Olympic Peninsula guide
Rialto Beach & Hole-in-the-Wall: tides, hike & where to stay
Big surf right at the parking lot, then a beach walk to a sea arch you can step through at low tide. It's 20 minutes from Forks.
Closest town
Forks, WA
From Forks
~20 min
To the arch
~3 mi round trip
Entry
No park fee
What to see at Rialto Beach & Hole-in-the-Wall
Hole-in-the-Wall
~1.5 mi each way
Flat beach walk north to the arch. Time it for a tide under about 2 ft.
Tide pools
At the arch
Sea stars and anemones on the rocks around Hole-in-the-Wall at low tide.
Storm watching
Parking lot
Winter swells throw drift logs around — watch from a safe distance.
Drive times to Rialto Beach & Hole-in-the-Wall
| Starting from | Approx. drive |
|---|---|
| Sequim | 2 hr 5 min |
| Port Angeles | 1 hr 40 min |
| Forks | 20 min |
Time the arch for a tide under 2 ft · Year-round; storm watching in winter
Local tips
- Never turn your back on the surf — drift logs roll in big waves.
- Dogs are allowed on leash only to just before Ellen Creek.
- Go at sunset for sea stacks backlit over the ocean.
- Combine with La Push and Second Beach across the river.
Where to stay near Rialto Beach & Hole-in-the-Wall
Our Forks homes are 20 min away. Book directly through Airbnb or Vrbo.
Rainforest Tiny Home Retreat: Fishing Cabin
Forks, WA · 3 beds
Rainforest Tiny Home Retreat: Enchanted Cottage
Forks, WA · 3 beds
ElkCreekInn: Creekside Tiny Home
Forks, WA · 3 beds
Trout Corner: Forks WA Tiny Home Base
Forks, WA · 3 beds
Beaver Pines:Central Hiking Base
Forks, WA · 3 beds
Rainforest Tiny Home Retreat Abstract Modern
Forks, WA · 3 beds
Rialto Beach & Hole-in-the-Wall FAQ
When is the best time to walk to Hole-in-the-Wall?
Within a couple of hours of low tide, ideally under about 2 feet. At high tide the arch and headland can be cut off.
How far is Rialto Beach from Forks?
About 20 minutes by car, roughly 14 miles west on La Push Road and Mora Road.
Can you bring dogs to Rialto Beach?
Yes, on leash, from the parking area to just before Ellen Creek. Pets are not allowed beyond that point.