Oyhut Wildlife Recreation Area + Beach

A walk along the beach at the Oyhut Wildlife Recreation Area will provide visitors with a relaxing contrast to the "beach-driving" that is so prevalent throughout the entire North Beach area. Be sure to bring you binoculars, as this wildlife preserve is designated as an official Washington State Birding Trail by the Audubon Society. No trails actually lead into the 682 acres of wetlands, however, so you'll have to look from afar. The area is one of five locations in the state where snowy plovers and migratory birds such as great blue herons, brown pelicans, and pheasants still nest. Snowy owls are also common in the middle of winter.

On clear days, you can also take in views of giant Mount Rainier, which looms in the distance to the southeast.

If you are searching for a longer jaunt, head east onto the spit that leads to Protection Island and Damon Point. You'll find many more nesting birds along with the bald eagles and harbor seals that call the point home.