Best Beaches on the Olympic Peninsula
Discover the breathtaking Pacific coastline of the Olympic Peninsula, where wild beaches offer stunning views of sea stacks, ancient forests, and abundant marine life. This guide highlights the best sandy and rugged shores for your next adventure.
The picks
- 01
Ruby Beach
Located off Highway 101, this iconic beach is famed for its dramatic sea stacks offshore and colossal driftwood logs washed ashore. Explore tide pools at low tide to spot colorful anemones and starfish.
- 02
Rialto Beach
Just north of La Push, access this wild stretch of coastline from the Quillayute River mouth. A 1.5-mile walk north leads to "Hole-in-the-Wall," a unique arch formation carved into the rock.
- 03
Kalaloch Beach
Famous for the "Tree of Life" — a Sitka spruce clinging to eroding cliffs with its roots exposed over a cave. This easily accessible beach near Kalaloch Lodge offers wide sandy stretches perfect for sunset viewing.
- 04
Shi Shi Beach
Experience true wilderness at this remote beach, requiring a 2-mile hike through a muddy forest and a Makah Recreation Pass. At its northern end, the magnificent Point of the Arches reveals impressive sea stacks and rock formations.
- 05
Second Beach
A popular overnight backpacking destination, accessible via a scenic 0.7-mile trail through coastal forest from La Push. At low tide, explore extensive tide pools teeming with marine life around its towering sea stacks.
Frequently asked
When is the best time to visit the Olympic Peninsula's beaches?
Late spring through early fall offers the driest weather and clearest skies. Winter visits provide dramatic storm-watching opportunities but come with colder temperatures and more rain.
Are the Olympic Peninsula beaches suitable for young children?
Many beaches, like First Beach and Kalaloch, offer easier access and wider sandy areas for kids. Always supervise closely, especially near tide pools or rough surf conditions.
Do I need a pass to access beaches within Olympic National Park?
Yes, a valid Olympic National Park entrance pass is required for many popular beaches like Ruby, Rialto, and Second Beach. Passes can be purchased online or at park entrances.
What are the best activities to do on these beaches?
Popular activities include tide pooling at low tide, photography of sea stacks, beachcombing for unique driftwood, and hiking coastal trails. Always check tide charts before visiting.
Whether you seek dramatic sea stacks or serene tide pools, the Olympic Peninsula's beaches offer unforgettable experiences. Plan your coastal escape with TownHop and discover more hidden gems along the rugged Pacific shoreline.