Sunset Beach sits in Washington Park on the northwest tip of Anacortes in Skagit County, positioned on the north shore with views across Rosario Strait toward the San Juan Islands archipelago visible to the west. The beach takes its name from its western exposure creating optimal conditions for watching the sun set over the San Juan Islands and the Strait of Georgia beyond, with the Olympic Mountains visible on the southwestern horizon. Washington Park encompasses 220 acres of forest and waterfront along Fidalgo Island's rocky northwestern shore, established as a municipal park providing recreational access to Anacortes residents and visitors exploring the gateway to the San Juan Islands. The park's beaches and shoreline attract families, boaters, kayakers, and beachcombers seeking access to the protected waters near Deception Pass and the archipelago's eastern approaches.
Kayaking launches from the boat ramp along the beach providing access for paddle trips into the San Juan Islands with routes exploring nearby islands, protected coves, and channels between the archipelago's numerous landmasses, though paddlers should be prepared for strong currents, tidal flows, and wind conditions common in the Strait. Swimming in the cool waters attracts hardy visitors during summer months, though Puget Sound's northern waters remain cold requiring tolerance for Pacific Northwest marine temperatures even in peak season. Beachcombing along the shoreline and exploring tide pools reveals diverse marine life including sea stars, anemones, crabs, barnacles, mussels, and small fish trapped in rocky pools during low tide, with wildflowers blooming along the beach margins during summer months. Wildlife watching includes harbor seals hauling out on nearby rocks, bald eagles soaring overhead and perching in shoreline conifers, great blue herons stalking shallow waters, and diverse seabirds including cormorants, gulls, scoters, and loons utilizing the productive waters where Puget Sound meets the Strait of Georgia. The playground provides equipment for children making Sunset Beach ideal for families combining beach activities with park amenities. Fishing from shore and nearby rocks yields bottom fish, rockfish, and salmon during appropriate seasons, with the boat launch accommodating trailered vessels for deeper water fishing and island exploration.
Anacortes waterfront dining offers excellent seafood options near Washington Park and throughout the city. Anthony's at Cap Sante Marina sits in downtown Anacortes at the Port of Anacortes with scenic waterfront setting viewing commercial fishing fleet and recreational boating activity, featuring two outside decks with covered fireplace deck for year-round outdoor dining and fresh Northwest seafood. Secret Cove presents a hidden gem with amazing water views where seals and porpoises swim and play, serving great food with friendly service in scenic setting. Adrift Restaurant prepares hearty New American dishes made with locally sourced meats, vegetables, and seafood in casual laid-back atmosphere. 13moons Restaurant at Swinomish Casino and Lodge offers hand-cut alder wood grilled seafood and meats with freshest Northwest flavors, receiving Award of Excellence in Wine Spectator's 2025 Restaurant Awards. The Shrimp Shack earned Best Restaurant North Sound and Beyond award by Best of Western Washington 2019 and Evening Magazine recognition.
