Port Angeles, Washington
Port Angeles is one of the Pacific Northwest's best bases for getting outside. The Strait of Juan de Fuca stretches north toward Canada while the Olympic Mountains rise dramatically to the south. From here, you can explore Olympic National Park, Lake Crescent, Hurricane Ridge, rainforest, waterfalls and beaches—or simply stay in town and enjoy the waterfront.
Port Angeles Bucket List
Eat + Drink
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Downriggers
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Next Door Gastropub
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Barhop Brewing
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First Street Haven
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Spruce
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48° North
Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park is a breathtaking destination on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, where glacier-capped mountains, old-growth temperate rain forests, alpine meadows, lakes, and more than 70 miles of wild Pacific coastline come together in one remarkable landscape.
Hurricane Ridge
Hurricane Ridge is one of the most breathtaking destinations in Olympic National Park, offering sweeping views of the Olympic Mountains, wildflower-filled meadows, and abundant opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching. Just a short drive from Port Angeles, it’s a spectacular place to experience the mountains in every season—from sunny summer hikes and colorful wildflowers to snowy winter landscapes.
Lake Crescent
Lake Crescent feels like one of those places you stumble upon and immediately want to stay awhile. Tucked among towering evergreens and the Olympic Mountains, its impossibly blue, glassy water is made for slow mornings, scenic drives, picnics, and getting out on the lake. Take a short hike through the forest, find a quiet spot along the shore, or simply pull over and soak it all in—Lake Crescent is the kind of place that makes slowing down feel like part of the adventure.
Hoh Rain Forest
Hoh Rain Forest feels like stepping into another world. Towering trees draped in moss, ferns carpeting the forest floor, and the soft sound of rain and rushing streams create a place that feels wonderfully wild and peaceful. Wander the easy Hall of Mosses or Spruce Nature Trail, breathe in that unmistakable fresh-forest air, and take your time exploring one of the lushest corners of Olympic National Park.
Whale watching
Whale watching in Port Angeles is a chance to get out on the water and see the Olympic Peninsula from a whole new perspective. Depending on the season, you may spot orcas, humpback whales, gray whales, and other marine life cruising through the Strait of Juan de Fuca. It’s a memorable way to experience the wild side of Port Angeles—and you never quite know what you’ll see.
Tips
Where to Stay - Red Lion Hotel Port Angeles Harbor puts you directly on the waterfront with harbor views and easy access to downtown. It's an especially convenient base for travelers who want to combine Olympic Peninsula exploration with restaurants and waterfront activities.
A car is strongly recommended for Olympic National Park.
Port Angeles has a notable rain-shadow advantage compared with much of Western Washington, though conditions in Olympic National Park can be dramatically wetter and colder at elevation.
Local Events + Seasonal Happenings
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GOAT Run - Sept. 12
GOAT (Olympic Adventure Trail) Run is a half marathon, marathon, and 50K trail race on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State. The point-to-point courses take place on the singletrack Olympic Adventure Trail, finishing at pristine Lake Crescent inside Olympic National Park.
Ride the Ridge - Sept. 26
This cycling event tackling some of the newest accessible trails in the Olympic National Park. Participants will start at Hurricane Ridge and traverse some of the most scenic trails in the park.
The Dungeness Crab Festival - Oct. 9 - 11
One of the most acclaimed food festivals in the country and in Washington state! The festival brings food, art, music, Native American activities, and children’s events into one spectacular 3-day event for everyone.
Olympic Peninsula Fungi Festival - Oct. 17 + 18
If you're a mushroom enthusiast or just curious, you'll not want to miss the annual Olympic Peninsula Fungi Festival happening in Port Angeles, Washington this October.