Southwest 98th Street End provides shoreline access in south West Seattle where 98th Street terminates at Puget Sound near Brace Point. The numbered street designation follows Seattle's systematic grid established during late 19th and early 20th century platting, with 98th indicating its position in the numbered street sequence. The beachfront street end underwent expansion in 2022-2024 as part of a Seattle Public Utilities pump station upgrade, with improvements including guardrail removal, extending the useable street end over 20 feet eastward, wheelchair access pad creation, new bench installation, beach log placement, native plant landscaping, and new tree plantings. The location ranks among West Seattle's eight street ends providing access to gravelly beaches, seawalls, and rocky shorelines on Puget Sound, with character and accessibility constantly changing with tides. Seattle's shoreline street end program preserves this public right-of-way for waterfront enjoyment despite surrounding residential development.
Beachcombing along the small sandy and gravelly beach reveals smooth stones polished by wave action, driftwood from Pacific storms, shells, and beach glass deposited by tides and currents. Kayaking and paddleboarding launch from the beach access for exploration along West Seattle's southern shoreline with routes toward Alki Point, views across Puget Sound to Vashon Island and the Olympic Mountains, and opportunities to observe maritime traffic. Wildlife watching includes harbor seals hunting nearshore waters, bald eagles soaring overhead and perching in shoreline trees, great blue herons stalking shallows during low tides, and seabirds including cormorants, pigeon guillemots, and gulls. Views span across Puget Sound to Vashon Island rising from the water, the Olympic Mountains creating a dramatic western horizon with snow-capped peaks visible on clear days, and passing ferries navigating between Seattle and island communities. The rugged and picturesque shoreline north of the street end creates scenic backdrop, while recent improvements enhance accessibility and amenities for beachgoers.
West Seattle dining offers diverse options near Southwest 98th Street End and Alki area. Marination Ma Kai serves Hawaiian-Korean fusion including Kalua Pork Sliders, Kimchi Fried Rice, Korean Tacos, and shave ice from an outdoor patio with Alki Beach and Seattle skyline views. Salty's on Alki Beach features award-winning Pacific Northwest seafood, seasonal preparations, and stunning Elliott Bay panoramas. Duke's Seafood West Seattle creates sustainably caught halibut and salmon, chowder, fish and chips, and oysters with casual waterfront atmosphere. Jak's Grill West Seattle serves aged Nebraska steaks, fresh local seafood, and their award-winning half-pound burger. Sunfish provides flaky battered cod, Greek-spiced fried oysters, fish and chips, and beachfront patio seating.
