Parking and Beach Shuttles

NOTICE: Extensive ADA construction has closed the Visitor Center and adjacent areas until June 2023, during which time beach parking permits will not be available.

Parking

After June 2023, Beach Parking Passes are free and available at the Discovery Park Visitor Center. To sign out a pass, you will need to provide your name, phone number and license plate number. Because of limited beach parking, to receive a pass you must fall into one of these three categories:

• families with children under 6

• people over 62 years old

• and others who are not physically able to walk to the beach due to and injury, illness, or some other physical condition.  

If you have a Beach Parking Pass issued from the Visitor Center, you can park there. However:

• Permits for beach parking are very limited. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Discovery Park Visitor Center Tuesday through Saturday during open hours. (See this page for open hours.)
• Permits are good for three hours and must be returned to the Visitor Center after use.
• Beach passes are extremely limited. Occasionally you may need to wait until one is returned before you can check one out.

If you park at the beach and do not have a permit, you may receive a parking ticket from the Seattle Police Department.

Summer Weekend Shuttles

In celebration of Discovery Park’s 50th anniversary, we’re pleased to offer a free summer beach shuttle. On Saturdays and Sundays this summer, the shuttle will loop between Discovery Park Visitor Center, the North Parking Lot, and the Beach. The shuttle will arrive at each location every 20-30 minutes. The shuttle runs 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with the last shuttle leaving the beach at 3:45 p.m. Please plan accordingly. Be sure to check the schedule before you go.

What is allowed on the shuttle? People, including children and babies, service animals, and strollers are allowed.

What is not allowed on the shuttle? Pets, coolers, surf/paddle boards, and other bulky items.

The summer shuttle is powered by your generous donations. Consider supporting the shuttle today. You can donate at the Discovery Park Visitor Center or here through our partnership with the Associated Recreation Council (Designation: Discovery Park Advisory Council).