Hole-in-the-Wall

The route follows the shoreline itself, across rock and past giant drift logs; there is no inland trail to bypass the tide. Wear sturdy shoes that can get wet. High water can make the coast impassable, so do not cross through the arch once water begins covering its floor. Sneaker waves, slippery algae-covered rocks and falling rock near the arch are real hazards; keep your stop beneath it brief.

At low tide, exposed shelves and pools spread around the base of the arch. Its opening frames a tree-topped sea stack and the ocean beyond. For a photo, frame the stack through the dark opening and leave wet rock in the foreground to show the tidepool setting.

The tidepools here are among the park’s most popular intertidal areas. Move carefully over the slippery rocks, and look along the shore for otters, seals, pelicans and bald eagles. Gray whales may pass on their summer migration; wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.

The rocky coast is also known for its offshore islands, or sea stacks. Farther north, memorials commemorate 36 people who died in wrecks of Chilean and Norwegian vessels in 1903 and 1920. The arch itself is a reminder of the continuing wave erosion that shapes this exposed coast.

Drive to Rialto Beach via the five-mile paved Mora Road from La Push Road. Set Rialto Beach as your driving destination, not the arch’s coordinates: the pin marks the sea arch, not vehicle access. Parking, restrooms, drinking water, a picnic table and wheelchair-accessible amenities are at the beach access, 1.5 miles from the arch; the arch requires the rocky shoreline walk. Leashed dogs may go from the parking area to Ellen Creek, about half a mile north, but not onto the tidal rocks at the arch.