BY AARDE WRITES for WEEKLY VOLCANO 6/6/25 |
Hey Aarde,
I want to get into tide-pooling in Tacoma. Is there anywhere nearby where I can get my boots wet?
Signed,
Crustacean Chaser
Hey Crustacean Chaser,
Oh, Tacoma! A gem of a place surrounded by water and magic, complete with creatures of all kinds. We have many places where one can examine life forms from the deep, and once you arm yourself with a bit of knowledge, you’ll be getting your boots wet in no time! Not to be mistaken as a boring activity, tide-pooling can offer a peaceful, meditative experience that maintains excitement with its ever-changing tides, bringing multiple discoveries each time you visit. Seeing starfish (thankfully they are back!), scuttling crabs, and alien-esque sea anemones—it’s no wonder photographers, artists, writers, and nature lovers alike gather in the glittering pools left by a retreating tide. Each pool showcases a magical vignette of life, featuring resilience, adaptability, and wonder.
With that said, let’s consider some key points for ecological safety while tide-pooling:
You’re walking on top of someone’s home: Step lightly.
You can experience something with your eyes: Look, don’t touch.
You’ve heard of kidnapping? Don’t take marine life.
You can make a difference! Pick up trash (even if it’s not yours—bring a bag!).
You don’t want to drown? Be aware of tides.
You like not falling and looking smart? Wear the right shoes—sturdy, waterproof, and with a good grip.
You like your family? Keep your kids and dogs close (barnacles are sharp, and sneaker waves are real!).
I like to take it all in with childhood wonder, taking notes and drawing pictures of what I find, then going home to conduct research and build on my findings each time I return. Before you go, gather your gear: boots, camera, sketchbook, snack, garbage bag or bucket, and an up-to-date tide chart. You can never know everything there is to know about our deep seas, but you can explore all the viable geographical options around us.
You can look up tide charts online and print a physical copy of the tide guides for the local area at www.tideschart.com/United-States/Washington/Pierce-County/Tacoma, and preview journals with information to better educate yourself so you can make the best out of your adventure by visiting Harbor WildWatch Low Tide Tours, www.ourwildpugetsound.com/journal/puget-sound-tidepooling-guide-preview, and many others.
As far as good local options for marine life exploration, the most popular on the list are Titlow Beach, Owen Beach, Kopachuck State Park, and Narrows Park. If you’re willing to drive a bit, Tolmie State Park in Olympia has proven to be full of life. Other great spots include Penrose State Park, Manchester State Park, Saltwater State Park, or—my personal favorite—Salt Creek Recreation Area in Port Angeles.
If you’re looking for a more guided experience with a qualified naturalist, consider Tiptoe Through the Tidepools on the following dates at Titlow Beach:
• July 11, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
• July 23, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• August 9, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
You live in a prime location full of untamed coastal enchantment—explore responsibly!
Do you have a question for Ask Aarde? Write in for advice to: jdaarde@gmail.com
