Fox Island Sand Spit sits at the southwestern tip of Fox Island in Pierce County on Puget Sound, operated as Tacoma DeMolay Sandspit Park and Nature Preserve off Bella Bella Drive. Fox Island was named in 1841 by Charles Wilkes during the United States Exploring Expedition to honor J.L. Fox, an assistant surgeon on the expedition. The sand spit takes its name from the Tacoma DeMolay organization, DeMolay International being a youth organization, though specific historical details connecting the organization to this location remain limited in readily available records. In 2025, PenMet Parks expanded Fox Island Sandspit Park by acquiring 3.6 acres, adding shoreline access and restoration projects to the preserve. The sand spit creates a distinctive geographic feature extending into Puget Sound from the island's southwestern shore.
Beachcombing along the sand spit reveals shells, smooth stones, driftwood, sand dollars, and marine life deposited by tides and currents creating the spit's distinctive formation. Kayaking and paddleboarding launch from areas near the spit for exploration of Fox Island's shoreline and Carr Inlet waters with views toward the Kitsap Peninsula and Olympic Mountains. Wildlife watching includes harbor seals hauling out on the spit, bald eagles soaring overhead and perching in shoreline trees, great blue herons stalking shallows, and diverse seabirds including cormorants, gulls, and pigeon guillemots. Nature preserve designation protects habitat and ecosystem functions while allowing public access for low-impact recreation and education. Views capture Puget Sound's expanse, passing boats navigating Carr Inlet, and the Olympic Mountains forming a western horizon. The recent expansion and restoration projects enhance both public access and ecological values of this distinctive sand spit formation.
Fox Island and nearby Gig Harbor dining offers Pierce County options. ZOG'S Beer Garden at 587 6th Ave on Fox Island creates an indoor-outdoor beer garden with waterfall, accessed through a convenience store. Greenhouse Restaurant serves local favorites. Table 47 in Gig Harbor prepares diverse menu selections. The Hub in Gig Harbor offers casual dining and gathering space. Formosa creates Asian cuisine. Thirsty Hound Drinkery provides craft beverages and pub fare. Uptown Perk serves coffee and light meals.
