Ruby Beach
Forks, Washington
Description
Added by Scott Kranz
Ruby Beach is a beautiful location for photos on the coast of the Olympic National Park. Be sure to purchase your Olympic National Park entrance pass before heading into the park. Catch the sun setting behind the seastacks, rock formations, and scenic Abbey Island. Duration: Afternoon.
If you’re looking for a mellow day at the beach, this is a great spot! There’s an easy path from the parking area down to the beach that’s less than 0.25 miles, so it’s not too difficult to the things you may want or need. Just north of the parking area, there’s a series of tide pools to explore. If you’re really excited about checking out the sea life, be sure to come during lower tides as more of the rocks will be exposed. If you’re really looking to explore, head north for 3 miles to the mouth of the Hoh River. If you do decide to make the trek, it’s fairly easy as long as you go at low tide.
This is a popular spot for ocean kayakers. The kayak allows you to really get out and explore the rock formations. If you’ve got one, throw it on top of the car.
Also, if you’re looking to pick up a quick bite for the day at the beach head to Taqueria Santa Ana.
FEES & PASSES:
The Park has an entrance fee between $15-$30, but can be also be accessed with an America the Beautiful pass. Learn more at NPS.Gov.
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Ruby Beach Reviews
Located halfway between Forks and Lake Quinault, Ruby Beach is a popular spot to explore on the peninsula, and for good reason! After a small hike down to the water, you'll be greeted by beautiful sea stacks and an expansive beach to wander on. Perfect for families, adventurers and photographers alike to take in the views of the Pacific Ocean. Highly recommend going during the day during high tide or bringing a blanket and having a picnic for sunset. Pro tip: check out Kalaloch Beach which is only 10 minutes south from Ruby Beach and has the infamous "Tree of Life"!
4.0
Beach is a really great spot to watch the sunset. Rocky, but cool to walk around and explore.
4.0
The diversity of landscapes in the peninsula astounds me. This beach is a must do. Between the driftwood and rock formations there is so much to explore
5.0
Most beautiful beach we have ever visited! The sea stacks along the beach are breathtaking. Late summer/early fall brings out the whales and sea otters too.
5.0
We were completely torn up about the fact that we only had a couple hours available to hang out on Ruby Beach. As soon as we got there, the misty, rocky beach stole our hearts. As the sun broke through the fog, the place only became more beautiful. It is a large beach so you never feel too surrounded by people. I would have loved to have spent a couple days here or at least been able to watch the sun set!
5.0
The sea stacks here are incredible and massive. It can be pretty foggy but if not the sunsets are pretty stunning. Waders are a good call if you'll be taking photos.
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Nearby
Tide Pools at Kalaloch Beach 4
Toleak Point via Third Beach Trailhead
Camp at Third Beach
Strawberry Point on the Olympic Coast
Second Beach in Olympic NP
Camp at First Beach
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