Beach Hikes Near Port Angeles, Washington
Go beach hiking near Port Angeles, Washington. Here's a list of some of our favorite sandy hiking trails to see some of the most epic Olympic Peninsula beaches.
Discover tidepools, stacks and sea otters at serene beachscapes.
Find More Beaches to Explore in and around the Olympic National Park and Port Angeles below.
Hollywood Beach in downtown Port Angeles
This beach makes a great spot to watch the ferry come and go to and from Victoria, B.C. Canada, or launch a kayak or paddleboard from the mellow shore. You’ll often see seals swimming around and can easily get “hands-on” with the local sea life at the Feiro Marine Life Center. There’s also a beachfront playground for the kids and the the Olympic Discovery Trail — a paved bike and walking path that extends for over 70-miles — makes for a scenic shore ride or walk out to Ediz Hook.
Ediz Hook in Port Angeles
Hunt for sea glass on a natural sand spit that creates a calm harbor for beach play and paddle sports like SUP-ing and kayaking as well as a hot spot for whale and bird watching. The Olympic Discovery Trail leads the way to several beachfront parks. Keep an eye out for not only sea life, but also wild kitty cats scampering across the logs and rocks.
Freshwater Bay
Low tide reveals a walkable sandy beach dotted with anemone-covered rocks and pools teeming with crabs and tiny fish.
Salt Creek Recreation Area
A 196-acre county park with forested trails, sandy beach and rocky tide pools that open to Crescent Bay. This bay is part of the Whale Trail where whales can be seen from shore. Hiking and walking trails and even an old World War II bunker is located in the park and is an official location on the National Audubon’s Olympic Loop Washington State Birding Trail. Beachcombing, tide pooling, kite flying, surfing, and kayaking are common beach day activities here.
Rialto Beach
Named one of the top 10 best West Coast beaches by USA Today. It’s an easy walk for kiddos because you don’t have to take a trail to get to the beach — the beach is your trail! Walk about two miles to the Hole-in-the-Wall, a sea arch where you can explore saltwater pools. Watch for whales, sea lions, otters, and bald eagles here.
Second Beach
Follow the deep green forested trail for less than a mile to a stunning secluded beach. Second Beach is one of several beaches in the La Push, Washington area on the Quileute Indian Reservation. The end of the trail usually requires climbing over piles of driftwood, which can be difficult for those with mobility issues. The sea stack views make this a stunning location for watching the sunset and photos. Beach camping and fires are allowed here. Extend your hike along the beach for miles in either direction.