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A visit to the Olympic Coast is a rewarding experience all year long. Staying safe and comfortable is the best way to enjoy the wilderness beaches and forest trails as well as boating, beachcombing, fishing and other activities.
What to Know:
Check the weather forecast before and during your visit. Follow this link to local National Weather Service forecast information.
http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/Seattle/
Get National Weather Service marine and weather forecasts and the National Data Buoy Center's network of data collecting buoys and coastal stations for the 14 NOAA Marine Sanctuaries.
http://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/visit/
marine_forecast/welcome.html
Study high and low tides. Follow this link to on-line tide tables for the Olympic Coast.
http://tidesonline.nos.noaa.gov/
What to Wear:
Rain gear and fleece are appropriate throughout the year. Synthetics (like fleece) are better than cotton or wool because of their insulating qualities when they get wet.
Sturdy shoes with ankle support. Many beaches have ankle-twisting gravel and cobble. Low top hikers may be suitable for day hikes with a light pack but for overnight backpacking trips, wear boots.
Sun protection. Whether it is overcast or sunny, glare on the water can strain your eyes. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm to protect from ultraviolet radiation and windburn.
What to Watch Out For
Beach logs can be unstable and lethal at high tide.
Always keep an eye on waves and surf when you are tidepooling or enjoying the beach.
Water temperatures are cold year-round. Hypothermia kills.
Surf currents and undertow are very strong and unpredictable. Entering the water is risky.
Always use a tide table to calculate safe times for rounding rocky headlands. Topographic maps and warning signs show danger areas. Don't get trapped by the incoming tide.
Beach cliffs and seastacks are composed of soft, crumbly rock. Climbing is very hazardous.
Coastal forest trails can be difficult to follow at night. Always have a flashlight along, even on day hikes.
Dead, injured, abandoned or stranded marine mammals pose hazards to your health. Avoid contact with seals, seal pups, sea otters, and beached whales. Taking marine mammal remains is a violation of the law.
Raccoons, bears and deer may be used to humans in popular areas. Store food properly and don't give handouts.
Cougars pose a risk to children and smaller adults. Read warning signs at trailheads and in coastal campgrounds.
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