Alki (including north and south beaches)

Washington · Pacific Northwest

Habitat
ForestCoastal
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Alki (including north and south beaches) is a productive birding destination in Washington, with 210 species recorded on eBird. This forest and coastal habitat attracts Brant, Mallard, and Harlequin Duck among many others. Coastal and forest habitats support impressive year-round resident species and seasonal migrants.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Black Phoebe

Sayornis nigricans

3/6/2026Frager Rd. (north)1 observed

Say's Phoebe

Sayornis saya

3/5/2026Union Bay Natural Area/Montlake Fill1 observed

Spotted Towhee (maculatus Group)

Pipilo maculatus

3/5/2026Port Orchard Yard1 observed

Song Sparrow (melodia/atlantica)

Melospiza melodia

3/5/2026Marymoor Park1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Surf Scoter

43/5/2026

Bufflehead

43/5/2026

Rock Pigeon

13/5/2026

Glaucous-winged Gull

83/5/2026

Horned Grebe

43/5/2026

Brant

93/2/2026

Mallard

23/2/2026

Harlequin Duck

33/2/2026

Common Goldeneye

103/2/2026

Barrow's Goldeneye

53/2/2026

Common Merganser

13/2/2026

Anna's Hummingbird

23/2/2026

Killdeer

23/2/2026

Black Turnstone

303/2/2026

Red-necked Grebe

23/2/2026

Pelagic Cormorant

23/2/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

43/2/2026

American Crow

103/2/2026

European Starling

103/2/2026

House Sparrow

103/2/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  3. 3

    Pack rain gear — the best birding often coincides with drizzly conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Alki (including north and south beaches) for birding?
The best months to visit Alki (including north and south beaches) for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Alki (including north and south beaches)?
Notable species at Alki (including north and south beaches) include Brant, Mallard, Harlequin Duck, Surf Scoter, Bufflehead. The area supports forest, coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Alki (including north and south beaches)?
Birding at Alki (including north and south beaches) is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Alki (including north and south beaches)?
Alki (including north and south beaches) offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.