Shi Shi Beach (pronounced "Shy Shy") is easily the most picturesque Washington coastline that I have seen. Access to the beach begins on the Makah Indian Reservation near the fish hatchery, so a Makah Recreation Pass is needed to park there. Pick one up on your way in Neah Bay at Washburns. The four mile trail begins in a Sitka spruce grove and winds through several bridges and boardwalks. The next portion that parallels the beach is almost always muddy and wet, but flat. Getting to the beach does require a steep decent using guide ropes. Not everyone will be able to do that.
The weather was in the 80's on the beach with virtually no wind. We later found out from a local that this was the best weather of the year. Look for an easterly wind or it's likely to be hazy on the beach (we were told). Low tide was at 5:30pm so we arrived at the trailhead a couple of hours ahead.
Once on the beach, continue south to the Point of Arches where you'll find sea stacks, tide pools and a linear rock formation on the beach that you've no doubt seen in photos of the area. The morning light must be amazing here, but my photos all had the sun in my face (not complaining) so they didn't turn out that well.
There were lots of tents on the beach. We'll come back someday and add one more. The sunset was unbelievable. But, like I said, we happened to time it perfectly. Those staying overnight on the beach really won the weather lotto.
Map & Stats
8.0 mi out & back
200 ft elev gain
Makah Recreation pass required for day use. Buy at Washburns in Neah Bay
Olympic National Park wilderness permit for overnight use. Obtain permits in person at the Wilderness Information Center (WIC) in Port Angeles or at the South Shore Lake Quinault Ranger Station.