Best Beaches & Coasts

Olympic National Park’s coastline features rugged terrain shaped by the Pacific Ocean. This collection covers the wilderness stretch from the Makah Reservation to the Kalaloch area. Key geological features include basalt sea stacks, natural rock arches like Hole-in-the-Wall, and extensive tide pools. These beaches are characterized by massive driftwood logs, temperate rainforest borders, and unique sandy compositions containing garnet minerals. Access varies from roadside viewpoints to multi-mile forested hikes.

Second Beach

Accessed via a 0.7-mile forested trail. Features expansive tide pools and views of the C-shaped sea stack formation. Part of the Quillayute Needles National Wildlife Refuge.

Ruby Beach

Known for reddish-tinted sand containing almandine garnet crystals. Features the Cedar Creek drainage and views of Abbey Island. Large sea stacks and driftwood piles line the shore.

Rialto Beach

Home to the Hole-in-the-Wall rock arch, accessible by a 1.5-mile hike north at low tide. Features the Quillayute Needles offshore and a shoreline covered in massive bleached driftwood logs.

Kalaloch

Features the Tree of Life, a Sitka spruce suspended over a cave by its root system. This wide, sandy stretch is a protected habitat for Tufted Puffins and Olympic pocket gophers.

First Beach

Located within the Quileute Indian Reservation at La Push. The only beach in the area with direct vehicle access. Offers views of James Island and the Quileute Needles.

Third Beach

Reached via a 1.4-mile trail through coastal forest. Features a seasonal waterfall plunging from the cliffs and views of the Giant’s Graveyard sea stack cluster to the south.

Shi Shi Beach

Located on the Makah Reservation, requiring a tribal permit for access. Features the Point of Arches, a mile-long series of jagged sea stacks and extensive tide pools.