Ruby Beach
Olympic National Park, Washington
This cool little beach is on the southwest coast of Olympic National Park in Washington state. It’s just a bit north of Kalaloch Lodge. A short, slightly steep trail leads to a wondrous span of beach with giant sea stacks that sit right on the beach at low tide. Walk north for close-up views of these jagged giants. Also, you’ll find a small sea arch in these sea stacks. Along the way, you’ll cross a shallow creek. Wear rubber boots or take off your shoes for a nice foot massage in the soft wet sand. Lots of driftwood is piled up on the back beach—great for sitting. Look up for eagles, gulls, shorebirds and other sea birds. To the north a high bluff topped with common pacific coast trees such as sitka spruce, douglas fir, alder, and western hemlock leads to a high headland with a rocky shore. It’s best to visit the beach at low tide. Bonus: If you visit during low tide as the sun dips below the horizon, you’ll feel delighted by the picture you capture for your photo book.