Name: Des Moines Marina Pier
Address: 410 S 222nd St, Des Moines, WA 98198, USA

A Gateway to Puget Sound Beauty and Adventure    The Des Moines Marina, tucked along Puget Sound, is a popular destination for both boaters and non-boaters alike. This full-service, 900-slip marina offers salty breezes, spectacular sunsets, and panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains. With a long, well-maintained pier that extends far into the sea, you’ll feel like you’re walking on water. It’s no wonder Des Moines is often dubbed the “Boating Capital of the Pacific Northwest.”     

Highlights   
-Full-Service Moorage: The marina offers wet and dry moorage for 850 vessels and fuel services, making it a welcoming port for both short-term visitors and long-term boaters. The guest moorage area provides 1,500 feet of dock space for vessels up to 100 feet in length. Learn more here.      
-Boardwalk and Fishing Pier: Enjoy stunning walks along the waterfront or try your luck at fishing from the public pier.    
-Public Art: Walk around the marina to discover many pieces of public art, including the fascinating marinascope<https://zh.seattlesouthside.com/directory/marinascope/>.     
-Spend a Day at the Park: Adjacent to the marina, Des Moines Beach Park features a grassy field perfect for playing or picnicking, a rocky beach, and trails to explore.    
-Farmers Market: On summer Saturdays, the marina hosts the Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market, featuring fresh produce and flowers as well as ready-to-eat food and wares from local artisans.     Walkable Marina District: Several restaurants and cafes nearby offer waterfront views, including Anthony's HomePort & Lower Deck<https://www.seattlesouthside.com/directory/anthonys-homeport-and-lower-deck/> and Quarterdeck<https://www.seattlesouthside.com/directory/quarterdeck/>. A quick stroll east also brings you to boutique shopping, wine tastings, and cozy cafes—all wrapped in small-town charm.     
-The Vibe: The Des Moines Marina is equal parts tranquil escape and lively hub. From paddleboarding beneath pink skies to savoring local

Des Moines Marina Pier

image - 2026-04-22T172500.995 (1).png

Looking for fun things to do in Seattle? Seattle Southside offers limitless fun, all year round. From indoor skydiving in the winter to beachcombing in the summer, there are so many things to do and see, you’ll be sure to find fun for the entire family in Seattle’s Backyard.
From Starfire Sports to North SeaTac BMX Park, you’ll find a wide variety of sporting venues in Seattle Southside. Participants will also find plenty of post-game fun, including go-kart racing, bowling and indoor skydiving. And we’ll be happy to offer you complimentary planning help for everything from group activities to team housing. Make your next sporting event one for the record books in Seattle Southside.


Explore Seattle Southside

A Fresh Taste of the Pacific Northwest at Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market  Immerse yourself in the vibrant community spirit of Des Moines, Washington, at the Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market. Established in 2006, this absolute gem of a local market weaves together the best of local agriculture, artisan crafts, and lively entertainment against the scenic backdrop of Puget Sound. Running every Saturday from June through September, the market promises an array of fresh produce, flowers, and unique local crafts, complemented by live music and picturesque views.  

Need to Know:  
*	Market Days: Every Saturday, 10 AM to 2 PM, from June through September.  
*	Special Features: From fresh local produce and flowers to artisan crafts, food vendors, and live music, the market offers a rich tapestry of community life​​​​.  

The Vibe:  The Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market is more than just a place to shop for produce; it's a community hub where visitors can enjoy sampling the local bounty while overlooking the Olympic Mountains, Vashon and Maury Islands, and the waters of Puget Sound beyond the Marina. Here you can indulge in delicious eats from food trucks and explore the works of amazing artisans. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to Seattle Southside, the market provides a welcoming space for shopping, strolling, and socializing​​.  

Good to Know:  The market goes far beyond just shopping; it's about experiencing the rich agricultural and artisanal bounty of Washington. Enjoy live music, a picnic area for leisurely lunches, and the opportunity to meet and support local farmers and artisans. The market also participates in food security initiatives, accepting vouchers and offering matching programs, ensuring access to fresh, healthy food for all​​​​. As a nonprofit organization, the market is far more focused on providing quality food and service than it is on making a buck. 

Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market (Seasonal)

Sound View Park – built on the lot that once housed the historic Van Gasken view home that was torn down in 2020 – is now open.    

“This unique space celebrates the history of the Des Moines region,” the city said in a statement.      

The city acquired the property by obtaining a $1+ million_ grant from the Washington Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO). An additional $95,000 was received from the RCO in March, 2022, with an additional $275,000 coming from the city.    

The park is contiguous with Overlook II Park, and provides a gathering space with sweeping vistas of Puget Sound, Vashon Island, Maury Island, and the Olympic Mountains.    

The City collaborated with the State Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation (DAHP), the RCO, and area Native American Tribes including Muckleshoot, Puyallup, and Snoqualmie, to incorporate artwork and native plantings into the design of the site. Additions are planned in the coming months.  “Incorporating local, Tribal art will acknowledge this special land and enhance the recreation experience through a beautifully designed open space,” the city added.    

The park is now open for community enjoyment. In consultation with local Tribes, native plant species that held special meaning and purpose to the land in the area are included in the landscaping. Some species include: Sala Snowberry, Red Flowering Currant, Wild Onion, Wild Ginger, Black Gooseberry, Wild Strawberry  Story Stones that tell Tribal legends are also included on the site. One of these tells the story of Lizard Woman, as translated by Muckleshoot Elder-Yikut: “There was? a boulder on the beach near Des Moines, known as White Rock. When the Snake People were going on an expedition to Vashon Island, Lizard Woman stayed behind and sunned herself on this rock. Accordingly, lizards are plentiful in this vicinity. “ Denino speculates that “Blanket Rock” (the father) lies to the south near Redondo Beach/Buenna (Federal Way), and “White Rock” (the daughter) i

Sound View Park

Rain or shine, Quarterdeck is the perfect place to savor a drink with a waterfront view. This quaint, locally owned cafe and bar is right near the beach at the Des Moines Marina and has ample outdoor seating. On a warm day, you can soak up the sun while taking in breathtaking views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains in the distance. During cooler months, you can stay cozy in a heated outdoor tent, or at one of the tables inside. Even better, it stays open until mid-evening, making it a great place to gather with friends for drinks, or to post up by yourself with a book and a glass of wine.     

It’s dog-friendly, kid-friendly, and you can even bring in outside food if you’d like. Basically, it’s like going to your most hospitable friend’s waterfront home!    

NEED TO KNOW:    
-Community Events: Quarterdeck was founded with the intention to be a community hub where everyone feels at home. It regularly hosts fun, welcoming events, like trivia and bingo nights, wine tastings, and live music. Check their website for upcoming dates.     
-Not Your Average Cup of Jo: Quarterdeck serves organic coffee from Anchor House Roasting, a premium roastery in Buckley, Washington. Enjoy drip, espresso, cold brew, and specialty drinks. Pair your drink with a fresh, flaky pastry from Macrina Bakery.    
-Premium Alcoholic Beverages: Choose from local craft beer and cider on tap and wines from the PNW and around the world, available in bottles or by the glass.    
-Snacks to Savor: Nibble on a charcuterie plate filled with artisanal cheeses and meats, or fill up with warm or cold sandwiches, wraps, or salads. There are also breakfast options, including a mouthwatering sausage omelette melt made with cage-free eggs. You can also bring in outside food if you’d like!      

THE VIBE:    Quarterdeck is warm, welcoming, and casual. The deck and outdoor seating area are beautifully maintained, and the view is unbeatable.

Quarterdeck

Uncover the Mystery: The Maury Island Incident Mural  Tucked away in the Seattle Southside area, the Maury Island Incident Mural in Des Moines, Washington, commemorates one of the most mysterious and debated UFO sightings in American history. This striking mural tells the story of the infamous 1947 Maury Island Incident, a tale involving flying saucers, strange debris, and government agents. Located on the side of a shipping container outside a local building, the mural brings this intriguing piece of Pacific Northwest folklore to life, capturing the imagination of passersby and inviting them to delve into the mystery that still lingers today.    

Key Features to Explore      
*	Historical Significance: The mural depicts key elements of the 1947 Maury Island UFO sighting, which occurred just days before the famous Roswell incident. The case involved Harold Dahl, a local man who claimed to have witnessed six flying saucers near Maury Island in Puget Sound, and later reported falling debris and other strange occurrences.  
*	Artistic Depiction of the UFO Encounter: The mural, commissioned by John White and created by Nancy and Zach Pahl, features vibrant, detailed imagery of flying saucers, the Puget Sound, and the boats that were involved in the incident. Its dynamic design is both visually captivating and rich in narrative, sparking curiosity about the long-standing mystery.  
*	Cultural and Local Relevance: The Maury Island Incident is a part of local lore, and the mural pays homage to the Pacific Northwest’s fascination with UFOs and the unknown. It connects visitors to the region's history of aviation, conspiracy theories, and government involvement in UFO investigations.  
*	Local Landmark: The mural has become a beloved piece of public art in Des Moines, drawing both UFO enthusiasts and casual observers. It’s an ideal stop for those interested in exploring the more unusual aspects of local history.  

Maury Island mural

Sweet D'licias offers a taste of Mexico in the heart of downtown Des Moines, combining an eatery selling fresh desserts and snacks with a small Mexican grocery. Try a frozen dessert or salty, spicy snack, then explore the aisles to sample imported chips in extra spicy flavors and candy you can’t find at typical stores. Whether you already love Mexican street food or you're an adventurous foodie who wants to venture off the beaten path, you will leave this place happy.    

Highlights:    
- Frozen Desserts: Cool off with a cone of homemade nieves de garrafa, a frozen dessert very similar to ice cream that’s blended with fruit flavors like mango, guava, and mamay (a pumpkin-like fruit with mildly sweet flavor). Punch up the flavor with a drizzle of chamoy, a popular condiment that’s ​​sweet, sour, salty, and spicy all at once. Or, try a raspado (Mexican shaved ice). Either way, you can’t go wrong.    
- Fresh Fruit: Try healthy treats like flower-shaped fresh mango on a stick, whole tropical fruits like nance, a bite-sized tropical fruit common in Latin America, or fresh strawberries in coconut cream.     
- Savory Snacks: The esquites (Mexican street corn) is creamy, salty, and super satisfying. You can even get it sprinkled with a dusting off Hot Cheetos for extra kick!     
- The Vibe:  Sweet D’licias offers an authentic slice of Mexican street food in a festive, colorful atmosphere.

Sweet D'Licias

Located just a few blocks from the scenic Des Moines Marina, Teacup offers a refreshing stop for boba and bites. This family-owned spot offers healthy, high-quality drinks and dishes that leave you smiling. As one of the only boba shops in the area serving 100% organic teas and cane sugar-based drinks, Teacup sets itself apart with a commitment to real ingredients and feel-good flavors. Whether you’re craving a handcrafted bubble tea or a satisfying Vietnamese meal, this café has something thoughtfully made for you.    

NEED TO KNOW    
-Certified Organic Teas: All drinks are brewed from organic black, jasmine green, matcha, and green teas, setting Teacup apart. No artificial powders—just real tea.    
-Cane Sugar, Always Included: Instead of high-fructose corn syrup, Teacup sweetens every drink with natural cane sugar at no extra charge, offering a cleaner, healthier way to enjoy your favorite beverages.    
-Fully Customizable Drinks: Choose from more than a dozen boba tea flavors, over ten smoothie blends, and countless topping combos. Guests can mix flavors freely to create a one-of-a-kind drink every time.  
-Fresh, Flavorful Vietnamese Cuisine: Teacup serves a full Vietnamese menu featuring Banh Mi sandwiches, fresh salad spring rolls, egg rolls, vermicelli bowls, and hot soups—always made fresh to order.    

The Vibe: Wholesome, Welcoming, and Made with Care    

Teacup Des Moines radiates the kind of warmth you only find in a family-owned café. With a calm, cozy setting just minutes from the marina, it’s a perfect place to recharge with something fresh.

TeaCup

Discover the Serenity of Des Moines Beach Park   

 Just three miles from the airport, Des Moines Beach Park sprawls across 19.6 acres of scenic waterfront bliss. A sanctuary where tranquility meets the rhythmic sounds of the sea, this park offers an array of activities set against the backdrop of Puget Sound's majestic views. Whether it's a peaceful stroll, a family picnic, or a day spent collecting seashells by the shore, Des Moines Beach Park serves as a perfect retreat for those seeking solace or adventure in the embrace of nature.  

Need to Know:  
*	Activities Galore: From leisurely trails and beachside picnics to immersive water play, the park caters to all ages and interests.  
*	Spectacular Views: Renowned for offering some of the most beautiful vistas of Puget Sound, especially enchanting at sunset.  
*	Historical Essence: The park's rich history, dating back to its days as Covenant Beach Bible Camp, adds a layer of cultural depth to your visit​​. 
*	Seasonal Events: Des Moines Beach Park is often home to both public and private events, including outdoor concerts and the Poverty Bay Blues & Brews Festival.  
*	Convenient Location: With its proximity to the Des Moines Marina and the downtown Des Moines area, you're right next to lots of dining options and fun activities for before or after your beach trip.  

The Vibe:  Des Moines Beach Park is a serene oasis that invites visitors to unwind and reconnect with nature. The park's vibrant ecosystem, combined with its historical charm, provides a peaceful yet engaging environment for all who walk its paths. It's a place where laughter and leisure blend seamlessly with the soothing ambiance of the shoreline, making every visit a memorable experience.  

Good to Know:  Immerse yourself in the beauty and activities Des Moines Beach Park has to offer. With its extensive beachfront, picnic areas, and historical landmarks, the park is a haven for those looking to explore or relax. 

Des Moines Beach Park

PortoVino Italian Restaurant offers authentic Italian cuisine in a warm, intimate setting. Since opening in April 2025, it’s quickly become a favorite of locals, who rave about the quality of the dishes, attentive service, and thoughtfully renovated space, complete with a full bar, fireplace lounge, and outdoor patio for sunny days. Whether you’re craving a romantic night out or a cozy gathering with friends, PortoVino invites you to sip, savor, and stay awhile.      

Need to Know:      
*	Authentic Italian Dishes: Find comforting Italian classics like pollo al marsala, linguini de mare piccata, and carbonara, as well as a melt-in-your-mouth filet mignon. Guests also can’t get enough of the perfectly balanced spinach salad and the tiramisu that ""melts like velvet"" in your mouth.    
*	Cozy, Sultry Atmosphere: The ambiance leans toward dark and intimate. Soft lighting, a crackling fireplace, and tasteful décor create a moody, romantic setting ideal for lingering meals.    
*	Thoughtful Service and Presentation: The owner's attention to detail shines through not just in the renovation of the space, but in the service and food presentation. Staff are described as wonderfully attentive, welcoming, and stylish, enhancing the full experience.    
*	A Patio with a View: On warm evenings, enjoy outdoor seating with a view of Puget Sound.      

The Vibe    PortoVino exudes a romantic sophistication with a welcoming soul. Ideal for date nights and celebrations, this Marina District treasure wraps guests in a rich sensory experience that feels both timeless and fresh.

PortoVino Ristorante Italiano

All Star Sports Bar in Des Moines, WA, is the kind of laid-back, high-energy neighborhood bar where locals gather to watch the big game, unwind with friends, and enjoy comforting bar food and ice-cold beer on tap. A classic sports bar with a community feel, it’s known for its friendly staff, welcoming crowd, and wall-to-wall TVs that ensure you won’t miss a single touchdown, home run, or buzzer-beater.    

Whether you're coming for Sunday football, karaoke night, or just a casual drink after work, All Star delivers an easygoing atmosphere where sports fans and good-times seekers feel right at home. It’s a lively spot with all the essentials: great wings, generous pours, and good company.    

NEED TO KNOW    
-Wall-to-Wall Game Day Coverage: With TVs lining the walls and all the major sports channels on deck, this is the go-to place to catch football, soccer, baseball, rugby, and hockey.    
-No-Frills, Full-Flavor Food: The menu hits all the sports bar cravings—from saucy wings and burgers to loaded fries and nachos.     
-Friendly Service & Familiar Faces: Regulars often highlight the attentive bartenders and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a spot where new faces are welcomed and regulars are remembered.    
-Pool, Darts & More: When there’s a break between innings or a halftime lull, guests can shoot a round of pool, throw darts, or just kick back and soak in the buzz.    
-The Vibe: Classic Sports Bar with a Community Soul  Stepping into All Star Sports Bar feels like dropping into your favorite team’s tailgate party—casual, energetic, and full of camaraderie. It’s the kind of place where you can wear your jersey, order your usual, and cheer with the crowd.

All-Star Sports Bar

A Game-Day Haven    

Locally owned Jamar’s Sports Bar and Grill in Des Moines is a go-to spot for good drinks, hearty comfort food, and an electric atmosphere on game days. With walls lined with TVs broadcasting all the latest sports action and a menu packed with crowd-pleasing favorites, you'll feel right at home. Run by local entrepreneur and event promoter Jamar Jones, the bar quickly became a community hub when it opened in September 2024 and has continued to expand with more special events.    

Need to Know:    
-Game Day and Party Central – Multiple large-screen TVs ensure you never miss a moment of the action. With a pool table, darts, karaoke, and a welcoming atmosphere, it's an ideal spot for group gatherings and celebrations.     
-Flavor-Packed Menu – From crispy, saucy wings to towering burgers, Jamar’s serves up comfort food done right. Their signature loaded fries are a must-try, and their selection of craft beers and specialty cocktails pairs perfectly with any meal. Whether you’re sharing a plate of nachos with friends or digging into a hearty steak, the menu has something for every appetite.    
-Weekend Entertainment – Beyond sports, Jamar’s turns up the fun with special events like trivia nights, paint n' sips, and DJ sets that keep the energy high.    
-The Vibe:   With a mix of casual comfort and high-energy excitement, Jamar’s Sports Bar and Grill is a go-to for game nights and good times. The cheers of fans, the smell of sizzling burgers, and the clink of drinks set the scene for a lively, welcoming space where every visit feels like a celebration.

Jamar’s Sports Bar and Grill

A Floral Boutique Blossoming with Charm and Elegance      

Iris & Peony Floral and Home is a locally owned floral and gift shop in downtown Des Moines. Founded by event design professionals Robyn Desimone and Shelly Tolo, the shop (which was originally in Burien), is a favorite for those seeking unique arrangements and distinctive home accents. Whether you're commemorating a special occasion or simply brightening your space, Iris & Peony offers a personalized and enchanting experience. To find the new location, head to S. 225th St. in Des Moines and walk down Backstage Alley, behind the Des Moines Theater.       

Need to Know:      
-Custom Floral Arrangements: Iris & Peony crafts bouquets that reflect individual tastes and the essence of each occasion.      
-Curated Home Décor: Beyond flowers, the boutique features a handpicked selection of upscale home décor items, gifts, and accessories, with a heavy emphasis on seasonal decor. Every few months, the inventory is completely refreshed with new items, creating a cozy, festive ambience. From vases of all sizes to decorative throw pillows to luxury candles and more, there's plenty to choose from, whether you're shopping for yourself or someone else.          
-The Vibe:  As a small, local business, Iris & Peony offers a personal touch. When you come in, there's a good chance you'll chat with the owner, who can help you find what you need.

Iris & Peony

The 2026 9U PG Harvest Slugfest (Saturday Only) is a premier youth baseball tournament hosted by Perfect Game, the world’s largest and most respected amateur baseball scouting organization. Held on October 3, 2026, at Steven J Underwood Memorial Park in Des Moines, Washington, this single-day event offers young athletes born on or after May 1, 2017 the chance to compete on premium turf fields with professional officiating. Participants will enjoy efficient tournament management, high-quality facilities, and opportunities to boost player and team rankings through scouting coverage and social media exposure. Registration is open now for 9U teams seeking a competitive and well-organized baseball experience.

2026 9U Perfect Game Harvest Slugfest 

Get ready for a spooky good time with our annual 4v4 indoor Boo Fest Jamboree! Teams are encouraged to get into the Halloween spirit with their own costumes and fun teams. The fun doesn’t stop off the field either as we will have Halloween-themed crafts and activities along with our annual haunted maze!

(2) 12-minute halves
Field size approx. 25 yds x 20 yds
4v4 format
3 games
No goalkeepers
Starfire referees (1 per game)
Game balls provided
Halloween-themed crafts & activities
Costumes encouraged!
Paid parking in effect at Starfire

Boofest Jamboree

**2026 Emerald City Cup** returns to Starfire Sports in Tukwila on **October 31 – November 1, 2026**, bringing together top boys lacrosse teams from across the region for a weekend of high-level competition. Teams from **3rd/4th grade through High School Varsity** will compete in a guaranteed **five-game format**, including pool play followed by playoff or consolation games. Hosted by CitySide Lax, the tournament emphasizes competitive matchups, player development, and a first-class event experience for athletes, coaches, and families.

Emerald City Cup Boys Lacrosse 

Experience the excitement of the **NWAC Soccer Championships**, where the conference’s top teams compete for a championship title.

Championship action takes place on **Friday, November 13, and Sunday, November 15**, giving soccer fans two days to cheer on talented NWAC student-athletes as they battle their way toward the title.

Des Moines Marina Pier

About Des Moines Marina Pier

Quick Links

Phone Number

Happening in Explore Seattle Southside

Near Des Moines Marina Pier