Best Things to do in Port Angeles: Located on the northern end of the Olympic Peninsula, Port Angeles is home to stunning waterfalls, sparkling lakes, scenic beaches, and picturesque trails.
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It also acts as a gateway to exploring the Olympic National Park, which offers a host of outdoor recreational activities.
From whale spotting, and strolling in lavender fields to visiting the plot locations of the famous Twilight book series, there is something here for everyone.
Planning a vacation to this beautiful city?
To help you create the perfect itinerary, we’ve curated the ultimate list of the best things to do in Port Angeles:-
Dive in!
Soak in the stunning views from Hurricane Ridge
Only a 17-mile drive from the city, Hurricane Ridge offers some of the most picturesque views of the Olympic National Park.
Along the way, you’ll find scenic campsites and lush meadows making the journey enjoyable.
As you reach the top, soak in the stunning vista of the Olympic mountains as you get a bird’s eye view of the beautiful landscape dotted with trails.
You’ll also find the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center here which features exhibits and interpretive presentations.
Take a stroll in the enchanting rainforests
The mossy rainforests in Olympic National Park exude a tranquil vibe. Taking a stroll amidst such wilderness will make you feel like you’re in a magical land.
The Hoh Rain Forest is one of the most popular areas to explore.
You can take the Hoh River Trail, a 17.3-mile-long path that begins from the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center and leads to the base of Mt. Olympus.
You can also find shorter and more family-friendly trails that span out from the visitor centre. One of the most popular ones is the “Hall of Mosses”. With such scenic beauty, this is a must-have on your itinerary.
Appreciate marine life at the Feiro Marine Life Center
Visiting with kids?
Take them to meet sea cucumbers, hermit crabs, and other marine creatures at this impressive facility. Home to various touch tanks and aquariums, the museum offers a fun learning experience.
There are various exhibits highlighting the diverse ecosystem found just offshore.
If you love learning about these exquisite creatures, they also host academic lectures and offer other immersive educational opportunities.
Go whale watching
Port Angeles is popular for whale sightings. You can find different species of these majestic creatures including humpback, gray whales, orca, and minke.
There are various whale-watching spots in the city, many of which are on The Whale Trail, an international collection of whale-watching sites.
Got some time on your hands? Take a guided whale-watching tour to make sure that you get the best views of these giant aquatic mammals.
Enjoy biking on the Olympic Discovery Trail
The Olympic Discovery Trail is a 130-mile route that extends from Port Townsend to La Push. Move along as you soak in the sublime beauty of rich natural surroundings.
The trail goes through the downtown waterfront, allowing you to explore the city at a relaxed pace. It features a combination of gravel roads, paved roads, and bike paths.
It is a perfect way to spend an enjoyable afternoon. If you’re an avid biker, you can take also a ride to the lavender fields of Sequim which lie to the east of the city.
Enjoy kayaking on the Ediz Hook
Love water sports?
Head to Ediz Hook.
This crescent-shaped sand spit is three miles long and extends from the city’s shoreline. The area provides a picturesque view of the city against the backdrop of the Olympic Mountains.
From kayaking, and canoeing to scuba diving, there is a host of outdoor recreational activities to enjoy here.
You can find ample parking areas near the beginning of the Spit which makes it easy to access the serene waters.
Go boating on Lake Crescent
Another beautiful natural treasure in Olympic National Park, Lake Crescent is the perfect spot for a fun outing. Featuring crystal-clear waters and scenic views, the lake exudes a tranquil vibe.
With only non-motorized boats allowed on it, the place maintains its serenity. You can go on a boat ride, hike the nearby areas or enjoy a lakeside picnic.
Want to spend more time in this beautiful place?
Spend the night at the historic Lake Crescent Lodge, which offers a warm ambiance for a comfortable stay.
Soak in the sun at Rialto Beach
The Olympic National Park is also home to the rugged western coastline of the Pacific Ocean. Soak in the dramatic coastal landscapes as you lounge on this picturesque beach backed by a lush forest.
Wish to explore more?
Hike two miles to the north to find the Hole-in-the-Wall rock that features a host of intriguing intertidal areas to explore.
Rejuvenate your senses in lavender fields
Located only 18 miles away from Port Angeles, the city of Sequin is home to thousands of lavender plants in the Sequim-Dungeness Valley.
The best time to visit is in July when hues of purple spread all over. It’s no wonder that the city is known as the Lavender Capital of North America.
The full bloom is celebrated with great gusto with the Washington Lavender Festival. You can follow the Sequim Lavender Trail which will take you through all the local farms in the area.
Hike the Sol Duc Falls
Within an hour’s drive away, Sol Doc Falls are sublimely picturesque. Walk across the bridge that passes over the gushing waters. Pose for a picture or take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the place.
You can also go for a 1.6-mile-long hike to explore the area. There are numerous picnic benches to rest up during the journey.
Go on a Twilight tour
If you’re a fan of Stephanie Meyer’s famous book series Twilight, you’re in luck. Some of the plot locations of the book are set in Port Angeles.
A popular place to visit is Bella Italia, the place of Bella and Edward’s first date.
You can also visit Forks nearby which is the central setting of the book. It even hosts the annual Forever Twilight in Forks Festival which brings thousands of fans together.
Visit the Olympic National Park Visitor Centre
Learn more about the park, its history, and attractions at this facility. The centre also features many exhibits and hands-on activities that highlight the vast ecosystem of the Olympic Peninsula.
What’s more?
You can also learn about the wildlife in the park and get the most up-to-date information on camping and backcountry travel.
So, start with the one that attracts you the most and head to this incredible destination for an epic getaway.
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FAQs:
Q. Is Port Angeles worth visiting?
With stunning landscapes, the Olympic National Park, and a host of outdoor recreation activities, Port Angeles is definitely worth a visit.
Q. How do I spend a day in Port Angeles?
You can start your day by visiting the Feiro Marine Life Center followed by a whale-watching tour or a visit to the Olympic National Park. There are endless ways to spend a fun day in this beautiful city.
Q. What is Port Angeles known for?
Port Angeles is known for being the headquarters of the Olympic National Park.