CALEDONIA COVE: A Historic Seaside Retreat
Since time immemorial an ancestral summer fishing and gathering outpost of Puyallup and other Coast Salish peoples, Northeast Tacoma, including Caledonia Cove, Brown’s Point, and Dash Point, was acquired by white settlers via the Treaty of Medicine Creek in 1854.
A lantern was first lit at Brown’s Point in 1887, to guide the boats that were the chief means of transport across Commencement Bay to and from the burgeoning port of Tacoma. In 1905 Scottish-born steamboat owner and builder Matthew McDowell bought 80 acres of land and built a house and dock, and eventually a dance hall, adjacent to the lighthouse. He called his compound “Caledonia,” after the poetic name for Scotland.
McDowell’s business thrived as the local population grew and summer visitors poured in; by association with his prosperous estate the area came to be known as Caledonia Cove. Valued for its secluded beaches, marine wildlife, and spectacular water views, and long an escape for those seeking respite from congested urban areas, this peaceful residential enclave offers quick access to downtown Tacoma, downtown Seattle, and SeaTac International Airport.
Caledonia Cove Beach
Those that live along the waterfront typically go beach walking during low tide; it is ideal for walking your dog, getting to know neighbors and getting brisk exercise while taking in the views. In addition, Brown's Point community members enjoy walking around the small community, which functions as a village. It is customary to ask new community members their names and to say hello when walking or driving around the area.
Browns Point Improvement Club
Whether you're from a longtime Browns Point family or a new neighbor moving in, we welcome you to the Browns Point Improvement Club. The BPIC is a non-profit membership community club that sponsors social events, scholarships, and improvement projects. Amenities include a clubhouse that may be rented for events. Sponsored events include The Original Browns Point Salmon Bake, an Easter Egg Hunt, Movie Night, Fishing Derbies, Trick or Treat, Turkey Bingo Night, Paint Your Own Santa Plate.
Browns Point Village
Collection of shops and services includes Lighthouse Market for groceries, restaurants, dry cleaners, Browns Point Diner, Siete Restaurant a hair salon, a business mail box service, and more.
Point Ruston
A waterfront resort-inspired village with panoramic views of the South Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains and Mount Rainier, will be a place to experience the best in Pacific NW living, dining, shopping, recreation, and entertainment. Lovely waterfront restaurants, bars and strolling.
Alki Beach
Miles of sandy beach and local restaurants and cafes overlooking the Olympic Mountains and downtown Seattle.
