Looking for the best things to do on the Washington Coast? You’re in the right place! Berty and I call Washington state our home, and we’ve visited the coast from top to bottom multiple times.
We’ve seen the coast in all seasons, in practically all weather too. (Heads up, it’s rainy more than not!)
We’re here to spill all the juicy details about the best Washington coast towns, where to explore, and what places are worth your time. Let’s get started!
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- No Time To Read?
- Where should I begin my Washington road trip?
- 26 Things to do on the Washington Coast
- 1. Discover the charm of Port Townsend
- 2. Sequim, Washington
- 3. Explore Salt Creek Recreation Area
- 4. Visit Port Angeles, Washington
- 5. Drive Over to Cape Flattery
- 6. Hike the Lake Ozette Loop
- 7. Go Beach Camping at Shi Shi Beach or Cape Alava
- 8. Explore Rialto Beach
- 9. Hike To Hole in the Wall
- 10. Camp at Mora Campground
- 11. See First, Second, and Third Beach in La Push
- 12. Toleak Point
- 13. See Tide Pools at Ruby Beach
- 14. Beach 1, 2, 3, and Beach 4 near Kalaloch
- 15. See the Kalaloch Tree of Life
- 16. Seabrook
- 17. Ocean Shores
- 18. Westport
- 19. Long Beach
- 20. Cape Disappointment
- 21. Astoria-Megler Bridge
Where should I begin my Washington road trip?
If you are looking to plan a trip and accomplish all the things to see on the Washington coast, you’ll want to start either far north or far south in our opinion.
But which direction should you start? Let’s look at the…
Benefits of a northbound trip (starting south ARound Long Beach)
A northbound trip on the Washington coast is easy for travelers who are coming from Portland, Oregon or Vancouver, Washington.
The trip starts off with small beach towns and rugged coastline. As you go north, the towns get bigger and bigger.
You don’t start out with many amenities (think more campgrounds instead) but gradually get easier access to food, gas, and hotels as you drive.
Finally, a northbound Washington coast trip is perfect if you want to end your trip in Seattle. You can take the ferry across Puget Sound as your final hurrah!
Benefits of a southbound trip (starting in Port Townsend/Port Angeles)
If you like to begin prepared, a southbound trip might be the fit for you!
- Bigger cities at the beginning, to stock up on the essentials
- More rugged as you venture on
- Great segue into an Oregon Coast road trip (or Pacific Coast road trip) if you wanted to continue your journey
Alright, now that you’ve determined which direction to go on your trip to the Washington coast, here are some of the best places to stop along your route! (Note: If you’re starting from the south, scroll all the way down to the bottom of this post and your your way up to see destinations in order)
26 Things to do on the Washington Coast
1. Discover the charm of Port Townsend
Found on the northeastern tip of the Olympic Peninsula, the first destination on this Washington coast travel guide is the adorable and historic town of Port Townsend!
Your first stop should be walking the main strip downtown (Water Street) to visit cute shops, coffee shops, and restaurants. The marina is also a fun place to visit, as there is often lots of fishing/crabbing and boating happening there.
While in Port Townsend, hike along the 12 miles of beautiful oceanside trails in Fort Worden Historical State Park, go kayaking in the area, and visit the historic buildings/museums of the former military base.
If you dare, stay overnight at the Palace Hotel…it’s haunted!
2. Sequim, Washington
Sequim, Washington is found in the northeastern section of the Olympic Peninsula.
Known for its lavender farms, you’ll definitely want to add B & B Family Lavender Farm to your Washington coast itinerary.
For big belly laughs and a unique experience, visit the family-friendly Olympic Game Farm. You can feed bison here!
Sequim is a good place to book a VRBO like the Ramblin Rose or this family-friendly rental, especially if staying in Sequim as a homebase to travel the northern part of Olympic National Park.
3. Explore Salt Creek Recreation Area
Just east of Port Angeles, you’ll find Salt Creek Recreation Area – a waterfront park with trails, ball courts, and a campsite. It’s a great place to take the entire family!
This area is perfect for tide pooling, though make sure to check the tide charts so you can safely visit during low tide.
Be sure to visit the Tongue Point peninsula within the park for even more tide pooling and beautiful views.
There’s camping available at the Salt Creek Recreation Area, which you can reserve online.
4. Visit Port Angeles, Washington
Port Angeles is known for being the “base camp” of the Olympic National Park. It’s the biggest city near the park and accessible by ferry, making it a convenient temporary home for all PNW adventurers.
One of the best things about Port Angeles is that visitors have easy access to Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park. You can hike along the Klahhane Ridge Trail (5 miles round trip) or Hurricane Hill Trail (3.2 miles out and back), or drive up to the top of Hurricane Ridge.
If you want to stay in town, Port Angeles has plenty of things to do, including taking the kids to the Feiro Marine Life Center, exploring the rugged coastline of the Ediz Hook beach, and relaxing at Carrie Blake Park (that has a playground!).
While visiting, stay at the Olympic Lodge (pet friendly), which offers guests relaxing suites, an outdoor pool and jacuzzi, and beautiful grounds.
5. Drive Over to Cape Flattery
Located on Makah Tribal Land, Cape Flattery is a peaceful peninsula and is known for its picturesque trails and mesmerizing cliff views.
Some of the coolest attractions in the area include the Cape Flattery Observation Deck where you can see the Cape Flattery Lighthouse and learn about the history of the area. You can also reach the observation deck from the Cape Flattery Trail (easy 1.5 miles round trip with 200’ elevation gain).
Some overnight options include overnight backpacking at Shi Shi Beach or making your way to Forks to stay overnight.
You will need to purchase a pass to access Cape Flattery, which can be purchased online or at an in-person location in Neah Bay.
6. Hike the Lake Ozette Loop
(These photos aren’t Lake Ozette Trail, but the boardwalks are similar!)
One of the coolest coastal hikes in Olympic National Park is the Lake Ozette Loop (AKA Ozette Triangle Trail) – and it’s open year-round!
The hike is a moderately challenging 9.4-mile round trip trek with 538‘ elevation gain.
The Lake Ozette Loop is close to sea level and offers hikers stunning views of sea stacks, multiple ecosystems, and wildlife along the way. There’s also a portion of the hike that takes you through beautiful Olympic National Park forests on boardwalks!
This hike is doable in one day, but most people opt to backpack and stay overnight at the Sand Point or Cape Alava campgrounds (reservation required).
7. Go Beach Camping at Shi Shi Beach or Cape Alava
One of the most unique things to do along the Washington coast is going beach camping! There’s nothing like falling asleep to the calming waves of the Pacific Ocean, making it the perfect activity to try this summer.
We suggest camping in the Ozette area at Shi Shi Beach or Cape Alava, as it has beautiful scenery, trails, and sea stacks.
Permits are required to camp from Point of the Arches to Yellow Banks and can be purchased online, though be aware that reservations are very popular from May-September!
Never been beach camping before? No worries – we’ve got your back with all of our best tips for having the best beach camping experience while on the Washington coast!
8. Explore Rialto Beach
Rialto Beach is not a typical beach you would picture! The Washington coast is rugged, cold, and wild, and Rialto Beach is no exception.
With lots of hiking opportunities up and down the coast, the mysterious Hole in the Wall, tide pools, and coastal forests, Rialto Beach offers visitors a unique experience they won’t forget.
Rialto Beach is also a great place for bird watching, and you’ll likely see bald eagles during your visit!
After your day trip to Rialto Beach, stay overnight at the Quileute Oceanside Resort where you can rent a room or camp.
9. Hike To Hole in the Wall
The Hole in the Wall is a unique coastal feature, located north of Rialto Beach and only accessible during low tide.
While the hike to the Hole in the Wall is short in distance (1.5 miles), it’s harder than it looks because you’re walking in deep sand!
Be sure to visit when the tides are low and check the tide charts – this way you can access the other side of the “hole.”
While in the area, explore the tide pools full of interesting marine life! Check out our post on Oregon coast tide pools, where we talk about tide pool etiquette, and how to enjoy these places safely for all!
AFFORDABLE STAY: Stay overnight at the Outback Too VRBO – a rustic Washington coast cabin that sleeps 2 and is really close to the ocean!
10. Camp at Mora Campground
Mora Campground is very close to Rialto Beach and can be a convenient home base to plenty of activities in the area.
Some nearby attractions include the mysterious town of Forks where the Twilight movies were filmed, the Hoh Rainforest (1 hour drive), and Quillayute River.
Reservations are required May-September and campsites are first come, first served the rest of the year. You can reserve your spot at Mora Campground online for $24 per night.
11. See First, Second, and Third Beach in La Push
Some of the coolest beaches on the Washington coast are the First, Second, and Third Beaches in La Push!
These beaches are found in the Quillayute Needles National Wildlife Refuge, which is located on the Quileute Tribe land.
We love these beaches for their unique sea stacks, viewpoints, hiking, and SURFING!
First Beach is a drive-up beach in La Push, making it the perfect day trip for families, as you can haul all your beach gear in the car!
Second Beach and Third Beach require a hike in. You can also camp overnight on the beach here with a permit, which can be acquired online!
12. Toleak Point
Toleak Point near Forks is a rarely visited area of Olympic National Park. Here, you can enjoy the park’s enchanting nature and quiet solitude.
Toleak Point is located along the South Coast Wilderness Trail. The trail is a backpacking/hiking trail that goes from Third Beach Trailhead to the Oil City Trailhead (moderately difficult 17 miles with 1,900‘ elevation gain).
It’s possible to hike to Toleak Point and back in one day. However, with tide changes and it’s far distance, it makes more sense to camp overnight at Toleak Point. (Plus, it’s more fun that way!)
You will need a wilderness permit to access Toleak Point. But again, this area is rarely visited so you won’t have a problem securing one!
13. See Tide Pools at Ruby Beach
Ruby Beach is the perfect place for families with young kids and folks who love tide pooling!
Be sure to check the tide charts to arrive at Ruby Beach during low tide. This way you have the best chances at enjoying all the wild critters like sea urchin, sea stars, and crabs in the tide pools!
You can also surf at Ruby Beach! Don’t forget your wetsuit!
Some easy places to stay near Ruby Beach include the Kalaloch Lodge and Aliya Preserve camping cabins. Both of these lodging options are relaxing and are located near tons of cool things to do in Olympic National Park.
14. Beach 1, 2, 3, and Beach 4 near Kalaloch
Beaches 1, 2, 3, and 4 are smaller beaches between Kalaloch and Ruby Beach.
While 3 and 4 are the most popular, all four are wonderful Washington coast destinations, as there’s little traffic. It’s a great spot for quiet beach walks and solitude!
These beaches are known for their beachcombing, though be sure to responsibly respect the coast and wildlife.
Stay overnight nearby at the rustic Kalaloch Lodge. It is truly one of the coziest places to stay in Olympic National Park.
15. See the Kalaloch Tree of Life
One of the coolest things to see on the Washington coast is the Kalaloch Tree of Life.
You can reach the Kalaloch Tree of Life by driving 0.7 miles (5 minutes) north to the Kalaloch Campground Day Use Area. Take the short, paved trail down to the beach. It’s right at the bottom of the steps!
Hurry and go see it soon, because erosion is going to make it fall in the near future! We’ve visited several times over the course of this decade, and it has sunk significantly. I wouldn’t be surprised if it was on the news for collapsing any day now!
16. Seabrook
Seabrook, Washington is a darling community located nearby Ocean Shores and Aberdeen, Washington. It was a planned community, with parks, shops, and community trails throughout the town!
Seabrook is full of beautiful vacation homes and places to stay. Our favorites include this vintage-inspired and family-friendly cottage VRBO and this charming getaway VRBO.
Spend your afternoon exploring local shops like Red Cedar Outfitters and Lorraine’s Candle Studio.
For dinner, visit The Stowaway Wine Bar or Koko’s Restaurant and Tequila Bar!
17. Ocean Shores
If you’re looking for a great family-friendly destination, add Ocean Shores to your Washington coast vacation this summer!
Ocean Shores is known for its quiet community, tranquil beaches, and cute town.
There are plenty of things to do in Ocean Shores, including exploring the town and beach by renting an e-bike, going vintage shopping in town, and boogie boarding.
There are tons of hotels to choose from in Ocean Shores, including the relaxed Canterbury Inn and Tidal House!
18. Westport
Westport, Washington is a quiet coastal town that’s perfect for a solo trip or easy-going couples retreat.
For ultimate relaxation, stay at this oceanfront condo VRBO (dog friendly) with easy access to the beach.
While in the area, visit Westport Light State Park where you’ll find vast beaches for your dog to run, a lighthouse, crabbing spots, and ADA accessible hiking trails (Discover Pass required).
What makes Wetsport unique is that it’s popular for surfing and beginner friendly! Each year in September, Westport hosts the Westport Longboard Classic. It’s an annual surfing event, complete with a relay race and individual competitions.
Don’t forget your wetsuit for your trip to Westport!
19. Long Beach
Long Beach is one of the southernmost towns on the Washington coast. It’s for its half-mile boardwalk that hugs the coast and 8.5-mile Discovery Trail.
This area has a beautiful coast to visit where you can drive your car onto the beach, enjoy boogie boarding, read a book, or enjoy a picnic.
There are plenty of places to stay in Long Beach, as there are tons of cute hotels along the shoreline. We suggest staying at the oceanside Inn at Discovery Coast, which features vibey rooms, a pool, and private balconies.
Want to explore more of the area? visit the Willapa National Wildlife Refuge, discover the World Kite Museum in downtown Long Beach, visit any of the town’s six state parks, and go shopping.
20. Cape Disappointment
Cape Disappointment State Park is the southernmost state park in Washington. It’s known for having a great campground (first come, first served).
It’s also close to the charming town of Astoria, Oregon, which has so many fun things to do!
First, hike to Dead Man’s Cove for a detour off the main trail. The route is steep and muddy, so be cautious as you hike!
While in southern Washington, also check out the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse and North Head Lighthouse.
21. Astoria-Megler Bridge
The Astoria-Megler Bridge connects Washington and Oregon across the Columbia River.
It was completed in 1966, and at the time was the longest continuous truss bridge in the world. Nowadays, it’s the longest continuous truss bridge in North America!
After enjoying the historic bridge, check in at the hip Norblad Hotel, then explore the cute shops in Astoria, Oregon.
Grab coffee at Blue Scorcher Bakery & Cafe in the afternoon then eat dinner at the Fort George Brewery.
Where are looking looking forward to stopping on the Washington Coast? Tell us in the comments below!