We were there in July 2017... and this place is amazing! If you want to tide-pool and really don't have the time to make an all day trip to do so, make sure to check out the tide schedules and go here. We were able to find and see starfishes and sea anemones by just walking onto the rocks. Make sure to walk along the base of Seal Rock. That's where we found the starfishes. The walk is very short but of course windy... Have fun!!!
Best way to prepare for high tide so you can see the punchbowl crashing with ocean water-- is to do your research online on high/low tide. This way you'll know what time you should go. It was very windy... My hat flew off several times.
And the punchbowl is literally a few yards from the parking lot. You can stand by the fence and see it.
We spotted several whales there and it was truly a once in a lifetime experience.
Well worth the short stop!
Beautiful place!
There's an informational video on the history of Grotto in the information center... which was very interesting.
Very touristy.... in July. Crowded so plan accordingly.
Note: Parking on the side of road is free on Sundays.
Make sure to take the time to walk around and explore. There are lots of shops and small vendors. Starbucks and some Russian bakery seemed very popular but there are long lines.
There's a small crepe shop there... and the crepes are delicious!! Stop in and try one!!
But otherwise taste the food, people watch and watch out for all the seafood... jumbo shrimp, crab or lobster tail, umm... no...
more so... supersize all the jumbos...
Came to the Space Needle in July and if you'd like to see it at night... Make sure you go early and be prepared to stand in a long line. Otherwise it was really pretty and a must-see if you're in town.