West Beach County Park

Less of a park and more of a viewpoint, West Beach nonetheless does have a small beach that is worth a visit. An informational sign identifies the parking pullout. If you're just passing through, read about the local ecology and gaze out onto the Olympic Peninsula. With binoculars, though, there is enough sea life to keep you occupied for a longer stretch. Look for birds nesting in the cliffs, and floating on the waves. Groups of pigeon guillemots are easy to spot with their high-contrast plumage and bright red feet. Grey whales and orcas may be seen, along with the more common seals, sea lions, otters, and porpoises.

On warm days, there is enough of a beach to use this park as a swimming area, but there are no vault toilets, so it might be better for a quick dip than a day-long excursion.