Craving Puget Sound views, small-town charm, and big-city access? Head to Burien, Washington! Just minutes from Seattle and Sea-Tac Airport, Burien is a laid-back city offering quiet beaches, vibrant global cuisine, and stunning sunsets over the Olympic Mountains. Whether you're strolling by the water or savoring multicultural eats, Burien is a hidden gem in the Seattle metro area.
Burien, WA Highlights:
- Walk along Seahurst Park Beach: Explore rocky shoreline, driftwood, and forested trails with sweeping sound views.
- Browse shops and cafés in Olde Burien: Discover local boutiques, art galleries, and cozy coffeehouses in a charming walkable district.
- Catch live performances at Burien Actors Theatre: Enjoy intimate, high-quality productions from this community-focused theater group.
- Picnic and play at Lake Burien Park: Relax in a quiet green space just steps from the city center.
- Explore Highline Heritage Museum: Learn about local history, aviation, and immigrant stories from this dynamic community.
Best Time to Visit Burien, WA
The best time to visit Burien is from late spring through early fall (May to September). Summer offers the sunniest weather, ideal for beach walks, festivals, and enjoying the nearby mountains and water. Fall brings colorful foliage and fewer crowds.
How to Get to Burien, WA
- If you are traveling by car: Burien is located just off WA-518, about 15 minutes south of downtown Seattle and 10 minutes from Sea-Tac Airport.
- By Air: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is less than 10 minutes away, making Burien extremely convenient for travelers.
- By Bus: King County Metro and RapidRide lines offer regular service to and from Seattle, Sea-Tac, and surrounding areas.
Where to Stay in Burien, WA
- Three Tree Point Bed & Breakfast – Waterfront B&B with cozy rooms, spectacular views, and serene ambiance.
- Cedarbrook Lodge – Upscale lodge-style retreat near Sea-Tac, surrounded by gardens and walking trails.
- Hilton Garden Inn Seattle Airport – Modern, convenient hotel with shuttle access to both the airport and Burien attractions.
Best Things to Do in Burien, WA
1. Relax with a view at Seahurst Beach Park
Rating: ★★★★★
Just a 20 minute drive south of Seattle is Seahurst Beach Park in Burien. I was surprised by the size of it all because the parks spans 178 acres along the banks of the Puget Sound.
The beachfront itself is 2,000 feet so it's easy to find the perfect spot if you get there early in the summer.
My favorite time to go is in the off season when native wildlife returns. I've seen eagles there, along with herons and seabirds, and even an occasional pheasant.
Where You'll Find it:
1600 SW Seahurst Park Rd, Burien, WA 98166
I had great pie at Huckleberry Square, a family-style eatery close to the beach.
2. Soar in the air with Seattle Ballooning
If you need a bit of adventure beyond the beach, go on a hot air balloon ride.
Seattle Ballooning has some great itineraries and they are really mindful of giving you the best views of Mount Rainier in the distance.
French-inspired hot air balloons are available for private and semi-private flights throughout the year for up to four passengers. Private experiences make for great anniversary, wedding, and engagement celebrations.
2825 SW 170th St, Burien, WA 98166, Phone: 206-588-9788
3. Have lunch at Elliott Bay Brewing Company
Immerse yourself in a unique local vibe at Elliott Bay Brewing Company which opens at 11am and closes at 9pm daily.
Sample certified organic beers and dine on a full menu of gastropub fare.
I ordered a burger and it was great! My friends raved about the stout-infused barbecue pulled pork so you could go with that instead.
255 SW 152nd St. Burien, WA 98166, Phone: 206-246-4211
4. Explore local history at the Highline Heritage Museum
The best place to learn about the local history is at the Highline Heritage Museum.
After all, at the museum, they believe that exploring one’s heritage is crucial to understanding what it means to be in a community – and Highline’s community in particular.
Go on a tour while you are there to learn all about the past.
Where You'll Find it: 819 SW 152nd Street, Burien, Washington 98166, Phone: 206-402-4029
5. Have dinner at Osteria da Primo
For dinner, I recommend Italian food at Osteria da Primo which draws from the culinary traditions of Italy's Calabria region.
They serve great pizzas, house-made pastas, and fine Italian wines.
I had my fill of potato gnocchi with Calabrian sausage and tomato sauce.
631 SW 152nd Street, Burien, WA 98166, Phone: 206-246-5561
Plan Your Trip