Second Beach
Dramatic sea stacks and wild beauty define Second Beach, a must-visit on Washington's Olympic Coast. Hike through a forest to reach this stunning, unt...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter beach, pristine views
Second Beach
Best Time
Quieter beach, pristine views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dramatic sea stacks and wild beauty define Second Beach, a must-visit on Washington's Olympic Coast. Hike through a forest to reach this stunning, untamed shoreline.
"Second Beach is by far the most spectacular, hemmed in on either side by impassable headlands."
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail to Second Beach is short but can be uneven. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring!
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Many visitors rave about the incredible sunsets here. Don't miss this magical experience!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dramatic Headlands
Southern end of Second Beach
Towering rock formations frame the beach, creating a breathtaking, wild coastal landscape.
Sunset Spectacle
Western-facing shoreline
Witness unforgettable sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the Pacific Ocean.
Coastal Hiking Trail
Access point to Second Beach
A scenic, short hike through lush forest leads to the spectacular beach.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Vibe: Second Beach's Lively Atmosphere
Navigating La Push's Coastal Gems
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail to Second Beach is short but can be uneven. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring!
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Many visitors rave about the incredible sunsets here. Don't miss this magical experience!
🌊 Check Tide Charts
Tides can significantly impact beach access and the appearance of sea stacks. Plan accordingly!
🎶 Embrace the Vibe
Second Beach is known for its lively atmosphere with music and activity, especially on weekends.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail to Second Beach is short but can be uneven. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring!
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Many visitors rave about the incredible sunsets here. Don't miss this magical experience!
🌊 Check Tide Charts
Tides can significantly impact beach access and the appearance of sea stacks. Plan accordingly!
🎶 Embrace the Vibe
Second Beach is known for its lively atmosphere with music and activity, especially on weekends.
🚗 Parking Considerations
Parking can be limited, especially during peak season. Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Second Beach is celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty, particularly its dramatic sea stacks and stunning sunsets. Visitors appreciate the wild, untamed atmosphere and the rewarding hike to reach the shore. However, some find the beach can be crowded and mention issues with litter, detracting from the pristine experience.
"What a shame of a beach. It is full of bad restaurants, Brazilians with boom boxes and loud music and super dirty. So sad!"
Florian Silvester
"This is my fourth time at El Morro. I came for the first time in 2010. It's changed considerably over the years, but it's still the most beautiful beach, closer to everything, to the center, and with a diverse range of restaurants and hotels. Everything happens here. It's busy but beautiful. There are soccer and volleyball courts, a public area for training, and a lifeguard. It's beautiful. It's true that last time we saw it dirtier, with lots of rusty metal beer caps, construction debris, and cigarette butts and plastic straws. It's a shame in that regard, which is why I'm giving it one star, but I still choose it because it's close to everything. If you go, be sure to buy coconut water from María; it's almost below the lifeguard's house. Ask Gerson for caipis; they're some of the kindest, most attentive, and caring people on the second beach; they're always on the lookout. As of September 2025, we'll pay 15 R for coconut water, 25 R for caipi, 15 R for grilled cheese, and 5 R for a mineral water, just to give you an idea of the prices. We tried the ice cream with vodka, which was delicious and cost 10 R. There's a public shower to rinse off the sea water and sand. They put hoses with water from the hotel and public roads up to the beach chairs so you don't burn your feet. It's true that there are a lot of different people talking, but since this is Argentina, this seems normal to me; it doesn't bother me too much."
yamila villa
"Uma das praias mais lindas que já fui, voltarei muitas vezes, esse lugar é o paraíso na terra, a segunda praia é para quem gosta de movimento, tem bares e restaurantes e muito movimento durante dia e noite, as demais são bem mais tranquilas"
Dani Cerqueira
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Second Beach is located south of La Push, Washington, within Olympic National Park. Access involves a short, approximately 0.7-mile hike through a forested trail from the parking area. The trail is generally well-maintained but can be muddy.
Yes, there is a designated parking area for Second Beach. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season and on weekends. Arriving early is recommended.
Yes, as Second Beach is part of Olympic National Park, you will need a valid Olympic National Park entrance pass or an America the Beautiful Pass to park and access the trail.
No, you cannot drive directly to Second Beach. The final approach is via a hiking trail from the parking lot. This helps preserve the natural beauty of the area.
From Seattle, you'll typically drive west towards the Olympic Peninsula. The drive to the La Push area takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and your specific route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, an entrance fee is required for Olympic National Park, which includes access to Second Beach. You can purchase a day pass or an annual pass.
Second Beach is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery.
Entrance passes for Olympic National Park can be purchased online in advance or at park entrance stations. The beach itself does not require separate ticket booking.
The main restriction is the need for a park pass. Be aware of tide times and weather conditions, as they can affect accessibility and safety.
A 7-day vehicle pass for Olympic National Park costs around $30. An annual America the Beautiful Pass is $80 and covers all national parks. Prices are subject to change.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Second Beach is perfect for beachcombing, exploring tide pools, photography, and enjoying the dramatic coastal scenery. Many visitors also enjoy camping here.
Restroom facilities are available at the parking area for Second Beach, but not directly on the beach itself. Plan accordingly.
Swimming is generally not recommended at Second Beach due to strong currents, cold water temperatures, and powerful waves. It's more of a scenic beach for walking and exploring.
Dogs are not permitted on Second Beach or the trail leading to it, as it is within Olympic National Park. This is to protect the natural environment and wildlife.
Bring layers of clothing, waterproof gear, sturdy shoes, water, snacks, and a camera. If camping, ensure you have all necessary camping equipment.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic sea stacks, rugged coastline, and the trail through the old-growth forest offer incredible photographic opportunities. Sunsets are particularly stunning.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, while late afternoon and sunset provide dramatic golden hour lighting.
General photography is allowed. However, drone usage may be restricted within national park boundaries, so check current regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastline. A tripod is useful for long exposures, especially during sunset or for capturing waves.
Drone operations are generally restricted in National Parks. It's crucial to check the official Olympic National Park website for current drone regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While swimming isn't recommended due to strong currents, kids will love beachcombing for shells and driftwood, and simply enjoying the dramatic scenery. Ensure children are supervised closely, especially near the water's edge. The camping experience here is also a huge draw for families looking for an adventurous overnight stay, but requires proper planning and permits.
📸 Photographers
Visit during low tide to explore the intricate details of tide pools and get closer to the sea stacks. Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting conditions, painting the sky with vibrant hues. Be prepared for changing weather; mist and fog can add a moody, atmospheric quality to your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the La Push Beaches
Many visitors find Second Beach to be the most visually striking due to its imposing headlands that flank the shoreline, creating a sense of dramatic isolation. The hike to Second Beach, though short, adds to the feeling of discovery, making the arrival on the expansive sands even more rewarding. It's a place where the power of the Pacific Ocean is palpable, with waves crashing against the shore and the constant roar of the surf.
When planning your visit, it's wise to consider the tides. Low tide reveals fascinating tide pools teeming with marine life and allows for exploration around the sea stacks. High tide can significantly reduce the available beach space and make certain areas inaccessible. Always check the tide charts before you go to maximize your experience and ensure safety.
Camping at Second Beach
Backcountry permits are required for camping at Second Beach and can be obtained from the Olympic National Park Wilderness Information Center. It's essential to pack out everything you pack in, practice Leave No Trace principles, and be prepared for coastal weather, which can be unpredictable and include rain and wind. Bear canisters are recommended for food storage.
Many campers highlight the incredible sunrises and sunsets as major draws. Waking up to the soft morning light or watching the sky ablaze with color as the sun dips below the horizon is a profound experience. The feeling of being so close to nature, with the vast ocean stretching out before you, is what makes camping at Second Beach so special.
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