Washington State is known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse landscape; from long stretches of sandy shoreline to rocky coves with dramatic sea stacks. These Washington State Beaches offer the perfect getaway for holidaymakers.
The following are some of the best beaches in Washington State, from the Olympic Peninsula to the San Juan Islands and beyond. Whether looking for a peaceful, relaxing spot or an outdoor adventure, these beaches will impress and inspire you.
Most Popular Beach In Washington State
Long Beach Peninsula
Long Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the Washington coast. It is known for its expansive sandy beachfront, world-famous boardwalk, and other enjoyable activities. That is why it attracts visitors from all over the region.
In the state’s southern part, Long Beach is a popular vacation spot for individuals of all ages, including families, couples, and those who enjoy being outside.
The boardwalk, which runs along the beach and provides spectacular ocean views, is one of Long Beach’s attractions. The gallery features a variety of stores, restaurants, and activities, such as an arcade, bumper cars, and an observation tower. It creates a delightful and nostalgic beach experience that children and couples love.
Long Beach is also a fantastic outdoor leisure location, with several hiking, biking, and horseback riding opportunities. The nearby Discovery Trail, which goes along the shore and provides spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, is a great spot for hiking and biking.
Olympic Peninsula, Washington Beaches
Ruby Beach
Ruby Beach is one of the most stunning beaches in Washington State, USA. It is famous for its rugged sea stacks, which make it a unique and breathtaking natural wonder. This beach is on the Olympic Peninsula’s western coast, surrounded by lush green forests and jagged cliffs.
In addition to the sea stacks, Ruby Beach is home to various fascinating tide pools. These pools teem with marine life, including colorful sea anemones, crabs, starfish, and other creatures. Visitors can explore these pools at low tide but should leave them undisturbed, as fragile ecosystems are easily damaged.
The beach is a long stretch of soft, sandy shoreline, perfect for walking and beachcombing. The sound of the crashing waves provides a soothing soundtrack to a day spent exploring this magnificent coastline.
Hotel Near Ruby Beach: Kalaloch Lodge
Second Beach
Second Beach is amongst the best beaches in WA, and it is one of the gems of the Olympic National Park. The beach offers a unique and breathtaking experience worth making a trip for.
Located on the western coast of the Olympic Peninsula, Second Beach is accessed by a 0.7-mile hike through the forest. The trail takes visitors through a verdant forest with towering trees and a canopy that filters the sunlight.
The path to Second Beach is well-maintained, and hikers will encounter some steep sections along the way. You might want to consider sturdy water shoes over open toe slippers. Regardless, the effort is well worth it once visitors reach the beach.
Second Beach is a picturesque expanse of sandy shoreline, surrounded by towering sea stacks, rocky outcroppings, and lush greenery.
This Washington state beach is also an excellent place for photography enthusiasts. The sea stacks and surrounding landscape offer numerous opportunities for breathtaking photos, especially during the golden hour around sunrise or sunset.
South Beach
The state is known for its beautiful pristine beaches, and one of the most stunning beaches on Washington Coast is South Beach. Located in Olympic National Park, this is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the outdoors and wants to experience the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
The beach is accessible via a short hike from the South Beach Trailhead near Kalaloch. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, offering beautiful views of the surrounding forest and coastline.
With its stunning views, diverse marine life, and endless outdoor recreation opportunities, South Beach is a true gem of the Pacific Northwest.
If you are looking for a nice hotel to stay at while enjoying one of the best beaches in Washington State, you can check out Hotel Murano.
Golden Gardens Park
The beach at Golden Gardens Park in Seattle is one of the most popular beaches on Washington Coast. This spot is well-known for its scenic vistas of Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains, two of the famous landmarks in Washington. In addition, its relaxing environment and variety of recreational possibilities are a huge appeal.
The park has miles of shoreline where visitors may swim, sunbathe, and go beachcombing. Kids bring along their sandcastle kits for some creative fun in nature.
You can also explore the tidal pools, with opportunities to find sea stars, crabs, anemones, and other aquatic critters. When you want to take a break and enjoy a meal, there are plenty of picnic tables and seats available.
If you want to holiday next to Golden Gardens Park Beach, consider staying at The Westin Seattle. This incredibly scenic hotel is right by the beach.
Shi Shi Beach
Shi Shi Beach is widely regarded as one of the best beaches in Washington State, and it’s easy to see why. Located on the Olympic Peninsula’s northwestern coast, this stunning coastline offers a unique blend of rugged wilderness, natural beauty, and a rich cultural history.
The beach is accessible only by foot, with visitors needing to hike through the lush rainforest of the Olympic National Park to reach it. The hike is roughly 8 miles roundtrip, but the views and pristine nature make it well worth the effort.
In addition to its scenic surroundings, Shi Shi Beach is steeped in history and culture. The Makah Tribe, who have lived in the area for thousands of years, maintain a strong presence in the region and offers visitors a glimpse into their deep heritage.
You can explore the nearby Makah Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of artifacts and exhibits highlighting the tribe’s past stories and traditions.
Despite its popularity, Shi Shi Beach remains largely undeveloped, with only a few primitive campsites available for visitors. This helps preserve the beach’s raw vibes and allows visitors to truly immerse themselves in the wild and rugged beauty of the Olympic Peninsula.
Olympic Suites Inn is one of the no-frills hotels to stay close to Shi Shi Beach.
La Push, Washington Beaches
La Push Beach
A stunning and picturesque beach on the Quileute Indian Reservation in Washington State. La Push beach is known for its towering sea stacks, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear waters, great for swimming, kayaking, and surfing.
Surfing is a viral activity at La Push Beach, with consistent swells and reliable surf breaks that are perfect for surfers of all skill levels. The beach is home to several well-known surf spots, including First Beach, Second Beach, and Third Beach, each offering a unique surfing experience.
Several surf schools in the area offer lessons and equipment rentals for those new to surfing or who want to improve their skills. One such school is the Quileute Surf School, run by members of the Quileute Tribe. They offer visitors a unique opportunity to learn to surf from experienced local instructors while exploring the area’s cultural history.
La Push Beach is an interesting destination for anyone visiting Washington State. Whether you’re a surfer, a hiker, or simply someone who loves the outdoors, the stunning natural beauty of La Push Beach is sure to leave you in awe.
If you are looking for a comfy place to stay while visiting one of the best beaches in Washington State, check out Woodland Inns.
Rialto Beach
Rialto Beach is known for its dramatic scenery, with towering sea stacks rising from the pounding surf and spectacular sunsets illuminating the sky with orange, pink, and purple hues.
The beach stretches for over a mile; you can walk along the sandy shore and explore the many nooks and crannies. The coast here has tide pools, sea creatures, and other natural wonders.
The beach is also surrounded by lush green forests, which provide a serene and peaceful backdrop to the wild beauty of the coastline.
Among the best beaches in Washington State, Rialto Beach is also home to various wildlife, including bald eagles, otters, and sea lions. If you’re lucky, you may even spot whales and dolphins playing in the surf.
Visitors love to explore the many tide pools teeming with colorful sea anemones, starfish, and other creatures.
As with any beach on the Pacific Coast, the weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for rain, wind, and fog. However, the ever-changing weather only adds to the allure of Rialto Beach.
It is an attractive destination for anyone who loves the outdoors and wants to experience the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Hotel Near Rialto Beach: Woodland Inns.
MORE BEACHES IN USA |
Other Popular Beaches In Washington
Ocean Shores
Ocean Shores is a well-known beach vacation destination on the Washington State, USA, coast. Featuring six miles of sandy shoreline, Ocean Shores is a perfect place to relax and enjoy various water activities. It’s one of the most popular Washington Coast beaches.
The town was initially developed in the 1960s as a planned resort community, and since then, it has become a beloved destination for families and couples alike.
The wide, sandy beach provides plenty of space for beachcombing, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. Simply spread your beach mat and soak in the sun. The water is also perfect for swimming, surfing, kayaking, and boating.
Overall, Ocean Shores is a beautiful vacation destination for those seeking relaxation and adventure. With its stunning beach, variety of activities, and excellent dining and shopping options, it’s no wonder that so many people flock to this beautiful town every year.
For those who love outdoor activities, Ocean Shores offers plenty of hiking and biking opportunities. The city is home to several nature trails, including the Damon Point Trail, which has amazing views of the Pacific Ocean.
Finally, Ocean Shores is also a spot for shopping and dining. The town has a variety of shops and restaurants, including seafood places, cafes, and ice cream shops where you can find some of delicious foods in Washington.
Hotel Near Ocean Shores: The Canterbury Inn
Half Moon Bay Beach, Westport
One of the unique features of Half Moon Bay beach is the abundance of waves. The beach is a popular destination for surfers as waves can reach up to 20 feet during winter. The area also hosts several surfing competitions throughout the year, making it an iconic spot for surfing enthusiasts.
Half Moon Bay beach in Westport has its own unique character and charm. With stunning beaches, excellent surfing opportunities, and abundant fishing and outdoor activities, it’s no wonder Westport is a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.
Hotel Near Half Moon Bay Beach: Westport Marina Cottages.
Mukilteo Beach
Mukilteo Beach is a beautiful destination in the town of Mukilteo, Washington, and is one of the many pristine beaches that dot the state’s coastline. Known for its breathtaking views of Possession Sound and Whidbey Island, Mukilteo Beach is frequently visited by locals and tourists.
The beach is just a short distance from the town’s ferry terminal, making it an easy and convenient stop for those traveling to and from Whidbey Island. The beach features a large grassy area perfect for picnics and outdoor activities and a playground and picnic shelter.
One of the most iconic features of Mukilteo Beach is its historic lighthouse, which dates back to the 1800s. The lighthouse is a popular photo spot and provides a unique glimpse into the region’s maritime history. Mukilteo Beach’s features make it a top tourist attraction amongst Washington beaches.
In addition to its natural beauty and historical landmarks, Mukilteo Beach also offers a variety of amenities for visitors. The town has several restaurants, cafes, and a small museum showcasing the area’s history.
An attractive combination of amazing views, historic exploration, and outdoor thrill, Mukilteo Beach is a convenient destination with plenty to do in its surroundings.
Kalaloch Beach
Kalaloch Beach is a long stretch of coastline known for its rugged beauty and grand views of the Pacific Ocean. The beach is popular amongst outdoor enthusiasts who love to explore and experience nature.
Kalaloch Beach offers opportunities for hiking, beachcombing, and wildlife watching. You can stroll along the shore, marvel at the sea stacks, or observe marine life in the tide pools. The area is also home to many species of birds, including bald eagles and peregrine falcons.
This Washington beach is accessible via several trails, including the Kalaloch Nature Trail and the Beach Trail. The Kalaloch Nature Trail is a short loop; while the Beach Trail is a longer hike that takes visitors down to the shore, where they can explore the tide pools and enjoy the beach.
Do you want to stay on the city shoreline near Kalaloch Beach? Check out the Kalaloch Lodge.
Fort Worden Beach
In Fort Worden, you can relax on the beach whenever you choose. It’s easy to settle under the sound of the waves and stare off the horizon at the North Cascades.
A 120-foot dock is available for those interested in fishing. There is plenty of mooring for boats of all sizes in the park, and you can also rent kayaks here.
After relaxing at the beach, don’t forget to explore the park and learn about its military history by examining its abandoned barriers and other historical landmarks. One such relic, the Point Wilson Lighthouse at the beach’s northern end, provides a picture-postcard-perfect view of the water.
If you are looking for a charming hotel to stay at while visiting Fort Worden Beach, check out Palace Hotel Port Townsend.
Rosario Beach
Rosario Beach is a beautiful and famous beach in Deception Pass State Park. There are two distinct sections of beach in Rosario, one on either side of Rosario Head. These curving stretches of shoreline run north to south, and both ends are characterized by rocky coasts and drift log borders.
Tide pooling is fantastic on both beaches around Rosario Head. Those who explore Rosario Head on foot may do so along a looping route that affords stunning views of Puget Sound and the Deception Pass Bridge.
This is one of the top beaches on the Washington coast for a holiday.
Seabrook Beach
Seabrook, a little village on the central Washington coast, is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. The Seabrook neighborhood comprises a cluster of colonial-style houses on a rock overlooking the Ocean. Several of the homes may be rented out for short periods.
True relaxation can be found on the beach itself. The beach below the Seabrook neighborhood can only be reached through steep steps. After descending to the beach, one is greeted by a broad stretch of sand and wooded cliffs, begging for a day spent surfing in peace.
You’ll find this one famous beach for pleasant, serene surfing amongst Washington State Beaches. Seabrook is a favorite getaway destination because of its picturesque inns and the short distance (just 2.5 hours) from Seattle.
Enjoying The Best Washington State Beaches
From the rugged coastline of the Olympic Peninsula to the tranquil waters of the San Juan Islands, Washington State has an incredible selection of beaches that offer diverse activities and scenery.
Whether you’re looking for a place to relax in the sun, swim, or explore the local wildlife, there is no shortage of stunning natural beauty and recreational activities to enjoy. So grab your sunscreen and head to one of these fantastic beaches in Washington State for a fun day out.
