The 10 Best Beaches in Washington

They’re picturesque, offering you opportunities to dig your toes in the sand, build sandcastles, take a dip in the cool waters, or explore sea life in tide pools. Discover the 10 best beaches in Washington!

1. Ruby Beach

Location: Olympic National Park

Ruby Beach is one of the best beaches in Washington and offers a feast for the eyes by way of the eddying driftwood you find on the sand. When the tide is low, you are likely to come across crabs and starfish. Look up the tidal charts to make the most out of your visit! You have several options when you arrive aside from enjoying the beach. You might hike up to Hoh River, which is just north of the beach.

2. Pacific Beach

Location: Pacific Beach State Park   

Pacific Beach has stunning panoramic views, rocky shores, and a breathtaking coastal landscape that surrounds it. There are large rock formations that appear to have emerged from the ocean to greet you; simple yet serene and beautiful. The tide pools give life to small fish, crabs, sea urchins, starfish, and anemones. There is a creek that invitingly curves through the forest as if to say, “Come. Stay with me for a while.”

3. Long Beach Peninsula

Location: Long Beach

Long Beach Peninsula is one of the longest sandy beaches in the United States. It is perfect for long sunset walks, flying kites, or just relaxing by the water. Along the shoreline, you can go crabbing or clamming! The beauty of this spot is that you can either choose to go freshwater fishing or in the ocean, the choice is yours. It is also home to wildlife that includes deer, elk, waterfowl, and migratory birds.

4. Fort Worden Beach

Location: Fort Worden Historical State Park

There is a historical significance to Fort Worden Beach. The military installation was built in the 19^th century, and it played a major role during both World Wars. The park also offers camping, biking, and wildlife spotting. It’s also equipped with tennis, basketball, and volleyball courts. There are two miles of white sand beach for you to take long walks through. There are more than enough activities for the whole family to enjoy!

5. Rosario Beach

Location: Deception Pass State Park

People recognize this beach mostly for its coastal scenery, rugged coastline, and nearby islands. It has so much to offer, including tide pools that you can visit to see starfish, crabs, and other small creatures. It’s a must-see for both pro and amateur photographers, as there is plenty of material to choose from like rock formations and crashing waves against the cliffs that throw mist into the air, beautifully blurring the backdrop.

6. Alki Beach

Location: Seattle

The beach offers lots of space to relax or work up a sweat playing beach volleyball or frisbee. The gentle waves are an open invitation to families or romantic couples (except on windy days!). Alki Beach Park is adjacent to the beach. It offers barbeque pits and well-manicured lawns for outdoor games. A visit to Alki Beach also puts you in close proximity to nearby parks like Lincoln Park, and Schmitz Preserve Park, which offers trails and invites you further out to explore nature.

7. Seabrook Beach

Location: Central Washington Coast

Seabrook Beach is a gorgeous location. It’s a family-friendly seaside village with coastal townhomes and beach cottages that makes it feel like you’re taking a step into the past! This is the ideal location for sunbathing and beach games in a wholesome environment. It’s only a 2.5-hour drive from the busy environment of Seattle, making it a great option for a quick day trip.

8. Ocean Shores

Location: Ocean Shores

Ocean Shores is unique because you don’t have to park and walk out to the water. Just drive your car out onto the sand! Just make sure it’s hard-packed. There are lots of access points and parks that lead to the beach as well. Set up a campfire and settle in for the day. The Pacific Ocean is known to be chilly, so a wet or dry suit is a good idea.

9. Golden Gardens Park

Location: Seattle

The coastline at Golden Gardens Parks is rugged but you can stroll through and enjoy the views. You can head out into the forest to hike the trails or just take a load off and set up on the sand with a towel. There’s a pier you can fish from and if you want to take your boat out, just head to the boat launch!

10. Owen Beach

Location: Point Defiance Park

Owen Beach is a great place for partaking in a variety of activities. There is a concession stand for snacks, a beach pavilion, a play area for the kiddos, and easy water access (recently redesigned). There are new restrooms on-site, you can rent a kayak to go out on the water and settle into picnic shelters to rest.

Summary of the 10 Best Beaches in Washington