7 Beaches in Washington Locals Don’t Want You To Know About
If you’re looking to escape the crowded, popular beaches and find some quiet spots in Washington, you’re in the right place. The state’s coastline is full of beautiful, lesser-known beaches that often get overlooked by visitors.
These hidden beaches offer you a chance to enjoy nature’s beauty without the usual hustle and bustle. Most locals keep these spots under their radar to preserve their peaceful vibe, making them perfect for a chill day by the water.
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Rialto Beach
If you’re looking for a scenic beach with plenty to explore, Rialto Beach is a great spot. You’ll find rocks, driftwood, and tidepools to check out, making for a low-key but interesting outing. Sometimes, you might even spot whales or seals along the shore.
The beach is flat but has some steep trails if you want to explore beyond the sand. A natural rock arch, called Hole-in-the-Wall, is about a mile away and worth the easy hike. Just be mindful of tides since some spots can be tricky or even blocked during high tide.
Camping is an option here, but you’ll need a wilderness permit for overnight stays. If you camp, make sure to use approved bear canisters for your food and gear. Driftwood fires are allowed, but don’t take wood from the forest.
Pets are allowed on part of the beach during daylight, but camping with pets isn’t permitted. Also, always practice Leave No Trace to keep the area natural and beautiful for everyone.
Rating: 4.8 (1602 reviews)
Location: Mora Rd, Forks, WA 98350
Contact: (360) 565-3130
Website: Visit Website
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Ocean Shores Beach
Ocean Shores Beach is a laid-back spot where you can enjoy miles of sandy coastline. It’s perfect for long walks, beachcombing, or just kicking back and watching the waves roll in.
The beach isn’t overcrowded, so you’ll find plenty of space to relax or explore at your own pace. Bring your camera—sunsets here can be especially nice.
If you’re into activities, there’s room for kite flying, beach volleyball, or even clamming when the season’s right. The nearby town has a few spots to grab food or supplies, making it easy to spend the day here without hassle.
Rating: 4.7 (1587 reviews)
Location: Ocean Shores, WA 98569
Contact: (360) 902-8844
Website: Visit Website
Hidden Beach
Hidden Beach in Tacoma is a quiet spot where you can escape the usual crowd. It’s tucked away enough to feel like a secret, making it perfect if you want some peace with a view of the water.
You’ll find it along N Wilton Road, and it’s a small park that offers a nice stretch of beach to explore. The area is great for a relaxing walk or just sitting down with a book while listening to the waves.
This place isn’t just about the beach, either. The surrounding park area is well maintained, so you can enjoy a picnic or some downtime after spending time by the shore.
If you’re looking for a low-key beach experience without traveling far, Hidden Beach could be your new go-to spot.
Rating: 4.8 (44 reviews)
Location: 646 N Wilton Rd, Tacoma, WA 98465
Hidden Beach
If you’re looking for a quiet spot to enjoy the water and soak up some sun, Hidden Beach is a great option. It’s tucked away in Greenbank, Washington, so you won’t find the usual crowds here. The vibe is peaceful, perfect for a low-key day outdoors.
You can explore the shoreline or just relax with a book while listening to the gentle sound of waves. The area is known for its scenic views, making it a nice spot for a casual walk or a picnic. It’s also ideal if you want to escape the busier tourist beaches nearby.
Getting there is pretty straightforward, but it still feels like a bit of a secret. The small size of the spot helps keep the atmosphere calm and quiet so you can enjoy some privacy. If you want a simple, local beach experience, this one delivers without much fuss.
Rating: 4.7 (51 reviews)
Location: 2237 Cranes Landing Dr, Greenbank, WA 98253
Hidden Beach
If you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax, Hidden Beach in Tacoma is a great choice. It’s tucked away from busy areas, giving you a peaceful place to enjoy nature. The beach area is small but charming, perfect for a low-key outing.
You can take a stroll along the shoreline or just sit and soak in the views. The surrounding park has some nice greenery, making it easy to find a shady spot if the sun is too bright. It’s a nice escape without having to travel far.
Since it’s a lesser-known spot, you won’t find it crowded. This makes it ideal if you want some calm time or a casual picnic. Just remember to bring your essentials, as amenities are limited here.
Rating: 4.8 (8 reviews)
Location: 8309 6th Ave, Tacoma, WA 98465
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Deception Pass State Park
If you’re looking for a mix of beaches, trails, and stunning views, Deception Pass State Park is a great stop. The park stretches over 4,000 acres, with ancient forests and shorelines on both saltwater and freshwater. It’s perfect for hiking, camping, or just exploring the scenery.
You can check out the Sand Dunes Interpretive Trail, which is a short loop with info about local plants and a nice observation deck. The park also has several watercraft launches for boating and kayaking, though be careful around the Deception Pass Bridge, where conditions can get tricky.
For a little history, visit the Civilian Conservation Corps Interpretive Center. It shares stories from the 1930s about the folks who built much of Washington’s park system. If you’re into wildlife tours, consider hopping on a jet boat to spot eagles, seals, and maybe even whales.
The park also offers opportunities for crabbing, fishing, and swimming in designated spots. Keep in mind, the Rosario Tide Pools are a delicate area where you should follow guidelines to help protect the sea life.
Rating: 4.8 (13,171 reviews)
Location: 41229 State Rte 20, Oak Harbor, WA 98277
Contact: (360) 675-3767
Website: Visit Website
Point Shilshole Beach
If you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax by the water, Point Shilshole Beach is a great choice. It’s a small park tucked away in Seattle, offering a peaceful escape with beautiful views. You can enjoy the fresh air and watch boats as they sail by.
The beach area isn’t crowded, making it perfect if you want a little privacy. It’s a good place to bring a picnic or just sit and read. You’ll find it lined with driftwood and smooth stones, giving it a natural, calming vibe.
It’s easy to get to, located near the Ballard Locks and Golden Gardens. If you’re exploring the neighborhood, stopping here adds a nice balance of nature without leaving the city. It’s a quiet gem that locals appreciate.
Rating: 4.2 (10 reviews)
Location: 6321 Seaview Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107
