Some nice views can be had from the Spit Walk
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Dungeness Spit

4.9
·69 reviews·Sequim, United States

Hike the longest natural sand spit in North America to a historic lighthouse, a unique wildlife refuge.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Fewer crowds, pleasant temps

CrowdLow
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Some nice views can be had from the Spit Walk

Dungeness Spit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Fewer crowds, pleasant temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Hike the longest natural sand spit in North America to a historic lighthouse, a unique wildlife refuge.

4.9
(69 reviews)

"A natural wonder and a beautiful beach hike, well worth the effort!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear appropriate footwear

Sand can be tiring! Sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must for the 5.5-mile trek to the lighthouse .

💧 Pack plenty of water

Crucial for the long hike. There are no services once you're on the spit .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

New Dungeness Lighthouse

New Dungeness Lighthouse

End of Dungeness Spit

The iconic lighthouse at the end of the spit offers stunning views and a sense of accomplishment after the long hike.

The Natural Sand Spit

The Natural Sand Spit

Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge

Walk along the longest natural sand spit in North America, a unique geological formation teeming with birdlife.

Coastal Birdwatching

Coastal Birdwatching

Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge

Observe a variety of shorebirds and migratory species in their natural habitat along the spit and its protected waters.

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Planning Your Visit

Prepare for a Long Trek

The Dungeness Spit is a 5.5-mile hike to the lighthouse, making it a 11-mile round trip. Pack plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and wear sturdy shoes. Many visitors underestimate the distance and time required.Reddit

Respect the Wildlife

This area is a National Wildlife Refuge, crucial for migratory birds. Stay on marked trails and be mindful of nesting areas, especially during certain seasons. The spit itself is a natural wonder, growing over 15 feet annually.Instagram

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Crowd
Low
When
Late spring afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Dungeness Spit, Washington #washingtontrails #idhikethat
mindful_nomadics
22 likes • 1.7K views

👟 Wear appropriate footwear

Sand can be tiring! Sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must for the 5.5-mile trek to the lighthouse.Reddit

💧 Pack plenty of water

Crucial for the long hike. There are no services once you're on the spit.Reddit

The Dungeness Spit Lighthouse in Sequim, Washington. You have to hike 5.5 miles out to just get to the lighthouse, but it is well worth it. #lighthouse #dungenessspit #sequim #sequimwashington
davefesterphotography
816 likes • 350 views
A spit is a section of sand that extends from the land out into the sea. The Dungeness Spit is actually the longest natural sand spit in North America, extending about 5 miles out into the ocean! We got to see this beauty at sunset during our Washington trip this summer and WOW. 😍
weekend_roadtrippers
76 likes • 1.6K views

☀️ Sun protection is key

Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential, especially on sunny days.Reddit

⏰ Allow ample time

The 11-mile round trip can take 4-5 hours, plus time for lighthouse tours.Instagram

Traveling to the Olympic Peninsula? Add this destination to your adventures. 📍Dungeness Spit Trail | Sequim, WA 🥾Located at the Dungeness National Wildlife Preserve, the trail to the lighthouse is 10-miles out-and-back. However, the first 0.5 miles is a paved trail to the overlook, then you’ll travel down the hill to the beach. 💲If you go, there is a $3 entrance fee per 4-adults (children und...
adventuring.with.kate
374 likes • 28.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear appropriate footwear

Sand can be tiring! Sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must for the 5.5-mile trek to the lighthouse.Reddit

💧 Pack plenty of water

Crucial for the long hike. There are no services once you're on the spit.Reddit

☀️ Sun protection is key

Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential, especially on sunny days.Reddit

⏰ Allow ample time

The 11-mile round trip can take 4-5 hours, plus time for lighthouse tours.Instagram

🐦 Respect wildlife

Stay on trails to protect bird habitats. The spit is a National Wildlife Refuge.Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.9
(69 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Dungeness Spit's natural beauty and the rewarding hike to the historic lighthouse, often calling it a 'natural wonder.' The low cost and friendly volunteers are frequently praised. However, many caution that the 5.5-mile trek each way can be more strenuous than anticipated, especially with sand and potential headwinds.

"This place is great! Lovely to walk on, very inexpensive when comparing to the cost of visitation other parks in WA, and beautiful all around."

S. Z. (GreenRR)

"This is a natural wonder! This natural spit grows 13’ a year. AMAZING! The volunteers that work there are so friendly and helpful!! Everyone should come out and walk this spit."

Kim Brownlee Personal Trainer

"Took my mother and I around 4.5 hours roundtrip.with lunch and a lighthouse tour. Hand wind to our back on the way out and headwind back was a bit tiring at times. Overall excellent beach hike!"

Tim Hunt

What People Like

Stunning natural beauty
Rewarding lighthouse hike
Abundant wildlife

What People Dislike

Long, tiring hike
Headwinds on return

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Dungeness Spit is located near Sequim, Washington. From Highway 101, take the Sequim exit and follow signs for the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge. There are parking lots available at the trailhead.Instagram

Yes, there are parking lots at the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge. Some visitors suggest parking at the first lot to experience a ridge walk before descending to the spit.Reddit

No, vehicles are not allowed on the Dungeness Spit. Access is strictly for pedestrians and hikers.Instagram

The initial part of the trail to the overlook is paved and accessible. However, the majority of the hike to the lighthouse is on the beach and can be challenging due to sand and uneven terrain.

Follow the main trail along the waterline. Signage can sometimes be confusing, but generally, stay on the beach side and avoid protected bird nesting areas.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is a small day-use fee for the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge. It's generally inexpensive compared to other Washington parks.Reddit

The Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge is typically open from dawn to dusk. However, it's always a good idea to check the official refuge website for any specific closures or seasonal hours.

Camping is not permitted directly on the Dungeness Spit itself. However, there are campgrounds nearby, including the Dungeness Spit Campground and other options in the Sequim area.Reddit

Yes, there is a day-use fee for the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge. This fee helps support the maintenance and conservation of the area.Reddit

Yes, lighthouse tours are often available, but they are dependent on volunteer availability. Check the New Dungeness Light Station Association website for tour schedules and information.Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The hike to the lighthouse is 5.5 miles one way, making it an 11-mile round trip. It can take approximately 4-5 hours, including time for a lighthouse tour.InstagramReddit

You'll see the longest natural sand spit in North America, the historic New Dungeness Lighthouse, diverse birdlife, and expansive views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.Instagram+1

The hike is considered moderate to strenuous due to the distance and walking on sand. The return trip can be more challenging with a headwind.Reddit

Pit toilets are available at the trailhead parking areas. There are no facilities once you are on the spit itself.

Dogs are generally not allowed on the Dungeness Spit itself to protect wildlife. They may be permitted in certain areas of the refuge, but always check current regulations.

📸 📸 Photography

The lighthouse at the end of the spit is a prime subject. The expansive beach, the unique spit formation, and the wildlife offer numerous photographic opportunities.Instagram+1

Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the unique landscape still provides great shots.Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the spit and lighthouse. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife photography.Instagram

General photography is allowed. However, be mindful of wildlife and avoid disturbing nesting areas. Drone usage may be restricted within the National Wildlife Refuge.

Capture the spit's curvature, the lighthouse against the sea, and the diverse bird species. The changing tides also create interesting photographic elements.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the full 11-mile hike to the lighthouse might be too much for young children, families can still enjoy a portion of Dungeness Spit. The initial paved trail to the overlook offers lovely views and is accessible for strollers. From there, you can descend to the beach and walk as far as your children are comfortable with, enjoying the sand and sea.Reddit It's a great opportunity for kids to experience a unique natural environment, but be sure to pack plenty of snacks, water, and sun protection, and keep a close eye on them near the water and wildlife areas.Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Day-Trippers

Dungeness Spit is an excellent destination for a day trip from nearby towns like Sequim or Port Angeles. You can tailor your visit to your energy levels. For a shorter outing, explore the initial part of the spit and enjoy the beach and views without committing to the full lighthouse hike.Reddit If you're up for the challenge, dedicate a good portion of your day to the round trip to the lighthouse, perhaps combining it with a picnic lunch on the beach. Remember to check the weather and tide times before you go.Instagram

📸 Photographers

The Dungeness Spit offers a wealth of photographic opportunities. The iconic New Dungeness Lighthouse is a must-capture subject, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.Instagram The unique geological formation of the spit itself, stretching out into the water, provides dramatic landscapes. Birdwatchers and wildlife photographers will find plenty to shoot, with various species frequenting the refuge.Instagram Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for expansive shots and a telephoto lens for wildlife details.Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Epic Hike to the Lighthouse

The journey to the New Dungeness Lighthouse is the main event for many visitors to Dungeness Spit. This isn't a casual stroll; it's a commitment. The spit extends over 5.5 miles into the Strait of Juan de Fuca, meaning an 11-mile round trip hike. Travelers often describe it as a 'slog' through sand, especially on the return journey when a headwind can make progress challenging.Reddit It's essential to be prepared with ample water, snacks, and sun protection, as there are no services once you leave the trailhead.Instagram Many visitors recommend wearing sturdy, comfortable shoes to navigate the sandy terrain effectively.TikTok

Despite the demanding nature of the hike, the reward is immense. Reaching the historic lighthouse, one of the oldest on the West Coast, is a significant accomplishment. The lighthouse itself is a picturesque landmark, and the panoramic views from its end are breathtaking. Some visitors opt for lighthouse tours, which are often led by dedicated volunteers and offer a glimpse into its history.Reddit The experience is often described as a 'natural wonder' and a 'beautiful beach hike' that is well worth the effort.Reddit

A Haven for Wildlife

As the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge, this area is a critical habitat for a vast array of wildlife, particularly migratory birds. The spit and its surrounding waters provide essential feeding and resting grounds for thousands of birds annually. Visitors can expect to see various shorebirds, waterfowl, and seabirds, especially during migration seasons.Instagram Binocular stands are available at certain points, encouraging visitors to observe the wildlife from a respectful distance.Reddit

It's crucial for visitors to understand their role in protecting this delicate ecosystem. The refuge designation means that respecting wildlife and staying on marked trails is paramount. Certain areas may be temporarily closed to protect nesting birds, and it's important to heed all signage. The spit itself is a dynamic natural formation, constantly shaped by wind and waves, which contributes to its unique ecological value. Understanding that the spit is growing at an impressive rate of over 15 feet per year adds to the awe of this natural phenomenon.Instagram

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