Exploring Puget Sound by boat isn’t just about the scenery—it’s also about the destinations along the way. From casual dockside taverns to elegant seafood houses, the region is full of restaurants that welcome boaters to tie up and enjoy a great meal with a view. Whether you’re cruising into Seattle, Tacoma, or one of the smaller harbors, here’s a list of boat-accessible restaurants worth adding to your next outing.
1. Anthony’s Pier 66 (Bell Harbor Marina) – Seattle
- Why go by boat: Guest moorage available at Bell Harbor Marina with advance reservations; dock right at the door. anthonys.com
- What to expect: Elegant northwest seafood, panoramic views of downtown Seattle, Mount Rainier, and Elliott Bay. anthonys.comWikipedia
2. Ray’s Boathouse – Ballard, Seattle
- Why go by boat: Nestled on Shilshole Bay, Ray’s naturally accommodates boat arrivals. WikipediaRay’s
- Cuisine & scenery: Esteemed for sustainable, Pacific Northwest seafood and unbeatable views of Puget Sound and the Olympics. WikipediaRay’s
3. Miri’s Golden Gardens – Seattle
- Boat access: A favorite among cruising boaters for casual, dockside dining. Boatsetter
- What’s on offer: Homemade flatbreads, grilled kebabs, and Dutch poffertjes with lovely Shilshole Bay vistas. Boatsetter
4. Marination Ma Kai – West Seattle
- Docking: Boat-friendly, popular for laid-back beachside dock-and-dine. The WeekBoatsetter
- Menu & vibe: Hawaiian-inspired tacos and bowls with sweeping city skyline views—a relaxed, cheerful spot. The WeekBoatsetter
5. Westward – Lake Union, Seattle
- Arrive by water: Dock right next to the waterfront patio. The WeekBoatsetter
- Ambiance: Upscale, Pacific Coast seafood served with skyline views—perfect for a summer sunset dinner. The WeekBoatsetter
6. Bowriders – Lake Union
- Boat-accessible: Designed with boaters in mind, it’s featured on top “dock-and-dine” lists. Boatsetterjetboaters.net
- Specialties: Casual fare with waterfront lounging—ideal for a relaxed lakeside meal. jetboaters.netBoatsetter
7. Agua Verde – Lake Union
- Nearby docking: A favorite destination for boaters exploring the Lake Union scene. jetboaters.net
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired menu in a vibrant, waterfront setting. jetboaters.net
8. Beach House – Kirkland
- Boat access: Dock and dine at this waterfront gem on Lake Washington. Boat PNW
- Overview: Northwest seafood classics, sandwiches, and cocktails in a cozy, upscale bar atmosphere. Boat PNW
9. Johnny’s Dock – Tacoma
- Marina dining: With full marina services, boats from 20-55 ft can dock and dine. Boat South Sound
- Menu & mood: Casual seafood & sandwiches served beside water views—accessible and family-friendly. Boat South Sound
10. Boathouse 19 – Tacoma
- Dockside delight: Set over the waters of Tacoma Narrows Marina, with views of the bridge and marina activity. Boat South Sound
- Dining style: Fun, casual, affordable—part of the Lobster Shop family. Boat South Sound
11. Tides Tavern (Gig Harbor)
- Local favorite: Mentioned by boaters as a reliable, dock-approachable tavern. Reddit
- Pro tip: Order online to dine right from the dock—clam chowder highly recommended. Reddit
Boater-Recommended Highlights (from local forums):
“Tides Tavern in Gig Harbor, Ram Brewery in Tacoma, Bell Harbor Marina has a public dock … Friday Harbor has a public dock.”
“Some of our favorites are Bowriders, Agua Verde, The White Swan, Bluewater Bistro, Beach House, Meydenbauer Bay …”
jetboaters.net
“Chinooks or Bay Cafe at Fishermen’s Terminal. Ivar’s on south Lake Union.”
Summary Table
| Restaurant | Location | Boat Access | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anthony’s Pier 66 | Downtown Seattle | Bell Harbor Marina moorage | Upscale PNW seafood, views |
| Ray’s Boathouse | Ballard | Natural bay access | Iconic seafood, Olympic views |
| Miri’s Golden Gardens | Shilshole Bay | Casual dock | Flatbreads, Shilshole vistas |
| Marination Ma Kai | West Seattle | Dock | Hawaiian fare, skyline setting |
| Westward | Lake Union | Waterfront dock | Pacific seafood and skyline |
| Bowriders | Lake Union | Boat-friendly | Casual, lakeside dining |
| Agua Verde | Lake Union | Boat-frequented | Mexican-inspired, vibrant |
| Beach House | Kirkland | Waterfront docking | Upscale NW seafood, ambiance |
| Johnny’s Dock | Tacoma | Marina services | Casual seafood, family-friendly |
| Boathouse 19 | Tacoma | Dockside setting | Affordable, fun, marina views |
| Tides Tavern | Gig Harbor | Dock & dine | Tavern-style food, chowder |
Want more great boating stories, tips, and recipes? Check out these related articles on PNWBoater.com and keep the Pacific Northwest boating spirit going! ⚓
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