‘#WeekWithoutDriving’ Day 5: Lunch at Alki? Just hop on the light rail and hail a water taxi

One of the best places in Seattle to enjoy an afternoon is Alki Beach. But there’s no need to sit in traffic on the West Seattle Bridge. It’ll take a few transfers by public transit, but you’ll enjoy views of the water and cityscape along the way.

It’s Friday and absolutely beautiful in Seattle. Apparently Oct. 6 is one of the best days in the region during fall, so why not get outside and enjoy a bite by the water?

For Day 5 of #WeekWithoutDriving, I headed to Alki Beach, a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.

To get there I first rode a bus to a light rail station, rode the train to the Pioneer Square stop, and walked down Yesler Way to the Water Taxi Terminal at Pier 50. It’s right next to Colman Dock where ferries to Bainbridge Island and Bremerton leave.

For these three legs you’re able to tap your ORCA card to ride the bus, light rail, and water taxi, which makes boarding faster than buying a ticket.

You then sit back and watch the entire downtown Seattle skyline come into view. It’s a quick trip to West Seattle, only about 15 minutes.

There is lots of seating inside the taxi with power outlets and tables where you can work or eat. But on this glorious day, there’s no better spot than out on the deck. There’s plenty of room for wheelchairs and the deck features a row of bike racks.

The taxi arrives at Seacrest Park, a bustling spot with a restaurant, kayak rentals, and even a public bathroom, a rarity in Seattle.

To go north to Alki you have a few options: stroll along the pedestrian path, hop on Metro Route 775, or, my personal favorite, rent an e-scooter or e-bike.

Along the way I met West Seattle resident Susan Abriam, who was picking up litter on the beach and path as part of a volunteer day with her job.

Abriam said she and the rest of the volunteers had picked up the usual suspects this morning — “a lot of cigarette butts, bottle caps, cans, and some food containers.”

She said it’s important work, “so people can enjoy it without a bunch of trash around,” and it keeps the bike path clear and accessible.

On Thursday, I reported another story about Lee Zuhars, an e-bike commuter voluntarily keeping Seattle's 520 bike path debris-free.

“If you’re enjoying the same beaches and path and public area, why not be part of the cleanup,” Abriam said.

By lunchtime the sun is high in the sky and the now very clean bike trail is a steady stream of cyclists, rollerbladers, joggers, and families pushing strollers.

People sit on the beach, eat Spud Fish & Chips, and take in views of passing ferries, the Space Needle, and — on this clear day — Mount Baker in the distance.

It’s time for me to head back into the city.

With the wind in my hair, sun on my face, and a belly full of fried fish, I’m not thinking about beating traffic. I just have to make the boat on time.