Shi Shi Beach view of Point of Arches Sea Stack

@rossschram

Washington

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Clallam Bay

When it comes to picturesque views of the moody and beautiful Olympic Coast, Shi Shi beach is a top contender. Requiring an eight-mile roundtrip hike helps thin out the crowds that often take over the PNW beaches. To get the best shot, you might want to camp a night or two so you can capture a transfixing sunset over the incredible sea stacks that scatter the coast.

Plan

Overview

Skill level

Difficult

Accessbility

Public Location

Hours

Anytime

Fee

The Makah $10 yearly recreation pass (can be purchased in Neah Bay). If you're camping, you'll also need an Olympic National Park wilderness permit, available at the Olympic National Park Visitor Center in Port Angeles. Camping fees=$8 per person per night +$6 permit fee.

Pack

Wide-angle lens (16mm)
Sturdy tripod
Hiking attire
Good boots (the trail usually has a few very muddy section)
Backpacking equipment (if staying the night)

How to get there

N48° 14' 50.8236"W124° 41' 56.6268"

This image was taken along the coast of Shi Shi Beach, looking onto the shore and Point of Arches sea stacks. The best way to get to this location is by taking a car and then hiking. The main parking lot is for day hikers only. Overnight parking is permitted only at designated private parking lots. I parked at a self pay (cash only) parking lot about 3/4th of a mile back up the road before the main parking lot. If you're hiking with a group, I recommend dropping the group off with all your gear at the trailhead (48.293699, -124.665230) and then nominating one person to go park the vehicle and hike the extra 1/2-3/4th mile back to the trailhead so you don't have to carry all of your gear for the full trip. Following the trail is pretty straight forward and there will be signs. The first two miles are in the forest and it's usually a very muddy hike — don't forget suitable shoes! After the forest section, you'll descend down to the beach. From there, you'll continue walking on sand for the remaining two miles until you reach the Point of Arches (reference the GPS coordinates). Campsites can be found around the beach and in the sheltered forest upslopes if you're staying overnight.