Things to do in Washington Coast

Olympic National Park is on the Olympic Peninsula, surrounded the Puget Sound on three sides, and just a few hours’ drive from Seattle. This lush rainforest is a sparsely inhabited reserve of rivers, waterfalls, mountains, beaches and wildlife. It takes its name from the glacial peaks of the Olympic Mountains. Just one main road, Highway 101, encircles the peninsula, linking the small cities of Port Angeles and Port Townsend with Olympia, Washington State's capital city.

Prepare for your exploration of the Olympic Peninsula with a stop at the Olympic National Park Visitor Center. Get information from rangers, gather maps and watch the award-winning orientation film, Mosaic of Diversity. Listen for the sound of a Roosevelt elk bugling in the forest and feel the imprint of a cougar track. Through insightful exhibits, you’ll learn about the area’s natural and cultural history.

With its sparkling blue water and pine-clad hillsides, Lake Crescent is one of Olympic National Park’s most popular scenic destinations. Breathe in the fresh air, walk among the pines and toast marshmallows by the campfire. You’ll find plenty of serenity in this pristine wilderness area.

Ocean Shores Beach runs along the entire length of a peninsula, which stretches for about 8 miles (16 kilometers) down Washington’s coastline. Gaze in awe at the mighty Pacific Ocean as it crashes against the North Jetty and find a peaceful patch of sand where you can relax with friends. The beach is often used for lively community events, while the ocean is a playground for watersports enthusiasts.

Wander through Hoh Rain Forest and discover the serene atmosphere and bountiful greenery hidden within. Before setting off, stop at the visitor center and gather extra information about this complex ecosystem. Browse the displays and learn more about this rare type of forest. The center is open daily in summer and from Friday through Sunday during the rest of the year.

For wild beach getaways on the Olympic Peninsula, enjoy La Push Beach’s enticing options. Numbered north to south, First Beach, Second Beach and Third Beach are divided by tall cliffs. Each rugged coastline section offers tide pooling, seashells, massive driftwood piles and wildlife.

Whether you want to play at the water’s edge, build sandcastles, surf or fly a kite, visit the 28-mile (45-kilometer) Long Beach Peninsula for a typical Pacific Northwest experience. Stay several days to enjoy the beach and the many activities the region offers.

Dramatic scenery is a recurring theme in Olympic National Park and Ruby Beach is especially awe-inspiring with its remarkable sea stacks and dramatic colors. Explore the driftwood-strewn shore, enjoy a barbecue on the beach at sunset and take in the extraordinary, ever-changing seascapes.

The first question you’ll likely have upon visiting Cape Disappointment State Park is, “Why does it have such a somber name?” It dates back to the Lewis and Clark era, when Captain John Meares failed in his attempt to find the Columbia River. Though his displeasure is reflected in the park’s title, today join many other visitors who experience the opposite of disappointment when visiting this beautiful coastal site.