West Beach sits at Washington Park on the far western point of Fidalgo Island in Anacortes in Skagit County, representing the westernmost beach within the 220-acre city park. The beach takes its name from its western location on the peninsula, positioned to capture views across Rosario Strait toward the San Juan Islands archipelago. Washington Park encompasses forested hills, meadows, two beaches, boat launch, 68-site campground, and day use facilities on the peninsula at Fidalgo Island's northwestern tip, creating comprehensive recreational destination. Access to West Beach follows a slow 10 mile-per-hour one-way drive through the small campground, though the two parking spaces at the beach are frequently occupied during busy summer months requiring visitors to park at Washington Park's Day Use parking area and walk to the beach via park trails and roads. The tiny but beautiful rocky and pebbly beach provides spectacular views beginning from the stairs leading down to the shoreline, with a perfectly situated bench at the top of stairs offering vantage point for visitors with limited mobility.
Tide pool exploration ranks as a primary activity with West Beach noted as one of the best Anacortes tide pool locations, revealing diverse marine life including sea stars, anemones, crabs, barnacles, mussels, and small fish trapped in rocky areas during low tides when receding waters expose intertidal zones. Swimming in Puget Sound waters attracts hardy visitors during warm summer months when the small beach provides access to cool marine waters, though the rocky pebbly surface and cold temperatures require tolerance for Pacific Northwest conditions. Beachcombing along the rocky shoreline reveals smooth stones polished by wave action, driftwood deposits, shells from diverse marine life, and beach glass accumulated over decades. Wildlife watching draws birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts with many bird species utilizing the beach and surrounding park habitats including bald eagles soaring overhead, great blue herons stalking tideline areas, diverse shorebirds during migration periods, and seabirds such as cormorants, gulls, and loons fishing nearshore waters. Harbor seals occasionally appear in waters off West Beach. The beach's western exposure creates spectacular sunset viewing opportunities with the San Juan Islands silhouetted against evening sky, the Olympic Mountains visible beyond, and light reflecting off Rosario Strait creating memorable Pacific Northwest coastal scenes. Laying out towels on the small beach accommodates sunbathing and relaxation during favorable weather, though the rocky pebbly surface differs from sandy beaches more suitable for extended lounging. Washington Park's 2.2-mile scenic paved loop road provides walking and cycling opportunities through forested areas with ocean viewpoints.
Anacortes dining features seafood restaurants and waterfront options near Washington Park and throughout Fidalgo Island. Anthony's at Cap Sante Marina sits in downtown Anacortes at the Port with scenic waterfront viewing commercial fishing fleet and recreational boating, offering two outside decks including covered fireplace deck and fresh Northwest seafood. Secret Cove creates hidden gem atmosphere with amazing water views where seals and porpoises swim offshore, serving great food with friendly service. Adrift Restaurant prepares hearty New American dishes using locally sourced meats, vegetables, and seafood in casual laid-back setting. 13moons Restaurant at Swinomish Casino and Lodge features hand-cut alder wood grilled seafood and meats with freshest Northwest flavors, receiving Wine Spectator's 2025 Award of Excellence. The Shrimp Shack earned Best Restaurant North Sound and Beyond recognition from Best of Western Washington 2019 and Evening Magazine.
