The coastline of the Pacific Northwest is something we’ve both longed to see. Spending most of our lives on the east coast of the US, we grew up visiting beaches with lukewarm water, small waves, and minimal changes to the tide. Basically, the complete opposite of the rugged coastline in the Pacific Northwest!
During a summer trip to the Olympic Peninsula in Washington, we visited 3 different beaches, including one famous for its colorful sunsets…
Welcome to Ruby Beach
Following a brief walk down the bluff on a short trail from the parking area, we caught our first glimpse of the well-known beach.
Massive sea stacks, a plethora of driftwood, and a cool and salty breeze greeted us.
We walked farther down the trail until we reached the magnificent beach. Sam’s parents joined us on this trip, so they too enjoyed the distinct differences between these beaches and the ones they’re used to back in Florida.
It’s hard to comprehend the enormity of the sea stacks until you’re standing right next to them. (Compare to the children running in the picture below.)
Ruby Beach also boasts a neat collection of wildlife including bald eagles, sea otters, and tidepools teeming with starfish and mussels.
Depending on the time of day you visit, you can experience some of the most spectacular tidepools in the Pacific Northwest. If this is your goal, be sure to check the tide charts, so you don’t get stranded… or soaked!
Purple and orange starfish cling to the rough rocks, presenting a colorful collection of sea life near the base of the massive sea stacks.
The crashing waves create an ever-present haze that constantly hugs the jagged coastline.
In addition to the incredible sea stacks and amazing wildlife, the abundance of smaller stacked rocks makes Ruby Beach one of the best in the Pacific Northwest!
Everywhere we looked, we saw endless stacks of balanced rocks!
Sam’s mom even got in on the action!
We recommend you spend more than just a few days on the Olympic Peninsula, as there is so much to see and explore! During our time there, we also went to Second Beach and Rialto Beach, which were well worth the visit!
