Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
The trail from the trailhead parking lot drops you nearly a mile through old-growth forest so thick the canopy muffles the ocean's roar until you're nearly upon it. Then Second Beach opens in a wide crescent: charcoal sand littered with bleached driftwood, tide pools reflecting iron-gray skies, and a procession of sea stacks standing sentry offshore. The largest, topped with windswept spruce, frame the horizon like ancient monuments. You navigate the beach by reading the tide charts—crucial here, where winter storms rearrange entire logs overnight and king tides claim the narrow passages between headlands. Gulls wheel overhead. Harbor seals surface beyond the breakers. In late afternoon, shafts of light pierce the coastal fog and turn the wet sand into hammered bronze. This is the Olympic Peninsula's signature collision: temperate rainforest meeting the open Pacific with nothing but drama in between. You'll share the sand with tide-poolers crouched over purple sea stars, photographers angling for that iconic Northwest coastal shot, and the occasional backpacker who's trekked the entire coastal strip. The water numbs your ankles in seconds, even in August. Bring layers, expect drizzle, and don't fight the mood—this beach earned its reputation precisely because it refuses to be easy.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Second Beach.
Photos
Swimming at Second Beach is generally not recommended due to cold water temperatures year-round (typically 45-55°F), strong currents, and unpredictable waves. Sneaker waves can appear suddenly and pull swimmers into the ocean. There are no lifeguards on duty. The beach is better suited for wading in tide pools, beachcombing, and photography. If you do enter the water, never turn your back on the ocean, stay close to shore, and watch children closely.
Second Beach is accessible year-round, with each season offering different experiences. Summer (June-September) provides the most stable weather and easier hiking conditions on the trail to the beach. Winter brings dramatic storm watching and fewer crowds, though the trail can be muddy and slippery. Low tide is ideal for exploring tide pools and sea stacks. Check tide tables before visiting, as high tide significantly reduces beach access and can be dangerous.
Second Beach is located about 14 miles west of Forks via La Push Road (Highway 110). Turn onto the marked Second Beach Road and drive to the small parking area at the trailhead. Parking is free but limited to approximately 20-30 vehicles. From the lot, it's a 0.7-mile forest trail (moderate difficulty, some roots and stairs) to reach the beach. Arrive early during summer to secure parking, as the lot fills quickly on weekends.
Second Beach has no amenities—no restrooms, food, or water. Vault toilets are located at the trailhead parking area. The nearest services are in La Push (3 miles), which has a small store and limited dining. Forks (14 miles) offers grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and various lodging options including motels and vacation rentals. Pack out all trash, bring your own food and water, and plan bathroom stops before hiking to the beach.
Second Beach is famous for its dramatic sea stacks—offshore rock formations rising from the ocean, some topped with trees. These ancient rocks create iconic Pacific Northwest scenery and excellent photography opportunities. At low tide, you can walk near some sea stacks and explore tide pools around their bases, but always respect ocean safety and never climb on them. The largest sea stacks remain offshore and are best viewed from the beach itself.
