What are the most popular beaches in Washington?
While Washington might not have tropical beaches, the incredible scenery and moody atmosphere of the coast should be on your must see list. Luckily, Washington has a variety of beaches you can choose from for hiking, exploring, whale watching, and even surfing!
Top beaches in Washington
1. Ruby Beach
2. Cape Disappointment State Park
3. Fort Worden Beach
4. Rosario Beach
5. Alki Beach
6. Ocean Shores
7. Westport
8. Long Beach
9. Lake Sammamish State Park
10. Golden Gardens Park
Washington Beaches
From sandy beaches to rocky shores, there are no shortages of beaches in Washington state. Here are some of the best beaches in Washington to explore on your next vacation.
1. Ruby Beach
Situated on the on the southwest coast of the Olympic Peninsula, Ruby Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Olympic National Park. This rocky and picturesque beach is full of rugged views, driftwood, and hiking trails that encourage exploration of the tide pools and coastal wilderness.
Things to do near Ruby Beach: You can use our guide to explore the rest of Olympic National Park, or head less than 100 miles to Seattle if you want to spend some time in the city. We’ve got some great RVs for rent nearby.
2. Cape Disappointment State Park
Looking to explore the rugged Washington coast? Head to Cape Disappointment State Park in the southwestern part of the state. This state park is an excellent place to explore tide pools, whale watch, hike through the rain forest, watch the waves crash against the rocky cliffs, and of course visit the beach. Waikiki Beach (no, not the one in Hawaii) is a beach tucked in a small cove with trails that lead up to the lighthouse and the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. There’s also Benson Beach which is great for hiking and you can see the North Head Lighthouse.
Things to do near Cape Disappointment State Park: Visit Olympic National Park, Seattle, or cross the state line and visit Portland, Oregon. We’ve got you covered with local guide and RV rentals.
3. Fort Worden Beach
Fort Worden Historical State Park is on 432 acres on the Olympic Peninsula with two miles of shoreline. A visit to the Fort Worden Beach includes a 120-foot dock where you can fish and kayak rentals if you want to take to the water. Then explore the rest of the park by hiking, biking, or visiting the lighthouse and historic buildings. There are even two campgrounds with full and partial hook ups if you want to stay the night.
Things to do near Fort Worden Beach: Explore the rest of the state park and Puget Sound. You’re also close to Olympic National Park and Seattle.
4. Rosario Beach
One of the most popular state parks in Washington is Deception Pass State Park. Besides the landmark bridge, the park is also home to gorgeous sunsets, towering cliffs, hidden coves, and Puget Sound beaches. On the northern Fidalgo Island, Rosario Beach is a great option for explorers. Full of tide pools and a hiking trail, this beach has a rocky shore and driftwood logs dotting the beach.
Things to do near Rosario Beach: Explore the rest of Deception Pass State Park with our guide. You can also explore the other islands in Puget Sound and then head down into Seattle.
5. Alki Beach
Located in West Seattle, Alki Beach is a section of sandy beachfront with views of both Seattle and Olympic Mountains. Besides the water, sun, and sand, the beach also provides picnic tables, bathrooms, volleyball courts, fire pits, and a pedestrian walkway that’s popular with walkers and joggers. Alki is a great way to enjoy the beach without leaving the city. The Alki Point Lighthouse is located southwest of the park where visitors can view historic photos and even take a tour.
Things to do near Alki Beach: Explore Seattle with our local’s guide. You’re also right outside Olympic National Park and the Puget Sound for outdoor activities. We’ve got you covered with local RV rentals if you need a way to explore.
6. Ocean Shores
The coastal town of Ocean Shores is less than 3 hours away from Seattle and sits on the Point Brown Peninsula. The miles of shoreline make this a fantastic place to take in the sun and surf. There’s plenty to do such as fishing charters, boat rentals, horseback rides, electric bikes, and kite rentals. The town itself is full of fun restaurants and shops if you’re looking for entertainment after spending time on the beach.
Things to do near Ocean Shores: Ocean City State Park is nearby, and you’re not too far a drive from Olympic National Park.
7. Westport
Located on the entrance to Grays Harbor, Westport offers miles of coastline and beaches to surf, explore, whale watch, and beach-comb. It’s a popular surf destination, and Westport has board and wetsuit rentals, as well as surfing lessons if you’d like to catch a wave yourself. Not only is Westport Beach great for humans, it’s also dog friendly!
Things to do near Westport: Explore the rest of the town of Westport such as the marina and board walk. You’re also a short drive from Cape Disappointment State Park and our next beach…
8. Long Beach
At 28 miles long, this beach deserves its name. Long Beach not only has a sand beach, but also a boardwalk that meanders through grassy dunes and a 8.5 mile bike trail called the Discovery Trail that follows a route explored by Lewis and Clark. The town of Long Beach is also full of shops, restaurants, and museums – including the World Kite Museum. There’s also the Washington State International Kite Festival held here in August where you can see hundreds of kites in the sky.
Things to do near Long Beach: Cape Disappointment State Park is nearby, as well as Westport Beach. We’ve got you covered with local RV rentals.
9. Lake Sammamish State Park
More of a lake fan that an ocean enthusiast? Head to Lake Sammamish State Park to visit their two lakefront beaches. Tibbetts Beach offers kayak and stand up paddle board rentals. There are also hiking and biking trails throughout the park if you’re looking to explore the forest after a dip in the lake.
Things to do near Lake Sammamish State Park: Seattle is located just to the west, and you’re right near Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park if you’re interested in more hiking trails.
10. Golden Gardens Park
Golden Gardens Park is located in the Ballard neighborhood of Seattle on Puget Sound and is a favorite place to soak in the sun, watch the sunset, and hike. The beach a trail that goes through the forest and provides opportunities to stroll along the rugged coast. You’ll also have great views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. The park also has restrooms, volleyball courts, and an off leash dog area.
Things to do near Golden Gardens Park: You’re already near the city, so explore Seattle with our local’s guide. You’re also right outside Olympic National Park and Puget Sound. We’ve got some great local RV rentals for you to check out.
Planning an RV Trip to Washington
An RV trip is an excellent way to tour the great variety of beaches in Washington, and we’ve got all the resources you need to plan a perfect vacation.
Here are guides to some of the best state parks in Washington, as well as all the national parks in the country. And as always, we’re here to help when it comes to finding the best campgrounds and RV rentals. Now it’s time to get planning and exploring!
