Best Beaches in Washington

Alki Beach offers a true beach experience in the heart of West Seattle. While most beaches of the Puget Sound are covered with rocks and pebbles, Alki Beach boasts fine, white sand reminiscent of a Southern California beach. There are several beach volleyball courts, grills and fire pits available for use, as well as local vendors offering kayaks and paddleboards for rent. Bring the kids and build some sandcastles or explore the tide pools that form at low tide. A bike path running parallel to the beach is ideal for runners, bikers, and rollerbladers. While playing volleyball or paddling hard out on the water, look east to see the Seattle skyline punctuated by the Space Needle. Even though the bustling city of Seattle looms in the background, Alki Beach boasts a quaint Pacific Northwest charm. Before exploring all that Alki Beach has to offer, stop by Top Pot Doughnuts to grab a coffee and a warm doughnut. After a long day enjoying the beach, grab a pint at West Seattle Brewing Company and watch the sunset over the Puget Sound. History enthusiasts might visit Alki Beach to see what the first settlers to the Pacific Northwest saw, as the Denny party landed on Alki Beach in 1851 before settling in Seattle. After a rainy Seattle winter, there is no better place to enjoy the sun than Alki Beach.

The Long Beach Boardwalk in Long Beach, Washington, is a serene and picturesque destination that offers a tranquil escape from bustling city life. Located between the Sid Snyder and Bolstad beach approaches, this boardwalk is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. It's an ideal spot for romantic strolls, picnics, and watching sunsets or sunrises over the Willapa Hills. The boardwalk is also a great place for wildlife spotting, with frequent sightings of whales, eagles, and shorebirds. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the North Head Lighthouse and explore the nearby Discovery Trail, which connects Long Beach with Ilwaco. The boardwalk is wheelchair accessible and offers free parking at both ends, making it a convenient and accessible destination for all.

Long Beach itself is a charming coastal town with a growing tourism economy, offering a variety of local businesses and activities. The town is famous for its drivable beach, where visitors can enjoy miles of coastline. The boardwalk is a central attraction, providing easy access to different parts of the beach and offering a comfortable walking path through the dunes. It's also a popular spot for kite flying and storm watching.

The boardwalk's unique setting amidst the rolling dunes and its lack of crowds make it a standout among other boardwalks. It's a perfect place for those seeking a relaxed and natural beach experience without the hustle and bustle of typical beachside attractions.

Pacific Beach State Park is a serene 10-acre coastal retreat located in Pacific Beach, Washington. It offers a tranquil escape with nearly a half-mile of sandy shoreline along the Pacific Ocean and Joe Creek. The park's history is rooted in the ancestral lands of the Quinault Indian Tribe, and today it provides a haven for beach enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Visitors can enjoy activities like beachcombing, kite-flying, and bird-watching, with over 300 species of birds spotted in the area. The park's scenic Sheahan Trail offers insights into the local ecology and geology.
The park's climate is characterized by cool summers and rainy winters, making it a unique destination for those seeking a peaceful coastal experience. With its proximity to nearby towns like Aberdeen and Ocean Shores, Pacific Beach State Park is an ideal spot for those looking to unwind in nature.
The park's small size and proximity to amenities make it an accessible and enjoyable destination for families and solo travelers alike.

Fort Worden State Park is a 434-acre historic site located in Port Townsend, Washington, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and military history. The park sits on a bluff overlooking Puget Sound, providing stunning views of the surrounding waters and the Olympic Mountains. It was once part of a strategic defense system known as the 'Triangle of Fire,' along with Fort Casey and Fort Flagler, but never engaged in combat. Today, visitors can explore historic gun batteries, museums, and restored Victorian-era officer quarters, which are available as vacation rentals. The park also features over two miles of saltwater shoreline, making it an ideal spot for beach activities and relaxation.

The park's diverse landscape includes beaches, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks, offering something for everyone. It is also home to the Port Townsend Marine Science Center and hosts various cultural events throughout the year. The combination of history, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities makes Fort Worden State Park a must-visit destination in the Pacific Northwest.

Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from hiking and biking to boating and fishing, with amenities like picnic areas and equipment rentals available. The park's proximity to Port Townsend adds to its appeal, with the town offering additional dining, shopping, and lodging options.

Seabrook Beach, located in Pacific Beach, Washington, is a vibrant coastal town founded in 2004 by Casey and Laura Roloff. It is known as Washington's Beach Town and is situated on a scenic bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The town is designed with new urbanism principles, offering a blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. Seabrook features over 500 homes across nine neighborhoods, numerous parks, trails, and a variety of community facilities like a town hall, spa, and pools. It is about two and a half hours from Seattle, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking coastal tranquility.
Seabrook hosts various events throughout the year, including outdoor concerts and festivals, enhancing its appeal as a vacation spot. The town's proximity to Olympic National Park and Lake Quinault adds to its allure for nature lovers.
With its focus on sustainability and community, Seabrook offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, making it a popular destination for both short visits and longer stays.

Ocean Shores, located on the Pacific coast of Washington, offers a serene and vibrant beach experience. The town is surrounded by six miles of smooth white sand beaches, perfect for activities like building sandcastles, flying kites, and digging for razor clams. It's a haven for nature lovers, with opportunities for birdwatching and exploring the nearby Oyhut Wildlife Recreation Area. The beach is also a popular spot for festivals, including the annual kite festival in June. Visitors can enjoy stunning sunsets over the Pacific Ocean and explore the town's charming shops and eateries.
The beach is part of a larger peninsula, offering diverse landscapes from the ocean to Grays Harbor. This unique geography provides a variety of beach experiences, from calm sandy shores to more rugged areas like North Jetty. The area is also known for its wildlife, including bald eagles and snowy owls during winter migrations.
Ocean Shores is a small community with a population of about 5,500 residents, but it attracts many visitors seeking a relaxing coastal getaway. The town's laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Rialto Beach is a stunning coastal destination located within Olympic National Park, near La Push, Washington. It is renowned for its picturesque pebble shores, driftwood, and tidepools, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy spotting wildlife such as seals, otters, and bald eagles, and during summer, gray whales can be seen migrating. The beach is accessible via a short path, making it a popular spot for both relaxation and outdoor adventures.
Rialto Beach offers a serene environment perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. Its proximity to the Quileute Indian Reservation adds a rich cultural dimension to the area.
The beach's unique combination of natural beauty and accessibility makes it an ideal location for family outings and romantic getaways alike.

Golden Gardens Beach Park is a stunning waterfront destination in Seattle's Ballard neighborhood, offering breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. Spanning 87 acres, it features a large sandy beach, lush coastal vegetation, and rugged coastline, making it perfect for various activities like swimming, kayaking, and hiking. The park has a rich history, having been developed as part of a Works Progress Administration project in the 1930s and later becoming a hub for counterculture movements in the 1960s. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views, wildlife spotting, and a range of amenities including restrooms, showers, and picnic areas.
The beach is known for its cold but inviting waters, attracting swimmers year-round. It's also a popular spot for beach bonfires and sunset viewing, especially during summer evenings. Golden Gardens is a quintessential Pacific Northwest experience, blending natural beauty with recreational opportunities.
The park's accessibility and amenities make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering a unique blend of relaxation and adventure.

Owen Beach, located within the expansive Point Defiance Park in Tacoma, Washington, offers a serene escape from the city. This beach is renowned for its picturesque views of Puget Sound and is often cited as one of America's best undiscovered beaches. It features a mix of rocky shoreline and limited sandy areas, making it ideal for wading and enjoying the scenery. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of Vashon Island and the Tacoma Narrows Bridge.
Point Defiance Park itself is a 760-acre urban oasis, featuring a zoo, aquarium, gardens, and old-growth forests. The park's diverse landscape and amenities make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Owen Beach is particularly noted for its tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and family outings. Visitors can enjoy activities like kayaking and fishing, and there are picnic tables and barbecue grills available for use.

Cama Beach State Park is a picturesque waterfront park located on the west side of Camano Island, Washington. The park offers a beautiful beach stretching over half a mile, with soft white sand perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Historically, it was a popular fishing resort in the 1930s, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and activities like fishing, crabbing, and boating. Today, it preserves this heritage while providing modern amenities and activities such as hiking, biking, and interpretive programs. The park is open year-round, offering stunning views of Saratoga Passage and a glimpse into life in a Puget Sound fishing community.
The park's historical significance is highlighted by its designation as a National Historic Landmark. Visitors can explore the restored cabins, the Cama Center, and the historic store, which offer insights into the past. The park is also a haven for nature lovers, with opportunities for bird watching and wildlife viewing.
Overall, Cama Beach State Park combines natural beauty with historical charm, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a unique outdoor experience.

Seahurst Park, located in Burien, Washington, is a 178-acre haven that offers a serene escape from urban life. The park features a 2,000-foot beach along Puget Sound, providing stunning views of the Olympic Mountains. It includes forests, streams, wetlands, and a variety of wildlife, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and families alike. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playground, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and outdoor activities.
The park's history dates back to its use by Native Americans for fishing and clam-gathering, and it was officially established as a park in 1975. Over the years, efforts have been made to restore its natural ecosystem, including the removal of seawalls to create a more natural beach environment.
Seahurst Park is less crowded than many other waterfront parks in the region, offering a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere for those seeking to connect with nature.

Westport Light State Park is a stunning 560-acre public recreation area located on the Pacific Ocean in Grays Harbor County, Washington. It is known for its beautiful beach with fine, golden sand and its proximity to the historic Grays Harbor Lighthouse, the tallest in Washington State. The park offers a variety of activities such as hiking, fishing, beachcombing, and birdwatching, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The park's unique landscape is shaped by the dynamic forces of the ocean, with sand dunes and beaches constantly changing due to natural and human factors like the South Jetty at Grays Harbor.
Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and access to a 1.3-mile dune trail with viewing platforms and interpretive displays. The park is also a haven for surfers, with its rolling breakers from the Pacific Ocean providing ideal conditions for the sport.
The park's history is rich, with the area having been dedicated as Westhaven State Park in 1968 and later expanded to include Westport Light State Park in 1975. Over the years, additional land has been added, including a former golf course parcel in 2016, enhancing the park's recreational offerings.

Kalaloch Beach, located within Olympic National Park, offers a serene and rugged coastline experience. It is nestled between a lowland forest and a marine sanctuary, providing breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The beach is known for its iconic driftwood logs and the 'Tree of Life,' a root-exposed tree that has become a symbol of resilience. Visitors can enjoy activities like beachcombing, bird watching, and exploring nearby attractions such as the Hoh Rainforest and Ruby Beach. The area is perfect for those seeking a mix of nature, tranquility, and adventure.
The beach is accessible via Highway 101, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the Olympic Peninsula. Kalaloch Lodge, situated nearby, offers comfortable accommodations with stunning ocean views, adding to the allure of this natural haven.
Whether you're interested in hiking, wildlife viewing, or simply relaxing by the ocean, Kalaloch Beach provides an unforgettable experience amidst the beauty of Olympic National Park.

La Push Second Beach, located within Olympic National Park, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse activities. Situated on the Olympic Peninsula, it offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is surrounded by lush forests. The beach is accessible via a moderately strenuous hike through dense woods, culminating in a steep descent to the ocean. This hike is well-groomed with wooden steps, making it a must-experience for nature lovers. Second Beach is particularly noted for its tide-pooling opportunities, scenic rock formations, and spectacular sunsets. It is a popular spot for camping, with tent sites available near the treeline, though an Olympic National Park Wilderness Permit is required. The beach is part of the national park, making it accessible to the public, though visitors are encouraged to respect local guidelines and the environment.

The area is rich in wildlife, including seals, otters, and bald eagles, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Additionally, La Push is a significant cultural site for the Quileute Tribe, adding a layer of historical and cultural depth to the area. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from beachcombing to wildlife watching, making Second Beach a unique and captivating destination.

The combination of natural beauty, cultural significance, and outdoor activities makes Second Beach a standout among the beaches in La Push, offering something for everyone who visits.

La Push First Beach, located in La Push, Washington, is a stunning coastal destination on the Olympic Peninsula. It is part of a series of three beaches in the area, known for its golden sand and vibrant beach activities. The beach offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance, being part of the Quileute Indian Reservation. Visitors can enjoy activities like surfing, fishing, and hiking, while also appreciating the historical and cultural importance of the area. The beach is accessible by vehicle, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

The beach's proximity to Olympic National Park and its scenic views of James Island make it a must-visit for nature lovers. The Quileute Oceanside Resort, situated on the beach, provides comfortable accommodations and enhances the overall experience with its oceanfront amenities.

La Push First Beach is not only a beautiful natural spot but also a culturally rich area, with the Quileute Tribe welcoming visitors to enjoy the beauty of their land while respecting their traditions.

La Push Third Beach is a serene and secluded destination located on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State. It is part of a series of three beaches in the La Push area, known for its natural beauty and tranquility. The beach is accessible via a 1.5-mile hike through a coastal forest, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and dramatic sea stacks. Visitors can enjoy activities like whale watching during migration seasons and spotting wildlife such as seals and eagles. The beach is ideal for those seeking privacy and a more peaceful experience compared to the other La Push beaches.
The hike to Third Beach is mostly level but can be challenging due to weather conditions and the presence of large tree roots and driftwood. Once at the beach, visitors can explore tide pools at low tide and enjoy the scenic views of Strawberry Bay Falls. Camping is allowed on the beach, providing a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in nature.
The area is rich in natural beauty, with opportunities to explore the surrounding forests and enjoy the sounds of the ocean waves. It's a perfect spot for those looking to disconnect from urban life and reconnect with nature.

Grayland Beach State Park is a stunning coastal destination located in Grayland, Washington, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The park spans 581 acres and features a beautiful sandy beach that stretches for 7.5 miles, perfect for activities like beachcombing, surfing, and swimming.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The park also provides excellent camping facilities with full-hookup sites, yurts, and primitive options, making it a favorite among families and RV enthusiasts.
The area is rich in history, originally inhabited by the Shoalwater Bay and Chehalis Indian Tribes, adding a layer of cultural significance to the natural beauty of the park.

Cape Disappointment State Park, located at the southern end of the Long Beach Peninsula in Washington, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The park is known for its stunning ocean views, two lighthouses, and extensive hiking trails that weave through old-growth forests and along the coastline. Visitors can explore the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, which provides insights into the area's rich history, particularly the journey of the famous explorers. The park's diverse landscapes include freshwater lakes, saltwater marshes, and two miles of ocean beach, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

The park's name, Cape Disappointment, was given by Captain John Meares after his failed attempt to find the Columbia River in 1788. Today, it is a popular destination for those seeking to connect with nature and history. The scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and the mouth of the Columbia River add to the park's allure, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Pacific Northwest.

Cape Disappointment State Park is also home to Waikiki Beach, a picturesque spot that offers breathtaking views of the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse. The beach is ideal for activities like beachcombing, surfing, and swimming, though ocean conditions can be hazardous, and swimming is generally not advised.

Shi Shi Beach is a stunning, remote beach located in Olympic National Park, near Neah Bay, Washington. It is renowned for its wide sandy stretches and dramatic sea stacks, which serve as rookeries for thousands of seabirds. The beach offers a serene and untouched natural environment, perfect for those seeking solitude and connection with nature.
The beach is accessible via a 3.3-mile hike from the trailhead, adding to its wilderness charm. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, beachcombing, and camping, making it a treasured destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Shi Shi Beach is situated on the traditional lands of the Makah Tribe, and visitors are encouraged to respect their culture and traditions.

Spencer Spit State Park is a picturesque destination located on Lopez Island in the San Juan Islands, Washington. It features a rare sand spit enclosed by a saltwater lagoon, offering stunning views and diverse wildlife. The park spans 138 acres and includes large, private campsites, open beachside sites, and group camps. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, crabbing, clamming, and fishing. The park's unique natural setting and recreational opportunities make it a must-visit for those exploring the San Juan Islands.
The park's history dates back to the Central Coast Salish peoples, specifically the Samish tribe, who originally used the area for hunting and fishing. The land was later homesteaded and eventually sold to the state of Washington in 1967. Today, Spencer Spit State Park is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
With its beautiful beaches, coastal forests, and tranquil lagoon, Spencer Spit offers a serene and adventurous experience for all visitors.