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Neah Bay

4.6
·491k reviews·Neah Bay, United States

Experience the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest at Neah Bay, home to the Makah Tribe and the dramatic Cape Flattery.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
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Neah Bay - Image 1

Neah Bay

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest at Neah Bay, home to the Makah Tribe and the dramatic Cape Flattery.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Where the earth kisses the ocean – a truly wild and culturally rich destination."

Vertical photo
TIP

Get Your Makah Permit

Essential for accessing Cape Flattery & trails. Buy in Neah Bay! :ticket:

Pack for All Weather

Layers, rain gear, and sturdy shoes are a must. Weather changes fast! :cloudrain: :athleticshoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cape Flattery

Cape Flattery

Northwesternmost point of the contiguous U.S.

Dramatic sea stacks and ocean views at the edge of the continent. A must-see for breathtaking natural beauty.

TikTok
Makah Cultural and Research Center

Makah Cultural and Research Center

Neah Bay

Immerse yourself in the rich history and traditions of the Makah Tribe through fascinating exhibits.

Instagram
Coastal Trails

Coastal Trails

Various points around Neah Bay

Hike scenic paths offering stunning ocean vistas, wildlife spotting opportunities, and a true sense of wilderness.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Makah Recreation Permit Required

Access to Neah Bay and surrounding areas, including Cape Flattery, requires a Makah Recreation Permit. Purchase this in Neah Bay before heading out. It's essential for enjoying the stunning coastal trails and viewpoints. Instagram

Weather Can Change Rapidly

The Pacific Northwest coast is known for its unpredictable weather. Pack layers, waterproof gear, and be prepared for sun, rain, and wind, even in summer. Check forecasts before your visit to Neah Bay. Instagram

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Best light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Spring/Early Fall
Why
Fewer crowds, milder weather
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#stitch with @distant elephant #greenscreen
@failing_full_circle
16.2K likes • 90.4K views

Get Your Makah Permit

Essential for accessing Cape Flattery & trails. Buy in Neah Bay! :ticket: Instagram

Pack for All Weather

Layers, rain gear, and sturdy shoes are a must. Weather changes fast! :cloudrain: :athleticshoe: Instagram

U.S. Bucketlist: sunset at the most northwestern point in the contiguous country! 🔖 𝘚𝘢𝘷𝘦 & 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘧𝘶𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘞𝘢𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘵𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘴 📍Cape Flattery, Washington on the Olympic Peninsula in the Makah Reservation. 🗺 How to get there? Just type “Cape Flattery Trailhead Parking” into Google maps! 🥾 The trail, itself, is a short & easy (yet PHENOMENAL) 1.5 miles! 🌲 Not only are the rugged coastal + oc...
@mindyonthemove
2.6K likes • 42.7K views
Keep your eyes peeled for orcas & puffins! 📍Cape Flattery ▫️Location: Makah Reservation, Olympic Peninsula, Washington State ▫️Permit: $20, can be purchased in Neah Bay ▫️Trail: 1.5 miles roundtrip + 200 ft elevation gain ▫️Pets: dogs allowed on leash ▫️Facilities: restrooms at trailhead. There are no garbage cans along the trail - pack out your litter ▫️When to go: Open year round. Visiting any ...
reneeroaming
28.1K likes • 553.2K views

Respect Native Land

Neah Bay is Makah tribal land. Be mindful of local customs and regulations. :pray: TikTok

Wildlife Spotting

Keep an eye out for whales, puffins, and other marine life! :whale: :bird: Instagram

Always prepared to help a friend. CGC Neah Bay cuts a track for CGC Bristol Bay and into open water. #icebreaker #greatlakes #uscg #underway #breaktheice #ice #coastguard #coastguardlife #semperparatus
uscg
203.7K likes • 7.2M views

Tips

from all over the internet

Get Your Makah Permit

Essential for accessing Cape Flattery & trails. Buy in Neah Bay! :ticket: Instagram

Pack for All Weather

Layers, rain gear, and sturdy shoes are a must. Weather changes fast! :cloudrain: :athleticshoe: Instagram

Respect Native Land

Neah Bay is Makah tribal land. Be mindful of local customs and regulations. :pray: TikTok

Wildlife Spotting

Keep an eye out for whales, puffins, and other marine life! :whale: :bird: Instagram

Leave No Trace

Pack out all trash; there are no bins on many trails. :recycle: Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the breathtaking natural beauty of Neah Bay, particularly the dramatic cliffs and ocean vistas at Cape Flattery. The rich cultural heritage of the Makah Tribe and excellent fishing opportunities are also frequently praised. Some travelers note the need for a permit and the unpredictable weather, but overall, the unique, wild atmosphere leaves a lasting impression.

What People Like

Stunning coastal scenery
Makah cultural experiences
Excellent fishing

What People Dislike

Unpredictable weather
Need for permits

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Neah Bay is located on the Makah Indian Reservation on the Olympic Peninsula. The drive from Seattle is about 4-5 hours. The most direct route involves taking US-101 N and then WA-117 W. Be aware that cell service can be spotty, so downloading offline maps is recommended. TikTok

Driving to Neah Bay after sunset, especially from areas like La Push, is generally not recommended due to winding roads, potential wildlife on the road, and limited visibility. It's best to plan your arrival during daylight hours. Reddit

Cape Flattery is a short drive from Neah Bay. Simply type 'Cape Flattery Trailhead Parking' into your GPS. The trail itself is about 1.5 miles roundtrip and is well-marked. TikTok

Public transportation options to Neah Bay are very limited. It is primarily accessible by car. Renting a car is the most practical way to reach Neah Bay and explore the surrounding areas. TikTok

Yes, you can drive through the Makah Reservation to access Neah Bay and Cape Flattery. However, remember that this is tribal land, and a Makah Recreation Permit is required for most activities. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, a Makah Recreation Permit is required to access most areas within the Makah Reservation, including Cape Flattery and many coastal trails. These permits can be purchased in Neah Bay. Instagram

The Makah Recreation Permit typically costs around $20 per person for a day pass, though prices can vary. It's best to confirm the current fee when you arrive in Neah Bay. Instagram

The Makah Recreation Permit can be purchased at various locations in Neah Bay, including the Makah Tribal Council office and some local stores. Instagram

While there isn't a general entrance fee for the town of Neah Bay, the Makah Recreation Permit is necessary for accessing the natural attractions and recreational areas managed by the Makah Tribe. Instagram

You can drive through Neah Bay town without a permit, but to access key attractions like Cape Flattery or hike the coastal trails, the Makah Recreation Permit is mandatory. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The absolute must-sees are Cape Flattery for its stunning ocean vistas, the Makah Cultural and Research Center to learn about tribal history, and the various coastal trails for incredible scenery and wildlife viewing. TikTokInstagram+1

Neah Bay is a prime spot for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for whales (especially gray whales during migration), puffins, sea otters, seals, and various seabirds. Instagram

The Cape Flattery Trail is relatively easy, about 1.5 miles roundtrip with some elevation gain. Other coastal trails can vary in difficulty, so check local information for specific trail conditions. TikTok

Absolutely! Neah Bay offers incredible photographic opportunities, from dramatic coastal landscapes at Cape Flattery to cultural insights at the museum and chances to capture wildlife. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly spectacular. TikTokInstagram

Makah Days is an annual celebration held by the Makah Tribe, typically in late August. It's a vibrant event featuring traditional dances, ceremonies, food, and cultural activities. TikTok

🎫 🎣 Fishing & Boating

Yes, Neah Bay is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities, both inshore and offshore. Anglers often target lingcod, rockfish, salmon, and halibut. Instagram+1

Yes, boat rentals and charters are available in Neah Bay, particularly from the marina. It's a popular spot for recreational fishing trips. TikTokInstagram

Fishing seasons vary depending on the species. For example, lingcod season often opens in early March. It's advisable to check with local charter operators or the Makah Tribe for current regulations and seasons. Instagram

Numerous fishing guides and charter services operate out of Neah Bay, offering trips for various types of fishing. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season. Instagram

Common catches include lingcod, rockfish, salmon, halibut, cabezon, and seabass. The waters are rich with diverse marine life. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Neah Bay offers a unique blend of nature and culture that can be engaging for families. The Cape Flattery Trail is manageable for most kids, offering exciting views and the chance to spot wildlife like seals and seabirds. TikTokInstagram The Makah Cultural and Research Center provides an educational experience that can spark curiosity about indigenous history and traditions. Instagram

Consider packing plenty of snacks and drinks, as amenities can be spread out. Beachcombing on accessible shores (where permitted and safe) can also be a fun activity. Ensure children are supervised closely near cliffs and the ocean. Instagram

🎣 Anglers and Fishing Enthusiasts

Neah Bay is a true angler's paradise. The waters teem with lingcod, rockfish, salmon, and halibut, making it a prime spot for both recreational and serious fishing trips. Instagram+1 Many visitors book charters from the Neah Bay Marina to take advantage of local knowledge and prime fishing grounds. Instagram

Opening weekends for seasons like lingcod fishing are particularly popular. Be sure to check the latest fishing regulations and licensing requirements from the Makah Tribe. Even if you don't fish, experiencing the vibrant fishing community adds to the charm of Neah Bay. TikTokInstagram

📸 Nature Photographers

For photographers, Neah Bay is a dream destination. Cape Flattery offers dramatic coastal landscapes with sea stacks, rugged cliffs, and powerful ocean waves, especially stunning during sunrise and sunset. TikTokInstagram The coastal trails provide opportunities to capture the unique flora and fauna of the Pacific Northwest. TikTok

Keep your camera ready for wildlife sightings, including whales, puffins, and various seabirds. The Makah Cultural and Research Center also presents unique photographic subjects related to tribal history and art. Instagram+1 Remember to pack weather-sealed gear, as conditions can change rapidly. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Cape Flattery: The Edge of the Continent

Cape Flattery is the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States and offers truly spectacular views. The Cape Flattery Trail is a well-maintained, though sometimes muddy, 1.5-mile roundtrip path that leads you through lush forest to dramatic viewpoints overlooking the Pacific Ocean. You'll encounter boardwalks and stairs as you descend towards the coastline. TikTok

From the viewpoints, you can see impressive sea stacks, rugged cliffs, and, if you're lucky, marine life like seals, sea lions, and even whales. The raw power of the ocean crashing against the rocks is a sight to behold. Remember to wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for wind and spray. TikTokInstagram

Access to Cape Flattery requires a Makah Recreation Permit, which can be purchased in Neah Bay. It's a small fee that supports the Makah Tribe and helps maintain the trails. This is a highlight that truly captures the wild beauty of the Washington coast. Instagram

Understanding the Makah Tribe and Culture

Neah Bay is the home of the Makah Indian Tribe, a sovereign nation with a rich history and vibrant culture deeply connected to the sea. The Makah Cultural and Research Center is an essential stop to understand their heritage. It houses an impressive collection of artifacts, including those recovered from the Ozette village site, which was preserved under volcanic ash for centuries. Instagram

Visiting the museum provides invaluable context for your experience in Neah Bay. You'll learn about their traditional way of life, their deep knowledge of the ocean, and their resilience. The exhibits showcase ancient tools, ceremonial objects, and historical photographs, offering a glimpse into a living culture. Instagram

Beyond the museum, respecting the tribal land is paramount. Many of the stunning natural areas you'll visit are part of the Makah Reservation. Being mindful of local customs, regulations, and the importance of this land to its people enhances the travel experience and fosters mutual respect. TikTok

Fishing Adventures in Neah Bay

Neah Bay is a premier destination for saltwater fishing on the Washington coast. The Neah Bay Marina is a hub for local anglers and charter operations. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner, the waters here offer exciting opportunities to catch a variety of species. Instagram

Popular catches include lingcod, rockfish, salmon, and halibut. The fishing season for lingcod, for instance, often kicks off in early March, drawing enthusiasts eager for the challenge. Many visitors opt for guided fishing trips, which provide local expertise, necessary gear, and a higher chance of a successful catch. Instagram+1

Even if you're not an avid angler, the fishing culture is palpable in Neah Bay. You'll see boats heading out early and returning with their hauls, and the local eateries often feature the day's catch. It's a significant part of the town's identity and a key attraction for many visitors. TikTokInstagram

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