Tide Pooling

Catch a glimpse of the Park’s most colorful residents.

Even shallow waters reveal the rich marine life of the Olympic Peninsula. Tide pools near Kalaloch offer a clear window into the world of sea stars, crabs, eels, snails and more. It’s a perfect mix of learning and relaxation for all ages.

Top spots include Beach 4 and Ruby Beach, with other favorites like Second Beach, Third Beach, and Hole-in-the-Wall in the Mora/La Push area. For the best views and easiest trekking, visit during low tide.

Before heading out, take a moment to brush up on tide pool safety and etiquette to protect both yourself and the creatures you’ll meet.

Watch your step:

Not only can it be dangerous for you to step or slip on organisms in the tide pools, but it can be detrimental to whatever you step on. Try to walk on sand or bare rocks, and don’t jump from rock to rock.

Touch gently:

Some plants and wildlife at the tide pools can be touched, but be gentle. Never try to pull or pry something off of a rock, and keep in mind – and make clear to children – that you are potentially disturbing a living thing.

Take only pictures:

Never remove anything from a beach or tide pool, even rocks or sand. Everything in the tide pools exists as part of a delicate ecosystem.

Leave only footprints:

Don’t leave behind anything that doesn’t belong on the beach, including garbage, food, articles of clothing, etc.

Be aware of the tides:

Check the tide schedule before you go exploring, and keep an eye on water levels if you venture out to rocks or sandbars that may become submerged at high tide.