Washington beaches offer some of the best experiences to make your vacation enjoyable. You can indulge in the usual activities like making sandcastles, kite flying, or exploring the unique rock formations and tide pools. These also provide many photo opportunities, and you’ll even get to see many beautiful sea creatures in these tide pools in times of the low tide. Moreover, the views of the Pacific Ocean, particularly of Puget Sound, never fail to impress the visitors.
Surrounded by the Alki Beach Park in Western Seattle, this sandy beach is a hotspot among locals and tourists alike. Whether you want to enjoy sunbathing or make a sandcastle with your kids, it offers everything required for a perfect weekend getaway. You can head to the nearby Alki Kayak Tours & Activities to rent a kayak, paddleboard, or even a fish boat to enjoy exploring the waters or fishing. Guided kayak tours to the historic Alki Point Lighthouse, Elliott Bay, or sunset tours to see the beautiful islands are also available.
You can also enjoy sitting back on the sands and taking in the gorgeous views of the distant Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound, a deep inlet of the Pacific Ocean. For other out-of-the-water activities, a game of volleyball would indeed stand perfect, besides strolling, jogging, cycling, or skateboarding on the paved pedestrian running from Duwamish Head to the lighthouse. Entry and parking here are for free.
Dog/Pet Friendly: No, not allowed on the beach but can be brought on a leash inside the park.
Ruby Beach sits south of the Kalaloch area within Olympic National Park. It is about a quarter-mile from the parking lot. The reddish sand gathering on the coastline to form tiny ruby-like crystals is what gives the beach its name. With the views of the ocean, towering rock formations, and driftwoods, there is so much to explore and photograph here. You can also see the Distant Island Lighthouse, about 4 miles from here. Visiting the beach in times of low tides will make you witness the unique and colorful sea creatures in the tide pools.
If a bird watcher, the sight of bald eagles and gulls flying around, would for sure delight you. As the beach gets crowded on weekends and the parking lot fills quickly, it’s better to come here early then.
You will have to spend about $30 per vehicle or $25 per motorcycle to enter the national park. Annual passes are also available at $55.
Dog/Pet Friendly: Yes
Stretching for about 28 miles, Long Beach Peninsula in southwest Washington is the state’s longest. Many also claim it to be the world’s longest peninsula beach. With not much crowd, it is ideal for those seeking a peaceful beach experience. Besides strolling along the long boardwalk, a biking or cycling trip along the 8.5-mile Discovery Trail wouldn’t be bad enough. Cape Disappointment State Park, located at the peninsula’s southern end is one among the six state parks providing ample recreational activities.
One of the key attractions is the Washington State International Kite Festival, held on the third weekend of August every year. You would catch sight of numerous colorful kites flying in the blue sky then.
Dog/Pet Friendly: Yes
This beach within western Grays Harbor County stretches along the Pacific Ocean. You can capture some of its best views from the Pacific Beach State Park. Apart from boating and swimming, seasonal activities like clam digging and crabbing are also popular. Moreover, the ocean breeze blowing here is ideal for flying kites. You can also enjoy picnicking or sit back and spot gray whales with your binoculars, especially from mid-March to May.
If you’re planning to halt here for the night, there is a campground to pitch your tent or park your RV. In addition, you can also explore the other beaches along the coast, including Copalis Beach, Griffiths-Priday State Park, or the ones in Moclips.
Dog/Pet Friendly: No, not on the beach, but you can bring them to state parks.
This beach along Puget Sound is a significant part of Fort Worden Historical State Park, located near the parking lot. The surrounding natural beauty is pretty impressive that you can admire while boating. You can also soak in the stunning views of towering bluffs and the snow-capped mountains of Northern Cascades. In addition, these bluffs also provide breathtaking views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
The historic Fort Worden, built during the early twentieth century to protect Port Townsend and Puget Sound, is another site of interest. On the northern shore, the old Point Wilson Lighthouse is also quite attractive and photogenic. If you’re planning to spend the night here, head to the campsites in the park’s vicinity. In addition, you can also find a restaurant, hiking trails, and a museum.
Dog/Pet Friendly: Yes, with an additional $30 fee per pet
This beach is a part of one of Washington’s most-visited Deception Pass State Park, occupying the Fidalgo and Whidbey Islands. You’ve got lots to do at Rosario Beach in Fidalgo Island, from nature gazing to bird watching. If lucky, you might also spot seals and whales in the waters.
Another main attraction here is The Maiden of Deception Pass, a story pole carved with an interesting tale about a Samish Indian maiden Ko-kwahl-alwoot.
Hiking enthusiasts can also explore the several scenic trails along the bluffs. You can also visit the other island using the Deception Pass and Canoe Pass bridges.
Dog/Pet Friendly: No, but they’re permissible in the other parts of the state park on leash.
Located in the coastal town of Seabrook along the Pacific Ocean, this beach is an ideal spot for spending a peaceful mini-vacation. Hiking down the steep stairs will reward you with the sandy area and beautiful vistas of tall cedar trees lined along the coastline. You can also wander along the boardwalk or spend time collecting clams and seashells. Kids would have a whale of a time building sandcastles or hunt for sand dollars’ skeletons. Staying places are in abundance as the town mainly provides vacation rentals at reasonable prices. You’ll also find many little shops around to explore.
Dog/Pet Friendly: Yes
Rialto Beach is in the north of La Push within the Olympic National Park. One can enjoy walking on the pebble-filled shorelines and driftwoods. The views of numerous sea stacks and islands standing tall in the waters are a sight to behold. Watch for the various creatures like whales, sea otters, seals, and bald eagles.
Another chief attraction, the Hole-in-the-Wall, is a stunning arch carved in the cliffs formed by the constant flow of the ocean, accessible only during low tide. You’ll have to cross the Ellen Creek to reach here, but dogs are not permissible to come past this point. Exploring the attractive tide pools here will make you witness unique habitats like sea anemones, sea stars, and even crabs and fish. Be sure not to harm any of them.
There is an entry fee of $30 per vehicle to get inside Olympic National Park. Several campsites are available near the beach area at Mora Campground for an overnight stay.
Dog/Pet Friendly: Yes
The sandy beaches of Ocean Shore always engage visitors with their fun-filled activities like collecting crabs, sand dollars, and razor clams. You can park the car in the beach area. Rent a canoe or a kayak to explore the series of waterways especially if you haven’t brought a boat. However, as the ocean currents are strong and the water is cold, it is advisable not to swim here. If you prefer to stay on land, electric bike and scooter rentals are also available nearby. You can also experience horseback riding or make use of the wind by flying a kite with your kids. Several birds, like seagulls, delight the avid bird watchers. To enjoy more spectacular views, you can visit the nearby beach, North Jetty.
With several oceanfront resorts, you will not have to worry about your accommodation. For additional entertainment, you can also head to the nearby casino or the Ocean City State Park. Camping options are also available in this state park.
Dog/Pet Friendly: Yes
Golden Garden Park features a beautiful stretch of sands in Seattle. With various facilities like picnic spots with tables, a playground area, and a concession stand, visitors have a great time at the beach. You can make your stay enjoyable by kayaking, paddleboarding, or even splashing the cold waters with your kids. Besides relaxing on the sands, the views of Puget Sound and the distant mountains are also pretty admirable. Many wait here till dusk to witness the splendid sunset and light up a bonfire to enjoy the rest of the evening. Start early during the weekends to avoid the hassles of parking your car.
Dog/Pet Friendly: Yes. There is also an off-leash section in the park.
In Point Defiance Park in Tacoma, Owen Beach is family-friendly, having ample parking space and other facilities. With many picnic tables facing the ocean, you can have a nice meal here while taking in the views. Also, a kayak ride would be great to admire the surrounding scenic views. However, due to plenty of seaweeds and chilly water, swimming is not advisable here. You can walk by the pebble-filled shoreline and enjoy the ocean breeze to de-stress. If fortunate, you might even spot a whale or sea lion in the waters or seals on the coast during the low tides. On a clear day, the spectacular view of the mighty Mt. Rainier is sure to woo you.
Do not miss the Point Defence Zoo and Aquarium, a 5-minute walk from the beach to see the exhibits of more than 9000 species.
Dog/Pet Friendly: Yes
The 2000 feet long beach within Seahurst Park, also known as Ed Munro Park, is one of the famous beaches in the Tacoma region. You can sit on one of the driftwoods on the shores and relish the mesmerizing views of Puget Sound. In addition, you can also enjoy barbecuing and picnicking with your family here. Try looking out for the starfish and various sea anemones in the rocky tide pools or along the shoreline. Hikers can enjoy exploring several trails here, like the 2-mile long Seahurst Park Loop Trail, running through lush forests and ravines.
You can park your cars either at the lower parking lot near the beach or the upper lot. The latter one is uphill, and you’ll have to walk about a quarter of a mile to reach the beach.
Dog/Pet Friendly: Yes, on leash.
To reach Third Beach, you need to hike a short yet moderate trail of about 1.5 miles from the parking space just off Highway 101. Hiking the steep sections will reward you with gorgeous views of the oceans and surroundings. Coming here early morning will let you beat the crowd, besides allowing you to see the beautiful creatures, especially during low tide. With a camping permit, you will be able to pitch your tents here. To light up the bonfires, you can make use of the driftwoods.
A walk to Strawberry Bay will make you witness the waterfall cascading from a height of 100 feet from a cliff. Though it flows throughout the year, the best time to see it gushing is from November to May. If you’re a hiking enthusiast, you can use this trail to go further to get the views from Taylor Point. It is moderate in difficulty level and includes a series of ropes and ladders.
Dog/Pet Friendly: No
Cape Disappointment State Park is home to this pretty little beach. You can get the best views of the lighthouse at Cape Disappointment from here. In addition, the cliffs and waves provide an excellent photography opportunity. Many also love visiting this place during the storm to see the huge waves hitting the shore with a crash. Kids enjoy playing at the forts formed by piles of driftwoods. Other activities here include swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and building sandcastles.
You need to possess a Discovery Pass to access the beach or spend $10 for day use.
Dog/Pet Friendly: Yes
Shi Shi Beach is a part of Olympic National Park, reached through a challenging 2-mile hike. You’ll find the trailhead in the Makah Indian Reservation, for which you need to have the Makah Reservation permit as well as the entry fee to enter the national park. Once you reach the beach, you can indulge in picnicking, nature gazing, playing frisbee, building sandcastles, etc. You can also walk along the trail for 2 miles further to the Point of the Arches and explore the tide pools and dramatic sea stacks.
Camping options are also available here, but you need to have a permit from the national park, which will cost you about $10 per day.
Dog/Pet Friendly: No
Juanita Beach in Kirkland within the Junaita Beach Park is a newly renovated one, also wheelchair-friendly. It is a favorite among many, featuring amenities like a playground, sand volleyball courts, bathhouse and restrooms, picnic shelters, and boardwalks. You can spend time playing a game of volleyball or ride a kayak or paddleboard.
Due to the high bacteria levels found in the water, there is a prohibition on swimming here. The long boardwalk allows visitors to take a stroll along the beach. If you haven’t brought your picnic baskets, head to the nearby restaurants for a sumptuous meal. The parking lot is spacious, accommodating about 20 cars in one go.
Dog/Pet Friendly: Yes
Within Lake Sammamish State Park, Sunset Beach is one of the two lakefront beaches that you’ll find here. Various fun activities and amenities, including birding opportunities, a volleyball court, and a playground for kids, keep the visitors engaged. The several trails that meander along the surrounding forested areas and wetlands allow hikers to have a great time absorbing the scenic beauty. Once done and you’re hungry, you can also spread your picnic blankets on the grassy area to enjoy lunch with your loved ones. There is also a store nearby for purchasing food items.
Dog/Pet Friendly: No, not in the beach but only the state park if leashed
Just an hour’s drive from Seattle will bring you to Cama Beach that spans along Camano Island. Encompassed by the Cama Beach Historical State Park, you can enjoy several recreational activities here. The forested backdrop provides a scenic vista, ideal for experiencing a calm and serene time in nature’s lap.
You can spot seals coming on and offshore or birds flying overhead. The additional views of the nearby Whidbey Island and Mount Olympic are indeed stunning. Also, there are many trails to enjoy hiking or biking.
For a weekend getaway, the rustic cabins near the shore equipped with modern amenities would indeed be a great choice. A Discover Pass is mandatory to get access to the state park, or you can also purchase a day pass for about $10.
Dog/Pet Friendly: Yes, on leash.
Madison Park Beach is one of the summer hotspots for swimming in Seattle. If you want to access the waters to enjoy a dip, you will need a swimming raft and diving board. You can also spend some time sunbathing in the grassy area or just relaxing under the sun while treating your eyes to the views of Lake Washington and the surrounding mountains. The wheel-chair friendly beach has provisions for public restrooms. With lifeguards on duty especially in summer, the place is safe for kids.
Dog/Pet Friendly: Yes, they can come on the beach but are not allowed in the water.
TOP PICKS:
Best Sandy Beaches: Alki Beach, Ruby Beach, Rialto Beach
Best Beaches for Swimming: Pacific Beach, Waikiki Beach, Madison Park Beach
Best Beaches for Camping: Rialto Beach, Pacific Beach, Fort Warden Beach
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