Welcome to Crescent Beach in Washington - one of the most beautiful and serene spots on the West Coast! Located near Port Angeles and along Crescent Bay, this beach offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and miles of stunning shoreline. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in the sun or a thrilling adventure, Crescent Beach has something for everyone.
In this ultimate guide, we will give you all the essential information you need to know about this magical place. From safety tips and directions to the best activities and hidden gems, we'll make sure you have the best experience possible at Crescent Beach.
Location
Crescent Beach in Washington is located to the west of Port Angeles and to the east of Port Crescent, on the Pacific Ocean and is a stunning destination for both locals and visitors. It stretches for miles and offers beautiful views of Crescent Bay and the Pacific Ocean. To get to Crescent Beach from Seattle, take Interstate 5 south to Highway 112. Take this west until you reach CR Beach Road. This will take you slightly north to the beach.
History
Crescent Beach is a hidden gem located near Port Angeles in Washington state. This secluded beach has been a popular destination for visitors seeking peace and relaxation for years. It is known for its picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean, with the Olympic Mountains nearby. On a clear day, you can even look across the strait into Canada. The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, such as sandpipers and herons.
Crescent Beach continues to draw people in with its stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or just some time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Crescent Beach is sure to provide a truly unforgettable experience.
Things to Do
Crescent Beach in Washington is an ideal destination for those looking to get away from it all and enjoy a relaxing beach getaway. The beach itself offers plenty of activities, with gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean and stunning sunsets. There are also plenty of activities available in the area surrounding Crescent Beach, including hiking, biking, kayaking, surfing, whale watching, and more.
Just slightly to the east of the beach is Salt Creek Campground (which we highly recommend staying at!) and the Striped Peak Trail. The trail is five miles long and gains around 1,400 feet in elevation. It's not easy, but it's also going to be suited for most people. It should take you about 3.5 hours to complete the entire hike.
The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and playing in the sand. You can explore the tide pools, go fishing, or just relax and enjoy the view. For those seeking a more active experience, Crescent Beach is home to some fantastic hikes. The nearby Deception Pass State Park has over 4,000 acres of incredible trails, where you can find breathtaking views of the ocean and nearby islands. You can also stay in this area at one of the many amazing nearby Deception Pass campsites, like Quarry Pond Campground or Cranberry Lake Campground.
You can also rent kayaks and go paddling around the Deception Pass area or take a whale-watching tour from Anacortes. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach or a more active adventure, Crescent Beach in Washington has something for everyone.
You might also want to take the time to travel away from the beach and check out all that Olympic National Park has to offer, including the many hikes in the national park.
Accommodations
Crescent Beach in Washington is a great place to take a vacation. Whether you are looking for a camping experience or a stay in a hotel, there are plenty of options in the area. Salt Creek Campground and Fairholme Campground are both situated near Crescent Beach and offer stunning views of the ocean and plenty of activities to keep you occupied.
Salt Creek Campground is less than 10 minutes from the beach and offers a large camping area right off Highway 112. It's 23 minutes from Port Angeles and is also open to day-use visitors who want to enjoy the ocean view.
Fairholme Campground is on the banks of Lake Crescent, only a few miles from the beach. It's on the north side of the lake and is a medium-sized campground that's incredibly popular in the summer. Keep in mind, that the campground is open for reservations from May to late September. There are no RV hook-ups, but RVs are allowed.
If camping isn’t your thing, there are also a number of hotels in the area that provide comfortable accommodations for your Crescent Beach vacation. The Red Lion Hotel Port Angeles Harbor is a waterfront option that has free parking, free wifi, beach access, and a pool. The Union Club of British Columbia is another 4.5-star option that is also very conveniently located near Crescent Beach in Washington.
Dining
Crescent Beach in Washington is the perfect spot for a beachside meal. There are several great restaurants within walking distance of the beach. If you’re looking for great food, make sure to check out all the restaurants in Port Angeles, only a few minutes away. The Firehouse Grill Burgers & Fries is a good option, as is Grayson's Port Angeles, a sandwich restaurant.
Artist Credit: Emma H. Baldwin
Frugals is also located nearby and is a popular spot for burgers, wings, sandwiches, and much more. This casual restaurant has something for everyone.
If you’re looking for another dining experience, the area also offers barbecue, burritos, traditional American dining, and a number of take-out options.
FAQs
Can you have a fire on the beach in Crescent City?
No, having a fire on Crescent Beach in Washington is prohibited.
How far is Crescent Beach from the Port Angeles city center?
Crescent Beach in Washington is approximately 11 miles from the Port Angeles city center.