Shilshole Bay Marina

Near Shilshole Bay Marina, there are several excellent dining options. Ray's Boathouse is a long-standing dockside restaurant offering Pacific Northwest seafood with romantic views of Shilshole Bay. Its sister restaurant, Ray's Cafe, provides a more casual dining experience with great water views. For a taste of Caribbean cuisine, Un Bien offers vibrant and flavorful sandwiches. Secret Congee is another local favorite, serving organic dishes and vegan options in a cozy setting. For a more upscale experience, Copine offers seasonal New American fare with a sophisticated atmosphere.

For accommodations near Shilshole Bay Marina, several hotels are available in the broader Seattle area. The Edgewater Hotel is a popular choice, located on the waterfront with stunning views. The Hotel Ballard offers elegant rooms and suites in the heart of Ballard. For a more downtown experience, the Seattle Marriott Waterfront provides bayfront lodging with a pool and dining options. The Fairmont Olympic Hotel is another upscale option, known for its historic charm and luxurious amenities.

Shilshole Bay Marina offers a range of amenities to enhance the visitor experience. These include restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, and free garbage disposal. The marina also features a boat ramp operated by the City of Seattle, allowing easy access for boaters. Additionally, there are picnic areas and playgrounds nearby, making it a family-friendly destination. Parking is free, and visitors can enjoy Comcast Cable TV and high-speed Internet as part of the dock fees.

The marina is also recognized for its eco-friendly practices, being Clean Marina & Green Marine Certified.

For dining and relaxation, there are local eateries like Jibe Espresso Bar and Little Coney within the marina itself.

Shilshole Bay Marina offers a variety of activities for visitors. Boating is a central attraction, with opportunities for sailing, kayaking, and fishing. The marina's proximity to Golden Gardens Park also makes it ideal for hiking and exploring the nearby trails. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the Olympic Mountains while strolling along the public promenade. For those interested in history and culture, the nearby National Nordic Museum provides a deep dive into Nordic heritage.

The marina itself supports both long-term and short-term moorage, catering to different types of boaters.

Nearby attractions like the Ballard Locks offer additional activities, such as watching ships pass through the locks and exploring the botanical garden.

Shilshole Bay Marina offers several accessibility features to ensure that all visitors can enjoy the facilities. The marina includes wheelchair-accessible restrooms and showers, making it easier for people with disabilities to navigate the area. Additionally, the public promenade is designed to be accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy the scenic views of the Olympic Mountains.

Nearby restaurants and attractions, such as Ray's Boathouse and the National Nordic Museum, also provide wheelchair-accessible entrances and seating areas, enhancing the overall accessibility of the area.

Parking at Shilshole Bay Marina is free and conveniently located near the marina facilities. This makes it easy for visitors to access the waterfront, restaurants, and other amenities without worrying about parking costs. The proximity of parking areas to the marina ensures that visitors can quickly move between their vehicles and the waterfront activities.

Additionally, the marina's location in the Ballard neighborhood provides access to street parking options for those who prefer to explore the surrounding area.

Shilshole Bay Marina has a rich history, dating back to its completion in 1958. It underwent a significant modernization starting in 2004, which included replacing the marina building. The marina is named after Shilshole, a word derived from the Chinook Jargon, meaning 'high tide.' It is one of the largest marinas in Puget Sound and is known for its vibrant maritime community.

The marina's breakwater provides protection from the open waters, making it a safe haven for boaters. The nearby Leif Erikson Plaza commemorates the Viking explorer, adding a touch of historical significance to the area.

Shilshole Bay Marina is surrounded by several attractions that enhance its appeal. Golden Gardens Park, adjacent to the marina, offers sandy beaches, hiking trails, and picnic areas. The nearby Ballard Locks are a major draw, allowing visitors to watch boats navigate the locks and explore the surrounding botanical garden and salmon education center. The National Nordic Museum provides a cultural experience, showcasing the history and art of Nordic immigrants in the area.

The marina's scenic views of the Olympic Mountains make it a picturesque spot for photography and relaxation.