Shi Shi Beach in Washington 2024

A beautiful spot with tidal pools and bizarre rock formations

Best time: April–October

Shi Shi is a secluded sandy beach on the Olympic Peninsula that provides visitors with an insight into the phenomenon of the Point of the Arches tide pools. The beautiful and untouched spot belongs to Olympic National Park Wilderness Coast. The trail to the beach begins by the fish hatchery of the Makah Reservation, about 19 km (12 mi) from Port Angeles, Washington.

The first couple of miles of this muddy 13-km (8 mi) out-and-back trail goes through Makah Reservation. After visitors enter Olympic National Park, they have to pass a few picturesque switchbacks to get down to the beach. Once on the beach, the trail goes left, towards Point of the Arches. There you can see famous tide pools and some fantastic scenery. Other popular hikes include the Ozette Loop or Hole in the Wall at Rialto Beach. Make sure you go during low tide, be ready to get your feet wet anyway! This can be a day hike or an overnight stay. Check out several Shi Shi Beach campgrounds around the shore and in the forest upslope. The best time for hiking and backpacking in the area is from April through October.

Shi Shi beach is an excellent place to spot bald eagles and various seabirds. Visitors need to get permits from the Makah Reservation (available in Neah Bay at the General Store, Mini Mart, Marina or Museum), as well as the Olympic National Park Wilderness (at the Olympic National Park Visitor Center in Port Angeles).

Practical info

When is the best time to visit Shi Shi Beach?

Exploring Shi Shi Beach is best done between April and October when there is less rain and traversing the muddy 13-km trail is easier. Visitors enjoy walks, discover rock formations, tidal pools, and beach hikes throughout this period. Shi Shi Beach is a secluded area on the Olympic Peninsula, Washington, and belongs to the Olympic National Park Wilderness Coast. Visitors begin the journey at the Makah Reservation's fish hatchery before accessing the beach.

Where is Shi Shi Beach located?

Shi Shi Beach is a secluded location in Olympic National Park Wilderness Coast on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington, United States. Visitors walk 13-km (8 mi) out-and-back trail that begins at the Makah Reservation's fish hatchery, some 19 km (12 mi) from Port Angeles. The trail takes through picturesque paths with fantastic scenery, leading visitors to the beach that boasts of impressive rock formations, tidal pools waiting to be explored.

What are some popular hiking trails near Shi Shi Beach?

Hiking trails like the Ozette Loop or Hole in the Wall at Rialto Beach in Olympic National Park are popular trails near Shi Shi Beach. Whether it is a day hike or an overnight stay, visitors get to enjoy the scenic landscapes with picturesque switchbacks leading to the beach. Accessing Shi Shi Beach requires visitors to bring tide charts and plan appropriately to avoid the extreme effects of the tide during hiking or beach walking.

What wildlife can be found at Shi Shi Beach?

Wildlife enthusiasts can spot bald eagles, seabirds, deer, raccoons, and small mammals while exploring Shi Shi Beach. Pacific grey whales pass through the area while migrating and provide a special encounter for visitors interested in whale watching. Visitors are advised to respect the wildlife in its natural habitat and not interact closely or feed the animals.

Do visitors need permits to visit Shi Shi Beach and where can they be obtained?

A permit is needed to access Shi Shi Beach and can be obtained from the Makah Reservation at Neah Bay, where permits available in General Store, Mini Mart, Marina, or Museum. Visitors already in Olympic National Park Wilderness are encouraged to visit the Olympic National Park Visitor Center in Port Angeles to obtain permits. To ensure visitors' safety, when hiking or beach walking overnight, carry a bear canister for food storage since bear and human interactions are unpredictable.