The Olympic Peninsula is undoubtedly one of Washington State's most beautiful regions. Spanning over a million acres, Olympic National Park boasts awe-inspiring waterfalls, majestic mountain ranges and lush greenery. Beyond its natural beauty, the area is home to charming small towns, unique shops, and delectable local cuisine — It is the perfect blend of untouched nature, and rich culture of Washington State. Below are our must-see top things to do on the Olympic Peninsula.
Views from Hurricane Ridge.
1. Visit the Breathtaking Hurricane Ridge
Distance from Port Angeles: 40 minutes | 20 miles | 32 kms
Hurricane Ridge is an easily accessible mountain in Olympic National Park, where you can drive by car almost all the way to the top of the ridge to enjoy the endless views of wildflower fields, various wildlife, and mountain tips covered with snow as far as the eye can see (you can even see Victoria on a clear day!). The ridge is gorgeous year-round, with skiing and snowshoeing in the winter (with access via the Hurricane Ridge Winter Shuttle) and ample hiking trails in the summer (with access to the ridge via Clallam Transit's Hurricane Ridge Shuttle for only $2 round trip).
Sol Duc Falls.
2. Explore Sol Duc Falls and Relax at Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
Distance from Port Angeles: 1 hour | 43 miles | 69 kms
Make sure to check out Sol Duc Falls, which is a 1.6 miles / 2.6 km round trip hiking route near Joyce, Washington, about an hour drive from Port Angeles. Considered a relatively easy route, it takes an average of 42 minutes to complete. Sol Duc is a very popular area for backpacking, camping, and hiking — While you're there, be sure to check out Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort offering mineral hot spring soaking pools and a freshwater pool. After soaking in the mineralized spring waters, cuddle up with hot chocolate and camp underneath the clear Olympic Peninsula sky at the Sol Duc Hot Springs RV and Campground, or enjoy a stay at the resort.
Ruby Beach.
3. Wander the Shoreline of Ruby Beach
Distance from Port Angeles: 1 hour 45 mins | 84 miles | 135 kms
Ruby Beach is on the coast of the Olympic Peninsula, and is often considered one of the crown jewels of the Olympic National Park. Known for its striking sea stack displays, and very little amount of sand, we recommend wearing flip flops or water shoes to truly explore the beach in all of its beauty.
The Tree of Life in Kalaloch.
4. Admire the Tree of Life
Distance from Port Angeles: 1 hour 50 mins | 90 miles | 145 kms
Truly a tree of life — With its soil slowly being eroded away over time, the floating tree still has a interwoven connection of roots that can be seen to supply this tree with enough nutrients to sustain life. This unique sight will leave you in awe of the miracle we call nature. Despite heavy storms and winds, and no support to rest on, the tree persists through all weather. Some say it is magical phenomenon — You must see it for yourself!
Lake Quinault.
5. Swim at Lake Quinault & Stay at Lake Quinault Lodge
Distance from Port Angeles: 2 hours 30 mins | 124 miles | 200 kms
Make sure to check out this beautiful emerald lake (and take a dip in the summer!). Drive around the lake (roughly 30 miles / 48 kms) or venture through one of the hiking trails on the north shore, such as Quinault Big Cedar Trail and Kestner Homestead Trail, or the south shore with Colonel Bob's Trail. Cap off your day with a stay at the rustic Lake Quinault Lodge, a place that blissfully takes you back in time and allows you to recharge after a day full of adventure.
Vance Creek Bridge.
6. Hike up to Vance Creek Bridge
Distance from Port Angeles: 2 hours 40 mins | 121 miles | 195 kms
Hike this 1.4 mile / 2.25 km out-and-back trail near Matlock, Washington. Generally considered an easy route, it takes you through the backcountry on a 30-minute trek. *Please Note: For safety reasons, walking on the bridge is not allowed.
Port Gamble, Washington. Credit: Port Gamble Washington on Facebook.
7. Port Gamble - Olympic Peninsula or New England Village?
Distance from Port Angeles: 1 hour 15 mins | 54 miles | 87 kms
This charming waterfront town is located 1.5 hours outside of Seattle on the Olympic Peninsula. With its historic-looking main street and white fences, it looks like a New England Village. Its historic buildings, restaurants and wine tasting rooms make it an idyllic town rich with history and a fascinating past.
Lavender fields in Sequim, WA.
8. Check out Lavender Farms in Sequim — the Lavender Capital of North America
Distance from Port Angeles: 30 mins | 17 miles | 28 kms
You will become a lavender lover after visiting Sequim, the cutest town that organizes the well-known Lavender Festival every year in late-July with numerous vendors, great food, live music and really everything lavender related you can think of. Sequim is home to almost two dozen lavender farms (yes, you read that right!) with over 100,000 lavender plants grown each year — Sequim has the perfect climate for lavender to grow in due to its rainshadow, producing little rain year-round.
Dungeness Spit.
9. Spot a Myriad of Shorebirds on the Dungeness Spit
Distance from Port Angeles: 35 mins | 18 miles | 29 kms
The Dungeness Spit is a small strip of land east of Port Angeles in the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Here you can explore sandy beaches, beautiful forests and a huge variety of wildlife including many shorebirds such as seagulls, plovers and ducks. Once you pay the entrance fee, make your way through the forest which is a stunning but steeper descend to the beach from where you can walk on the sand up to a small lighthouse. During visiting hours, immerse yourself in the small museum inside of it. The best time to visit the Dungeness Spit is during low tide to have more land to walk on. Heads up for our furry friends, this strip of sand is closed to dogs as it is a National Wildlife Refuge.
The Elwha River Valley.
10. Elwha River Valley
Distance from Port Angeles: 15 mins | 9 miles | 15 kms
The Elwha Valley is located in the central northern area of the Olympic National Park, about 18km west of Port Angeles. Elwha River is the site of one of the biggest ecosystem restoration projects in history - damns that were built in 1927 were removed, restoring the river's watershed and salmon spawning in 2014. Hike to the Glines Canyon Spillway Overlook to witness the beauty and strength of the Elwha River Valley and its revegetation. A couple other fun day hikes include the Boulder Creek Trail and Humes Ranch Loop. Be sure to check fishing regulations beforehand as the fishing here is catch and release only.
Dock at Lake Crescent.
11. Picture-Perfect Lake Crescent
Distance from Port Angeles: 30 mins | 22 miles | 35 kms
A secluded, quiet lake surrounded by Olympic Mountains, making it a perfect place to rest and relax with picturesque views. Explore Spruce Road Trail along the lake's north shore, go for a swim to cool off or picnic on the shore of thise glacier-formed lake. If you are looking for accommodations right on the water, you can stay at Lake Crescent Lodge, which offers lake and beach access as well as boat rentals.
Hoh Rainforest.
12. Hoh Rainforest - Allow Yourself to Become Enchanted
Distance from Port Angeles: 2 hours | 88 miles | 142 kms
Hoh Rainforest is one of the most magical temperate rainforests in the world. It will take your breath away with its endless shades of green and brown. The moss, fern and tree canopies shade this forest and tell stories about a different, mystical world, allowing you to rest and recharge on your trip. The forest also offers various hiking loops and trails for all levels of expertise.
Welcome to Forks, WA.
13. Forks - Take a Peek Into the World of the Twilight Saga
Distance from Port Angeles: 1 hour 10 mins | 56 miles | 90 kms
Ever wondered what the hype is about? Team Edward or Team Jacob? Forks is the main location Stephanie Meyer chose for her Twilight series that had millions of readers and viewers hooked. No wonder the small, rainy town of Forks got so much attention after - everyone wanted to take a peak into the world of werewolves and vampires. Visit the Cullen and Swan house, where the characters lived, or visit the "Forever Twilight in Forks" small museum featuring props from the Twilight saga and fan-made items. You can also visit the Forks Timber museum where you will see the history of the sleepy little town's farming and timber industry. Don't believe in vampires or werewolves? After visiting forks, you might change your mind.
World's Largest Sitka Spruce Near Lake Quinault, Washington.
14. World's Largest Sitka Spruce Tree - Near Lake Quinault
Distance from Port Angeles: 2 hours 25 mins | 123 miles | 198 kms
Drive approximately 2 and a half hours through the scenic Olympic Peninsula and down the coast to meet this giant. Standing at 191 feet and having lived for over 1000 years you'll have to stop and admire this natural feat of beauty. As the hippies do- give the tree a hug and thank it for the fresh air! Simply walk 0.3 miles from South Shore Road on the flat, gravel path to find this beauty!
Duncan Memorial Tree: United State's Largest Western Redcedar.
15. United State's largest Western Red Cedar Tree - Duncan Memorial Cedar Tree
Distance from Port Angeles: 1 hour 45 mins | 82 miles | 140 kms
While not the world's largest Western Red Cedar, the Duncan Memorial Tree is certainly no slouch. It stands out like a skyscraper amongst the lush, green forest. The world's largest western red cedar is actually the Cheewhat Giant, located on Vancouver Island in the Pacific Rim Park. The Duncan Memorial Tree stands 178 feet tall and is truly a sight to behold! The tree is in Jefferson County about 15 miles off Route 101 and is accessible by logging roads. Get ready to 4x4!
Fort Worden Historical State Park.
16. Visit Fort Worden Historical State Park
Distance from Port Angeles: 1 hour 10 mins | 48 miles | 77 kms
Explore a historic army base with miles of seashore and hiking trails. Find hidden defense strategies and explore how our coast was defended. Rent a bike and hit the trails or lace up those hiking boots and get moving! You can even get on the water in a kayak where you'll be able to see even more breath taking views. You might even get the chance to see sea otters, sea lions, or even orca whales!
Views from the High Steel Bridge.
17. High Steel Bridge
Distance from Port Angeles: 2 hours 20 mins | 101 miles | 163 kms
Test your fear of heights by walking across the bridge. Seems simple, right? The bridge spans 685 feet across the river below and sits 375 feet above the river. Conquer your fears and get that perfect Instagram shot. Or just get the shot and tell your friends you crossed the bridge. We won't tell.
Fort Flager State Historical Park.
18. Fort Flagler State Historical Park
Distance from Port Angeles: 1 hour 10 mins | 51 miles | 82 kms
Built in the 1980s and located on the north tip of Marrowstone Island, this historical military base has survived World War I, World War II and the Korean War. Explore this base and learn the history by yourself or on a guided tour. There is a museum and gift shop to explore as well as many outdoor activities. Find trails to hike, beaches to fly kites on, places to fish, drive your boat, trap crabs and even dig for clams. Fun for the whole family!
Point of the Arches at Shi Shi Beach.
19. Shi Shi Beach and the Point of the Arches
Distance from Port Angeles: 2 hours 10 mins | 75 miles | 121 kms
Pronounced "Shy Shy" beach, this is a great place for day trips and camping alike. It is not accessible by vehicle, we suggest you bring a pair of hiking boots or shoes you don't mind getting muddy for the walk in. If you wish to camp overnight there are certain permits and supplies needed for staying overnight in this area so please ensure you come with the proper paperwork. Shi Shi beach and the La Push beaches share many similarities, with Shi Shi being larger and more private. Make sure to plan enough time to hike to the end of the beach and view the point of arches, a magnificent group of rocks jutting up out of the Pacific Ocean.
Seastack at La Push's Second Beach.
20. La Push Beaches (First, Second & Third Beach)
Distance from Port Angeles: 1 hour 25 mins | 69 miles | 111 kms
With beautiful vegetation and ocean views alike, the La Push beaches are a very popular destination, and for good reason! First Beach is vehicle accessible and is about an hour and a half drive on the 101 from our Port Angeles terminal. There is resort lodging available close to First Beach. Second and Third beach are more secluded than First beach and for this reason are very popular amongst hikers and campers. If you are looking at Shi Shi but are worried about the permits and camping details definitely consider Second or Third beach as they are more accessible and very similar in terms of natural beauty.
Enchanted Valley Trailhead.
21. Enchanted Valley Hike
Distance from Port Angeles: 3 hours 20 mins | 139 miles | 224 kms
Whether looking to do a day trip or a multiple day trip, Enchanted Valley is a great option. With trails ranging from easy to strenuous, there is something for everybody and every fitness level! When you arrive at the valley itself, you'll find a lodge, now boarded-up but previously an operational getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. Surrounding the Valley are some of the most beautiful sights you'll find in nature, with tons of native vegetation, meadows, steep cliffs and waterfalls. Keep your eyes peeled! You may even see a herd of elk!
Highway 112: Strait of Juan de Fuca Scenic Byway.
22. Drive the Strait of Juan de Fuca Scenic Byway
Distance from Port Angeles: 1 hour 40 mins | 71 miles | 114 kms
If you’re thinking that you just want to see it all, the Strait of Juan de Fuca Scenic Byway, or Highway 112, offers 61 miles (almost 100km) of coastal highway across the northern stretch of the Olympic Peninsula. As an option for a perfect day trip, the byway serves the opportunity to chart your path through all the beauty the area has to offer. There are so many highlights along the way, but make sure you check out the charming town of Joyce, Clallam Bay, and the Salt Creek Recreation Centre along this route.
Makah Cultural and Research Center Museum Sign. Credit: U.S. National Park Service.
23. Makah Cultural and Research Center Museum
Distance from Port Angeles: 1 hour 35 mins | 69 miles | 111 kms
The Makah Museum features permanent exhibits containing 350-500 year old Makah artifacts that tell stories about their culture. They even have full size replicas of the traditional Makah canoes and longhouses. They have temporary exhibits that change yearly and feature artwork, textiles and carvings amongst other artifacts. The museum also has an outdoor ethnobotanical garden featuring many native plants. In efforts to preserve the traditional Makah language they even have a language department that teaches and constructs curriculum to be taught in the local Neah Bay schools.
Hard Rain Cafe Sign and Flowers. Credit: Hard Rain Cafe and Mercantile on Facebook.
24. Hard Rain Cafe (Half Pound Burgers!!!)
Distance from Port Angeles: 1 hour 35 mins | 75 miles | 121 kms
With meals starting at $5.99 and half-pound burgers can you really go wrong? The Hard Rain Cafe is located at the entrance to the Olympic National Park at the Hoh Rainforest. This cafe is a must stop for anything you're craving, be that all day breakfast, burgers, fish, chicken and even ice cream! In a rush? Ask for it to go! Grab some Hard Rain Cafe merch and make sure to say "Hi" to Harry the Yeti before you leave!
Willaby Creek Falls.
25. Willaby Creek Falls
Distance from Port Angeles: 2 hours 25 mins | 123 miles | 198 kms
While hiking the Quinault Loop be sure to stop by the Willaby Creek Falls. The falls can be viewed from the trail along with lots of moss covered trees, making for a very ethereal experience. The falls create a barrier for migrating fish, so if you're lucky you may see some fish trying to jump up the falls. Be sure to bring your camera as you will have a gorgeous photo opportunity right from the trail- no bushwhacking required. Also on this trail are the Falls Creek falls, and the Cascade falls.
Olympic Game Farm.
26. Visit the Olympic Game Farm
Distance from Port Angeles: 30 mins | 17 miles | 27 kms
Load up the car and get ready for an adventure! With 84 acres available to explore on the self-guided car tour all you will need to do is strap in and buy a few loaves of bread. You'll be able to feed, see, and even in some cases, pet so many animals! There are llamas, bison, elk, zebra, deer, yaks, lions, tigers, and even bears that wave! There are even some movie stars found on the farm which you can see in movies such as "Serenity Farms", "Captain Fantastic", and more. Don't forget to head inside and check out the lizard and reptile enclosure. Grab some ice cream, snacks and souvenirs before you leave!
On Tap at Barhop Brewery. Credit: Bar Hop Brewery.
27. Have a Brew at a Local Brewery
Saying that people on the Olympic Peninsula love yeast would be correct, but also probably an understatement. From many craft breweries, to farmers turning crops into ciders you'll find a huge variety of yummy yeasty brews here! Make your own tour by finding breweries and cideries within walking distance of each other. A popular stop is Barhop Brewing, known for its artisanal brews and pizzas to help soak it up! Visit during September for the Arts and Draughts Festival or October for the Olympic Apple and Cider Festival.
Salt Creek Recreation.
28. Salt Creek Recreation
Distance from Port Angeles: 20 mins | 16 miles | 26 kms
Just a 20 minute drive form our Port Angeles terminal you'll find some incredible tide pools filled with wildlife from the Salish Sea. There are spaces for camping and RVs available, but book early because they will fill up! Kayak over the massive underwater kelp forests and even see Orca's from the shore. There are also hiking trails to waterfalls and nearby WWII bunkers. Salt Creek Recreation is a great place for a weekend getaway!
Cape Flattery.
29. Cape Flattery
Distance from Port Angeles: 1 hour 50 mins | 80 miles | 129 kms
Only 0.75 miles to the lookout and dog friendly while on leash, Cape Flattery makes for a great day trip or lunch picnic spot. While on the trail, you'll find four observation decks from which you can view Tatoosh Island, beautiful sunrises/sunsets and wildlife such as whales and sea lions. To access the trailhead you will need to purchase a Makah recreation pass.
Staircase Ranger Station.
30. Staircase
Distance from Port Angeles: 2 hours 25 mins | 100 miles | 161 kms
Staircase Ranger Station and Campground is located in the southeast portion of the Olympic National Park. Staying here has a different feel to much of the rest of the Park due to its lower traffic in comparison to other areas. While here you can enjoy lazy floats on the North Fork of the Skokomish River, or if you're more daring you can explore the Staircase Rapids which are accessible by trail. Since you're very close to Lake Cushman there is lots of swimming but keep in mind this will make the area busier in the summer.
Marymere Falls.
31. Marymere Falls
Distance from Port Angeles: 30 mins | 20 miles | 32 kms
The Marymere Falls trail is a 3.4-km out-and-back trail near Port Angeles. From Lake Crescent, take Barnes Creek Trail and walk past hundreds of old-growth giants until you reach the Falls. Towards the end, the trail forms a loop where you can take nature stairs up to the falls viewpoints. There is an upper and lower viewpoint; both allow you to observe the stunning 90-foot-high waterfall. This is a family-friendly trail; however, dogs are not allowed on this path.
The Olympic Discovery Trail.
32. Ride the Olympic Discovery Trail (Olympic E-Bike)
Stretching from charming Port Townsend to La Push, the Olympic Discovery Trail is a 130 mile route that is accessible to non-motorized use. Whether you’re interested in taking the full trek or just a segment, the trail allows you to explore the stunning Olympic Peninsula by foot, bike, or even horseback. You can even take advantage of Black Ball Ferry Line’s e-bike rental packages with Discover E-Bikes as part of your journey along the trail!
BOOK E-BIKE RENTALS
Delta at Dosewallips State Park.
33. Dosewallips State Park
Distance from Port Angeles: 1 hour 15 mins | 59 miles | 95 kms
Dosewallips State Park is a 1064 acre park that has is all: forests, mountains, rivers, beaches, and deltas! The moss-carpet forest and the glacial river give way to the delta on Hood Canal, the place to be for clam-diggers, anglers, birders, and beach explorers alike. While perfect for a day trip, the park also features riverside campsites, cabins, and platforms so that you can stay under the stars.
Puget Sound Express Whale Watching Boat.
34. Puget Sound Express Whale Watching
Offering a variety of half-day and full day trips out of various locations Puget Sound Express is so sure that you'll see whales on their voyages that they even guarantee it! This family owned and operated business has 4 boats and many incredible members of staff dedicated to ensuring you have the best experience with the whales possible. They even have a half-day Port Angeles tour that runs until October - the perfect day trip! Don't forget to refuel after a hard day of whale watching with some warm Blueberry Buckle- served on board!
Marrowstone Island.
35. Marrowstone Island
Distance from Port Angeles: 1 hour 10 mins | 51 miles | 82 kms
Marrowstone Island, located close to Port Townsend and connected to the mainland via Indian Island, is the perfect place for a family getaway. You can walk out to Marrowstone point and visit the lighthouse. You can also spend a day hunting for shellfish, scuba diving and doing all sorts of watersports at Mystery Bay. Also catch special events on this island including the Strawberry Festival and Tractor Days Parade.
Sunset at Ozette Triangle.
36. Petroglyphs on the Ozette Triangle
Distance from Port Angeles: 1 hour 45 mins | 76 miles | 122 kms
The Ozette triangle trail is one of the most beautiful hikes on the Olympic Peninsula. You hike on a raised wooden platform through the forest until you begin to hear the crashing and roaring of the Pacific Ocean. The forest then opens up to a gorgeous and wild beach, full of plenty rock stacks where you can see the effects of the waves crashing on them over the years. About halfway through the hike you'll begin to see petroglyphs left here many many years ago from our ancestors. Appreciate the beauty of the wild and the mystery of our ancestors while on this hike.
Views from Deer Park.
37. Camp at Deer Park Campground
Distance from Port Angeles: 1 hour | 22 miles | 35 kms
This campground is unique as it is the only car campground at high-alpine country, allowing you a beautiful 360° view of the Olympic Mountains, Puget Sound, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Watch the sunset behind the mountain ridge and camp under the night sky in the peace and quiet of nature.
Views at Mount Ellinor.
38. Hike the 6.4-km Mount Ellinor Trail For a Challenging Yet Stunning Trek
Distance from Port Angeles: 2 hours 30 mins | 90 miles | 145 kms
Mount Ellinor is easily spotted as its the most southern prominent peak of the eastern front of the Olympic Range, this makes it ideal to point out to your friends as you're telling them all about how much fun you had on the hike. This hike has two trailheads, the lower of which you do not need to buy a Northwest Forest Pass to access. The lower trail starts easy and merges with the more challenging upper trail. These trails will walk you through old growth, near recovering clear cuts and near cliff edges. This beautiful and exhilarating hike is the perfect blend between challenging and rewarding, leaving you feeling satisfied. While at the top see if you can spot the salt-licking goats!
Historic Site at Port Angeles Underground and Heritage Tours.
39. Port Angeles Underground Heritage Tours
With concerns of flooding arising in the early 1900s, Port Angeles’ downtown streets were elevated to create a network of underground tunnels and storefronts. Although this engineering feat was unable to save many older buildings, a select few, and the stories they have to tell, remain. The Port Angeles Underground Heritage Tour includes a historical account of the city, an overview of the tactics used in the major renovations of 1914, and an exploration of the rediscovered basements and tunnels.
BOOK AN UNDERGROUND HERITAGE TOUR
Views of Sunny Lake Cushman.
40. Visit Lake Cushman
Distance from Port Angeles: 2 hours | 90 miles | 145 kms
Clear waters and a surrounding lush forest environment await you at Lake Cushman. This destination is popular for swimming, fishing, boating, and picnicking. Additionally, it offers ample surrounding hike opportunities which reach rocky alpine peaks. The lake does not have any on-site camping, so you may want to plan to arrive early to get a prime spot at this sought after destination during peak season.
Next Door Gastropub. Credit: Next Door Gastropub.
41. Eat!
The Olympic Peninsula features countless restaurants that showcase the abundance and diversity of the region. Next Door Gastropub is one we think you should try, it's located in Port Angeles a short walk away from the ferry terminal. Also while in Port Angeles, make sure to check out Elevated Ice Cream! It's a local and non-local favorite dishing out incredible homemade ice cream, sweets, sherbet and italian ice.
Port Townsend Marine Science Center. Credit: Port Townsend Marine Science Center.
42. Visit the Port Townsend Marine Science Center
Distance from Port Angeles: 1 hour 10 mins | 47 miles | 76 kms
Explore the undersea world and visit the depths of your curiosity at the Port Townsend Marine Science Center! This educational and scientific organization provides a unique opportunity to learn about the marine environment. The various exhibits harbour a respectful understanding of the Salish Sea that surrounds Port Angeles, Port Townsend, and Victoria.
Port Townsend Aero museum.
43. Visit the Port Townsend Aero Museum
Distance from Port Angeles: 1 hour | 44 miles | 71 kms
With over 25 planes on display, the Port Townsend Aero Museum is a must-stop for the budding pilot in your life! This museum is not only interested in teaching about the history of aviation but also is interested in teaching the future of aviation! They have multiple youth programs allowing youths to learn about flight, train to be a pilot and learn about airplane restoration. Get a glimpse of what there is to know about aviation by stopping in for a day trip!
Olympic Cellars.
44. Sip on Local Wine
Distance from Port Angeles: 15 mins | 7 miles | 11 kms
The Olympic Cellars is a family owned and women operated winery that is sure to quench your thirst. Located just beyond Port Angeles, this is the perfect stop after exploring the Olympic Peninsula. The heritage winery is nestled in the foothills of the Olympic mountains and was founded in 1979!
Lake Quinault Museum.
45. Visit the Lake Quinault Museum
Distance from Port Angeles: 2 hours 30 mins | 124 miles | 200 kms
Located by the scenic glacial Lake Quinault, the Lake Quinalt Museum showcases the notable past of the area. Scattered throughout an old heritage home, the museum offers a range of quaint scenes and local stories, from the Old Time Kitchen to the Logging Room. Nestled in the attic is a childrens bedroom display with vintage dolls having a tea party! These exhibits are crafted to ensure a nostalgic and historical experience.
Mount Olympus, as seen from Hurricane Ridge.
46. Tackle Mount Olympus
Distance from Port Angeles: 2 hours 5 mins | 90 miles | 145 kms
If you’re ready for a serious adventure, Mount Olympus might be the challenge for you. While this is only recommended if you have considerable experience with mountaineering and climbing, it is an excursion that rewards you with spectacular scenery. Traversing Mount Olympus, you will be met with glaciers, crevasses, and icefalls. As the tallest peak of the Olympic Mountains on the Olympic Peninsula, this mountain is challenging and remote. If you’re intrigued by this mountain, but not ready for the climb, you can visit Hurricane Ridge with views of the summit.
Views of Puget Sound from Mount Walker Viewpoint.
47. Mount Walker Viewpoint
Distance from Port Angeles: 1 hour 20 mins | 56 miles | 90 kms
Reachable by vehicle off of Highway 101, the Mount Walker viewpoint is a great, accessible location if you are after some views. From the summit, you can see the Eastern Olympic Mountains, a long view down the Hood Canal, a view of Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens, and even the Seattle and Tacoma Skylines in the distance. This viewpoint is accessible through a hike or by car.
7 Cedars Hotel and Casino Exterior. Credit: 7 Cedars.
48. 7 Cedars Hotel and Casino
Distance from Port Angeles: 30 mins | 23 miles | 37 kms
A trip to the 7 Cedars Hotel and Casino provides an abundance of gaming, dining, recreation, and comfort-driven accommodation. The perfect home base for a relaxing exploration of the Olympic Peninsula, the hotel’s location in Sequim provides a gateway to the Olympic Peninsula. SAVE when you book an overnight package at 7 Cedars through Black Ball Ferry Line!
BOOK NOW
Sunset at Toleak Peak.
49. Hike and Camp at Toleak Peak
Distance from Port Angeles: 1 hour 35 mins | 68 miles | 110 kms
If you're ready for a challenge, try hiking to Toleak Peak! This moderate rated hike will take you across the precipitous coastline of the Olympic National Park. This adventure can either be a day trip or you can camp at the top and enjoy an amazing sunset. Be aware! High tide can make sections of this hike tricky, so plan your trip using the tide charts accordingly.
Waves at Rialto Beach.
50. Surf's Up at Rialto Beach!
Distance from Port Angeles: 1 hour 30 mins | 68 miles | 110 kms
Just North of La Push, separated by the Quillayute River, Rialto Beach offers a sandy seaside and views of sea stacks and rock formations of the Pacific Ocean. The beach features a “tree graveyard,” with hundreds of massive trunks and driftwood deposited by storms. From the beach, a trek to the famous “Hole-In-The-Wall” rock is a worthwhile endeavor to take a look at how the rocky seaside has been carved out by erosion from the sea surf and waves. With the right conditions, Rialto Beach also offers a haven for surfers to catch some waves!
