Olympic Peninsula guide
Ruby Beach: sea stacks, tides & where to stay
Boat-sized driftwood, sea stacks offshore, and polished stones at the mouth of Cedar Creek. Ruby Beach is about 45 minutes south of Forks.
Closest town
Forks, WA
From Forks
~45 min
Trail
Short & steep
Entry
No park fee
What to see at Ruby Beach
Beach trail
~0.2 mi down
A short steep path to driftwood and the creek mouth.
Abbey Island sea stack
Walk south
The signature sea stack — best at low tide and sunset.
Kalaloch & Tree of Life
~15 min south
Pair Ruby with Kalaloch beaches and the famous tree clinging over a washout.
Drive times to Ruby Beach
| Starting from | Approx. drive |
|---|---|
| Sequim | 2 hr 25 min |
| Port Angeles | 2 hr |
| Forks | 45 min |
Short steep trail down · check the tide chart · Sunsets best May–September
Local tips
- Stop at the Hoh Rain Forest on the same day — the turnoff is on the way.
- The small lot fills midday in summer; go early or for sunset.
- Climbing on driftwood is risky when waves are high.
Where to stay near Ruby Beach
Our Forks homes are 45 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
Ruby Beach FAQ
Where is the best place to stay near Ruby Beach?
Forks is the closest town with full services, about 45 minutes north. It also lets you reach the Hoh, Rialto and La Push easily.
Do you need a pass for Ruby Beach?
There is no entrance station at Ruby Beach, although it is part of Olympic National Park.
When is the best time to visit Ruby Beach?
Low tide for exploring and sunset for photos. Summer is driest; winter brings dramatic storms.