Ruby Beach Olympic National Park
Dramatic coastline with sea stacks, driftwood, and tide pools, embodying the moody beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Explore tide pools & rocky shores
Ruby Beach Olympic National Park
Best Time
Explore tide pools & rocky shores
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dramatic coastline with sea stacks, driftwood, and tide pools, embodying the moody beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
"Ruby Beach totally stole my heart! The sea stacks, smooth driftwood, and tide pools make it feel like a scene from a movie."
Check Tide Charts First! :ocean:
Low tide is crucial for tide pool exploration. Always check the schedule before you go!
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
The beach has driftwood and uneven terrain. Waterproof boots are ideal for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tide Pools Teeming with Life
Along the rocky shores
Discover a miniature underwater world at low tide, filled with colorful sea stars, anemones, and other fascinating marine creatures.
Iconic Sea Stacks
Offshore
Majestic rock formations rise from the ocean, creating a dramatic and picturesque backdrop against the Pacific waves.
Driftwood Sculptures
Shoreline
Massive, smooth driftwood logs are scattered across the beach, often arranged by visitors into temporary, artistic shelters.
The Tree of Life
Kalaloch Beach (nearby)
A resilient tree clinging to a cliffside, its roots exposed by erosion, symbolizing nature's enduring power.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything: Low Tide is Key
Embrace the PNW Mood
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tide Charts First! :ocean:
Low tide is crucial for tide pool exploration. Always check the schedule before you go!
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
The beach has driftwood and uneven terrain. Waterproof boots are ideal for exploring.
Pack for All Weather :umbrella:
PNW weather is unpredictable. Layers, rain gear, and windbreakers are essential.
Dog-Friendly Exploration :dog:
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for furry friends to enjoy the coast.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Charts First! :ocean:
Low tide is crucial for tide pool exploration. Always check the schedule before you go!
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
The beach has driftwood and uneven terrain. Waterproof boots are ideal for exploring.
Pack for All Weather :umbrella:
PNW weather is unpredictable. Layers, rain gear, and windbreakers are essential.
Dog-Friendly Exploration :dog:
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for furry friends to enjoy the coast.
Sunset Spectacle :sunrise_over_mountains:
The sunsets here are legendary. Arrive early to secure a good spot and soak in the views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Ruby Beach's stunning natural beauty, from its iconic sea stacks and driftwood to the fascinating tide pools teeming with life. The moody, atmospheric PNW vibe is a major draw, especially during sunset. While the water is cold and the weather can be unpredictable, most find the experience breathtaking and highly recommend it.
"The tide pools around the rocks were fun and full of life! Tons of driftwood that people had made into huts...great place to park for a picnic. The water was chilly in August! There were plenty of people, but it didn't feel over-crowded. The hike down wasn't bad; just know you may need to climb over some large driftwood to access the beach."
M M
"New bigger parking and a restroom available.
America the beautiful pass needed.
Ruby Beach totally stole my heart! The sea stacks, smooth driftwood, and tide pools make it feel like a scene from a movie. It’s just a short walk from the parking lot, and the views are breathtaking—especially at sunset. I could’ve stayed for hours just watching the waves and spotting little sea creatures. One of my favorite stops in Olympic!"
Marta Stashevska
"Absolutely amazing place!
Advisable to go during low tide to increase chances of seeing marine life."
James Dawson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ruby Beach is about a 3.5 to 4-hour drive from Seattle. Take I-5 South to US-101 West towards Port Angeles, then follow signs for Olympic National Park and Ruby Beach. The drive itself is scenic, especially along the coast.
Yes, there's a parking lot available, and it has been expanded. It can fill up quickly, especially during peak times, so arriving early is recommended.
The trail down to the beach is downhill and dirt, and may require assistance for wheelchair users. Some parts of the parking lot and nearby facilities are accessible.
Yes, Ruby Beach is part of Olympic National Park. An 'America the Beautiful' pass or a park entrance fee is required for entry.
Absolutely! Ruby Beach is very close to Forks, WA, making it an easy and popular addition to any visit to the area, especially for Twilight fans.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ruby Beach is open year-round, 24 hours a day, as it's a public beach within Olympic National Park. However, visitor services and facilities may have specific hours.
Entry to Ruby Beach requires a valid Olympic National Park entrance pass. You can purchase a 7-day pass or an annual 'America the Beautiful' pass.
No, advance booking is not required for general entry to Ruby Beach. It's a first-come, first-served access point within the national park.
Standard national park regulations apply. Stay on marked trails, pack out what you pack in, and be mindful of wildlife. Dogs must be leashed.
Yes, the 'America the Beautiful' National Parks Pass is accepted for entry into Olympic National Park, including Ruby Beach.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore tide pools at low tide, admire sea stacks, walk among giant driftwood, and enjoy the dramatic coastal scenery. It's also a popular spot for photography and picnicking.
During low tide, you can spot various marine life in the tide pools, such as sea stars, anemones, and small crabs. Keep an eye out for seabirds along the coast.
Absolutely! Ruby Beach is renowned for its photogenic sea stacks, driftwood, and moody coastal atmosphere, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Dress in layers and wear waterproof clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes or waterproof boots. The weather can change rapidly.
Swimming is generally not recommended due to cold water temperatures and strong currents. It's best to admire the ocean from the shore.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at Ruby Beach. You'll need to bring your own picnic or find food options in nearby towns like Forks or Kalaloch Lodge.
Yes, Ruby Beach is a great spot for a picnic. There are areas suitable for setting up, and many visitors enjoy eating amidst the scenic surroundings.
The closest dining options are at Kalaloch Lodge, or you can drive about 30 minutes north to Forks, WA, which has several casual eateries and cafes.
Restrooms are available in the parking lot, but it's advisable to bring your own water supply, especially if you plan to stay for an extended period.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks for picnics. Remember to pack out all trash to keep the beach clean.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photography. Overcast days also provide a moody, atmospheric quality.
The sea stacks, the 'Tree of Life' nearby, the large driftwood logs, and the tide pools at low tide are all incredibly photogenic.
For personal photography, no special permit is required. If you plan a commercial shoot or professional event, you may need to contact the park for permits.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the coast. A tripod is useful for long exposures, especially during sunset or in low light.
While not directly advertised for Ruby Beach itself, many Olympic National Park photography tours may include this location. It's worth researching local tour operators.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep a close eye on children, especially near the water and on the driftwood, as conditions can be unpredictable. The nearby Tree of Life at Kalaloch Beach is also a fascinating stop that can spark curiosity about nature's resilience. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as there are no food services directly on the beach.
📸 Photographers
+1Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive coastline and a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures. Don't forget to check the tide charts for low tide to photograph the vibrant tide pools. The unique atmosphere, often enhanced by fog and rain, provides a distinct PNW aesthetic that is highly sought after.
🐾 Pet Owners
Remember to always keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of other visitors and wildlife. Bring water for your pet, and be sure to clean up after them to help keep the beach pristine for everyone. The vastness of the beach provides plenty of space for dogs to roam and enjoy the salty air.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Tide Pools
Many visitors recommend arriving about an hour before the official low tide mark to give yourself ample time to explore. The area around Abbey Island is particularly known for its rich tide pool discoveries. While the water in the pools can be chilly even in summer, the thrill of discovery makes it a worthwhile endeavor.
Pro Tip: Bring a magnifying glass or a good zoom lens on your camera to get a closer look at the tiny creatures without touching them. Respect the marine life and leave everything as you found it.
The Moody Charm of the Pacific Northwest Coast
This dramatic weather is also what makes Ruby Beach a photographer's dream. The interplay of light and shadow, the rugged sea stacks, and the vastness of the ocean under a cloudy sky create stunning visual narratives. Many visitors find the gloomy and rainy days to be just as, if not more, beautiful than clear ones, adding a layer of mystique to the landscape.
When visiting, embrace this unique climate. Pack accordingly with waterproof gear and layers, and don't be discouraged by a bit of rain. The raw, powerful beauty of the Washington coast at Ruby Beach is an experience in itself, offering a stark contrast to more conventionally 'sunny' destinations.
Iconic Driftwood and Sea Stacks
Exploring the beach involves navigating around these impressive natural sculptures. The sheer scale of the driftwood can be awe-inspiring, and many visitors enjoy climbing on them (with caution) or simply marveling at their size. The combination of the rugged sea stacks and the organic forms of the driftwood creates a visually striking and unforgettable scene.
For photographers, the interplay between the sea stacks, the driftwood, and the ever-changing ocean provides endless creative opportunities. Whether you're capturing the grandeur of the stacks or the intricate textures of the driftwood, Ruby Beach offers a truly unique photographic subject.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit