Our love affair with Titlow Beach began shortly after moving to Tacoma. Our apartment complex was located less than a mile from the park. In fact that was the only good thing about our apartment, but I digress.  I recall taking Molly on a walk down to the water for the first time and being in awe of the beautiful sweeping views of the Puget Sound.

I remembered thinking to myself, “I live here!”

I couldn’t believe I lived in a place where there were shimmery blue waters and glimpses of the Olympic Mountains and Fox Island. Not to mention the great view of the Tacoma Narrows Bridges.

Titlow Park is operated by Metro Parks. The 75-acre park has two trails, a playground and splash park and allows for swimming, fishing and boating. Craig and I have done the Hidden Beach Trail which is just a little over a mile long. We’ve even caught site of a bald eagles nest during one of our hikes. I’ve read you can sometimes see sea lions resting on the beach, but we’ve yet to see one. Some day!

The beach is your typical Pacific Northwest shore with rocks instead of sand and freezing water that only true northerners would ever swim in. But nonetheless it is very refreshing on a muggy summer day. Plus the nearby restaurants and ice cream vendors make it a fun place to hang out. I would argue that the best views are at sunset.

We made a recent trip during low tide and were able to feel our way through tidepools. This is one of Craig’s favorite activities. I sometimes feel a bit intrusive stepping around the sea anemones, starfish and crabs.

On July 3, Metro Parks will host Tiptoe through the Tidepools at 11:30 a.m. During that time they have experts who help identify the various sea creatures. Admittedly, I prefer to just admire with my eyes. I don’t really think the crustaceans want me poking at them.

This park may be my favorite because it’s where we hosted Catarina’s first birthday party. It was a small picnic with close family and of course a vegan cake! We played Wiffle ball while Catarina picked at carrots and broccoli.

-Veronica Sandate Craker

If you go
Location: 28425 Sixth Ave., Tacoma.
When: Park is open a half hour before sunrise and closes a half hour after sunset.
Fees: None.
Kid-friendly: Extremely. Enjoy the playground, splash park or just wade in the water. Be sure to wear water shoes as the rocks can be sharp to little feet.