Third Beach Trail

Why hike it

If you want the Olympic Coast without a big mileage commitment, Third Beach delivers. In roughly 1.4 miles each way (about 2.8 miles round trip), you’ll wander through lush coastal rainforest—hemlocks draped in moss, lichens, and shelf fungi—before the trail drops ~250 feet to the sand. It’s an easy hike with a dramatic reveal: surf, sea stacks, and the Giants Graveyard looming to the south. It’s quieter than some nearby beaches and absolutely worth it.

The experience

The first mile is mellow and shaded, the ocean’s rumble getting louder as you go. Near the end, the grade steepens and can be muddy. Reaching the beach requires climbing over a driftwood pile—fun for some, awkward for others. Once on the sand, head right (north) for tide pools among rocks, or walk south along Strawberry Bay to the trip’s showstopper: Third Beach Falls (also called Strawberry Bay Falls), a tall waterfall dropping straight onto the beach.

Stats and difficulty

• Distance: 2.8 miles total, out-and-back
• Elevation change: roughly 240–270 feet down to the beach (and back up)
• Difficulty: Easy for the standard out-and-back, but it gets strenuous and technical if you continue south along the coast, where rope-assisted headland routes appear.

Tips and logistics

• Tides matter. Sections of beach and any headland bypasses beyond Third Beach can be blocked or dangerous at high tide. Check tide tables and time your visit for lower tides if you want to explore.
• Camping is allowed on the beach with a wilderness permit; space can be limited in summer. Water from streams is tannin-stained—treat it (filters/boiling recommended; iodine is not effective on all local parasites). A pit toilet is near the beach.
• Pets are not allowed on this coastal trail. Expect mud after rains and use care crossing driftwood.

Extend it (if prepared)

Third Beach also serves as a gateway to the South Coast Wilderness Trail. Past the beach you’ll encounter rope-assisted climbs over headlands like Taylor Point and more secluded coves. This is only for hikers who have permits, tide knowledge, and the right gear.

Best time to hike

Late spring through early fall (May–September) offers the most reliable weather and footing. Winter and early spring bring a wilder, stormy atmosphere—but also very wet, muddy conditions and slippery slopes. For photography and tide pooling, plan around a low tide.