Olympic National Park is famous for its dramatic coastline and lush rainforests, and 3rd Beach is often recommended as one of the best places to experience both in a single outing. But is it actually worth the effort?
After visiting ourselves, the answer isn’t a simple yes or no. While the scenery is stunning and the tide pools are a major highlight, there are some very real drawbacks that visitors should know about before committing to this hike.
The Rainforest Hike: A Beautiful Start
The hike to 3rd Beach begins with a walk through dense coastal rainforest, and this alone makes the experience feel special. Towering trees, moss-covered branches, and the damp, earthy smell of the forest make the trail feel immersive and wild. If you’ve never experienced a Pacific Northwest rainforest before, this part of the hike is genuinely exciting and memorable.
The trail itself is relatively short, making it appealing for visitors who want a rewarding destination without a full-day trek.
Parking: The Biggest Frustration
Unfortunately, parking can be a complete gamble.
When we arrived, the main parking lot was completely full with no available spaces. We then tried the overflow parking area, which essentially leads toward 2nd Beach instead. That lot was also crowded, and the dirt road was washed out with deep ruts, making it unpleasant and potentially difficult for some vehicles.
We decided to circle back to the main lot one more time and got incredibly lucky with a newly opened space. If that hadn’t happened, we would have abandoned the plan entirely and chosen a different hike.
If you’re set on visiting 3rd Beach, it’s important to know that parking alone may determine whether this hike is even possible on busy days.
The Beach Reveal: Worth the Walk
Once you reach the end of the trail, the forest opens up to a wide, rugged stretch of coastline. Sea stacks rise out of the water, driftwood lines the shore, and the beach feels raw and untamed in the best way.
This is where 3rd Beach really shines. The scenery feels expansive and wild, and it’s easy to understand why this beach is so popular.
The Bathroom Situation: A Serious Downside
There is a bathroom near the beach, but getting to it is another story.
The scramble down to the restroom involves wet rocks and slippery footing, and it felt genuinely dangerous. The rocks were slick, uneven, and required careful balance just to avoid falling. In our experience, the effort and risk were simply not worth it.
On top of that, the bathroom itself was in very poor condition. If you’re planning your visit, it’s best to treat this as an emergency-only option rather than something to rely on.
Tide Pools: A Major Highlight
One of the biggest pros of 3rd Beach is the tide pooling.
At low tide, the rocky areas come alive with colorful sea stars, anemones, and other marine life. Exploring the tide pools adds a whole new layer to the experience and can easily become the highlight of the visit.
Before you go, be sure to check tide charts and plan your hike around low tide. Timing your visit correctly can make the difference between a good experience and an unforgettable one.
So, Is 3rd Beach Worth It?
Yes , but with realistic expectations.
3rd Beach is absolutely worth visiting if:
- You want to experience a coastal rainforest hike
- You enjoy wild, rugged beaches
- You plan your visit around low tide for tide pools
- You’re flexible and have backup plans in case parking doesn’t work out
It may not be worth it if:
- You’re visiting during peak hours and need guaranteed parking
- You’re uncomfortable with slippery terrain or scrambles
- You’re relying on restroom access
3rd Beach is stunning, but it’s not effortless. With good timing, patience, and preparation, it can be one of the most memorable coastal experiences in Olympic National Park. Without those things, it can quickly become frustrating.
Sometimes, whether 3rd Beach is worth it comes down to one simple factor: luck.
For more information about Olympic National Park click here> Olympic
If you have questions about the hike or you would like to share your experience, please comment down below! And as always, have fun, be safe, and never give up on your travel dreams!
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