Freshwater Bay, Beach 416

Near Freshwater Bay, there are several excellent dining options in Port Angeles. Granny's Cafe is a cozy spot known for its fast service and great desserts, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a casual setting. For a more upscale experience, Lake Crescent Lodge Dining Room provides a historic ambiance with a focus on American cuisine. Downriggers on the Water offers a casual seafood experience with water views, while Next Door Gastropub serves elevated American pub grub with a lively atmosphere.

For a classic American meal, Chestnut Cottage Restaurant is a family-friendly option with a homey feel.

Port Angeles offers a variety of accommodations near Freshwater Bay. The Red Lion Hotel Port Angeles Harbor provides relaxed waterfront lodging with a pool and restaurant. For a more rustic experience, Olympic Lodge by Ayres features lodge-style accommodations with an outdoor pool. Lake Crescent Lodge is a historic retreat with classic rooms and a lakeside restaurant. For budget-friendly options, Olympic Inn & Suites offers simple rooms with free Wi-Fi and a pool.

Freshwater Bay County Park offers several amenities, including a concrete boat launch, picnic tables, and benches. The upper picnic area is open seasonally from May 15 to September 15 and features restrooms and covered shelters. The lower picnic site and beach access are available year-round. A sani-can is available near the boat ramp for convenience. The park's tranquil setting amidst Western Red Cedar and ferns makes it an ideal spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.

For those interested in exploring the marine life, the bay's tidepools at low tide offer a glimpse into the diverse sea creatures like sea stars and anemones.

Freshwater Bay is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities due to the bay's calm waters. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, crabbing, and clamming. The area is rich in wildlife, making it a great spot for birdwatching and observing marine mammals like orcas and seals. At low tide, the beach expands, revealing more opportunities for exploration and discovery of tidepools and driftwood.

The nearby Striped Peak Recreation Area offers additional hiking trails for those looking to explore more of the Olympic Peninsula's natural beauty.

Freshwater Bay County Park offers some accessibility features, though they are limited. The lower picnic site and beach access are generally accessible, but the upper picnic area may require more mobility due to its location on a bluff. There are no specific wheelchair-accessible paths or ramps mentioned for the beach itself, but the parking and picnic areas are generally accessible. For those with mobility issues, planning ahead and contacting park services for specific accessibility information might be beneficial.

Parking at Freshwater Bay County Park is convenient, with ample space available near the boat launch and picnic areas. The parking lots are accessible year-round, making it easy for visitors to enjoy the park's facilities at any time. There are no parking fees, adding to the park's appeal for day-use visitors.

Freshwater Bay's name is a historical anomaly; despite being a saltwater bay, it was named for the fresh water available from the nearby Elwha River. The bay was originally named *Ensenada de Davila* by Spanish explorer Manuel Quimper in 1790 but received its current name in 1846 from Henry Kellett. The area is also known for its unique geological features, such as the sea stack known as 'The Bachelor', visible from the bay.

At low tide, the beach reveals a variety of marine life, including sea anemones and barnacles, making it a fascinating spot for nature enthusiasts.

Freshwater Bay is surrounded by several attractions that make it an excellent base for exploring the Olympic Peninsula. The nearby Striped Peak Recreation Area offers hiking trails with stunning views. The Salt Creek Recreation Area is another nearby spot known for its scenic beauty and historic significance. For those interested in wildlife, the bay itself is part of the Whale Trail, offering opportunities to spot marine mammals like whales and orcas.

The Olympic National Park, with its diverse ecosystems and landscapes, is also within driving distance, providing endless opportunities for outdoor adventures.