Thank you to our friends at Maritime Washington National Heritage Area for creating this list of Olympic Peninsula’s areas to visit during the Festival.
While you’re in Washington for the Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival, try these nearby trips…
1. Take a Scenic Drive to Cape Flattery Lighthouse and the Makah Museum
Visit the Makah Cultural and Research Center Museum in Neah Bay. This fascinating museum showcases artifacts up to 500 years old from the Ozette Archaeological Site, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the Makah people since time immemorial. Highlights include traditional whaling gear, intricately woven baskets, and life-sized replicas of a Makah longhouse and canoes. Don’t forget to grab a recreation permit so you can park at Cape Flattery.
Embark on a journey through one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the U.S. as you drive along Highway 101, tracing the rugged northern coastline of Washington State. Your destination: a short hike to view Cape Flattery Lighthouse perched on Tatoosh Island on the Makah Reservation. From the northwesternmost point in the continental United States, you’ll be treated to unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean and the dramatic cliffs that mark the edge of the continent. Built in the mid-1800s, this lighthouse guided ships safely into the Strait of Juan de Fuca, fueling Washington’s growth as a maritime hub.
2. Experience Wilderness Coastline in Olympic National Park and Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary
For a true Washington experience, head to the western coast to visit the pristine wilderness of Olympic National Park and the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary. These protected areas—the longest undeveloped coastline in the country—are home to a treasure trove of sandy beaches, dramatic sea stacks, historic trails, and unique wildlife.
Between the park and the marine sanctuary, you’ll have no trouble finding ways to experience the striking Olympic coast. Take a day trip to iconic locations like Ruby or Rialto Beaches, camp at developed sites such as Kalaloch Beach, or embark on a true wilderness experience by backpacking a section of the coastline. For fans of ghost stories and maritime lore, tales of the sanctuary’s nearly 200 shipwrecks, many of which remain undiscovered, are perfect for a campfire.
3. Walk Through History at Fort Flagler, Fort Worden, and Fort Casey
The historic “Triangle of Fire” includes the coastal fortifications of Fort Worden, Fort Flagler, and Fort Casey, which were built around the turn of the last century to protect the entrance to Puget Sound. All three, however, were quickly rendered obsolete by the advent of air power. Today, the three forts are state parks and offer a rich blend of military history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure.
In Port Townsend, Fort Worden boasts panoramic views of surrounding islands and mountains, along with intriguing relics like its disappearing guns. Nearby Fort Flagler offers a quieter experience to explore coastal fortifications alongside opportunities for beachcombing, kayaking, camping, and hiking. For a bonus trip, take the ferry from Port Townsend to Coupeville (don’t forget your ferry reservation!) to visit Fort Casey, which features similar coastal defenses and provides access to the hiking trails and bluffs of Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve.
4. Eat Your Way Through Hood Canal’s Oyster Farms
No trip to Washington is complete without indulging in some of the freshest oysters you’ll ever taste! Oysters have long been an iconic piece of Washington’s maritime culture, and the Hood Canal is home to a variety of renowned oyster farms, offering a delicious selection of these briny delights. Whether you prefer them raw, baked, or fried, you’ll find endless options at farms and restaurants specializing in oysters and other local seafood. To make the most of your culinary adventure, consider creating your own oyster crawl with Maritime Washington, a fun and flavorful way to explore the region while savoring some of the finest oysters around. Your taste buds—and your spirit—will thank you!
5. Explore Sequim and Port Angeles
Vibrant with cultural heritage and natural beauty, Sequim and Port Angeles are must-see destinations for anyone visiting the Olympic Peninsula. Learn about local Native American history and culture at the Jamestown S’Klallam Library in Sequim and the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe’s Carnegie Museum in Port Angeles. Both sites feature fantastic exhibits on local Native American culture, history, and contributions to the region.
For nature lovers, the Dungeness River Nature Center offers an educational experience amid stunning landscapes. Nearby Dungeness Spit beckons with its long stretch of coastline, ideal for a hike along the shores or simply enjoying the breathtaking views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. If you’re looking for more outdoor adventure, the Olympic Discovery Trail is a fantastic way to explore the coast on foot or by bike. This multi-use trail stretches from Port Townsend to La Push, offering scenic vistas of the Olympic Mountains, forests, and coastline.
Bonus Ideas:
If you have more time, consider a visit to Grays Harbor, where you’ll find Grays Harbor Historical Seaport, the home of the Lady Washington tall ship, the highest lighthouse in Washington State, seafood markets, fishing charters, surfing, and much more. You can also find more travel inspiration in our “Five Days in Maritime Washington for Wooden Boat Fanatics.”
Header Photo Olympic Cape Flattery © Jesse Collins
