Third Beach
A secluded gem on the Washington coast, accessed by a scenic forest hike, offering tide pools and a unique waterfall at low tide.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Explore tide pools & waterfall
Third Beach
Best Time
Explore tide pools & waterfall
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded gem on the Washington coast, accessed by a scenic forest hike, offering tide pools and a unique waterfall at low tide.
"A hidden gem on the Washington coast! The hike...leading to a serene and unspoiled stretch of shoreline."
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The 1.5-mile trail can be muddy and uneven. Waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended!
🌊 Check Tide Charts
Low tide is essential for exploring tide pools and seeing the waterfall. Plan your visit accordingly!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tide Pool Treasures
Along the shoreline at low tide
Discover a miniature world of starfish, anemones, and other fascinating sea creatures in the rocky tide pools.
Cascading Waterfall
One end of the beach
Witness a beautiful waterfall flowing directly onto the sand during low tide, a unique and picturesque sight.
Secluded Shoreline
Main beach area
Enjoy the serene and unspoiled beauty of this quiet beach, perfect for relaxation and soaking in the PNW coastal atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trek to Tranquility
Low Tide Wonders
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The 1.5-mile trail can be muddy and uneven. Waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended! +1
🌊 Check Tide Charts
Low tide is essential for exploring tide pools and seeing the waterfall. Plan your visit accordingly!
🎒 Pack Light for Hike
Carry only essentials for the 1.5-mile trek. Backpacking permits are limited, so plan ahead if camping.
💧 Filter Water
A good fresh water supply is available, but bring a filter for safe drinking.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The 1.5-mile trail can be muddy and uneven. Waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended! +1
🌊 Check Tide Charts
Low tide is essential for exploring tide pools and seeing the waterfall. Plan your visit accordingly!
🎒 Pack Light for Hike
Carry only essentials for the 1.5-mile trek. Backpacking permits are limited, so plan ahead if camping.
💧 Filter Water
A good fresh water supply is available, but bring a filter for safe drinking.
🚫 No Pets Allowed
Leave your furry friends at home; pets are not permitted on Third Beach.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Third Beach is lauded as a hidden gem on the Washington coast, offering a serene and unspoiled experience. Visitors rave about the scenic 1.5-mile hike through lush forests and the rewarding discoveries at low tide, including vibrant tide pools and a unique waterfall. While the trail can be muddy, the secluded beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it a highly recommended destination for nature lovers and hikers.
"a very good beach with a small trek to get there but nothing out of the ordinary! definitely a good beginners hike as it’s only about 1 mile to the beach and a mile back! the views on the hike are simply incredible. the amount of trees and wild mushrooms growing is really cool to see! and the beach is secluded as it’s a hike to get there so it’s very quiet. definitely recommend some good shoes for this hike as there’s lots of ups and downs. a well worthwhile beach to see while in the olympic peninsula!"
Mateo Blecha
"Camped at the beach. So many starfish during low tide. The trail from the parking lot to the beach is 1.5 miles one way. Pets are not allowed."
Oksana Borisova
"Beautiful, well-maintained shorter trail with rolling hills (my watch said 1.5mi). Beach is beautiful, spacious and clean with great tide pools! Good fresh water supply (bring filter). Pretty waterfall at one end of the beach with very interesting trail to the top of the waterfall (and beyond). Great short backpacking trip for families!"
Elizabeth Altomare
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Third Beach is accessed via a 1.5-mile hike from the parking lot through a lush coastal forest. The trail is well-maintained but can be muddy and slippery, so sturdy footwear is essential. +1
The hike is generally considered a beginner-friendly trek, with rolling hills. It's about 1.5 miles each way, taking around 30-40 minutes depending on your pace. +2
There is a designated parking area for Third Beach. It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day, especially during peak season, as it can fill up.
No, you cannot drive directly to Third Beach. Access is exclusively via the 1.5-mile hiking trail from the parking lot.
Yes, Third Beach is located within Olympic National Park, offering a beautiful coastal experience within the park's boundaries.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit Third Beach itself. However, if you are entering Olympic National Park, you will need a park pass.
Third Beach is accessible year-round during daylight hours. The main consideration is the tide schedule for optimal exploration.
Yes, backcountry camping is permitted at Third Beach. However, permits are limited and can be difficult to obtain, especially during peak season.
Backcountry permits for Third Beach can be obtained through the Olympic National Park's permit system. Availability is often scarce, so booking well in advance is recommended.
Pets are not allowed on Third Beach. Additionally, be mindful of the tide schedule and weather conditions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At low tide, you can explore vibrant tide pools filled with marine life and see a unique waterfall cascading onto the sand. The beach itself is spacious and scenic, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the coastal views. +1
The tide pools are scattered along the rocky areas of the beach, particularly visible during low tide. They are teeming with starfish, anemones, and other fascinating sea creatures.
Yes, there is a waterfall that flows onto the beach during low tide. It's a unique feature that adds to the beach's charm.
You might spot various marine life in the tide pools, such as starfish and anemones. Keep an eye out for birds along the shore as well. +1
Absolutely! The dramatic sea stacks, lush forest trail, tide pools, and potential for stunning sunsets make Third Beach a photographer's paradise.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food services or restaurants directly at Third Beach. It's a natural, undeveloped area. You'll need to bring your own food and drinks.
Pack plenty of water and snacks for your hike and time on the beach. Consider a picnic lunch if you plan to spend a few hours.
The nearest dining options will be in the town of Forks, Washington, which is a short drive away. Forks offers various cafes and restaurants.
Campfires are generally allowed on the beach in designated areas, but always check current fire restrictions and regulations with Olympic National Park before your visit.
Yes, there is a fresh water supply available at Third Beach, but it's recommended to bring a water filter for purification.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting. Low tide is also crucial for capturing the tide pools and waterfall.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and sea stacks. A macro lens can be useful for tide pool photography. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions.
The sea stacks, the waterfall at low tide, the tide pools, and the lush forest trail all offer unique photographic opportunities.
Overcast days can create soft, diffused light perfect for tide pools. Clear days offer dramatic sunsets, while stormy weather can add a moody atmosphere.
Visit during low tide and use a slightly slower shutter speed to create a silky effect on the falling water. Ensure your lens is protected from sea spray.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for Families: Pack plenty of snacks and water, as there are no facilities. Ensure children wear sturdy shoes for the hike. Consider visiting during low tide for the best tide pool and waterfall viewing. Remember that pets are not allowed, so plan accordingly if you have a furry family member.
🎒 Budget Travelers
Saving Tips: Pack your own food and drinks to avoid purchasing expensive options nearby. Consider carpooling if traveling with friends to split gas costs. Visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) might offer fewer crowds and potentially lower accommodation prices in nearby towns like Forks.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular, casting a warm glow over the landscape. Photography Focus: Don't miss capturing the intricate details of the tide pools during low tide, using a macro lens if possible. The waterfall cascading onto the sand is another must-shoot subject.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Hike to Third Beach
Essential Gear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are non-negotiable. They will provide the necessary traction and keep your feet dry on the often damp trail. Consider bringing trekking poles for added stability, especially if you have any knee concerns. While the hike isn't excessively long, wearing appropriate footwear significantly enhances the enjoyment and safety of your trek.
Trail Conditions: The trail's condition can vary greatly depending on recent weather. During drier periods, it's a pleasant walk. However, after rain, it can become quite muddy and slick. It's always wise to check recent trail reports if possible, or simply be prepared for less-than-ideal conditions. The effort is well worth it, as the secluded nature of Third Beach is a direct result of this accessible yet slightly challenging hike.
Low Tide Magic: Tide Pools and Waterfalls
Adding to the allure is a unique waterfall that cascades directly onto the beach during low tide.
Planning Your Visit: To fully experience these natural wonders, consulting a tide chart is crucial. Aim to visit during the lowest points of the tide. This maximizes your time for exploration and ensures you can witness both the tide pools and the waterfall in their full glory.
Backcountry Camping at Third Beach
Permit Acquisition: Due to high demand and limited availability, obtaining a backcountry permit for Third Beach requires advance planning. It's advisable to check the Olympic National Park's permit system regularly and book as soon as possible. The scarcity of permits contributes to the beach's secluded and less crowded atmosphere, which many visitors appreciate.
Camping Essentials: If you are successful in securing a permit, remember to pack all necessary camping gear, including a tent, sleeping bag, and cooking supplies. While there is a fresh water source, bringing a water filter is recommended for purification.
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