Low Tide Tour

Join Harbor WildWatch for a fun and educational public beach walk program on the stunning shorelines of the Salish Sea. Our knowledgeable and friendly biologists and volunteer naturalists will guide you through a hands-on exploration of the intertidal zone, where you will discover the incredible diversity of marine life that calls our local waters home.

During the program, you’ll learn good beach etiquette and get the chance to touch and examine creatures such as sea stars, crabs, and sea anemones, while learning about their unique adaptations and behaviors. You’ll also hear about the challenges facing our ocean ecosystems, and what you can do to help protect them.

This beach walk program is suitable for all ages and skill levels, and is perfect for families, school groups, or anyone with an interest in the natural world. Whether you’re a seasoned beachcomber or a first-time visitor, Harbor WildWatch’s beach walk program is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and complexity of our local marine environment.

Our programs run in all weather, so please dress appropriately. We recommend closed-toe shoes for safety – rain boots, water shoes, or an old pair of sneakers you don’t mind getting a little wet and muddy work great. Bring a water bottle, sunscreen, layers, and a snack if you think you will need it. Each beach walk will last approximately 60-90 minutes but you are welcome to peel off at any time before the beach walk concludes. Harbor WildWatch programs are always free, but a suggested donation of $2 per person or $5 family is appreciated.

Tacoma DeMolay Sand Spit Nature Preserve (Fox Island Sand Spit):
Getting to the Beach: Park in the designated parking lot above the beach. Do not park along the road or on private property. Meet on the lawn, just inside the lower gate at the scheduled start time. Look for Harbor WildWatch staff and volunteers wearing blue. If you arrive late, find us on the beach!
Terrain: There is a steep paved hill down to the beach and then various beach access points that include an eroding path, uneven concrete slabs, or a sloped sandy path. This beach is primarily sand flats, cobble, and gravel with occasional boulders. There is some mud to the right of the beach that we will avoid. The sand spit has a steeper slope than the southwest portion of the beach.
Restroom: Yes – Portable bathrooms only, no running water.
Drinking Water: Not reliably available
Address: 53 Bella Bella Dr, Fox Island, WA 98333
This program is brought to you through a partnership between Harbor WildWatch and PenMet Parks. For more information about PenMet Parks, check out their website: https://penmetparks.org/