Nestled along the northern coast of Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, Port Angeles is a charming seaside town that perfectly blends natural beauty, adventure, and small-town charm. Known as the gateway to Olympic National Park, it offers visitors access to mountains, forests, lakes, and the sea.
Things to Do in Port Angeles
1. Explore Olympic National Park
View this post on Instagram
No trip to Port Angeles is complete without a visit to the Olympic National Park, one of the most diverse and breathtaking parks in the United States.
Start your adventure at the Olympic National Park Visitor Center, located right in Port Angeles, to grab maps and get updates on trail conditions. From there, explore:
-
Hurricane Ridge – Offering panoramic mountain views and scenic hiking trails, it’s one of the most accessible mountain areas in the park.
-
Hoh Rain Forest – A magical landscape filled with moss-covered trees and lush greenery, perfect for nature walks.
-
Sol Duc Hot Springs – Relax in natural mineral pools surrounded by forest.
-
Lake Crescent – A deep, glacial lake known for its clear blue water, ideal for kayaking, swimming, or picnicking.
2. Walk Along the Port Angeles Waterfront
Take a stroll along the Waterfront Trail, part of the Olympic Discovery Trail that stretches across the peninsula. The waterfront area offers views of Vancouver Island, Port Angeles Harbor, and passing ships.
Stop by the City Pier for photos, watch the ferries come and go, and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.
3. Visit the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center
Art lovers will enjoy the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center, which showcases contemporary Northwest art in a beautiful hilltop setting. The outdoor Webster’s Woods Art Park features more than 100 sculptures scattered through forested trails, blending art and nature in a creative, peaceful space.
4. Go Whale Watching
Port Angeles is one of the best whale-watching destinations in Washington. From spring through fall, you can join a whale-watching tour to see orca whales, gray whales, humpbacks, and minke whales in the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Local companies like the Whale Watch Company offer guided trips with knowledgeable naturalists who help you spot marine life and learn about the region’s ecosystem.
5. Discover Ediz Hook
Drive or walk along Ediz Hook, a three-mile-long sand spit that extends into the harbor, offering sweeping views of Mount Baker, the Olympic Mountains, and the Bay. It’s a great spot for birdwatching, photography, or simply enjoying a quiet coastal moment.
6. Explore Downtown Port Angeles
Downtown Port Angeles has a laid-back coastal charm, with local boutiques, cafés, antique stores, and art galleries. Grab a coffee at a cozy café, browse the Port Book and News bookstore, or sample fresh seafood at local restaurants.
If you visit during summer, check out the Farmers Market for local produce, crafts, and live music.
7. Visit Lake Crescent
Just 30 minutes from town, Lake Crescent is one of the area’s most stunning natural landmarks. You can swim, kayak, or paddleboard in the lake’s crystal-clear waters. For hiking, try the Marymere Falls Trail, which leads to a picturesque waterfall surrounded by towering trees.
Stay a bit longer at Lake Crescent Lodge, a historic lakeside retreat perfect for a meal or an overnight stay.
8. Hike the Olympic Discovery Trail
For active travelers, the Olympic Discovery Trail offers over 130 miles of multi-use paths stretching from Port Townsend to the Pacific Ocean. The section around Port Angeles provides scenic views of forests, rivers, and coastlines, ideal for hiking or cycling.
9. Take a Day Trip to Victoria, Canada
From the Ferry Terminal, you can hop on the MV Coho Ferry and cross the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Victoria, British Columbia. The trip takes about 90 minutes and is an easy, scenic way to explore Canada for the day. Don’t forget your passport!
10. Visit Salt Creek Recreation Area
A short drive west of Port Angeles, Salt Creek Recreation Area is a favorite for tide pooling, camping, and coastal hiking. During low tide, explore the rocky shoreline to discover colorful sea stars, anemones, and crabs.
It’s also one of the best spots in the area for watching sunsets over the Pacific.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Port Angeles
1. Where is the city located?
It is located on the northern coast of Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, about 80 miles northwest of Seattle. It sits along the Strait of Juan de Fuca, directly across from Victoria, British Columbia, making it a gateway to both Olympic National Park and Vancouver Island.
2. What is Port Angeles best known for?
The city is best known as the main entrance to Olympic National Park, one of the most diverse national parks in the U.S. It’s also known for its stunning coastal scenery, outdoor recreation, whale watching, and easy ferry access to Victoria, Canada.
3. What are the top attractions?
Some of the top attractions include:
-
Olympic National Park and Hurricane Ridge
-
Lake Crescent and Marymere Falls
-
Ediz Hook and theWaterfront Trail
-
The Fine Arts Center
-
Salt Creek Recreation Area
-
Downtown and the Farmers Market
These spots showcase the best of Port Angeles, from mountains to beaches.
4. What is the best time to visit Port Angeles?
The best time to visit is between May and September, when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and sightseeing. Spring and early fall are also great for smaller crowds, while winter is perfect for snow sports at Hurricane Ridge.
5. How do I get to Port Angeles from Seattle?
You can reach from Seattle by driving Highway 101, which takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. Alternatively, you can take a ferry to Bainbridge Island and then drive across the Olympic Peninsula. The scenic route offers stunning views along the way.
Final Thoughts
From mountain peaks to ocean views, Port Angeles offers an unforgettable mix of natural wonders, adventure, and small-town charm.
Leave a Reply