I always thought Washington was just mountains and rainforests, but its coast is a whole different world. From wild, driftwood shores to sandy city hangouts, there’s a beach for every mood. Washington welcomed around 107.9 million visitors last year, and I bet many were surprised by seeing the immense coastal views. So now we’re diving into the best spots, from famous beaches on the Olympic Peninsula to family-friendly beaches in Washington, which you can’t miss. For your better experience, this guide covers my favorite Washington State coastal destinations, making it easy to plan a trip that’s all about salty air and incredible Pacific Northwest scenery.
Best Month to Visit:
July and August are top picks for visiting Washington State coastal destinations.
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1. Ruby Beach, Olympic National Park
Ruby Beach is famous for its rugged coastline, huge sea stacks, and garnet-colored sand. Massive driftwood logs are scattered around, a perfect spot for a picnic. At low tide, the tide pools are amazing for spotting starfish. This classic Ruby Beach, Washington spot feels like another world. The short trail down can get muddy, so just watch your step.
Special Feature: Dramatic sea stacks and reddish garnet sand.
Where to stay: 157151 Highway 101, Forks, Washington 98331
Hours: Sunrise to Sunset.
2. Rialto Beach, Olympic National Park
Rialto Beach, Washington, is a perfect example of the wild Pacific coast with its rocky shores. The main draw is the 1.5-mile walk north to the Hole-in-the-Wall sea arch. You can walk through it at low tide. This is a top spot for dramatic views on the beaches of the Olympic Peninsula. Just keep an eye on the tide charts.
Special Feature: The iconic Hole-in-the-Wall sea arch.
Where to stay: 7764 La Push Rd, Forks, WA 98331
Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
3. Long Beach, Long Beach Peninsula
Stretching 28 miles, this is the world’s longest drivable beach. It’s perfect for a long walk, kite flying, or just driving right on the sand. The town of Long Beach, Washington, is full of fun shops and the World Kite Museum. This is one of the top beach towns in Washington. And make sure to just be careful, as the sand can be soft.
Special Feature: The world’s longest continuous sand beach.
Where to stay: 409 Sid Snyder Dr, Long Beach, WA 98631
Hours: Verify on the official site.
4. Cape Disappointment State Park
Despite the name, this park is incredible. as It features interesting attractions, including two lighthouses, hiking trails, and the lovely Waikiki Beach. The protected cove region is much calmer than the open ocean, making it great for families. This must-see Washington State coastal destination can get very windy, so I always carry a jacket, even on a sunny day. And I bet the views are worth it.
Special Feature: Two lighthouses and views of the Columbia River Bar.
Where to stay: Cape Disappointment State Park Campgrounds & Yurts
Hours: 6:30 AM to Dusk
5. Alki Beach Park, Seattle
For a city beach experience, Alki Beach in Seattle is the place to be visited. It offers incredible views of Puget Sound and the Seattle skyline. The long, sandy strip is perfect for volleyball and bonfires in designated pits. It gets extremely crowded on sunny weekends, making parking a challenge. I recommend getting there early or taking public transit for this urban escape.
Special Feature: Postcard-perfect views of the Seattle skyline.
Where to stay: 3512 SW Alaska St, Seattle, WA 98126
Hours: 4:00 AM – 11:30 PM
6. Deception Pass State Park
This is Washington’s most-visited state park for a reason. While the immense bridge gets attention, the park’s beaches are amazing. West Beach offers great sunset views over the water. The water is very cold with strong currents, so swimming is not advised. However, these are great family-friendly beaches in Washington, but be sure to wear good shoes, as the trails can be steep.
Special Feature: The dramatic bridge and rugged coastal scenery.
Where to stay: Deception Pass State Park Campgrounds
Hours: 6:30 AM to Dusk.
7. La Push Second Beach
A scenic 0.7-mile hike through coastal forest leads to this iconic beach. Secondly, this Beach is famous for its sea stacks and wild, untouched feel. It’s a photographer’s dream place to click photos at sunset. This is one of the most memorable beaches on the Olympic Peninsula. The trail can get muddy after rain, so I suggest wearing good boots for this one.
Special Feature: A collection of impressive, photogenic sea stacks.
Where to stay: 330 Ocean Front Dr, La Push, WA 98350
Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
8. Shi Shi Beach, Olympic National Park
Getting to Shi Shi Beach requires a hike, but the reward is immense. This remote beach is famous for the Point of Arches, a line of sea stacks. It’s one of the best hidden beaches in Washington for a very good reason. You’ll need a Makah Recreation Pass to park. The trail can be very muddy, so plan accordingly.
Special Feature: The Point of the Arches, a stunning sea stack formation.
Where to stay: 1510 Bayview Ave, Neah Bay, WA 98357
Hours: Verify on the official site.
9. Cama Beach Historical State Park
Step back in time at Cama Beach, and restore a 1930s-era fishing resort on Camano Island. The park has rows of charming waterfront cedar cabins you can rent. The calm shoreline is perfect for boating and beachcombing. This spot is one of the most Romantic beaches in Washington. I recommend booking cabins well in advance, as they are very popular and you will likely miss out on them.
Special Feature: Restored 1930s beachfront cabins available for rent.
Where to stay: Cama Beach Historical State Park Cabins
Hours: 8:00 AM to Dusk
10. Fort Worden Historical State Park
Located in Port Townsend, this former military base is now a huge park. The beach along the Strait of Juan de Fuca is great for searching for sea glass. Exploring the old concrete batteries is a cool addition. It’s one of the best family-friendly beaches in Washington with a dose of history. And remember, A Discover Pass is needed for some buildings.
Special Feature: Historic military bunkers overlooking the beach.
Where to stay: Fort Worden vacation houses and campgrounds.
Hours: 8:00 AM to Dusk.
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11. Golden Gardens Park, Seattle
Another great Seattle park, Golden Gardens in Ballard, is famous for its sandy beach and fire pits. It offers incredible sunset views over the Olympic Mountains. Like Alki, parking is one of the major headaches on lovely days. This urban beach is one of my favorite Washington State coastal destinations. It is a perfect spot for a classic beach bonfire.
Special Feature: Designated fire pits for evening beach bonfires.
Where to stay: 5216 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107.
Hours: 4:00 AM – 11:30 PM
12. Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve
This beach on Whidbey Island is part of a unique historical reserve. The beach is a long, windswept stretch of pebbles and driftwood below a high bluff. The best part is that it gives the vibe of a bluff trail with panoramic views. The wind can be intense, so hold your hat! This is one of the most scenic Washington State coastal destinations.
Special Feature: A stunning coastal bluff trail with historical farms.
Where to stay: 2072 W Captain Whidbey Inn Rd, Coupeville, WA 98239
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
13. Hobuck Beach, Neah Bay
Located on the Makah Reservation, Hobuck Beach is a surfer’s paradise. This sandy crescent beach gets consistent waves, making it popular for surfing and kayaking. It’s one of the best hidden beaches in Washington for wave riders. You must purchase a Makah Recreation Pass in Neah Bay before visiting the area. The remote location makes it a peaceful escape.
Special Feature: One of Washington’s best and most consistent surf spots.
Where to stay: Hobuck Beach Resort Cabins & Camping.
Hours: Verify on the official site.
Tips – Travel Basics
- A Discover Pass is needed for state parks.
- National Park passes are needed for many beaches on the Olympic Peninsula.
- A car is essential for reaching most of these spots.
- Always check the tide chart before you go.
- Cell service is spotty on the Olympic coast.
- Book lodging far in advance, especially for summer.
Conclusion
From wild sea stacks to sunny urban shores, Washington’s beaches are truly special. This trip revealed a completely different side of the Pacific Northwest, one filled with salty air and breathtaking sunsets. Exploring these Washington State coastal destinations is incredible. No matter which beach you choose to visit, you’re sure to create great memories in the Evergreen State. I hope this guide helps you find your perfect coastal escape.
Frequently asked questions
What is the prettiest town in Washington?
There are many pretty towns in Washington, but few are as picturesque as Gig Harbor, La Conner, Langley, and Leavenworth.
Which US state has the prettiest beaches?
Hawaiian beaches are truly some of the most stunning sights you can find in the world, and there are so many beautiful ones to enjoy.
What is the European-style town in Washington State?
Leavenworth, in Chelan County, Washington, has a population of 2,263 (2020). Its town center is modeled on a Bavarian village as part of a civic initiative.
What is the warmest beach in Washington State?
Twanoh State Park, situated on the shoreline of Hood Canal, boasts one of the warmest saltwater beaches in Washington State.
