Washington’s coast is scattered with driftwood beaches where the Pacific has sculpted massive logs into natural art. The best places to see them run from Olympic National Park’s rugged shorelines down to the Long Beach Peninsula, each with its own character. Here’s where to go and what to do at each.
1. Ruby Beach
Ruby Beach, in Olympic National Park, is famous for its dramatic sea stacks and abundant driftwood.
- Highlights: Sea stacks, tide pools, and driftwood sculptures.
- Activities: Beachcombing, photography, and tide pooling.
2. Rialto Beach
Rialto Beach, another gem in Olympic National Park, is known for its striking rock formations and massive driftwood logs.
- Highlights: Hole-in-the-Wall rock formation, driftwood, and crashing waves.
- Activities: Hiking, exploring tide pools, and beachcombing.
3. Kalaloch Beach
Kalaloch Beach is a serene spot with miles of sandy shoreline and an abundance of driftwood.
- Highlights: Driftwood-strewn shores and stunning sunsets.
- Activities: Picnicking, beachcombing, and wildlife watching.
4. Second Beach
Second Beach, part of the La Push beaches, offers a secluded and picturesque setting. The beach is accessible via a short hike through lush forest, leading to a stunning coastline dotted with driftwood.
- Highlights: Sea stacks, driftwood, and tide pools.
- Activities: Hiking, beachcombing, and camping.
5. Third Beach
A beach in the La Push area provides a more remote and tranquil experience.
- Highlights: Driftwood and scenic views.
- Activities: Hiking, picnicking, and exploring.
6. Shi Shi Beach
A beach located in the Makah Reservation is renowned for its pristine beauty and dramatic landscapes. The beach is a bit of a trek to reach, but the journey is well worth it.
- Highlights: Driftwood and rugged coastline.
- Activities: Backpacking, photography, and tide pooling.
7. Cape Disappointment State Park
A state park offers a mix of history and natural beauty. The park’s beaches are littered with driftwood, providing a unique backdrop for exploration.
- Highlights: Driftwood and scenic vistas.
- Activities: Hiking, beachcombing, and visiting historical sites.
8. Long Beach
A beach on the Long Beach Peninsula is known for its expansive sandy shores and abundant driftwood.
- Highlights: Driftwood and annual kite festival.
- Activities: Kite flying, horseback riding, and beachcombing.
9. Ocean Shores
A coastal town offers a family-friendly beach experience with plenty of driftwood to explore.
- Highlights: Driftwood, sandy beaches, and nearby shops.
- Activities: Beachcombing, kite flying, and exploring the town.
10. Damon Point
A narrow peninsula near Ocean Shores has a unique landscape. The area is rich in driftwood and offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching.
- Highlights: Driftwood, birdwatching, and panoramic views.
- Activities: Hiking, birdwatching, and photography.
Embrace the Beauty of Washington’s Driftwood Beaches
Washington’s coastal driftwood beaches offer a unique blend of natural beauty and adventure. From the rugged shores of Ruby Beach to the serene stretches of Rialto Beach, each location provides a different experience. Driftwood, shaped by the elements, adds a touch of mystery and wonder to these coastal landscapes. Exploring these beaches can be a peaceful retreat or an exciting quest for hidden treasures.
Whether you’re a seasoned beachcomber or a curious traveler, Washington’s driftwood beaches have something special. The combination of stunning views, diverse wildlife, and the ever-changing driftwood makes these spots worth visiting. Pack your bags, grab a camera, and head to the coast. You’ll find more than just driftwood; you’ll discover a piece of nature’s art. Enjoy the journey and the memories you’ll create along the way.
