Olympic Peninsula
Olympic Peninsula
4.5
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4.5
27 reviews
Excellent
17
Very good
8
Average
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Kent B
3 contributions
July 2022
This summer I went back to the Olympic Peninsula and re-visited some places I haven't been to in 50 years as well as some new ones. The whole Olympic Peninsula is amazing and the Olympic National Park a jewel of that part of the world. Port Angeles, Port Townsend and the many other towns and cities of this vast area all bring back tastes of the great outdoors. It really doesn't matter what your inclination is, fishing, history, remote nature, or gathering berries on one of the many islands, , , your desires could be well satiated.
A wonderful place to anchor your explorations is A Hidden Haven, an incredible garden in the woods that can be your sanctuary from which to explore. I was blown away by the waterfalls, fish ladders, massive forest trees and rhododendrons scattered through the woods. Each of the hidden cottages seem to have their own unique character to welcome you home after a day exploring.
A wonderful place to anchor your explorations is A Hidden Haven, an incredible garden in the woods that can be your sanctuary from which to explore. I was blown away by the waterfalls, fish ladders, massive forest trees and rhododendrons scattered through the woods. Each of the hidden cottages seem to have their own unique character to welcome you home after a day exploring.
Written 18 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael M
Waimanalo, HI261 contributions
Aug 2013 • Couples
After nearly 20 years of promising ourselves to do it, we finally made our drive around the Olympic Peninsula. Several things surprised us. One was simply the distances - 575 miles for the loop from our Bainbridge Island home, and much of it comparatively slow driving. We took four days for the trip, and had we wanted to see some of places that we'd already seen -- Port Angeles, Hurricane Ridge Crescent Lake, Sol Duc --we could easily have taken longer. The other thing we should have expected was the absence of phone (we have A T & T -- we saw Verizon users connected more often) and wifi signals for much of the trip. If you're used to using the maps program on your iPad you'll find yourself out of luck on most of the west side of the peninsula. As a backup we will, next time, carry an old-fashioned paper map.
Accommodations are iffy. Not bad on the whole, just a little more basic than what you might be used to (see my reviews of Hobuck, Manitou, Quinault). Food is equally unimpressive: an abundance of starch and anything fried, less fresh seafood than we would have expected, generally just less than mediocre eating.
The sights are of course what make the trip worthwhile. Highway 112 along the north shore is lovely. Neah Bay is worth the journey because you feel you've been transported into a different world culturally -- and Cape Flattery is worth the walk to get to it. A first-timer ought to see Hurricane Ridge and Lake Crescent, both visually stunning. La Push is another end-of-the-road place seemingly disconnected from the world. And the beaches are spectacular with their rolling surf, improbable rock towers (called 'stacks'), and on a warm day sun-warmed flat stones to lie on and watch the seabirds soar. It's a great trip.
Accommodations are iffy. Not bad on the whole, just a little more basic than what you might be used to (see my reviews of Hobuck, Manitou, Quinault). Food is equally unimpressive: an abundance of starch and anything fried, less fresh seafood than we would have expected, generally just less than mediocre eating.
The sights are of course what make the trip worthwhile. Highway 112 along the north shore is lovely. Neah Bay is worth the journey because you feel you've been transported into a different world culturally -- and Cape Flattery is worth the walk to get to it. A first-timer ought to see Hurricane Ridge and Lake Crescent, both visually stunning. La Push is another end-of-the-road place seemingly disconnected from the world. And the beaches are spectacular with their rolling surf, improbable rock towers (called 'stacks'), and on a warm day sun-warmed flat stones to lie on and watch the seabirds soar. It's a great trip.
Written 24 August 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karina K
Portland, OR21 contributions
Apr 2015 • Couples
We drove up and back from Portland, OR and around the peninsula in three days, early April, with sunshine for three days. It was busy, and we only saw bits. Hurricane Ridge drive was amazing, but the clouds were heavy. By the time we reached the visitor's center, it was clouded over. We drove out to Sol Duc Falls and enjoyed the sunset drive back to Port Angeles along Lake Crescent. The next morning, we decided to go to Hurricane Ridge AGAIN before going west to Neah Bay. The skies were clear, and we saw everything we missed the day before. The drive down to Hurricane Hill trail was closed. However, there was a little trail across the parking lot from the visitor center. If there is snow on the trail, be very careful for ice. I did slip and fall going downhill.
The drive to Neah Bay was beautiful along the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Take it slow, and stop to look for sea life along the "whale trail" at the pull-outs. At Cape Flattery, we saw two gray whales from the last lookout on the trail. Beautiful.
We headed south to Forks, and visited Rialto Beach for sunset. We love our Oregon Coast beaches, but the intensity of the waves at Rialto was different. The volume of driftwood is impressive, as well, and we enjoyed the beautiful, smooth rocks below our feet as we walked.
We went to Ruby Beach the next day at low tide. You have to wade across a stream of water to get the to the tide pools (pants rolled up to the knees kind of wading). There were many anemones, but nearly all were closed up because the water was out so far. The tide when we went was .2 at low tide. I imagine you might see more when the tide is higher, so that the anemones are open. There were only a couple of starfish. I've seen more impressive tide pools elsewhere, but again, I think the timing may have impacted this.
The Hoh Rainforest was amazing. We only spent a couple hours in the forest, but I could have wandered all day in there. We "hiked" the Hall of Mosses (more like meandered - it was like a natural museum). and part of the Hoh River trail. I recommend doing the Hall of Mosses first, because it has information along the trail about nurse logs, and points out unique features that one might otherwise overlook.
We headed back to Portland after this, and we could have spent so much more time exploring this beautiful area. We loved our trip.
The drive to Neah Bay was beautiful along the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Take it slow, and stop to look for sea life along the "whale trail" at the pull-outs. At Cape Flattery, we saw two gray whales from the last lookout on the trail. Beautiful.
We headed south to Forks, and visited Rialto Beach for sunset. We love our Oregon Coast beaches, but the intensity of the waves at Rialto was different. The volume of driftwood is impressive, as well, and we enjoyed the beautiful, smooth rocks below our feet as we walked.
We went to Ruby Beach the next day at low tide. You have to wade across a stream of water to get the to the tide pools (pants rolled up to the knees kind of wading). There were many anemones, but nearly all were closed up because the water was out so far. The tide when we went was .2 at low tide. I imagine you might see more when the tide is higher, so that the anemones are open. There were only a couple of starfish. I've seen more impressive tide pools elsewhere, but again, I think the timing may have impacted this.
The Hoh Rainforest was amazing. We only spent a couple hours in the forest, but I could have wandered all day in there. We "hiked" the Hall of Mosses (more like meandered - it was like a natural museum). and part of the Hoh River trail. I recommend doing the Hall of Mosses first, because it has information along the trail about nurse logs, and points out unique features that one might otherwise overlook.
We headed back to Portland after this, and we could have spent so much more time exploring this beautiful area. We loved our trip.
Written 10 April 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Amelia H
Ventura, CA240 contributions
Aug 2012 • Family
I just returned from the Olympic Peninsula, its one of my favorite places. I'll add to the others info by saying that you MUST visit the Makah Museum in Neah Bay, it is one of the most interesting places I have ever been, not to mention the most scenic. The drive out to it takes several hours, but you won't mind because this is some of the most scenic coastline you will ever see. We saw so many whales right from the beaches right off the highway, we had to drag
ourselves away. Eagles (both Golden and Bald) are as common as flies. This place is unbelievable, certainly not touristy, and incredibly educational. The Makah tribe are the only tribe allowed to hunt whales legally in the USA, and while this is very controversial, it is a practice that
is confined to symbolic rather than sustaining hunts.
ourselves away. Eagles (both Golden and Bald) are as common as flies. This place is unbelievable, certainly not touristy, and incredibly educational. The Makah tribe are the only tribe allowed to hunt whales legally in the USA, and while this is very controversial, it is a practice that
is confined to symbolic rather than sustaining hunts.
Written 4 September 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BernieJay
1 contribution
The olympic Peninsula, of Washington is a "definite must place" for everyones holiday visit, it has the utmost in scenery (a enthusiasts dream), the snow-caped mountains and their glaciers are a true gift from mother nature. Dense forests harbor frequently seen wildlife; deer, elk, bear, rabit, squirrel, coyote, bald eagles a pleanty, many speecies of waterfoul and fish, and I could on. The pristine ocean beaches and sunset views are an experience in themselves. And if you want a dash of intrigue you can walk about and imagine the werewolves and vampires of "Twilight."
Our "Home Point" for visits to the ocean beaches, Olympic National Park (Hoh Rainforest - a one-of-a-kind, do not miss area), indian villages, and many beautiful lakes - all within walking distance from transportation, an many easily acccessable by the physically challenged.
Our accommodations were at Bagby's Town Motel in the small city of Forks (on tge west side of the peninsila; an older facility but clean, easy access, and very reasonable rates, it is a small owner-operated motel and the Bagby's are outstanding and truely friendly hosts. They are lifetime residents of Forks (70+ years) a wealth of touring, hunting, and fishing information, and can relate some great and interesting stories and history of the area.
This is a highly recommended visit spot for anyones itinery; perhaps for several well spent days. I certainly will make repeated visits.
Our "Home Point" for visits to the ocean beaches, Olympic National Park (Hoh Rainforest - a one-of-a-kind, do not miss area), indian villages, and many beautiful lakes - all within walking distance from transportation, an many easily acccessable by the physically challenged.
Our accommodations were at Bagby's Town Motel in the small city of Forks (on tge west side of the peninsila; an older facility but clean, easy access, and very reasonable rates, it is a small owner-operated motel and the Bagby's are outstanding and truely friendly hosts. They are lifetime residents of Forks (70+ years) a wealth of touring, hunting, and fishing information, and can relate some great and interesting stories and history of the area.
This is a highly recommended visit spot for anyones itinery; perhaps for several well spent days. I certainly will make repeated visits.
Written 11 June 2010
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ehsmile
Yakima, WA11 contributions
There are so many things to see and do all within a few hours of eachother and all so diverse. The Olympic national park is a must see destination that is perfect for families. Camping in the coastline of the pacific ocean is a real thrill. The temperate rainforrest is a world in itself and the huge trees are amazing. We loved how many hikes are less than 3miles and how many waterfalls we could get to easily with small children. The straight and spit are so unique and all of the lighthouses spectacular. The whale trail is fun to take binoculars on and hike to the northwestern most point of the continental united states. Perfect mountain experience with mount Olympus and hurricane ridge views all the way out to Victoria bc beautiful. Unforgettable experience.
Written 2 August 2011
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Flensted
København, Staden Kobenhavn, Denmark50 contributions
July 2012 • Couples
The Olympic Peninsula is a stunning place and ideal for people who wish to explore nature and see an amazing variety of natural sights - forests, mountains, lakes, coastal areas... and maybe particularly for people who want to do this in a less touristic place than some of the better know national parks in the US. In many places you will find yourself completely alone. Buy a book with different trekking routes and decide on length and difficulty and then just enjoy the nature and wildlife! We stayed an various motels (Port Angeles, Forks) and used those as our base. It is an absolutely amazing experience and a highly recommendable place!
Written 30 May 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
George P
Fort Worth, TX2 contributions
Nov 2018 • Couples
Still in the middle of the trip. First warning...beware of added fees, taxes and deposits. So far it seems that everything we've done, from the rental car at the airport- 40% added taxes and fees - to lodges in the park - deposits range from a nominal $10 to a $130 per night deposit to a Bainbridge hotel's $25 per day "amenity" fee and a restaurant's 5% automatic kitchen tip fees - has so.e added, previously undisclosed fee. Why can't these places just be honest and include all this stuff in their upfront pricing.? Seems to be a real honesty problem out here or inability to face reality. If they need 5% more for the price of a meal to cover the payroll for the kitchen staff then raise the damn price and stop pretending. If you can't cover the cost for a parking lot or the bag of M&Ms in a hotel then raise the damn rate. Stop trying to advertise your products for less than what it cost to provide them. Try honest advertisement for a change and face the truth...the cost to travel through the Olympic Peninsula is more than what the marketers want you to believe. Not that it's outrageously expensive, just be honest. It gets really annoying that everywhere we go there's another line to initial accepting an additional charge. I initialed less buying a house than what I've done in the last four days of this trip.
All that aside, it's really beautiful out here.
All that aside, it's really beautiful out here.
Written 14 November 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
slipperymom
Vancouver, Canada12 contributions
Sept 2012 • Family
A wonderful week was spent exploring the Olympic Peninsula. And it was a beautiful hot September week to top it off.
Started out on Whidbey Island, staying at Fort Casey Park with our R.V. right beside the Coupville, Port Townsend Ferry Terminal. You need reservations starting this year, but last year you didn't and it was nice to pull in and get a spot. So much to see there. It is a wonderful place to stay. Then onto the ferry and across to Port Townsend and our journey began.
Salt Creek Recreational Park, Dungenous Spit Park and Lighthouse, Cape Flattery Trail and Neah Bay, great place to camp on the beach at the Hobuck Beach Resort. Must see the Makah Museum in Neah Bay.
Started out on Whidbey Island, staying at Fort Casey Park with our R.V. right beside the Coupville, Port Townsend Ferry Terminal. You need reservations starting this year, but last year you didn't and it was nice to pull in and get a spot. So much to see there. It is a wonderful place to stay. Then onto the ferry and across to Port Townsend and our journey began.
Salt Creek Recreational Park, Dungenous Spit Park and Lighthouse, Cape Flattery Trail and Neah Bay, great place to camp on the beach at the Hobuck Beach Resort. Must see the Makah Museum in Neah Bay.
Written 7 May 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sandra S
New York City, NY474 contributions
July 2014 • Couples
We took a ferry from Vancouver Island and drove to Kalaloch Lodge for two nights. There were so many and varied sights on the Olympic peninsula, we were sorry we did not have more time there. The coastal areas, the rain forest and the stunning cedars are only part of the natural beauty of the peninsula. As others have noted, we did not realize how far the distances were from one site to another and could not see all we wanted to in our time there. What we did see was wonderful!
Written 20 September 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
My sister and I are interested in driving from Victoria BC (by ferry of course) alone the Olympic Peninsula, and perhaps along the northern part of the Oregon Coast. We usually go to Anacortes every year, but want to expand our trip this year. We will only have about 6 days/nights. What would you suggest? We like small towns, don't drink, don't need night life, except maybe a local play to watch.
Written 25 February 2018
We are staying 4 nights next week (Feb 5-9) at the lodge. Where are the best rooms? Quiet and view are our priorities. We do not wish to look at trash cans or hear busses idling.
Written 16 August 2015
Which vacation spot on the Olympic Peninsula is closest to Olympia, Washington?
Written 6 February 2015
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