Best Beaches in Washington 2025
Discover the most beautiful beaches and coastal experiences in Washington.
Washington State, located in the Pacific Northwest corner of the United States, is a land of dramatic contrasts — from the rain-soaked temperate rainforests of the Olympic Peninsula to the volcanic peaks of the Cascades and the arid shrub-steppe of the east. Home to Seattle, one of America's most dynamic cities, the state blends cutting-edge technology culture with stunning wilderness, world-class food and coffee scenes, and some of the continent's most diverse outdoor adventure.
Top 10 Beaches
The best beaches Washington has to offer.
Ruby Beach
One of the most photographed beaches in the Pacific Northwest, Ruby Beach features sea stacks rising from the surf, enormous driftwood logs, and tidal pools. Part of Olympic National Park's wild coastline — undeveloped and breathtaking.
Rialto Beach
A dramatic Pacific beach with massive driftwood piles and the remarkable Hole-in-the-Wall sea arch accessible at low tide. One of Washington's most iconic coastal destinations, offering dramatic sunset views and excellent tidepool exploration.
Long Beach Peninsula
Washington's longest beach — 28 miles of wide, sandy Pacific coastline. Long Beach town offers classic American seaside resort amenities: kite shops, clam chowder restaurants, amusement rides, and the World Kite Museum. Popular for razor clam digging.
Ocean Shores
Washington's most accessible Pacific coast resort community, with a wide sandy beach, canal system for boating, dune buggies, and a full range of family amenities. A classic Pacific Northwest beach getaway popular with Seattle families.
Shi Shi Beach
Often listed among the most beautiful beaches in the US, Shi Shi Beach requires a 2-mile hike through old-growth forest to reach. Dramatic sea stacks, Point of the Arches rock formations, and complete solitude reward the effort.
Third Beach
A 1.3-mile hike leads to this spectacular wilderness cove with waterfall, sea stacks, and tidal pools. Quieter than nearby First Beach and far more dramatic, Third Beach is ideal for those seeking solitude on Washington's wild coast.
Alki Beach
Seattle's most beloved urban beach on the West Seattle peninsula, offering 2.5 miles of waterfront promenade with views of the Seattle skyline and Olympic Mountains. Popular for cycling, rollerblading, and beachcombing. Where Seattle's first settlers landed in 1851.
Westport Beach
Westport hosts Washington's most accessible surfing beach, with consistent Pacific swells and a surf school. The adjacent marina offers whale watching and fishing charters. Twin Harbors State Park provides camping with beach access.
Beaches by Vibe
Find the perfect beach for your style.
Quiet & Peaceful
Secluded spots perfect for relaxation and getting away from crowds.
Family-Friendly
Ocean Shores and Long Beach offer resort amenities, dune buggies, and classic seaside vacation experiences
Water Sports
Westport Beach for surfing; Alki Beach for cycling and rollerblading
Lively Scene
Alki Beach in summer has a lively beach promenade atmosphere with restaurants and rentals
Complete Beach Guide
Detailed beach profiles, packing lists, and seasonal recommendations.
Beach Activities
Things to do at the beach and in the water.
Razor Clamming
Digging for razor clams on Washington's Pacific beaches is a beloved regional tradition; check WDFW for open season dates
Tidepooling
Washington's rocky Pacific coast shelters extraordinary tidepool ecosystems with sea stars, anemones, chitons, and hermit crabs
Surfing
Cold-water surfing with consistent Pacific swells, best in fall and winter when swells are largest
Kite Flying
Washington's coastal winds make it ideal for kite flying; Long Beach hosts major kite festivals
Whale Watching (Shore-Based)
Gray whale migration passes Washington's coast March-May; orca pods visible from Olympic Peninsula beaches
Practical Information
What you need to know before heading to the beach.
Best Season
Washington's Pacific beaches are accessible year-round, though cold water temperatures (45-55°F year-round) limit swimming; summer months offer the best weather and longest days; fall and winter bring dramatic storm watching
Facilities
Olympic National Park beaches have minimal facilities; Ocean Shores and Long Beach have full resort amenities; Alki Beach has excellent urban facilities
Access
Most beaches are free to access; Olympic National Park beaches require a park pass ($35/vehicle); Makah Reservation beaches require a Makah Recreation Pass ($20)
Costs
Clam digging requires a shellfish license ($20/year for residents; $52 for non-residents); surf rentals in Westport from $25/hour; kayak rentals at Alki from $25/hour
What to Bring
- Sun protection (high SPF sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)
- Plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Beach towel or mat
- Modest swimwear (check local customs)
- Water shoes for rocky areas
- Cash for vendors and rentals
- Waterproof bag for valuables
Beach Safety
Stay safe while enjoying the water.
Always check local conditions and follow lifeguard instructions. Swim in designated areas only.
Be aware of currents, tides, and marine life. Don't swim alone or when flags indicate danger.
Protect yourself from sun. Apply sunscreen regularly and seek shade during peak hours (11am-3pm).
Keep valuables secure or leave them at your accommodation. Don't leave belongings unattended.
Explore Washington's Best Beaches
Get our complete beach guide with seasonal tips, packing checklists, and activity recommendations.
Download Beach Guide