Washington State may not be known for the same beautiful swimming beaches in Southern California, but our area still boasts of the most stunning natural beauty and diverse landscape on the West coast. With over 3,000 miles of coastline, beach lovers can have their fill of endless stretches of sand, towering sea stacks, and stunning sunsets. Many of the best ocean beaches in Washington State are mere hours from Olympia. Here are five great ocean beaches that are just a morning drive away.
Ocean Shores
DRIVE TIME: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Located in Grays Harbor County, Ocean Shores is the most popular oceanside destination in Washington State. With its 6-mile-long sandy beach and numerous options for water sports, this beach is a favorite among families and couples. Visitors can rent bikes, go horseback riding, or take a stroll on the beach to enjoy the stunning sunsets. The beach is also home to an abundance of wildlife, including harbor seals and migratory birds.
Long Beach
DRIVE TIME: 2 hours, 15 minutes
Located on the southwestern coast of Washington State, Long Beach is another popular destination for beach lovers. Stretching over 28 miles, it is the longest ocean beach in the state and is known for its wide sandy beaches, towering dunes, and stunning sunsets. Visitors can explore the beach on foot, by bike, or by horseback, and there are plenty of nearby attractions, including lighthouses, state parks, and seafood restaurants.
Ruby Beach
DRIVE TIME: 2 hours, 25 minutes
Another must-see ocean beach in Washington State is Ruby Beach, also located in Olympic National Park. It is a favorite among photographers and nature enthusiasts with its picturesque sea stacks, tide pools, and driftwood. Visitors can explore the beach's many hiking trails or simply relax and take in the stunning views.
Rialto Beach
DRIVE TIME: 3 hours, 15 minutes
Located in Olympic National Park, Rialto Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches in Washington State. It is a popular destination for hikers, surfers, and photographers with its rugged coastline, towering sea stacks, and stunning sunsets. Visitors can also catch a glimpse of bald eagles, sea otters, and harbor seals.
Westport
DRIVE TIME: 1 hour, 24 minutes
Westport is a charming coastal town located on the southern end of Grays Harbor. It is known for its wide sandy beaches, towering dunes, and excellent opportunities for surfing and fishing. Visitors can also explore the town's many restaurants and shops or take a stroll on the beach to enjoy the stunning views. In addition to surfing and fishing, visitors can also go whale watching or take a charter boat out to sea for deep-sea fishing.
Why These Five Beaches Stand Out
Rialto Beach, Ruby Beach, Long Beach, Ocean Shores, and Westport are picturesque and offer visitors unique experiences. Rialto Beach is a great place for photographers and hikers, while Ruby Beach is a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts. Long Beach offers a variety of activities, and visitors can explore the beach on foot, bike, or horseback. Ocean Shores is a family-friendly destination with numerous options for water sports, and Westport is an excellent spot for surfing, fishing, and whale watching.
Washington State is a haven for beach lovers, and these five destinations are just a few examples of the state's natural beauty. Whether you're an avid hiker, a beachcomber, a surfer, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, these ocean beaches are sure to leave you breathless. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and head to the beach to experience the beauty of these stunning destinations for yourself!
