Third Beach

Third Beach trail overview

Third Beach is reached by a forested coastal trail near La Push on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula. The 2.8-mile round-trip route descends through Olympic coastal forest to a broad beach framed by sea stacks, driftwood, and forested headlands.

Distance, elevation, and difficulty

• Distance: 2.8 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: about 280 feet
• Difficulty: easy for most hikers, with roots and uneven coastal terrain
• Typical time: 1.5–2 hours, plus time on the beach

Trailhead and parking

Start at the Third Beach Trailhead on La Push Road. Parking can fill during busy summer weekends, so an early arrival is helpful. Confirm current Olympic National Park access information before your trip.

Tides and coastal safety

Check the tide table and weather forecast before heading onto the beach. Stay back from surf, avoid climbing on unstable driftwood, and do not assume a route around a headland will remain passable as the tide rises. Carry layers and a light if you plan to stay for sunset.

Nearby Olympic Coast stop

For a shorter, highly accessible coastal visit with famous sea stacks and tide pools, see Ruby Beach.