When it comes to Pacific Northwest hiking trail, it really doesn't get better than a beachside hike... unless, of course, you throw in a waterfall along the way. The breathtaking Third Beach on the Olympic Peninsula offers both, and watching the water flow into the ocean is pretty much perfection. Current conditions have called for Third Beach to be closed for the time being, but this is something to look forward to when it opens again.
You'll find Third Beach on the Olympic Peninsula, not far from La Push.
While First Beach and Second Beach are equally as stunning, Third Beach boasts the most impressive hiking trail.
To reach the shoreline, just look for signs for the Third Beach Trail and head through the forest.
Then enjoy a 1.3-mile trek through the trees, which is often foggy and mystical.
Before you know it, you'll reach the beautiful, pristine shoreline.
Second Beach will be to the north, while heading south will take you to the South Coast Wilderness Trail, a long coastal trek that requires knowledge of the tides (and a permit).
As you walk, make sure to allow plenty of time for beachcombing.
The tide pools here can be pretty fantastic.
After about 1.3 miles, you'll reach Strawberry Bay, home to Strawberry Bay Falls.
While this waterfall doesn't appear to have an official name, that's what it tends to be referred to in hiking guides.
This waterfall doesn't flow all year -- it's usually dry when the coast hasn't seen rain. Luckily, that is not very often.
Strawberry Bay Falls is one of the few waterfalls in Washington that flows directly into the ocean, dropping off a high bluff and into the sea.
Whether or not you're able to see the waterfall, this is still a magical hiking path.
We're lucky to have Third Beach here in Washington, and we can't wait to return to it.
Have you ever been to this gorgeous beach?
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