Marvel at Migratory Magic

Where to See Salmon Spawn in Seattle Southside

Every year, thousands of salmon in the Seattle area make their way from the ocean back to their birthplaces to spawn, transforming in the process. This amazing migration takes place every year between summer and fall, and in Seattle Southside we're surrounded by great places to see the salmon making their journey home. Some of the best spots are in Tukwila and Des Moines – a short drive from SEA airport. While at these sites, you can spot other wildlife such as bald eagles, osprey and blue heron.

Below, read more about where to see salmon and the science behind their migration.

Salmon Spawning Science

Five species of salmon spawn in Washington: Chinook (aka King), pink, coho, chum, and sockeye. Chinook are an especially important part of the Puget Sound's food chain as they are the primary food source for the endangered Southern Resident Orca population.

As salmon make their way home, their bodies change drastically, sometimes turning bright red and developing hooked noses. This is all part of the natural process that allows them to complete their life cycle.

Scientists believe that salmon can tell directions in the ocean by the earth's magnetic field acting like a compass. They also use their sense of smell, which is stronger than that of a dog or a bear, to find their way back to their home stream.

Best Places to Watch the Salmon Run Near Seattle Southside

Duwamish Gardens

Des Moines Beach Park

Codiga Park

Tukwila Urban Center Pedestrian Bridge

Ballard Locks

Miller Creek

Issaquah Salmon Days

More Salmon Watching Resources

Restaurants for Salmon

Identify the Salmon

1Miller Creek

See coho salmon (Oct through mid-Nov) and chum (mid-Nov-early Dec).

2Tukwila Pedestrian Bridge

See pinks (July-Sept), Chinook and coho (Aug-Sept), and chum (Oct-Nov).

3Des Moines Beach Park

See coho salmon (Oct-Nov).

4Duwamish Gardens Park

Spot pinks (Jul-Sep), Chinook and coho (Aug-Sep) and chum (Oct-Nov).

5Codiga Park

See pink (Jul-Sep), Chinook and coho (Aug-Sep), and chum (Oct-Nov).

6North Wind’s Weir

See pinks (Jul-Sept), Chinook and coho (Aug-Sep) and chum (Oct-Nov).

Duwamish Gardens (Tukwila)

Duwamish Gardens is a restored salmon habitat that boasts fantastic art relating to the history of the First Nations who lived on this land. Spot pink salmon from July through September, Chinook and coho in August and September, and chum from October through November. While you're there, don't forget to check out the artwork depicting native legends, which is featured on our Scenes Trail.

Des Moines Beach Park (Des Moines)

Des Moines Beach Park, just a few miles from SeaTac airport, is a local favorite for its stunning waterfront views. It's also home to Des Moines Creek, where coho salmon swim home to spawn between October and November. While you're there, enjoy a picnic or stroll on the beach, then make your way to charming downtown Des Moines to explore more of what the city has to offer.

Codiga Park (Tukwila)

Codiga Park is a former dairy farm along the Duwamish River that features a wide, flat path, picnic tables and a covered area. You can spot various kinds of salmon: pinks (July-September), Chinook and coho (August-September) and chum (October through November). You might also spot bald eagles and other large birds.

Tukwila Urban Center Pedestrian Bridge (Tukwila)

This beautiful bridge isn't just part of a lovely trail, it's a great place to see the salmon. Go during quiet morning hours for your best chance of spotting fish. Pink salmon can be spotted from July through September, Chinook and coho in August and September, and chum can be seen in October and November.

Ballard Locks (Seattle)

At the Ballard Locks, there’s an entire viewing room to watch salmon pass from Puget Sound to Lake Washington. Three species of salmon pass through the Locks during the summer months and, from there, travel 40-50 miles upriver to spawn. Sockeye (Red) from mid-June to mid-July, Chinook (King) in August and coho (Silver) in September. Ballard is about a 40 minute drive from SeaTac. You can also take Link Light Rail and connect to a bus to reach the Locks.

Miller Creek (Normandy Park)

This tucked-away creek in Normandy Park is a great place to check out coho salmon from mid-October through mid-November and chum from mid-November through early December.

North Wind's Weir (Tukwila)

North Wind's Weir is a restored habitat along the Duwamish River where you can see Chinook, pink, coho, chum and steelhead on their way to spawning beds. For best viewing, visit at low tide, especially in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid glare. You can see the river from an accessible walking bridge or a flat walking trail. Parking is available along the street or at Cecil Moses Park across the river. Visitors can often see bald eagles, osprey, kingfisher, and blue heron. The site features in a Puget Sound Salish legend, North Wind Weir, which explains the origin of the rocks in the river.

Salmon Events Near Seattle Southside

Issaquah Salmon Days

This annual arts & culture festival is held every October in downtown Issaquah, about a 30–50 minute drive from SeaTac airport. Considered one of the best outdoor festivals in America, the event celebrates the return of the salmon to Issaquah Creek. The 2024 Issaquah Salmon Days Festival takes place on October 5th and 6th.

Pictured: Sammy the Salmon

Annual Salmon Release at Des Moines Creek Trail

Every spring, community members gather at the Des Moines Creek Trail to release coho salmon fry (baby salmon) into their new home. With shuttle services from Angle Lake Park in SeaTac, this family-friendly event is perfect for anyone hoping to learn more about salmon and conservation. Check for upcoming dates at the City of SeaTac website.

Pictured: Salmon Release

More Salmon Watching Resources

Visit the King County Salmon SEEson website for more info and a comprehensive map of where to catch salmon in cities throughout King County.
Learn from Seattle Aquarium naturalists stationed at the Ballard Locks in Seattle on select dates July-September, and along the Cedar River in Renton every weekend in October.
If you're exploring the Green/Duwamish River, check out this free activity booklet to help guide you on your journey.

No matter where you go to see the salmon, Seattle Southside is an ideal home base for your adventures. When you stay here, all the locations listed above are within a short drive or bus ride.

Salmon on the Menu

The Northwest dining scene is known for its salmon, and for good reason. This naturally flavorful fish doesn't need much seasoning to taste delicious, but when it's done right, there's nothing else like it. Here are some of the best places to enjoy salmon in Seattle Southside.

Duke's Seafood Southcenter, located inside Southcenter Mall, is famous for its signature seafood dishes, which include stuffed salmon, chowder and fish n' chips.

Anthony's HomePort Des Moines specializes in fresh local seafood. As a bonus, the restaurant overlooks the Des Moines Marina and is located next to the Des Moines Yacht Club, so you can gaze at Puget Sound while enjoying your meal.

Aqua Terra, located in the Seattle Airport Marriot, is a contemporary American grill with Northwest accents. The menu features a spice-rubbed salmon filet along with many other classic steakhouse options.

NW Landing, inside the DoubleTree by Hilton, offers many options for salmon-lovers, from salads to pastas to entrees.