Travel along the northern coast of the Olympic Peninsula to Neah Bay and Cape Flattery. Hike to Shi Shi Beach or glide a kayak into Freshwater Bay.
Recommended day trip:
Neah Bay and Cape Flattery (two hours from Sea Cliff Gardens)
Hike to famous Shi Shi Beach (trailhead is 30 minutes from
Cape Flattery)
Kayak on Freshwater Bay (1 hour from Cape Flattery trailhead)
Reasons to go:
Reasons to go:
Not for the faint of heart, the first mile of the 3.3-mile trail winds through forest and bogs via cedar-planked boardwalks and bridges. The next piece of trail gives way to muddy terrain. Once you reach the boundary of the Olympic National Park, the only thing between you and Shi Shi beach is a steep trail down a 150-foot bluff. Brace your knees.
When you emerge into the raw wilderness of this spectacular beach, where dunes and bluffs hem the sandy shoreline, and giant logs dance in the thundering breakers, take a deep breath and enjoy. Just remember that you must eventually hike back.
More information:
www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/shi-shi-beach-olympic-wilderness.htm ![]()
Reasons to go:
More information:
Unless you brought your kayak along, call for advance reservations:
(360) 417-3015 or (888) 900-3015
Adventures Through Kayaking Outfitters