13 Most Beautiful Beaches in Washington State

The prettiest beaches aren't the most expensive or lavish. They're the ones where you feel a deep sense of calm and comfort, like you're right where you belong, leaving all your worries behind. 

Best Beaches in Washington

These special beaches often have a remote quality, letting you connect with nature in its purest form.

1. Rialto Beach

Loc: 

Located along the rugged Pacific coastline in the heart of Washington state, you'll discover the enchanting Rialto Beach. This public gem is a natural wonder within the embrace of Olympic National Park.

It weaves together the serene beauty of coastal forests with the breathtaking drama of the open ocean. As you traverse its many miles, your gaze will be captivated by the majestic sea stacks and formidable rock formations that adorn the mighty Pacific.

It's a place where nature's grandeur takes center stage, and the waves whisper timeless tales. This coastal sanctuary, known as Rialto Beach, unfolds its magic, offering an escape into the wild beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

The beach is also popular for its tide pools, which are home to a variety of Marine Creatures such as:

• Anemones
• Crabs
• Starfish

The nearby Hole in the Wall Formation is a must-see attraction, and the beach is also great for hiking and camping. 

Rialto Beach, WA is open year-round. It is open from sunrise to sunset for non-campers. Campers will need to acquire a Wilderness Camping Permit.

2. Ruby Beach

Address: 600 E. Park Avenue Port Angeles, WA 98362.

Nestled within the pristine confines of Olympic National Park, just off the winding highway 101, you'll discover the coastal marvel known as Ruby Beach. This secluded gem holds a well-deserved spot on the bucket list of coastal enthusiasts.

With its unspoiled shores, towering sea stacks, enchanting tidepools, and sands tinged with the red hues of mineral deposits, Ruby Beach offers a canvas of natural wonders.

It's a place where the rhythmic waves of the Pacific Ocean create a soothing symphony, where each sunset adorns the sky with dreamlike colors, and where nearly 225,000 nature aficionados, both local families and international travelers, gather annually to forge cherished memories.

Following a brief three-month closure, Ruby Beach's parking facilities reopened in September 2022, now with improved accessibility and safety measures.

3. Long beach Washington

Address: P.O. Box 310 115 Bolstad Avenue W Long Beach, WA 98631

Long Beach Washington is a charming coastal town located in the southwestern part of the state. It is a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful beaches, iconic boardwalk, and numerous attractions.One of the top things to do in Long Beach is to visit its long and wide sandy beach. 

This stretch of coastline is perfect for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or some fun in the sun.Visitors can enjoy the sound of the waves crashing against the shore and take in the stunning ocean views.

Another popular attraction in Long Beach is its wooden boardwalk, which stretches for over half a mile. The boardwalk is a great place to take a relaxing walk and enjoy the ocean views.


Visitors can also find shops and restaurants along the boardwalk, as well as various events and activities throughout the year.

4. La Push Beach

Address: Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trl. Forks, WA 98331.
From Forks' rustic charm to La Push's captivating seascapes, the Olympic Peninsula is a coastal haven for adventurers.

With pristine coastlines stretching 70 miles, teeming wildlife, and lush rainforests like the Hoh, it offers diverse experiences. Explore forested trails, witness the Quillayute River's aquatic bounty, and indigenous cultures.

Forks, a Twilight sensation, welcomes fans worldwide, inviting them to walk with "werewolves" and venture into vampire-filled forests.

The self-guided Twilight tour at the Forks Visitor Information Center is a must-do, while our digital Twilight Drive the Loop map.

5. Second Beach

Address: Stanley Park Dr Vancouver, BC

Beach Hours : 8 am - 6 pm

Second Beach, often celebrated as the crown jewel of Olympic National Park, truly lives up to its prestigious reputation. A brisk 0.7-mile jaunt through the forest brings you to a mesmerizing Pacific Coast spectacle that defies expectations.

Majestic sea stacks grace the shoreline, unveiling an extensive expanse of velvety, sun-kissed sand that beckons exploration. Yet, what sets Second Beach apart is its illustrious sunsets, where the sun gracefully peeks through a natural porthole in its most iconic sea stack.

It's an exquisite opportunity to capture your very own postcard-worthy image of one of the Pacific Northwest's most awe-inspiring sunsets.

For those keen on specifics:

Trail Distance: A manageable 1.4 miles roundtrip.

Trail Difficulty: Classified as an easy trek, suitable for most.

Drive Time: Plan for an adventure of approximately 1 hour and 18 minutes, covering a distance of 68 miles west of Port Angeles.

To chart your course with ease, consult the ever-reliable Google Maps.

And for further insights, delve into the treasures of exploration with the Washington Trails Association.

6. Westport Beach

Westport Beach, ensconced along the picturesque Grays Harbor coastline, unveils its treasures in the form of seemingly endless sandy expanses and world-class surf conditions that beckon wave riders far and wide.

The nearby coastal haven of Westport complements this aquatic paradise with a delightful assortment of quaint boutiques and delectable eateries, ensuring that your day trip or weekend retreat will be brimming with charm and culinary delights. Yet, Westport Beach isn't content with just thrilling surfers; it casts its net wider, enticing avid anglers with its bountiful fishing prospects.

In these crystalline waters, salmon and halibut take center stage, offering the promise of an unforgettable catch. Whether you're carving through the waves, leisurely sauntering along the shoreline, or indulging in the local culinary scene, Westport Beach promises an idyllic coastal escapade that lingers in your memories like a cherished seashell.

7. Bainbridge Island Beaches

Bainbridge Island, a mere stone's throw away from bustling Seattle, lures you into its tranquil embrace with a medley of pristine beaches just waiting to be discovered.

These coastal gems are not just patches of sand; they're nature's canvases, inviting you to bask in the sun's warm embrace, scour the shores for hidden treasures, or relish a leisurely picnic amidst the soothing sounds of the ocean.

The nearby town of Winslow complements this idyllic beachscape with a charming array of shops and eateries, making it an ideal hub for replenishing your energies after a day of beachside bliss. Among the island's crown jewels are Fay Bainbridge Park, where relaxation meets adventure, and Bloedel Reserve Beach, a sanctuary of serenity where nature's beauty reigns supreme.

Bainbridge Island promises a coastal sojourn that transcends the ordinary, a place where time seems to slow down, and the wonders of the shore become your closest companions.

8. Ocean Shores

Ocean Shores, a beloved haven for families seeking coastal delights, unveils a sprawling canvas of sandy shores that stretch seemingly to infinity—an ideal playground for crafting sandcastles and embarking on adventures in beachcombing.

This coastal retreat is renowned for its clamming havens and breezy conditions that make kite-flying a joyous pastime. But Ocean Shores offers more than just sun and surf; it's a realm of endless possibilities. From thrilling go-karting races to the poetic charm of horseback riding along the shore, there's no shortage of adventure to be found.

Golf enthusiasts will revel in pristine courses, while the town itself beckons with its treasure trove of shops and restaurants, making it the perfect setting for a day of retail therapy or a weekend of coastal exploration. Ocean Shores, where the beach is but the beginning of your journey into leisure and recreation.

9. Kalaloch Beach

The Kalaloch beaches, a constellation of seven distinct and alluring coastal gems, offer a tapestry of experiences, each catering to your unique desires by the sea.


Whether you're an enthusiast of bustling shores teeming with vibrant energy or seek the tranquil embrace of semi-secret, untouched serenity, these beaches deliver it all.


Feel the invigorating kiss of salt spray as you traverse shores that transition from a rich ruby hue to rugged grandeur. Lose yourself among the captivating sea stacks and thriving tidepools, where every step reveals a world of wonder.

Find solace atop a driftwood perch, where you can indulge in the art of whale watching or witness the sun's graceful descent into the vast Pacific Ocean.

Here, your taste buds can embark on a culinary journey, savoring inventive dishes crafted from the freshest local ingredients. Choose to camp on some of the most grounds or nestle into the comforting embrace of a historic waterside lodge.

The Kalaloch beaches beckon you to savor each moment in this coastal haven—a place where time slows, and every second is an exquisite pleasure.

10. Washington Park Beach

Located in the heart of Michigan City, Indiana, Washington Park Beach beckons as a scenic haven on the southern shores of Lake Michigan. This charming beachscape is an idyllic destination where the golden sun and the gentle surf come together to create a perfect harmony for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

With its soft, inviting sands  it's a veritable playground for beach enthusiasts. Whether you're soaking up the sun's warm embrace, indulging in some leisurely swimming, or simply basking in the tranquil ambiance, this beach caters to your every desire.

For the active souls 

• There's a delightful playground
• Well-appointed picnic areas
• winding trails to explore

11. Golden Gardens Park

Golden Gardens, nestled within Seattle's lively Ballard neighborhood, is a coastal gem just a short 20-minute drive from the heart of the city. This destination boasts a sandy beachfront that invites sunbathers to luxuriate, while an off-leash dog area lets furry companions frolic freely.

Beach spot

• sunbathing
• picnicking
• beachcombing.

Amenities

• Picnic tables
• Parbecue grills,
• Fire pits

During the winter months, a different kind of enchantment graces Golden Gardens. The beachfront becomes a haven for quiet contemplation, inviting visitors to embark on brisk walks along its sandy shores while marveling at the dramatic dance of winter storms across the Olympic Mountains. 

Even in the heart of summer, the water's temperature rarely ventures above 54 degrees in Seattle, rendering it a tad too chilly for swimming. However, the beauty of Golden Gardens transcends seasons, offering year-round serenity and splendor to those who seek its embrace.

12. Dungeness Spit

Dungeness Spit, stretching over 5 miles, ranks among the world's longest sand spits and holds the title as the longest in the United States. It's a prominent feature within the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge, encircling Dungeness Bay on the northern edge of the Olympic Peninsula.

To fully appreciate its grandeur, embark on a 5-mile hike from the trailhead to reach the lighthouse at the spit's far end. Along the way, you'll encounter a rich array of seabirds and soak in the awe-inspiring seascape.

Don't forget to pause and participate in the timeless tradition of building a rock cairn, paying homage to this remarkable landscape.

• The beach Hiking,
• Beachcombing,
• Birdwatching
• Seabirds
• Shorebirds calling

13. Tacoma

Tacoma, sandy beaches might not be the first mental image that surfaces. After all, this city along the Puget Sound is better known for its chilly waters, rocky shores, and the perpetual maritime embrace of the cool Pacific Northwest climate. 

However, Tacoma's Waterfront area emerges as a hidden gem for recreational endeavors. Here, you'll find abundant space for leisurely strolls, inviting benches that beckon you to indulge in some people-watching, a smattering of charming restaurants to explore, and yes, even beaches. 

While these shorelines occasionally vanish under the embrace of high tide, they still offer inviting spots to linger by the water's edge. Tacoma's Waterfront proves that even in the realm of the unexpected, a touch of beachside tranquility can be found.
Tacoma outdoor activities

• Fishing
• Hiking
• Camping
• Beachcombing

FAQ

What is the most beautiful beach in Washington?


1. The Olympic Coastline 2. Long Beach 3. Alki Beach.

Are there swimmable beaches in Washington State?

Puget Sound is cold and best for activities like paddle-boarding, kayaking, and fishing you can still find swimmable beaches near the city.

What is the warmest beach in Washington State?

Twanoh State Park, nestled along Hood Canal's shores, boasts Washington state's coziest saltwater beach.

Are there any warm beaches in Washington?

Twanoh State Park, embracing Hood Canal's shoreline, features Washington's coziest saltwater beach, nestled in its 182-acre marine camping haven with 3,167 feet of waterfront.

Conclusion

After reading this blog I hope now you get a bunch of knowledge about beaches in Washington. Now you can easily plan your trip and can enjoy it more. If you have any questions or suggestions you can comment below.