Possession Beach Waterfront Park

ATTENTION POSSESSION WATERFRONT BEACH PARK BOAT RAMP USERS

Possession Beach Waterfront Park Boat Ramp – Temporary Changes

A series of winter storms significantly undermined the sand at the Possession Beach Waterfront Park boat ramp. This damage led to a partial collapse of the concrete, creating an unsafe condition. Recent king tides further worsened the situation by scouring the beach and leaving a steep drop-off at the end of the damaged ramp.

What does this mean for boaters?
The ramp is currently accessible only at a +4 tide or higher. Our maintenance crew has placed curb stops at the end of the ramp to prevent vehicles from reversing too far into the water. Additional signage will be installed soon to warn users of the hazard and provide guidance for safer use of the ramp.

What is the Port of South Whidbey doing about it?
We initially applied for an emergency repair permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; however, the request was denied because the situation was not deemed an emergency. We are now required to apply for a standard permit, which is a longer process. Additionally, the upcoming salmon spawning season further limits repair options, as heavy equipment is not permitted on the beach during this time.

Please rest assured that significant planning and engineering work has already gone into the design of a new ramp to help prevent similar issues in the future. At this stage, we are awaiting the permitting process and will continue to provide updates to the fishing and boating community that relies on this resource year-round.

Seasonal Floats

The floats at Possession Beach Waterfront Park have been removed for the winter season.

Hours of Operation

Dawn to Dusk

Available Services & Facilities

  • Accessible Parking
  • Restrooms
  • Boat Ramp
  • Beach Access
  • Picnic Tables
  • Trail

Arrival/Departure Procedures

The boat ramp is unmonitored. The facility is not a port of entry. No notification is required. Park gates close at sunset. Overnight parking is available for a fee, and camping is prohibited.

Minimum Tide Recommended for Launching

0.0’  [Boarding floats end at about a 0.0’ tide, so a +3.0’ tide is best to use floats.]

Dorothy Cleveland Trail

This short hike is fun and challenging with a lot of switchbacks.

Contact Information

Overnight Parking

Overnight parking is available at Possession Beach Waterfront Park for unoccupied vehicles and boat trailers. Permits may be purchased at the kiosk in the Park for $10 per night. The Park is open from dawn to dusk and vehicles may be accessed only when the Park is open. The Port accepts cash and checks (payable to “Port of South Whidbey”).  Credit cards payments are accepted at the Port office in Freeland (in person only).

Helpful Links

Location and Directions