10 Must-See Places to Visit in Port Angeles, Washington

Posted on June 4, 2024  •  10 minutes  • 1974 words

Looking for a breathtaking destination with a mix of natural beauty and charming local spots? Port Angeles, Washington is calling your name! Located on the northern edge of the Olympic Peninsula, this hidden gem offers a little something for everyone. While summer and early fall are peak times for visitors, thanks to the warmer weather and abundant outdoor activities, there’s plenty to explore no matter when you come. Whether you’re into hiking, whale watching, or simply soaking in stunning views, you’ll find it all in Port Angeles. Let’s dive into the top 10 must-see places that should be on your itinerary!

10 best things to see in Port Angeles

10. Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge

When you’re in Port Angeles, don’t miss the chance to visit Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge. This beautiful spot offers stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and a unique experience walking along one of the world’s longest natural sand spits. You can enjoy bird watching, spot harbor seals, or simply take a peaceful, scenic hike. To get there, drive about 15 miles east of Port Angeles on US-101, then follow signs to Sequim and onto Voice of America Road. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes for the hike and check the tide schedule, as parts of the trail can get tricky during high tide. Enjoy your adventure in this serene, natural refuge!

9. Elwha River

If you’re visiting Port Angeles, don’t miss the chance to explore the Elwha River. It’s a beautiful natural spot where you can enjoy stunning views, peaceful surroundings, and a chance to see the incredible rebirth of the river after the removal of two large dams. To get there, drive about 10 miles west from Port Angeles on Highway 101, and then follow signs to Elwha River Road. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a camera to capture the scenic beauty. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like eagles and salmon, as the river is a thriving habitat for these species. Enjoy your visit!

8. Madison Creek Falls

If you find yourself in Port Angeles, you should definitely visit Madison Creek Falls. This stunning waterfall is a hidden gem located in the lush Olympic National Park. The falls are easily accessible, just a short drive from Port Angeles. Simply take US-101 West, then turn right onto Olympic Hot Springs Road. The trailhead parking area is just a few miles down the road. From there, it’s a quick and easy 0.2-mile walk to the falls, perfect for all ages. As you stroll through the serene forest, keep an eye out for local wildlife and beautiful native plants. Don’t forget your camera—Madison Creek Falls offers photo opportunities you won’t want to miss!

7. Salt Creek Recreation Area

If you’re visiting Port Angeles, you won’t want to miss the chance to explore Salt Creek Recreation Area. This stunning park offers breathtaking views, tranquil beaches, and fascinating tide pools filled with marine life. It’s a perfect spot for a family picnic, a stroll along the shore, or even some wildlife photography. Getting there is straightforward; from Port Angeles, head west on U.S. Highway 101 for about 8 miles, then take State Route 112 for another 9 miles before turning onto Camp Hayden Road which leads directly to the park. Make sure to check the tide schedule so you can explore the tide pools at low tide and keep an eye out for eagles soaring overhead or seals lounging on the rocks. Salt Creek Recreation Area promises a day of natural beauty and relaxation you won’t soon forget.

6. Olympic National Forest

Visiting Olympic National Forest while you’re in Port Angeles is a must! This forest offers beautiful landscapes ranging from lush, green forests to stunning mountain views and sparkling rivers. To get there, just take US-101 South from Port Angeles for about 30 minutes, and you’ll soon enter the forest’s breathtaking scenery. Once inside, keep an eye out for amazing hiking trails, wildlife watching spots, and peaceful picnic areas. Don’t miss the chance to see the stunning Lake Crescent and explore the magical Hoh Rainforest. Remember to bring a map, as cell service might be limited, and always check the weather before you set out. Enjoy the natural beauty and serenity!

5. Feiro Marine Life Center

If you’re exploring Port Angeles, make sure to visit the Feiro Marine Life Center. This small but impressive center offers a fascinating look at the marine life of the Pacific Northwest. You’ll get to see various sea creatures up close, including colorful starfish, spiky sea urchins, and playful sea anemones. It’s a great spot for families, as kids can enjoy the touch tanks and interactive exhibits. Getting there is easy – it’s located right on the Port Angeles waterfront. Just head towards the waterfront area on East Front Street, and you’ll find it near the city pier. Remember to check their hours before you go, as they can vary, and take note that parking in the nearby lots might fill up quickly during peak times. It’s a wonderful and educational stop that you shouldn’t miss!

4. Port Angeles Fine Arts Center

When visiting Port Angeles, make sure to stop by the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center for a delightful mix of culture and nature. This center showcases a variety of contemporary artworks and is surrounded by Webster’s Woods, a beautiful five-acre sculpture park. You’ll find over 100 sculptures hidden among winding trails, making it a fun outdoor adventure. To get there, drive towards 1203 E Lauridsen Blvd. If you’re coming from downtown, it’s just a short 10-minute drive or a 30-minute walk. Look for the unique artworks and take your time exploring the peaceful grounds. Make sure to check their website for any special exhibitions or events during your visit!

3. Hurricane Ridge

If you’re in Port Angeles, visiting Hurricane Ridge is a must! This stunning spot offers breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains and is perfect for outdoor lovers. To get there, simply drive 17 miles south from downtown Port Angeles on the Hurricane Ridge Road. The drive takes about 40 minutes and winds through beautiful forests, offering a preview of the incredible scenery you’ll enjoy at the top. Once there, you can hike along well-marked trails, watch for wildlife like deer and marmots, and in the winter, even enjoy some snowshoeing or skiing. Just make sure to check the road conditions before you go, as it can be closed due to weather. Don’t forget your camera—you’re going to want to capture these views!

2. Crescent Lake

When visiting Port Angeles, don’t miss the chance to see the breathtaking Crescent Lake. Located just about 30 minutes west of the town, this serene, crystal-clear lake offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for a day trip. To get there, simply take Highway 101 west from Port Angeles, and follow the signs to the lake. The route along the highway provides a scenic drive through lush forests, adding to the experience. Once at Crescent Lake, you can enjoy activities like kayaking, swimming, or hiking on nearby trails. Remember to bring a camera— the view especially at sunset is something you wouldn’t want to forget! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring some snacks and water, as you’ll likely want to stay and soak in the beauty for hours.

1. Olympic National Park

If you’re in Port Angeles, a visit to Olympic National Park is a must for any nature lover. This incredible park showcases diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests and rugged coastlines to towering mountains and serene lakes. It’s home to a variety of wildlife and offers countless hiking trails, making every visit a unique adventure. To get there from Port Angeles, simply head southwest on US-101, and you’ll reach the park in about 20 minutes. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes and layered clothing, as weather can change quickly. Don’t miss popular spots like Hurricane Ridge for stunning views, or the Hoh Rain Forest for a walk among ancient trees. Make sure to check for any park alerts or trail closures before you go to ensure a smooth visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best time of the year to visit Port Angeles?

The best time to visit Port Angeles is from June to September. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for exploring the beautiful outdoors, including Olympic National Park and the waterfront. You’ll find plenty of festivals and events to enjoy, as well. If you’re looking to save some money, consider visiting in the shoulder months of May or October. The temperatures are cooler, and you might encounter some rain, but there are fewer tourists, and accommodations can be more affordable.

2. Should I rent a car in Port Angeles?

Whether you should rent a car in Port Angeles depends on your plans. The roads in and around the city are generally well-maintained and traffic is usually light, making driving relatively stress-free. Parking is also fairly easy to find, with plenty of options both in the downtown area and near popular attractions. However, if you prefer not to drive, public transport includes buses operated by Clallam Transit, which can get you around town and to some nearby destinations. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available but might be less convenient for exploring more remote areas like Olympic National Park. Renting a car gives you the most flexibility to explore the beautiful surroundings at your own pace.

3. What are different ways to get to Port Angeles?

There are several ways to get to Port Angeles, a charming coastal town in Washington. If you’re flying, the closest major airport is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). From there, you can rent a car and drive around 2.5 hours via US-101 N. Alternatively, you can take a scenic ferry ride from Seattle to Bainbridge Island and then drive to Port Angeles. For public transportation, you can catch a Greyhound or Olympic Bus Lines from Seattle to Port Angeles. Although there is no direct train service, Amtrak trains go as far as Seattle, where you can switch to a bus or ferry. For those preferring a road trip, driving from Seattle, Tacoma, or Olympia is straightforward via I-5 N and US-101 N, offering breathtaking views along the way.

4. Are there things to do with children in Port Angeles?

Absolutely, there are plenty of fun things to do with children in Port Angeles! Start with a visit to the Feiro Marine Life Center, where kids can get hands-on with sea creatures in touch tanks. Head over to the Olympic National Park for easy family hikes, like the one to Marymere Falls, which offers stunning views without too much effort. If your kids enjoy animals, the Olympic Game Farm is a must-see; you can drive through and feed the animals right from your car. Don’t miss a stroll along Hollywood Beach, where the little ones can build sandcastles and play in the shallow waters. There’s also the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center with its outdoor sculpture park, perfect for a leisurely walk and some creative inspiration. With so many kid-friendly options, Port Angeles will surely delight the whole family!

5. Is Port Angeles safe to travel to?

Port Angeles is generally safe to travel to and offers a welcoming atmosphere for tourists. Like any city, it is wise to take basic precautions to ensure your safety. While serious crimes are rare, you should still be mindful of petty crimes such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded tourist areas. To keep your valuables secure, consider carrying a money belt, keeping wallets and phones out of sight, and always being aware of your surroundings. By following these simple safety tips, you can enjoy all that Port Angeles has to offer without worry.