peaceful.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Chinooks Restaurant & Fish Bar is a notable dining option right at the marina. You can also find a fresh fish market for seafood purchases.
Secret Congee offers delicious congee dishes and is a great spot for brunch or lunch, located conveniently at the marina.
Yes, there is a fresh fish market near the marina where you can purchase locally caught seafood.
Secret Congee serves savory rice porridge (congee), a staple dish known for its soft and creamy texture.
While specific hours can vary, Chinooks Restaurant & Fish Bar is a well-established dining spot at the marina, often open for lunch and dinner.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the boats docked, the marine life like sea lions and seals, and the scenic waterfront views. The golden hour before sunset provides beautiful lighting.
The golden hour just before sunset offers a magical, moody glow. Foggy mornings can also create surreal and soft photographic conditions.
Absolutely! The marina is filled with a variety of boats, from small fishing vessels to larger yachts, offering plenty of subjects for photography.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. Be mindful of private property and individuals, and always respect privacy.
A versatile lens is recommended to capture both wide marina vistas and close-ups of wildlife or boat details. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a leisurely stroll along the docks to let kids burn off energy while enjoying the sights and sounds of the marina. For a bite to eat, Secret Congee offers a unique and approachable dish that might appeal to younger palates. While boat rentals are available, ensure they are suitable for your family's age and experience level.
🎣 Anglers and Fishermen
For those looking to enjoy their catch, the fresh fish market offers a chance to purchase local seafood, and Chinooks Restaurant is known for its seafood dishes, making it a perfect place to savor the day's bounty.
📸 Photographers and Content Creators
Content creators can find unique angles along the docks, capturing the maritime lifestyle. The upgraded shower facilities also offer a clean and modern aesthetic if you're looking to incorporate facilities into your content. Remember to be respectful of private vessels and individuals while exploring for the best shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Boating and Sailing at Shilshole
Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a beginner, Shilshole provides opportunities to explore Puget Sound. The marina is also equipped with essential services like a fuel dock, making it convenient for longer excursions. The community aspect is strong, with many liveaboards and regular visitors contributing to a vibrant nautical atmosphere.
Wildlife Encounters
It's important to remember that these are wild animals, and observing them responsibly is key. Visitors are encouraged to maintain a safe distance and avoid any actions that could disturb their natural behavior. The presence of wildlife adds a unique charm to the marina, making it a memorable experience for nature lovers and casual visitors alike.
Marina Facilities and Amenities
Beyond the personal amenities, the marina offers a clean and well-maintained environment for all visitors. The presence of a fresh fish market and dining options like Chinooks Restaurant further enhance the visitor experience, making it a comprehensive destination for both boaters and those simply looking to enjoy the waterfront.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit