In 2012, the Elwha Dam was removed, releasing sand and sediment down the river. This created a brand new beach at the mouth of the Elwha River. We have visited many times since it's creation and every time we visit, the landscape is dramatically different.
The beach is located at the end of Place Rd, 10 miles West of Port Angeles. One you arrive, you will find a small parking lot, Port-O-Potty and the trailhead to the beach. The path to the beach is paved and flat and about a 5 minute walk. You will walk by a couple large ponds and, if you are lucky, you might spot the resident beaver.
When you make it to the beach, you will notice the Elwha River on your right. Since we have been visiting this beach, we have noticed the river change course 3 times. The ever-changing nature of the beach is a pretty amazing thing to witness. It's like going to a brand new beach every time.
The beach is a mix of sandy beach, rocks, and driftwood, making it great for beach combing. There are also plenty of large driftwood logs, perfect to sit on if you brought a picnic!
The beach is great for kids, it has plenty of room for the kids to run around and so many different things to explore. My kiddos loved looking for rocks and driftwood and running on the sandy beach, running from waves. We have also brought kites a few times since it is one of the most perfect places for kite flying.
This beach is also a great place for wildlife viewing. We have often seen Bald Eagles, Harbor Seals and of course tons of Seagulls.
The surf here can get pretty intense, making it one of the best local beaches for surfing, while also making it dangerous for kids. The day we went, I made sure to never turn my back to it, that's for sure.
This is definitely a great place to visit, especially with kids. If you are able to plan your trip with the sunset, it will make the experience a little more special for the adults in the group. You won't be disappointed watching the sunset here while listening to the waves. It's the cherry on top of a great fun-filled day of adventure.
Pros:
Amazing beach
Tons of things for kids to explore
Wildlife Viewing
Beach Combing
Cons:
Intense surf at times
The only bathrooms are port-o-potties and located all the way at the beginning of the trail
The walk might be too much for some
To get there from Port Angeles:
Take 101 West
Take the 112 Junction toward Joyce
Make a Right on Place Road.
Continue to the bottom (where the comes to a "T")
Make a right into the parking lot.
Trailhead is at the far end of the parking lot
For more fun things to do in Port Angeles, check out Madison Falls.
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