Hole in the Wall
A magnificent sea arch carved by volcanic forces, accessible via a scenic beach hike at low tide.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light
Hole in the Wall
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent sea arch carved by volcanic forces, accessible via a scenic beach hike at low tide.
"Worth the effort for the breathtaking views and tide pool discoveries!"
⏰ Check Tide Charts!
Access is only possible at low tide. Plan your visit around the lowest tide for the best experience.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Rialto Beach parking is very limited. Aim to arrive hours before sunset for a spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Hole in the Wall
Rialto Beach
A natural sea arch carved by ancient volcanic activity, best viewed at low tide.
Tide Pool Exploration
Rialto Beach
Discover vibrant marine life like starfish and urchins in shallow pools during low tide.
Scenic Beach Stroll
Rialto Beach
Enjoy a picturesque 1.5-mile walk along the coast, with sea stacks and rolling waves.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything: Tide Schedules
Parking and Trail Prep
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏰ Check Tide Charts!
Access is only possible at low tide. Plan your visit around the lowest tide for the best experience.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Rialto Beach parking is very limited. Aim to arrive hours before sunset for a spot.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The 1.5-mile walk is on sand and gravel. Be prepared to cross a creek or logs.
🌊 Be Tide-Aware
Don't get caught by the incoming tide! Always know the tide schedule.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏰ Check Tide Charts!
Access is only possible at low tide. Plan your visit around the lowest tide for the best experience.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Rialto Beach parking is very limited. Aim to arrive hours before sunset for a spot.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The 1.5-mile walk is on sand and gravel. Be prepared to cross a creek or logs.
🌊 Be Tide-Aware
Don't get caught by the incoming tide! Always know the tide schedule.
📚 Pack Light & Smart
Bring water and snacks. Bathrooms are available, but no running water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Hole in the Wall, particularly the iconic sea arch and the vibrant tide pools teeming with marine life during low tide. The scenic beach walk is a highlight, though many note the challenging parking situation and the absolute necessity of checking tide schedules. Some find the walk strenuous, but the overall consensus is that the effort is well worth the breathtaking views.
"Long walk along a sandy, gravely beach with large drift logs. Sea stacks and rolling waves. Can only get there at low tide. Worth the trip. The walk takes at least an hour+, and very limited parking. Potties available. No running water. Dress appropriately. Very popular place."
Susan Weinstein
"Gorgeous natural stone formation on Rialto beach
A moderate 1.5 mile trail (depending on weather), it’s a lovely beach stroll at low tide where you can explore tide pools with urchin and sea stars. The route to hike in the wall is pretty straightforward but be cautious of the tide schedules.
The parking on Rialto beach is limited and fills up quickly. Theres additional pullout areas you a park at."
Kevin Wang
"Beautiful 1.6 mile walk from the parking area. Make sure to go at low tide. Show up several hours before sunset(if you're wanting sunset) if you want a decent parking spot, otherwise you're left to park along the road which isn't the easiest."
Marshall Prock
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hole in the Wall is located at Rialto Beach. You'll need to drive to the Rialto Beach parking area and then hike approximately 1.5 miles north along the beach to reach it.
Yes, there is a parking lot at Rialto Beach, but it is very limited and fills up quickly, especially during peak times and weekends. Additional pull-off areas along the road are also available.
The hike is about 1.5 miles each way along the beach. It involves walking on sand and gravel, and you may need to cross a small creek or navigate over driftwood logs.
Public transport options to Rialto Beach are very limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle.
No, the trail is a natural beach walk with sand, gravel, and driftwood, making it unsuitable for strollers or wheelchairs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit Hole in the Wall. It is a natural attraction accessible via Rialto Beach.
While there isn't a specific entrance fee for Rialto Beach itself, you may need a Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass for parking, depending on the specific regulations at the time of your visit. It's best to check current requirements.
Hole in the Wall is a natural formation and is accessible whenever Rialto Beach is open, which is typically year-round. However, access is strictly limited by tide schedules.
The best time to visit is during low tide. It's recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before the lowest tide to allow for the hike.
While the beach is generally accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns, lack of lighting, and the critical need to monitor tide levels.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the natural sea arch, discover tide pools teeming with marine life, and enjoy a scenic beach walk.
During low tide, you can often spot starfish, sea urchins, anemones, and various other intertidal creatures in the tide pools.
Yes, there are vault toilets available at the Rialto Beach parking area.
Cell service can be spotty or non-existent along Rialto Beach and at Hole in the Wall. It's advisable to download offline maps and inform someone of your plans.
Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and wear appropriate footwear. A camera is also recommended to capture the scenery.
📸 📸 Photography
The sea arch itself is a prime subject, especially during golden hour. Tide pools, dramatic sea stacks, and the expansive beach also offer great photographic potential.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides the most dramatic lighting. However, the key is to be there during low tide to capture the arch and tide pools.
A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the grandeur of the sea arch and the surrounding beach landscape. A macro lens can be useful for tide pool photography.
Drone usage is subject to National Park Service regulations. It's crucial to check the latest rules and restrictions for Olympic National Park, as many areas have limitations.
Experiment with different angles, focus on the textures of the rocks and marine life in tide pools, and try to incorporate the vastness of the ocean and sky into your shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Check tide charts meticulously, pack plenty of snacks and water, and ensure everyone wears sturdy shoes. The driftwood logs can be fun to climb over (with supervision!), adding to the adventure. Remember that cell service is unreliable, so keep an eye on your little ones.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Recommendations: Combine your visit with other trails in Olympic National Park. Bring binoculars for potential wildlife viewing (seals, seabirds). Respect the fragile ecosystem by not disturbing marine life in the tide pools and packing out everything you pack in.
📸 Photographers
Photography tips: A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the scale of the arch and the expansive beach. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the sky and water and reduce glare. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and protect your gear from sea spray.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Geology and Formation
Visitors can observe the layers and textures of the rock up close, appreciating the sheer scale and artistry of nature. The area is particularly fascinating during low tide when the full extent of the arch and its surroundings are revealed, showcasing the interplay between land and sea. The unique geological history makes Hole in the Wall a compelling destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Navigating the Rialto Beach Experience
Parking at Rialto Beach is a critical factor. The main lot is small and fills rapidly, often by mid-morning. Many visitors resort to parking along the roadside, which can be challenging. Arriving very early in the morning or later in the afternoon (but still well before low tide) is advisable. The beach also features vault toilets, but there is no potable water available, so bring your own.
The Magic of Low Tide Exploration
It's crucial to plan your arrival at least 30 minutes before the lowest point of the tide to allow ample time for the hike and exploration. Remember that tides can change quickly, and the incoming tide can cut off access. Always consult a reliable tide chart for the Rialto Beach area before your trip and be mindful of the time.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit