Dash Point State Park

Near Dash Point State Park, there are several excellent dining options. Duke's Seafood Tacoma offers fresh seafood and casual dining with a great selection of cocktails. For a more upscale experience, Cliff House Restaurant provides Pacific Northwest cuisine with stunning views of Puget Sound. WildFin American Grill is another popular choice, offering a mix of American and seafood dishes in a cozy atmosphere. For waterfront dining with a focus on Northwest seafood, Harbor Lights is a great option. Lastly, Katie Downs Waterfront Tavern offers a casual setting with ocean views, serving pizza, burgers, and seafood.

For accommodations near Dash Point State Park, several hotels offer convenient stays. The Silver Cloud Hotel - Tacoma Waterfront provides refined rooms with water views and free breakfast. Hotel Murano is known for its vibrant glass art displays and upscale amenities. The Silver Cloud Hotel Tacoma at Point Ruston Waterfront offers sleek accommodations with a contemporary restaurant. For a more central stay, Courtyard Tacoma Downtown is a convenient choice with modern amenities. Lastly, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tacoma Downtown offers a contemporary stay with an indoor pool.

Dash Point State Park offers a range of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The park includes accessible restrooms, showers, and picnic shelters, making it suitable for both day-use and camping trips. Visitors can also enjoy interpretive events during the summer months, which include amphitheater programs and walking talks. Additionally, the park provides facilities like picnic tables, grills, and fire pits, allowing families and groups to enjoy meals together. For those interested in nature, there are opportunities for bird watching and wildlife viewing. The park also accommodates RVs and offers trailer dump stations, making it a convenient stop for travelers with larger vehicles.

Dash Point State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include hiking, biking, and mountain biking on the park's extensive trails. Water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and skimboarding are also favored due to the park's shallow waters. For those interested in nature, bird watching and geocaching are great ways to explore the area. The park also offers opportunities for beach exploration and swimming, though the water temperature is generally not suitable for prolonged swimming. During the winter, visitors can enjoy winter camping and other seasonal activities.

Dash Point State Park offers several accessibility features to ensure that all visitors can enjoy the park. The park includes accessible campsites, restrooms, and parking areas. Dogs are allowed on leashes, which can be helpful for visitors with service animals. However, there are no specific wheelchair rentals available, so visitors should plan accordingly. The park's trails and facilities are generally well-maintained, making it easier for visitors with mobility needs to navigate the area.

Parking at Dash Point State Park is available but can become limited during peak summer seasons. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a spot. The park requires a Discover Pass for non-campers, which can be purchased at the entrance for $10 per day or $30 annually. The parking area is close to the beach and trails, making it convenient for accessing the park's amenities. It is recommended to carpool when possible to help manage parking capacity.

Dash Point State Park has a rich history, having been the subject of several survey expeditions since 1800. The park's name is believed to have originated from its historical use, though the exact origin remains unclear. The area was previously known by names such as Ilson Landing, Fairview Beach, and Woodstock Beach. Today, the park is a popular spot for skimboarding competitions and camps, attracting enthusiasts from around the region. The park's unique combination of sandy beaches and shallow waters makes it an ideal location for families and water sports enthusiasts.

Near Dash Point State Park, there are several attractions worth exploring. The nearby Dash Point Park and Pier offers a fishing pier and stunning views of Puget Sound. For those interested in history, the Browns Point Lighthouse is a short paddle away and provides insight into maritime history. The park itself is surrounded by beautiful hiking trails and offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, making it a great base for exploring the natural beauty of the area.