"Where the Mountains meet the Sea!" 🏔️🌅 - Port Angeles, Washington

Read to hear about the best bike ride in Washington and the Juan de Fuca Festival!

Today’s town is one of the most underrated in the country! Watch our preview below ⬇️

Welcome to Port Angeles, a coastal gem nestled on Washington's Olympic Peninsula. As you enter the city of Port Angeles, you'll immediately feel captivated by the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Towering evergreens adorn the surrounding mountains, creating a full and stunning backdrop against the clear blue skies above.

Port Angeles is situated on the northern edge of the Olympic Peninsula, flanked by the Olympic Mountains to the south and the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the north. With character on all fronts, Port Angeles offers diverse outdoor experiences, from hiking and camping in Olympic National Park to whale watching and kayaking along the Strait. The city serves as a gateway to the region's natural wonders, with easy access to beaches, forests, and scenic coastal views.

Fishing boats gently sway in the harbor, waves slap the shoreline,

In the distance, the snow-capped peaks of Olympic National Park beckon adventurers with promises of exploration. There is so much to see in Port Angeles that we wouldn’t want you to miss.

So, here are some of our recommendations!

The Best Biking in Washington - Olympic Discovery Trail

Location: The Olympic Discovery Trail runs through Port Angeles and extends across the Olympic Peninsula.

Known as the “Pathway to the Pacific,” this trail is a must-see of the region, let alone Port Angeles. Port Angeles offers e-bike rentals; that way, you don’t have to cut the journey short because of a lack of sunlight - or energy.

  • Spans approximately 130 miles, connecting Port Townsend to La Push.

  • Offers a variety of terrain, including paved pathways, gravel trails, and scenic byways.

  • Provides opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing.

  • Birdwatching: Spot a diverse array of bird species along the trail, including bald eagles, ospreys, and shorebirds.

  • Picnicking: Pack a picnic and enjoy outdoor dining at designated picnic areas along the trail.

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Black Ball Ferry Line - Ferry to Victoria

Location: The ferry terminal is situated in downtown Port Angeles.

Make Port Angeles the “two-nation vacation” via a ferry ride to British Columbia!

  • Offers daily service to Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.

  • Provides stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca during the crossing.

  • Scenic Cruising: Enjoy the scenic journey across the Strait of Juan de Fuca, spotting marine life such as whales and seals.

  • Exploring Victoria: Spend the day exploring the charming capital city of British Columbia, known for its historic architecture, vibrant gardens, and cultural attractions.

  • Shopping and Dining: Discover downtown Victoria's unique shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Experience Marine Life

  1. Feiro Marine Life Center

Location: Located in downtown Port Angeles, along the waterfront.

  • Founded in 1981 as a marine science center dedicated to educating the public about the marine environment of the Olympic Peninsula.

  • Features interactive exhibits showcasing local marine species, including sea stars, octopuses, and jellyfish.

  • Touch Tanks: Get hands-on with marine creatures in touch tanks filled with sea stars, anemones, and more.

  • Guided Tours: Join a guided tour led by knowledgeable staff to learn about the marine life of the Olympic Peninsula.

  • Educational Programs: Participate in marine-themed workshops, lectures, and demonstrations.

  1. Whale Watching

Location: Located in Port Angeles Wharf

  • See Gray, Humpback, and Orca Whales in the Puget Sound.

  • The Pacific Northwest is one of the best places to see this variety of whales!

Coming up - The Juan de Fuca Festival

Location: Downtown Port Angeles

About: The Juan de Fuca Festival is a multi-day event held in late May, bringing together local and international artists to showcase a diverse range of musical genres, including folk, blues, jazz, and world music.

  • Live Performances: Enjoy live music by talented musicians from across the Pacific Northwest and beyond, featuring intimate acoustic sets and high-energy concerts.

  • Art Exhibits: Explore art exhibits showcasing the work of local artists, with opportunities to purchase unique pieces.

  • Craft Vendors: Browse a variety of craft vendors offering handmade goods and artisanal products.

  • Food Trucks: Sample a delicious variety of food.

The Juan de Fuca Festival has been rated as one of the best small-town festivals in the United States. You shouldn’t miss it.

The Many Histories of Port Angeles

Native American Heritage: Port Angeles is situated on the ancestral lands of the Klallam people, whose presence in the region dates back thousands of years.

  • The Klallam Nation continues to honor its rich cultural heritage, preserving traditions, languages, and sacred sites.

  • Visitors can learn about Klallam history and culture at the Elwha Klallam Heritage Museum at the Carnegie, which features exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs.

  • Attend cultural events and celebrations hosted by the Klallam Nation to experience traditional music, dance, and storytelling.

  • Explore scenic areas like the Dungeness Spit and the Olympic Discovery Trail, which offer opportunities to appreciate the natural beauty of the Klallam ancestral lands.

Naval Legacy: Port Angeles played a pivotal role as a naval base during World War II, thanks to its strategic location on the northern coast of the Olympic Peninsula.

  • The Coast Guard Air Station in Port Angeles was established in 1935 and continues to operate as a vital maritime facility.

  • Visitors can tour the Naval Elks Lodge, which houses artifacts and memorabilia related to the city's naval history.

  • Visit the Clallam County Historical Society's History Museum to learn about Port Angeles' naval heritage through interactive exhibits and displays.

  • Take a scenic drive along the Olympic Peninsula's coastline, stopping at historic landmarks like the Ediz Hook Reservation and the Port Angeles Harbor.

Timber Industry: Port Angeles' timber industry has been integral to its development, shaping the city's landscape and economy.

  • The city was once home to numerous sawmills, logging camps, and lumber mills, which contributed to its growth and prosperity.

  • Port Angeles' timber industry played a significant role in supplying lumber for construction projects across the Pacific Northwest.

  • Explore the historic waterfront district, where you can see remnants of old sawmill structures and warehouses.

  • Take a guided tour of the Lincoln Park Historic District, which features restored homes and buildings that reflect the city's timber industry heritage.

Port Angeles Art Mural Trail

Location: The Port Angeles Art Mural Trail winds its way through the heart of downtown Port Angeles, showcasing vibrant artworks that adorn buildings, alleys, and public spaces.

  • The mural trail features over 30 unique murals created by local and regional artists, each telling a story and adding color to the city's streetscape.

  • Many of the murals depict scenes from Port Angeles' history, natural surroundings, and cultural heritage, providing a visual narrative of the community's identity.

  • Take your time to admire the intricate details and diverse styles showcased in the murals, from realistic portraits to abstract compositions.

The town is just spilling with artistic talent and artistic developments. If you’ll be visiting anytime in or after May, we recommend you check out what will be a newly completed art gallery known as “The Hub.” Inside a historic building downtown, local artist Todd Fischer has repurposed the old Matthews Glass Co Building into a beautiful art attraction to visit while downtown!

Port Angeles has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent decades, embracing innovation and progress while preserving its rich history.

The city has diversified its economy, attracting new businesses, industries, and residents. It’s clear that everyone enjoys the way of life by the sea in Port Angeles, and we are sure you’ll enjoy a trip there yourself!

See you in Port Angeles!

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Special thanks to Lynnette Briallard with Visit Port Angeles for helping us find YOU the best places to go in Port Angeles!

We’ll be back on Friday!

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