The Des Moines center point is around 3 miles south of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and 4 miles west of Kent WA.
Just like neighboring Seattle, Des Moines certainly has its rainy season. Come December, the chance of rain jumps over 50%, and that chance of rain lingers in the fortieth percentile from January through March. Even the late spring and late fall months can offer a 20-30% chance of rain or more. Your best bet for beach days is in July when the chance of rain drops to 9%.
The good news is that Des Moines' weather is relatively mild. Winter lows rarely dip below the upper 40s. Summer highs tend to be in the upper 70s, which makes for perfect hiking weather. Since Des Moines is so close to Seattle, there isn't a peak season per se, but hotel rates will likely be lowest during the rainy winter season.
Best Western Seattle Airport Hotel is packed with style and amenities that can be yours at a great discount if you're a AAA member, military and government member, or senior.
During your stay, be sure to visit the indoor pool and spa tub, which is housed in a gorgeous, light-filled atrium, ringed in lounge chairs. The indoor tub leads to an outdoor terrace with umbrellas and more lounge chairs. It's the perfect place to retreat away from a large group or your family to read the news and enjoy a cup of coffee. There's also a fitness center, arcade and game room, complimentary area shuttle, and free daily breakfast service. You'll also enjoy complimentary wireless internet service and cable programming throughout your stay.
Sleep Inn - SeaTac reflects the attributes that make Des Moines so desirable because it's located near the airport and the ocean. You can also easily get around to key sites like the Westfield Southcenter Mall and The Boeing Company. Guest rooms are stylishly appointed with contemporary design and welcome amenities like a flat-screen television, cable programming, complimentary wireless internet, a pillowtop bed, and free toiletries. You can enjoy the free breakfast service each morning, but if you crave late-night pancakes, you can also head to IHOP right downstairs.
Des Moines is one of the few smaller communities in the Seattle area that offers direct access to the shoreline. Boating and fishing enthusiasts travel to Des Moines from near and far to access the city's public marina. Des Moines Beach Park is a favorite local hangout near the marina, where you can get in the water, enjoy a pleasant hike, or relax and enjoy a picnic while watching kids play at the playground. Parking is available on-site for a small fee by the hour or by the day.
Nearby, Saltwater State Park offers just what its name implies: endless saltwater vistas — 1,445 feet of beachfront, to be exact. The park's natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities attract over 750,000 visitors per year. On one side of the beach, you'll find stretches of sandy beach that are perfect for swimming. The western side offers rocky tide flats and a submerged artificial reef that attracts more than just diverse underwater creatures. It's a popular scuba diving spot as well.
While the beachfront is the main attraction at Saltwater State Park, don't overlook McSorley Creek, which winds its way through a steep ravine. Salmon spawn here, and many other fish species live in the waterway and its tributaries. Explore the network of trails which take you from the ravine bottom, next to the creeks, and up through the woodland to plateaus, ridges, and cliff sides above.
Nearby Angle Lake Park in SeaTac offers all-around amenities for a full day of outdoor fun. Parents and kids will love the splash park and playground, while anglers and boaters can spend the day on the water using the park's boat launch. Come early to stake out a barbecue station for an outdoor cookout near the water.
In Redondo, the free MaST Center Aquarium will fascinate anyone who loves creatures of the sea. The aquarium operated by Highline College houses over 250 native species. Visitors get the chance to feed or touch some animals. You can also watch the volunteers on a "live dive," which is simulcast to televisions in the aquarium.
Come for the convenience and stay for the natural beauty and recreational options. Whatever you do during your stay in Des Moines, be sure to enjoy the water views, whether aboard a boat or by land.
Below are reviews of the city of Des Moines, WA from an actual visitor's perspective.
Beautiful. Close to the ocean. Being able to walk everywhere was a bonus. Excellent Restaurants and food.
Love the proximity to the ocean!
Quiet, friendly, and gorgeous!
The waterfront, and many restaurants to dinner and many personal services nearby
The closeness to the airport.
It's an easy walk to a park by the marina. We saw a sea lion, six seals and a couple otters.
Went on a cruise so didn't see city
Went on cruise so didn't see city.
Clean!
Always enjoy the waterfront. The restaurants and pubs we visited had great food and friendly staff.