A Seaside Sauna Experience at Owen Beach: Svette Sauna in Tacoma, WA
Why Sauna in the Pacific Northwest Is the Perfect Winter Reset
One of my favorite ways to beat the winter weather in the Pacific Northwest is to head into a sauna. There’s something about heating your body from the inside out that not only elevates your mood but carries you through the rest of the day with a grounded, content feeling. That’s exactly the experience I found at Svette Sauna, a seaside sauna at Owen Beach in Tacoma’s Point Defiance Park.
What to Expect at Svette Sauna in Tacoma
Inspired by Nordic tradition, Svette offers guided 75-minute sessions where you alternate between the dry heat of the sauna and cold immersion in the Puget Sound. The cycles of hot and cold are meant to reset both body and mind—and the location makes it uniquely Tacoma.
Spacious Cedar Sauna With Sweeping Views
Before visiting, I had seen photos on Instagram and expected the sauna to feel small, maybe even a bit cramped. But when I stepped inside, I was pleasantly surprised by how spacious it was. With three tiers of seating, the sauna feels open and communal, and while the official max is 12 people, I felt it could comfortably fit that many—or even a few more.
The Puget Sound Cold Plunge Experience
I’ll admit I’m not a big cold plunger, but starting in the Svette sauna changed that. After warming up inside, I actually found myself craving the water. The sweet relief of the chilly Sound was welcomed, and with the tide high and the water calm and clear, it felt like the perfect plunge conditions.
A Relaxing Session With Friends and Community
For this session, my friend Shayne and I had the sauna to ourselves for the first 20 minutes—a private, peaceful start to the morning. Later, we shared the space with a new friend who joined for a quick drop-in session. That mix of quiet time and friendly connection gave the visit a relaxed, community feel.
Outdoor Wellness in Tacoma’s Point Defiance Park
What really stood out, though, was the setting. I loved that the sauna is outdoors, surrounded by the sights and sounds of Point Defiance. Through the high windows, you catch glimpses of the forest and the Puget Sound, a reminder that this experience is as much about nature as it is about heat and water. It was the perfect backdrop for a morning of relaxation and reset.
Why You Should Try Svette Sauna in Tacoma
Svette is more than just a spa day. It’s a practice that blends community, resilience, and self-care, and one I’d recommend to anyone looking for a refreshing way to embrace Pacific Northwest winters.
Tips for First Timers at Svette Sauna
If you’re planning your first visit to Svette Sauna in Tacoma, here are a few tips that can make the experience even better:
Go when the tide is high. The water is easier to access and often calmer, which makes plunging in more enjoyable.
Start with the sauna. Let your body heat up fully before your first plunge—it makes the cold water feel less shocking and more refreshing.
Bring a friend. Sharing the session makes it fun and encouraging, plus you’ll have someone to cheer you on during plunges.
Pack light but smart. A swimsuit, towel, water sandals and water bottle are all you really need. Avoid metal jewelry (it heats up quickly in the sauna).
Embrace the cycles. Aim for two to four rounds of heat and cold to get the full benefit of contrast therapy.
Take a moment to enjoy the view. The forest and water surrounding Owen Beach make this more than just a wellness ritual—it’s a true Pacific Northwest experience.
