Second Beach in Olympic National Park is one of Washington State’s most breathtaking coastal destinations. With dramatic sea stacks, pristine sands, tide pools teeming with marine life, and unforgettable sunsets, this Pacific Northwest treasure is perfect for hikers, campers, photographers, and nature lovers. In this comprehensive guide, discover everything you need to know to plan the perfect visit to Second Beach.
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| Second Beach Olympic National Park |
📍 Where Is Second Beach?
Second Beach is located near La Push, Washington, within the boundaries of Olympic National Park. The trailhead is easily accessible, about 14 miles west of U.S. Highway 101 along La Push Road (State Route 110). The beach itself lies on the traditional lands of the Quileute Tribe, who continue to preserve the area's natural beauty.
🥾 How to Get to Second Beach
Visitors reach Second Beach via a short but scenic hike:
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Trail Distance: 0.7 miles (1.1 km) one way
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Elevation Loss: About 200 feet (61 meters)
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Difficulty: Easy to moderate, but expect some muddy patches, tree roots, and a steep descent at the end.
The trail winds through lush coastal rainforest before descending onto the beach, where massive driftwood logs mark the transition from forest to shore.
🌊 What Makes Second Beach Special?
Second Beach stands out for its:
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Iconic Sea Stacks: Towering rock formations rising out of the ocean create a dramatic and photogenic landscape, especially at sunset.
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Tide Pools: At low tide, colorful starfish, anemones, and small crabs are revealed in vibrant tide pools.
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Wildlife Viewing: Look up to spot bald eagles soaring overhead, or gaze out to sea to catch glimpses of migrating gray whales.
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Peaceful Atmosphere: Compared to nearby beaches like Ruby Beach or Rialto Beach, Second Beach is typically less crowded, offering a quieter experience.
🏕️ Camping at Second Beach
Backcountry camping is allowed at Second Beach, making it one of the best spots for beachfront camping in Washington State.
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Permit Required: Obtain a wilderness camping permit through Olympic National Park’s website or visitor centers.
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Bear Canisters: Mandatory for food storage due to the active wildlife.
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Camp Above the High Tide Line: Ensure your tent is safe from incoming tides.
Falling asleep to the sound of ocean waves under a sky full of stars is an unforgettable experience.
📅 Best Time to Visit Second Beach
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Spring and Summer (April through September) offer the best weather, with mild temperatures and relatively dry conditions.
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Low Tide is ideal for exploring tide pools. Check tide charts before you go!
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Sunset is the magic hour. Photographers will want to plan hikes to arrive a few hours before dusk.
🛡️ Important Tips for Visiting Second Beach
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Respect Tribal Lands: Parts of La Push and surrounding areas belong to the Quileute Tribe. Stay on marked trails and respect local regulations.
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Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash, respect wildlife, and leave natural features undisturbed.
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Prepare for Weather: Olympic Peninsula weather can change rapidly. Bring rain gear and layers, even in summer.
📷 Photography Tips for Second Beach
For stunning photos:
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Use a wide-angle lens to capture the dramatic scale of the beach and sea stacks.
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Visit during golden hour for soft, warm lighting.
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Long exposures during sunset or twilight create beautiful, silky ocean effects around the sea stacks.
🚗 Parking and Facilities
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Parking Lot: A paved parking area is available at the trailhead.
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Restrooms: Vault toilets are located at the parking area.
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No Water Facilities: Bring all your own drinking water.
Why Second Beach Should Be On Your Olympic National Park Itinerary
If you're looking for an unforgettable blend of adventure, serenity, and raw natural beauty, Second Beach delivers. Its relatively easy access combined with world-class scenery makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Olympic National Park.
Whether you're planning a short day hike, a romantic sunset picnic, or an overnight camping adventure, Second Beach is a place that will stay with you long after you leave.
