When it comes to Pacific Northwest hiking trail, it really doesn’t get better than a beachside hike… unless, of course, you throw in a waterfall along the way. The breathtaking Third Beach on the Olympic Peninsula offers both, and watching the water flow into the ocean is pretty much perfection. Current conditions have called for Third Beach to be closed for the time being, but this is something to look forward to when it opens again.

You'll find Third Beach on the Olympic Peninsula, not far from La Push.
Eugene Saburi / alltrails.com
While First Beach and Second Beach are equally as stunning, Third Beach boasts the most impressive hiking trail.
To reach the shoreline, just look for signs for the Third Beach Trail and head through the forest.
Luke Farber / alltrails.com
Then enjoy a 1.3-mile trek through the trees, which is often foggy and mystical.
Before you know it, you'll reach the beautiful, pristine shoreline.
Dan McDonough / alltrails.com
Second Beach will be to the north, while heading south will take you to the South Coast Wilderness Trail, a long coastal trek that requires knowledge of the tides (and a permit).

Related Stories

A Short But Beautiful Hike, Lower Falls Creek Trail Leads To A Little-Known Waterfall In Washington

A Short But Beautiful Hike, Lower Falls Creek Trail Leads To A Little-Known Waterfall In Washington

 This Cozy Cabin In Washington Has Its Own Private Waterfall In The Backyard

This Cozy Cabin In Washington Has Its Own Private Waterfall In The Backyard

 This Waterfall Swimming Hole In Washington Is So Hidden You’ll Probably Have It All To Yourself

This Waterfall Swimming Hole In Washington Is So Hidden You’ll Probably Have It All To Yourself
As you walk, make sure to allow plenty of time for beachcombing.
Chase Miner / alltrails.com
The tide pools here can be pretty fantastic.
After about 1.3 miles, you'll reach Strawberry Bay, home to Strawberry Bay Falls.
Paul Weeks / Flickr
While this waterfall doesn't appear to have an official name, that's what it tends to be referred to in hiking guides.
This waterfall doesn't flow all year -- it's usually dry when the coast hasn't seen rain. Luckily, that is not very often.
Luke Farber / alltrails.com
Strawberry Bay Falls is one of the few waterfalls in Washington that flows directly into the ocean, dropping off a high bluff and into the sea.
Whether or not you're able to see the waterfall, this is still a magical hiking path.
Luke Farber / alltrails.com
We're lucky to have Third Beach here in Washington, and we can't wait to return to it.

Have you ever been to this gorgeous beach?

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Washington

Featured Addresses
Third Beach, Forks, WA 98331, USA