
Titlow Park and Lagoon
A 75-acre Tacoma park with beach frontage, playgrounds, trails, and a lagoon, offering family fun and natural beauty.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for tide pooling

Titlow Park and Lagoon
Best Time
Best for tide pooling

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 75-acre Tacoma park with beach frontage, playgrounds, trails, and a lagoon, offering family fun and natural beauty.
"It's one of my favorite parks in this area and it's definitely part of what makes this home."

⚠️ Lagoon Safety is Crucial
Be extremely cautious around lagoon pipes; dangerous currents can form. Avoid unsupervised exploration.
👟 Watch for Goose Poop
The park has many geese, so be mindful of droppings on paths and grassy areas.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Titlow Lagoon
Adjacent to the park
A unique lagoon with potential for wildlife viewing, but exercise extreme caution due to dangerous currents near pipes.

Beachfront Exploration
Puget Sound shoreline
Enjoy the sandy shores, especially at low tide, for discovering small sea creatures and a refreshing beach experience.

Kids' Spray Park & Playground
Near the picnic areas
A fantastic spot for children to cool off and play, making it a family-friendly destination.

Scenic Walking Trails
Throughout the park
Gentle trails offer lovely views of Puget Sound and the park's natural beauty, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Lagoon Safety First
Beach Access & Tides
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⚠️ Lagoon Safety is Crucial
Be extremely cautious around lagoon pipes; dangerous currents can form. Avoid unsupervised exploration.
👟 Watch for Goose Poop
The park has many geese, so be mindful of droppings on paths and grassy areas.
🦀 Tide Pooling Fun
Low tide reveals crabs and other small marine life, perfect for curious explorers.
📸 Photography Paradise
Great spot for birdwatching and capturing scenic views of Puget Sound.
Has anyone done a birthday party at Titlow?
Tips
from all over the internet
⚠️ Lagoon Safety is Crucial
Be extremely cautious around lagoon pipes; dangerous currents can form. Avoid unsupervised exploration.
👟 Watch for Goose Poop
The park has many geese, so be mindful of droppings on paths and grassy areas.
🦀 Tide Pooling Fun
Low tide reveals crabs and other small marine life, perfect for curious explorers.
📸 Photography Paradise
Great spot for birdwatching and capturing scenic views of Puget Sound.
🍓 Blackberry Picking
Abundant blackberry bushes make this a prime spot for foraging in season.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Titlow Park is a beloved local spot offering beautiful beach access, family-friendly amenities like a spray park and playground, and scenic trails. Visitors appreciate the opportunities for tide pooling and photography. However, concerns exist regarding the lack of signage for dangerous lagoon currents and the presence of goose droppings.
"I come here regularly. They have picnic tables and Sometimes they’ll have park guides with information near the tables. The trail is pretty short and easy but the beach is really nice. You can probably walk the whole thing in 20-30 minutes. It’s one of my favorite parks in this area and it’s definitely part of what makes this home. I recommend a visit."
Nalani Loepke
"Has a fun park and spray park for the kids. TONS of goose poop, so watch your step. Nice to be close to the ocean, but not much beach access. It’s a small area and can definitely be crowded. Nice trails to walk around with a pond which attracts LOTS of mosquitoes. Tons of blackberry bushes, so if you want to go pick some, this is a great spot for that"
Mariah McHolland
"Fairly nice well maintained park. It does have one part with a big drop off and no railing. If I lived closer I would use this park often. Fairly good shore access."
Scott Bosen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Titlow Park is located in Tacoma, Washington. You can reach it by car via local roads. Parking is available within the park. Public transportation options may be limited, so driving is often the most convenient method.
Yes, Titlow Park offers parking areas for visitors. It can get busy, especially on weekends and during summer, so arriving early is recommended.
The park is situated near the Puget Sound shoreline. Depending on your starting point in Tacoma, you'll likely use local arterial roads to access the park. GPS navigation is highly recommended.
Yes, there are trails and roads that can be used for cycling to Titlow Park. The park itself has paths suitable for biking, though be mindful of pedestrians.
While specific bus routes might serve the general area, direct public transport access to the park's entrance can be infrequent. Checking local transit schedules is advised.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Titlow Park is a public park and generally does not require an entrance fee for general access. Enjoying the beach, trails, and playgrounds is free.
Titlow Park is typically open from dawn until dusk. However, specific facilities like the spray park may have seasonal hours. It's best to check with the City of Tacoma Parks Department for the most current information.
The spray park is usually open on a first-come, first-served basis and does not require advance booking or tickets for entry.
General park rules apply, such as leash laws for dogs and regulations against littering. Be aware of safety advisories, especially concerning the lagoon.
Gazebos and picnic areas are often first-come, first-served. For larger gatherings or guaranteed spots, it's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy beachcombing, tide pooling, walking the trails, visiting the playgrounds and spray park, birdwatching, and photography.
Absolutely! It features a popular spray park and playgrounds, making it a great destination for families with children.
Expect to see various shorebirds, waterfowl, and marine life like crabs during low tide. The park is also home to many geese.
Yes, restrooms are typically available within the park facilities.
Swimming in the lagoon is strongly discouraged due to dangerous currents near the pipes. The Puget Sound shoreline offers a safer, though often cold, experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants located directly within Titlow Park. Visitors typically bring their own food for picnics.
Yes, Titlow Park has numerous picnic tables and grassy areas perfect for picnics. It's a popular spot for families and groups.
You'll find various dining options in the surrounding Tacoma neighborhoods, including cafes and casual eateries, a short drive from the park.
Some picnic areas may have grills available, but it's advisable to confirm this with the park management or bring your own portable grill if permitted.
Bring your own food, drinks, picnic blanket, and any necessary serving utensils. Don't forget trash bags to keep the park clean.
📸 📸 Photography
The shoreline offers great views of Puget Sound, the footbridge provides unique perspectives, and the diverse birdlife is a photographer's delight.
Yes, the park is known for its bird population and marine life visible at low tide, making it excellent for wildlife photography.
Early morning and late afternoon offer softer light, ideal for landscape and wildlife photography. Golden hour can be particularly beautiful over the water.
Yes, but be mindful of safety warnings. The lagoon itself can be photogenic, especially with the surrounding natural landscape.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require permits, so check park regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack snacks and drinks for a picnic, as there are many picnic tables available. Keep a close eye on children, especially near the water and the lagoon due to potential hazards.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
At low tide, the beach becomes a canvas for macro photography, revealing intricate details of marine life. The park's diverse bird population also presents excellent opportunities for capturing wildlife. Consider visiting during the golden hour for the most dramatic lighting.
🏃♀️ Active Visitors
While not a strenuous hiking destination, the park provides ample space for movement and enjoying the outdoors. Tennis courts are also available for those seeking a more structured athletic activity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Titlow Lagoon's Dangers
Visitors are strongly advised to exercise extreme caution around the lagoon, especially during certain tidal conditions. The lack of adequate signage highlighting these dangers is a major concern for locals. It's crucial to supervise children very closely and avoid unsupervised exploration of the lagoon's edges.
While the lagoon might appear calm, the underlying currents are a serious threat. Always prioritize safety and be aware of your surroundings. If you're looking for water activities, the Puget Sound shoreline offers a more accessible, though still chilly, option.
Exploring Titlow Park's Natural Beauty
At low tide, the beach transforms into a fascinating natural aquarium. Visitors can discover various small marine creatures, including crabs, making it an engaging experience for all ages. The park is also known for its abundant blackberry bushes, offering a chance for seasonal foraging.
Beyond the beach, the park includes a pond that attracts waterfowl and a footbridge offering unique vantage points. The natural setting makes it a popular spot for photography, capturing the beauty of the Pacific Northwest coastline.
Family Fun at Titlow Park
These facilities make Titlow Park an ideal destination for a family outing or a birthday celebration. Many visitors recommend arriving early, especially on weekends, to secure a good spot, particularly if planning a party around the gazebo near the playground.
While the beach access is enjoyable, parents should remain vigilant, especially near the lagoon due to safety concerns. The combination of play areas and natural exploration opportunities ensures a memorable experience for families.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit