Ruby Beach Olympic National Park Washington
Rugged Washington coast gem with dramatic sea stacks, massive driftwood, and breathtaking sunsets. Explore tide pools at low tide.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tide pools reveal marine life
Ruby Beach Olympic National Park Washington
Best Time
Tide pools reveal marine life
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Rugged Washington coast gem with dramatic sea stacks, massive driftwood, and breathtaking sunsets. Explore tide pools at low tide.
"One of the best beaches along the Washington coast. Definitely make a stop here for sunset if you can. Its magical."
🎯 Check Tide Charts
Plan your visit around low tide to explore tide pools.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast, especially for sunset. Get there early!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Magical Tide Pools
Along the shoreline
Discover vibrant starfish, anemones, and crabs during low tide. A must-see for nature lovers!
Iconic Driftwood Beach
Shoreline
Marvel at the massive, weathered driftwood logs scattered across the beach. A photographer's dream.
The Enchanting Tree of Life
Kalaloch Beach Campground (nearby)
Witness this resilient tree clinging to the cliffside, a symbol of nature's persistence.
Spectacular Sunset Views
Western horizon
Experience breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with fiery colors over the Pacific.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything: Low Tide for Tide Pools
Parking and Access Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Tide Charts
Plan your visit around low tide to explore tide pools.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast, especially for sunset. Get there early!
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Navigating pebbles and driftwood is easier with non-skid shoes.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
The light during sunset is incredible for photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Tide Charts
Plan your visit around low tide to explore tide pools.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast, especially for sunset. Get there early!
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Navigating pebbles and driftwood is easier with non-skid shoes.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
The light during sunset is incredible for photos.
🏕️ Consider Beach Camping
Camping on Second Beach offers stunning morning views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Ruby Beach for its stunning natural beauty, especially its dramatic sunsets and unique driftwood formations. The tide pools are a major draw during low tide, offering a glimpse into marine life. While parking can be challenging and the access path steep, the overall experience is described as magical and unforgettable.
"One of the best beaches along the Washington coast. Definitely make a stop here for sunset if you can. Its magical. There's a decent amount of parking, but it fills up quick, so make sure to get there early so you can get a spot closer to the entrance."
Bradford Swartz
"Such a beautiful and natural beach. We timed it for low tide so we could enjoy looking in the tidal pools. It’s a relatively short walk to the beach with some sand, tidal pools, stacks and driftwood. We arrived about 9:30 and there was plenty of parking. When we left around 12:30 people were waiting for cars to leave so they could park. When we drove by a couple of hours later after visiting another beach, there were a lot of cars parked all the way out the parking lot on the sides of 101."
Suzanne Thompson
"16 Aug 25 Visited with family. Hundreds of drift trees and thousands of well worn out pebbles present a unique site. Pacific Ocean was with furious waves and setting sun rays were stunning. The approach from parking and subsequent navigation to the sea side is slightly steep . Senior Citizens would to well to carry trekking poles and non skid shoes. A very enjoyable 45 minutes spent by the sea side."
anand sonsale
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ruby Beach is located along Highway 101 on the Washington coast. It's about a 3-4 hour drive from Seattle. There's a designated parking lot, but it can fill up quickly.
Public transportation options are very limited in Olympic National Park. Driving is the most common and recommended way to access Ruby Beach.
Highway 101 is the main artery. Many visitors combine a trip to Ruby Beach with other park highlights like the Hoh Rainforest or Rialto Beach. +1
Ruby Beach is part of Olympic National Park, so an entrance fee is required. You can purchase a pass at the park entrance stations or online.
The walk from the parking lot to the beach is slightly steep and can be challenging due to pebbles and driftwood. Senior citizens may benefit from trekking poles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Ruby Beach is within Olympic National Park, which requires an entrance fee. You can buy a day pass or an annual pass.
Ruby Beach is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visitor services and facilities may have seasonal hours.
The Olympic National Park entrance fee is currently $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. Check the official NPS website for the most up-to-date pricing.
Entrance passes can be purchased in advance online through the NPS website or at park entrance stations upon arrival.
The parking lot at Ruby Beach is free to use, but it is part of the national park, so the park entrance fee still applies.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore tide pools, walk among massive driftwood logs, enjoy stunning sunsets, and take photos. Nearby camping and hiking are also popular.
The best time to see tide pools is during low tide. Check local tide charts for the most accurate times.
Yes, families can enjoy exploring the beach, looking for marine life in tide pools, and marveling at the driftwood. Be mindful of the steep access.
Dress in layers as coastal weather can change quickly. Waterproof gear is recommended. Sturdy, non-skid shoes are essential for navigating the beach.
Pets are generally allowed on beaches in Olympic National Park but must be on a leash at all times. Always check current park regulations.
📸 📸 Photography
The sea stacks, the 'Tree of Life' nearby, the dramatic driftwood, and the coastline during sunset are prime photography locations.
Sunset offers the most dramatic light and colors. However, the moody, overcast PNW atmosphere can also create stunning, atmospheric shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastline and sea stacks. A tripod is useful for long exposures during sunset or low light conditions.
While official tours might be limited, many local photographers offer workshops or guided photo excursions in the Olympic National Park area.
Visit during low tide on a clear day for the best visibility of marine life. Overcast days can also provide soft, diffused light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing buckets and nets for gentle tide pool exploration (catch and release!). The beach is also a great spot for picnics, but be sure to pack out all trash. While camping is available nearby, a day trip is also a rewarding experience for families looking for a dose of coastal adventure.
📸 Photographers
+1Don't overlook the tide pools during low tide; they offer intimate macro photography subjects. The nearby 'Tree of Life' also presents a compelling photographic subject. Be prepared for variable weather, as the moody PNW atmosphere can add significant drama to your shots.
🏕️ Campers
Be aware that beach camping often requires reservations and may involve carrying gear down to the beach. Always check the latest regulations and availability with the National Park Service. Enjoy the incredible experience of sleeping under the stars with the sound of the ocean.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Tide Pools
When visiting the tide pools, remember to tread lightly and observe the creatures without disturbing them. Avoid touching or removing anything from the pools, as this can harm the delicate environment. The rocky terrain around the tide pools can be slippery, so wearing sturdy, non-slip footwear is highly recommended.
Many visitors find that the experience of discovering these hidden underwater worlds is a highlight of their trip to Ruby Beach. It offers a unique opportunity to connect with the coastal ecosystem in a hands-on, educational way.
The Allure of Sunset at Ruby Beach
+1To capture the best sunset views and photos, arriving at least an hour before sunset is advisable. This allows time to find a good vantage point and set up any photography equipment. The large driftwood logs scattered across the beach also add a unique, photogenic element to the sunset scenes.
While the sunset is a major draw, be aware that parking lots can become very crowded during this time. Visitors have noted that arriving early is key to securing a parking spot. The moody, often overcast weather typical of the Pacific Northwest can also contribute to dramatic and unforgettable sunset experiences.
Navigating the Beach and Its Surroundings
Visitors often remark on the sheer volume of driftwood, which creates a unique and almost surreal environment. These massive logs, remnants of ancient forests, are a testament to the power of the ocean. Exploring among them offers a sense of adventure and discovery.
For those interested in a nearby natural wonder, the 'Tree of Life' at Kalaloch Beach Campground is a short drive away. This resilient tree, with its roots exposed and clinging to the cliffside, is a powerful symbol of nature's tenacity and a popular spot for photos.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit