Olympic Peninsula guide
Dungeness Spit: lighthouse hike, tides & where to stay
One of the longest natural sand spits in the world, with a lighthouse at the end for anyone who walks it. It's 15 minutes from Sequim.
Closest town
Sequim, WA
From Sequim
~15 min
To lighthouse
~11 mi round trip
Entry
Refuge day-use fee
What to see at Dungeness Spit
Bluff overlook
~0.5 mi
Short forest walk to the view down the spit — great for a quick visit.
Lighthouse walk
~11 mi round trip
Long sand walk to the New Dungeness Lighthouse; tours when volunteers are there.
Wildlife
Year-round
Seals, shorebirds, and migrating waterfowl in the refuge.
Drive times to Dungeness Spit
| Starting from | Approx. drive |
|---|---|
| Sequim | 15 min |
| Port Angeles | 30 min |
| Forks | 2 hr 10 min |
$3 day use · 11 mi round trip to the lighthouse · Year-round; firm sand on a falling tide
Local tips
- Walk on a falling tide for firmer sand.
- Dogs aren't allowed on the spit.
- Sequim sits in the rain shadow, so it's often drier than the rest of the peninsula.
Where to stay near Dungeness Spit
Our Sequim homes are 15 min away. Book directly through Airbnb or Vrbo.
Dungeness Spit FAQ
How long does it take to walk Dungeness Spit?
The round trip to the lighthouse is about 11 miles and takes most people 4–6 hours.
Is there a fee for Dungeness Spit?
Yes, a small day-use fee for the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge. Federal passes are accepted.
Where should I stay near Dungeness Spit?
Sequim is about 15 minutes away and has groceries, restaurants and lavender farms nearby.