Owen Beach / Point Defiance Park

For dining near Owen Beach, visitors can enjoy a variety of options. Anthony's At Point Defiance is a popular choice, offering Pacific Northwest seafood in a casual yet upscale setting. It features outdoor seating and a wide selection of wines and cocktails.

Another great option is WildFin American Grill, which serves American cuisine with a focus on seafood. It offers a cozy atmosphere and a variety of dining options, including brunch and dinner.

Both restaurants provide excellent service and are well-regarded for their quality food and ambiance.

For accommodations near Owen Beach, several hotels offer comfortable stays with great amenities. The Silver Cloud Hotel - Tacoma Waterfront provides polished rooms with water views, free breakfast, and a gym. It is located in a refined setting, making it ideal for those seeking a relaxed stay.

Another option is the Silver Cloud Hotel Tacoma at Point Ruston Waterfront, which features a contemporary restaurant and spa. This hotel offers sleek accommodations opposite the bay.

For a more vibrant experience, Hotel Murano showcases glass art throughout its stylish premises and includes a hip lobby bar and upscale restaurant.

Owen Beach offers several amenities that enhance the visitor experience. There are restrooms with showers, picnic tables, and barbecue grills available for use. The beach also features a concession stand during summer months, providing snacks and drinks. Additionally, kayak and SUP rentals are available, allowing visitors to explore the waters of Puget Sound.

The beach is part of Point Defiance Park, which includes a zoo, aquarium, and extensive trails for hiking and cycling. This combination of natural beauty and recreational facilities makes Owen Beach an attractive destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Visitors to Owen Beach can engage in a variety of activities. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular, with rentals available during the summer. Fishing is also a common pastime, although swimming is not recommended due to strong currents. The beach offers a peaceful setting for walking and wading, with beautiful views of the surrounding waters.

For those interested in exploring further, Point Defiance Park offers extensive trails for hiking and cycling, as well as a zoo and aquarium for wildlife enthusiasts.

Owen Beach and Point Defiance Park offer several accessibility features. The beach area has handicap-accessible points, and the park includes paved paths suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Additionally, many of the park's facilities, such as restrooms and picnic areas, are designed to be accessible to visitors with disabilities.

The park's design ensures that visitors of all abilities can enjoy its natural beauty and recreational amenities.

Parking at Owen Beach is generally accessible, with ample space available near the beach area. However, there have been some changes to parking facilities, including the addition of speed bumps to manage traffic flow. Visitors should be aware of these changes to ensure a smooth visit.

The parking area is well-maintained and offers easy access to the beach and other park amenities. It is advisable to arrive early on busy days to secure a parking spot.

Owen Beach is named after John A. Owen, who donated land for the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium. The beach has been recognized as one of America's best undiscovered beaches by TripAdvisor users. It is part of Point Defiance Park, which was initially set aside as a military reserve in 1866 before becoming a park in 1888.

The park's history reflects the broader trend of using urban parks as tools for social harmony during the late 19th century.

Owen Beach is surrounded by several attractions within Point Defiance Park. The park includes a zoo and aquarium, featuring a wide range of wildlife. There is also Fort Nisqually, a historic trading post, and the Dune Peninsula, a scenic area built on a former industrial site.

Visitors can enjoy the park's gardens, lawns, and old-growth forests, providing a diverse range of natural and cultural experiences. The proximity to Puget Sound offers stunning views and opportunities for water activities.