Explore the Best Beaches in Washington State

Washington state is not exactly famous for sunny beaches – it’s more of a galoshes-and-rain destination than beach blankets and suntan lotion. However, a long stretch of Pacific coastline and a surplus of inlets and bays mean there are surprisingly excellent beaches here for swimming, shelling, skimboarding, surfing, tide-pooling, and beachcombing – not to mention opportunities for finding sea glass if you know where to look.

Long Beach Peninsula

Long Beach Peninsula has a distinctly peculiar vibe – but it’s a unique kind of charming. Family-friendly Long Beach is home to Jake the Alligator Man, a notable attraction at Marsh’s Free Museum. This quirky tourist spot features a gift shop, penny arcade, and an array of curiosities, making it worth a visit.

This peninsula boasts 28 miles of sandy, secluded beaches, perfect for vacationers. It is a haven for seafood lovers as well. Be sure to visit historic Oysterville or sample some famous bivalves from Willapa Bay. You can charter a salmon fishing boat or visit haunted lighthouses, working cranberry farms, and even a kite museum. Adventure seekers can bike the Lewis & Clark-themed Discovery Trail, kayak, ride horseback, or enjoy a round of golf. At Leadbetter Point State Park, the abundant bird life includes the endangered snowy plover, especially during spring when their chicks hatch.

Alki Beach

The two-mile stretch of sandy Alki Beach in West Seattle transforms the atmosphere, particularly on sunny days. Here, the vibrant cityscape gives way to picturesque fish-and-chip joints, beach volleyball courts, and even a miniature Statue of Liberty. The air is filled with the scent of cotton candy and fried snacks, making it a sensory delight.

Alki Beach is rich in history, tracing back to the Denny Party’s landing in 1851, which played a pivotal role in Seattle’s development. Nowadays, it’s a lively spot where families gather with floaties, coolers of refreshments, and, naturally, sunscreen!

Olympic Sculpture Park Pocket Beach

For those on a quick trip to Seattle who think they lack time for tidepools, think again! The Olympic Sculpture Park Pocket Beach offers a delightful experience along the bustling waterfront. At low tide, visitors can explore tidepools teeming with marine life, including sea stars and chitons, all while enjoying the stunning views of the iconic Space Needle.

If you have extra time, Madison Park Beach is a fantastic alternative. This popular park-stretch along Lake Washington features swimming areas, diving boards, and playground facilities close to numerous local eateries.

Westport

Westport is recognized as one of the earliest surfing destination beaches in Washington. This beach is also excellent for clam digging, crabbing, and searching for agates. Visitors can rent crabbing or clamming gear and seek local advice at shops near the marina. For a more thrilling adventure, consider chartering a deep-sea fishing boat or embarking on a whale-watching excursion.

Immerse yourself in local history at the Westport Maritime Museum and Gray’s Harbor Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in Washington. For breathtaking views, head to the long jetty or the marina viewing tower.

The jetty at the south end of Westhaven State Park features sandy beaches and manageable waves, ideal for both beginner and experienced surfers. Advanced surfers may prefer “The Groins” area, while paddleboarders will find Half Moon Bay calm during summer, though it develops challenging waves in other seasons.

Hobuck and Shi Shi Beaches

Hobuck Beach, located on the Makah Indian Reservation at the state’s far northwest, requires a bit of travel but rewards visitors with stunning scenery. This coastline, stretching from Hobuck Beach south to Shi Shi Beach, offers a remote feeling with breathtaking views. Photographers will appreciate the misty landscapes, and it’s a perfect spot for sunset watching, camping, birdwatching, or leisurely walks along the shore.

Surfing is fantastic at Hobuck Beach, particularly in winter, and the day-use area features ample parking and restrooms for convenience. Just be mindful of the chilly waters and remember your wetsuit.

To reach Shi Shi Beach, hike a two-mile well-maintained trail through coastal rainforest, ultimately revealing ocean waves crashing against majestic sea stacks. Ideal for adventurous souls, overnight backpacking trips offer a chance to explore further south to La Push, but ensure you secure wilderness permits beforehand.

Watmough Bay, Lopez Island

You truly can’t go wrong with any beach on the San Juan Islands, but Watmough Bay on the southeast corner of Lopez Island is especially stunning. A short, easy trail leads from the parking area to a pebbly crescent beach, sheltered from wind and exuding tranquility. It’s a perfect day-use spot for picnicking, wading, and seal spotting while enjoying the serene surroundings.

Ruby Beach

The Olympic Coast, particularly Ruby Beach located south of Forks, is a wild, picturesque driftwood sculpture garden. It’s superb for beach hiking, with a quarter-mile trail from the parking lot leading to the beach. From this point, trails span three miles either direction, facilitating exploration toward the Hoh River or south for expansive views of the Destruction Island lighthouse during low tide.

For tide-pool enthusiasts, Ruby Beach presents endless treasures – from vibrant sea stars to intriguing hermit crabs and prehistoric-looking chitons. This beach promises a rich and rewarding nature experience for every visitor.