Olympic King Tides Viewing

“King tide” is a common term for an exceptionally high tide. These naturally occurring tides develop when the gravitational pull of the sun and moon align, typically producing Washington’s highest tides between November and February.

Wind, waves and winter storms can make their effects even more dramatic. Every tide is different, and conditions may change quickly along the coast.

The following viewing windows are based on predicted king tides at La Push, the closest listed coastal tide station to Kalaloch. Times are shown in Pacific Time.

November 23–27, 2026

• November 23 at 10:30 a.m.
• November 24 at 11:11 a.m.
• November 25 at 11:55 a.m.
• November 26 at 12:42 p.m.
• November 27 at 1:32 p.m.

December 22–26, 2026

• December 22 at 10:02 a.m.
• December 23 at 10:52 a.m.
• December 24 at 11:43 a.m.
• December 25 at 12:35 p.m.
• December 26 at 1:27 p.m.

January 20–24, 2027

• January 20 at 9:48 a.m.
• January 21 at 10:45 a.m.
• January 22 at 11:39 a.m.
• January 23 at 12:30 p.m.
• January 24 at 1:21 p.m.

February 19–23, 2027

• February 19 at 10:41 a.m.
• February 20 at 11:34 a.m.
• February 21 at 12:25 p.m.
• February 22 at 1:12 a.m.
• February 23 at 1:47 a.m.

Tide timing and height vary by location. These predictions do not account for weather, wind, atmospheric pressure or storm surge. Check current tide predictions and local conditions before heading outside.

King tides are best experienced from a safe distance. Conditions along the Olympic coast can change without warning, especially when high tides combine with winter storms.

• Watch from an established, elevated viewpoint whenever possible.
• Never turn your back on the ocean.
• Stay off driftwood, rocks, logs and jetties near the water.
• Do not walk onto beaches, sandbars or headlands that could be cut off by a rising tide.
• Keep children and pets close.
• Allow plenty of room between yourself and the water, even when the ocean appears calm.
• Follow all posted closures, warnings and National Park Service guidance.

Beach access at Kalaloch is seasonal and may be unavailable during the winter. Ocean conditions and coastal erosion can also affect access. Please respect all closures and view the tides only from areas that are open and safe.