
Activities & Adventures on Washington’s Stunning Olympic Peninsula
These are tried and true by locals—we know you’ll enjoy these recommendations!
Outdoor Adventures
Kayak Rentals
Paddle through the stunning waters of the Olympic Peninsula with these top kayak rental spots:
Sound Bikes & Kayaks (Port Angeles): Rent kayaks for exploring the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Olympic Raft & Kayak (Port Angeles): Offers guided tours and rentals for beginners and experts.
Kayak Brinnon (Hood Canal): Perfect for exploring the calm waters of Hood Canal.
Tidepool Tours
Explore the fascinating marine life in the Peninsula’s tidepools:
Salt Creek Recreation Area: Known for its abundant tidepools and stunning views.
Kalaloch Beach 4: A family-friendly spot with easy access to tidepools.
Ruby Beach: Combines tidepooling with breathtaking sea stacks and sunsets.
Hiking Trails
Lace up your boots and hit the trails:
Hoh River Trail: A lush rainforest hike in Olympic National Park.
Hurricane Ridge: Offers panoramic views and wildflower meadows.
Sol Duc Falls: A short, kid-friendly hike to a stunning waterfall.
Devil’s Punchbowl at Railroad etc.
Other Outdoor Adventures
Cycling the Olympic Discovery Trail: A scenic route from Port Townsend to La Push.
Fishing on the Sol Duc River: A hotspot for salmon and steelhead.
Kid-Friendly Activities
The Olympic Peninsula is a playground for families! Here are some favorite spots:
Olympic Game Farm (Sequim): Drive through and feed wildlife like bison and elk.
Fort Worden State Park (Port Townsend): Explore bunkers, beaches, and the Marine Science Center.
Sequim’s Railroad Bridge Park: A great spot for a family picnic and birdwatching.
Playgrounds and Parks:
Carrie Blake Park (Sequim): Features a playground, splash pad, and walking trails.
Ericson’s Bay Playground (Port Angeles): A waterfront park with play structures.
John Wayne Marina Playground (Sequim): Fun for kids with marina views.
Events at Olympic National Park
Stay updated on seasonal events and programs:
Ranger-Led Programs: Guided hikes, campfire talks, and tidepool explorations.
Shakespeare in the Woods (Port Angeles): Outdoor theater performances in the summer.
Night Sky Programs: Stargazing events at Hurricane Ridge.
Seasonal Festivals: Check the park’s calendar for events like the Salmon Festival and Winter Arts & Crafts Fair.
Arts & Culture
Immerse yourself in the Peninsula’s vibrant arts scene:
Art Walks:
Port Townsend Art Walk: Held on the first Saturday of each month.
Sequim Art Walk: Explore local galleries and studios every first Friday.
Galleries:
Northwind Art (Port Townsend): Features rotating exhibits and local artists.
Museum of Art & History (Port Angeles): Showcases regional art and history.
The Rose Theatre (Port Townsend): Catch independent films, live performances, and community events.
Olympic Theatre Arts (Sequim): Enjoy local theater productions and workshops.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall for ideal weather, but the Peninsula is a year-round destination.
Getting Around: Rent a car for easy access to all the Peninsula’s attractions.
Where to Stay: From cozy cabins to beachfront lodges, there are accommodations for every budget.
Tips for Visitors
Pack Layers: The weather can change quickly, so be prepared for rain or shine. We love a good vest moment on the peninsula.
Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the Peninsula’s beauty.
Check Tide Charts: For tidepooling, visit during low tide for the best experience. You can check tide charts here. Salt Creek at low tide is life changing!