The Ultimate Travel Guide for Franschhoek

The Best Sightseeing Tours in Port Angeles for First-Time Visitors

Port Angeles

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to Port Angeles!

If you're looking to explore the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, Port Angeles is the perfect destination for you. Located on the northern edge of the Olympic Peninsula in Washington state, this charming city offers a plethora of outdoor activities, stunning views of the Olympic Mountains, and easy access to Olympic National Park.

Whether you're a hiker, a foodie, or a history buff, Port Angeles has something for everyone. From hiking in the mountains to enjoying fresh seafood at local restaurants, you'll find plenty to see and do in this picturesque coastal town.

Let me share some tips on how to make the most of your time and money during your visit to Port Angeles.

9 Highest Rated Sight-Seeing Tours to Take in Port Angeles

Half Day Guided Tour of Olympic National Park

Half Day Guided Tour of Olympic National Park

🕑4 hrs
Join a locally inspired half-day itinerary that features top Olympic National Park destinations including the Elwha Valley and Lake Crescent, plus a bonus sightseeing stop along the Strait of Juan De Fuca. Departing from Port Angeles, the tour begins with a short waterfall walk (0.1 mile) at Madison Creek Falls along the Elwha River. Lake Crescent is the centerpiece of the itinerary with a 2-3 mile guided hike to Marymere Falls and surrounding trails immersed in old-growth forests. The afternoon wraps up with a scenic drive around Lake Crescent to reach Tongue Point and amazing views of the Strait of Juan De Fuca from Salt Creek County Park. The guided hikes are optional, allowing guests to do minimal hiking or up to 2-4 miles total.

Traveling from Seattle? Walk onto the 9:35am Seattle-Bainbridge Ferry and catch the 10:20am Strait Shot Bus from the Bainbridge Island Ferry Terminal to join this tour. Email di******@*********ic.com to learn more about day-trip options from Seattle.

From: $90

Book Now
Olympic Full Day Private Tour and Hike

Olympic Full Day Private Tour and Hike

Our guides team is made up of Master Naturalists, experts with Master's Degrees in Outdoor and Sustainability Education, and more!

Olympic National Park is sometimes called “three parks in one” because of its diversity of landscapes - from dense old growth forests to high alpine meadows to coastal ecosystems. Today, you’ll head to the coast for a visit to stunning destinations including the Kalaloch beaches and the Hoh rainforest. Today’s tour is tailored to your group and your guide will work with you to design the perfect day!

From: $972.95

Book Now
Mount Rainier Full Day Private Tour and Hike

Mount Rainier Full Day Private Tour and Hike

Our guides team is made up of Master Naturalists, experts with Master's Degrees in Outdoor and Sustainability Education, and more!

Marvel at the 14,410’ Tahoma (Mount Rainier) - the most prominent peak in the contiguous United States. You’ll join your local Good Trip Adventures guide for a day exploring the diverse volcanic landscape - from the dense old growth forests at its base to the wildflower dotted alpine meadows above.

From the Sunrise area of the park, you’ll get an up close view of the effects of the mountain’s power as your guide explains its geological history. The day is yours to customize and your guide will work with your group to design an itinerary perfectly suited to your abilities and interests.

From: $972.95

Book Now
6-Day Backpacking Summer Camp Adventure in Olympic National Park

6-Day Backpacking Summer Camp Adventure in Olympic National Park

🕑144 hrs
Our 6-day Backpacking Summer Camp for youth in Washington’s Olympic National Park is designed for participants ages 14-18 who are either new or experienced backpackers. (Youth will be grouped with like ages.) This adventure summer camp in Olympic National Park focuses on leadership and outdoor skill-building with teens camping and hiking beside high alpine lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and meadows. Most trips have an opportunity to summit peaks and/or partake in some spectacular sunsets among some breath-taking geological formations. Risk-taking and challenges complimented by fun and support from others lead to a positive and often life-changing adventure for all! Voted as one of the "Best Backpacking Programs for Youth out West," (by Outside Magazine) our Olympic Program was new in 2020 after expanding from Yosemite where we are the #1 guide service and summer camp.

2024 Dates:

6/23-6/28
6/30-7/5
7/7-7/12
7/14-7/19
7/21-7/26
7/28-8/2
8/4-8/9
8/11-8/16
8/18-8/23
8/25-8/30

From: $2400

Book Now
Private Olympic National Park Day Tour from Seattle

Private Olympic National Park Day Tour from Seattle

🕑13 hrs
Olympic National Park is well known for having several different ecosystems to explore: subalpine forest, wildflower meadows, temperate rain-forest, and the rugged Pacific Shore. This twelve hour tour allows you to sample each of these systems with the added advantage of having an experienced guide to answer any questions that may arise. Come explore tide pools along the coastal beaches, roam among old-growth forest, trek atop mountain ridges with breathtaking vistas and stand by glacier-birthed rivers and lakes. The tour begins on a leisurely ferry boat ride over the Puget Sound to the Olympic Peninsula. The exact itinerary will be curated by the tour guide however our first stop will usually find us at Hurricane Ridge where you will hike to an incredible view of the valley below and the snow-capped mountains in the distance. We will move on to Crescent Lake and the seasonally Sol Duc Valley, and a sandy beach along the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Please plan on approximately six miles.

From: $2874.67

Book Now
Hoh Rain Forest and Rialto Beach Guided Tour in Olympic National Park

Hoh Rain Forest and Rialto Beach Guided Tour in Olympic National Park

🕑9 hrs
This 9 Hour Tour begins with a two-hour shuttle into the Hoh Rain Forest, one of the largest temperate rain forests in the contiguous USA. At the Hoh Rain Forest, guests typically have two full hours to explore the Hall of Mosses and Spruce Nature Trail on a Naturalist Guided Hiking Tour. Our guide will overview the natural history of the Hoh Rain Forest, identify various micro-plants, and showcase the top viewing areas. The endless moss-laden scenery and towering old-growth evergreens are breathtaking.

After a scheduled stop in Forks, we spend the afternoon on the Pacific Coast at Rialto Beach. At Rialto, guests generally have one or two hours to explore this beautiful section of wilderness coast amongst massive sea stacks, driftwood logs, and the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean. Overall, guest can expect 3-4 hours of sightseeing with about 4-5 hours of drive time roundtrip from our Port Angeles meet-up location.

From: $160

Book Now
Sol Duc, Lake Crescent, and Hurricane Ridge Guided Tour in Olympic National Park

Sol Duc, Lake Crescent, and Hurricane Ridge Guided Tour in Olympic National Park

🕑9 hrs
This 9 Hour Guided Tour begins with a scenic drive through the Elwha Valley and around Lake Crescent to reach the Sol Duc River Valley. At the Sol Duc, we will enjoy a two mile guided hike to Sol Duc Falls, one of Olympic National Park's most picturesque waterfalls. After exploring the Sol Duc, our guests will wrap up the morning explorations at Lake Crescent, a stunning, glacier-carved lake that is outlined by beautiful mountains. From the historic Lake Crescent Lodge, guests can enjoy time on trail hiking or enjoy the views from the well-positioned lodge. After stopping in Port Angeles, our tour continues with a scenic drive from sea-level to 5,242 feet elevation atop Hurricane Ridge. Upon arrival, our guide will lead a guided hike along the subalpine nature trails to enjoy views of the meadows, peaks, and river valleys of the Olympic Mountains.

From: $160

Book Now
Electric Bike Ride on the Olympic Discovery Trail

Electric Bike Ride on the Olympic Discovery Trail

Our electric bikes are high quality and comfortable. We have a variety of bikes to fit your needs. Our rides are on the Olympic Discovery Trail and showcase the best of the area's natural beauty. This is an opportunity to explore Port Angeles and the Olympic Peninsula with ease and fun.

From: $55

Book Now
Best of Olympic National Park from Seattle: All-Inclusive Small-Group Day Tour

Best of Olympic National Park from Seattle: All-Inclusive Small-Group Day Tour

🕑12 hrs
No two tours with Evergreen Escapes are the same! Our naturalist guides craft itineraries that reflect the best of what the National Park has to offer that day. Please note that the itinerary outlined is a SAMPLE of potential destinations that could be included in the tour.

Join our naturalist guides as we dive deep into Olympic National Park’s highlights on this all-inclusive day tour. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site remarkable for its ecological diversity. Visit turquoise lakes like Lake Crescent or Quinault and explore the fern-filled forests or trek through the giant trees to hidden waterfalls. Experience Washington's marine ecosystems with a visit the shoreline. We tailor the day based on what's best for the season, weather and group!

Our all-inclusive small-group day trip is limited to 10 travelers. We bring a local, organic lunch to eat outside when it's nice! We also bring coffee, tea, snacks, water, and other cold beverages for the day. Don’t worry about a thing.

From: $367

Book Now

Save on Transportation in Port Angeles

If you're looking to save on transportation in Port Angeles, there are several options you can consider. Here are some tips to help you get around the city without breaking the bank:

1. Utilize Public Transportation:
  • Take advantage of the Clallam Transit bus system in Port Angeles. It's an affordable way to get around the city and nearby areas.
  • Consider purchasing a day pass if you plan on using public transport multiple times in a day. It can save you money compared to buying individual tickets.
2. Use Ride-Sharing Services:
  • Opt for Uber or Lyft for convenient and cost-effective rides around Port Angeles.
  • Look out for any ongoing promotions or discounts offered by these ride-sharing services to save even more on your trips.
3. Consider Local Taxi Services:
  • If you prefer traditional taxi services, check out local companies like Port Angeles Taxi for reliable transportation options.
  • Compare prices between different taxi providers to find the best rates for your specific journey.

By exploring these transportation options and being savvy about your choices, you can make your way around Port Angeles affordably and efficiently. Safe travels!

Exploring Budget-Friendly Dining in Port Angeles

If you're looking for budget-friendly dining options in Port Angeles, you're in luck! Here are some tips and tricks to help you save money while enjoying delicious meals in the area:

1. Local Eateries:
  • Visit local eateries and cafes like Camaraderie Cellars or Next Door Gastropub for affordable and tasty meals.
  • Explore food trucks and small family-owned restaurants for authentic and budget-friendly dining experiences.
2. Delivery Services:
  • Utilize delivery services like Uber Eats or Deliveroo to enjoy your favorite meals from local restaurants in the comfort of your accommodation.
  • Check for special offers, discounts, or combo deals on these platforms to save money on your orders.
3. Daily Specials and Happy Hours:
  • Look out for restaurants and bars that offer daily specials or happy hours where you can enjoy discounted prices on food and drinks.
  • Plan your meals around these timings to make the most of the deals available.
4. Coupons and Deals:
  • Search online for coupons, deals, or loyalty programs offered by restaurants in Port Angeles.
  • Check out websites like Groupon for discounted dining options in the area.

By following these tips and exploring the diverse dining scene in Port Angeles, you can enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank!

Exploring Port Angeles' Culinary Scene

If you're looking to indulge in some of the best flavors Port Angeles has to offer, you're in for a treat! Here's a rundown of some must-try local dishes and food spots:

Dungeness Crab:
  • When in Port Angeles, trying the local Dungeness crab is a must. Head to Red Lion Hotel Crab House for a delicious and fresh crab feast.
Lavender-Infused Treats:
  • As the Lavender Capital of North America, Port Angeles offers various lavender-infused treats like lavender ice cream, baked goods, and more. Don't miss out on Jardin du Soleil Lavender Farm for a unique culinary experience.
Local Seafood:
  • For a taste of the sea, visit Freshwater Bay for a wide selection of fresh seafood dishes.

Exploring the local culinary scene in Port Angeles is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a great way to immerse yourself in the flavors of the region. Enjoy your foodie adventures!

Exploring Must-See Attractions in Port Angeles

If you're visiting Port Angeles, there are some key attractions you absolutely shouldn't miss. Here's a list of must-see places to check out during your trip:

1. Hurricane Ridge:
  • Take a scenic drive up to Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park for breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains.
2. Olympic National Park Visitor Center: 3. Dungeness Spit:
  • Visit Dungeness Spit for a scenic hike along the longest natural sand spit in the United States.
4. Port Angeles Fine Arts Center: 5. Lake Crescent:
  • Relax by the crystal-clear waters of Lake Crescent and maybe even take a refreshing swim if the weather allows.

These are just a few of the fantastic attractions Port Angeles has to offer. Make sure to pack a camera to capture all the wonderful memories you'll create during your visit!

Exploring Port Angeles on a Budget

When you're looking to enjoy Port Angeles without breaking the bank, there are plenty of free or low-cost attractions to explore. Here are some recommendations for you:

1. Visit Olympic National Park:
  • Entry to Olympic National Park is $30 per vehicle, but if you're on foot or bike, it's only $15 per person. Take advantage of the numerous hiking trails, scenic drives, and breathtaking views that the park has to offer.
2. Explore the Port Angeles Waterfront:
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Port Angeles Waterfront Trail for stunning views of the harbor, Strait of Juan de Fuca, and Vancouver Island. It's a great way to enjoy the beauty of the area for free.
3. Visit the Feiro Marine Life Center:
  • The Feiro Marine Life Center offers interactive exhibits showcasing the marine life of the Olympic Peninsula. Admission is by donation, making it an affordable and educational experience for all ages.
4. Enjoy a Beach Day at Hollywood Beach:
  • Head to Hollywood Beach for a relaxing day by the water. Pack a picnic, soak up the sun, and enjoy the views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains.
5. Take a Scenic Drive:
  • Drive up to Hurricane Ridge for panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains. The entrance fee is $30 per vehicle, but the stunning vistas make it well worth the cost.

By taking advantage of these free or low-cost attractions in Port Angeles, you can have a memorable and budget-friendly visit to this beautiful coastal city.

Exploring Hidden Gems in Port Angeles

Port Angeles is a charming city with plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. If you want to explore beyond the typical tourist spots, here are some recommendations for you:

1. Visit the Olympic Game Farm:

If you love animals, this is a must-visit. You can drive through the game farm and feed various animals from your car, including bears, elk, and bison. It's a unique experience that you shouldn't miss.

2. Explore the Dungeness Spit:

Take a hike along the Dungeness Spit, a natural sand spit that extends into the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The views of the water and surrounding landscapes are breathtaking, especially during sunset.

3. Check out the Port Angeles Underground Heritage Tour:

Delve into the city's history with a tour of the underground tunnels and passageways. Learn about the early days of Port Angeles and the hidden stories that lie beneath the surface.

4. Discover the Ediz Hook Reserve:

This scenic area offers fantastic views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. It's a great spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic while enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

5. Grab a Bite at Next Door Gastropub:

After a day of exploring, treat yourself to delicious food and drinks at Next Door Gastropub. With a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring local ingredients, it's a hidden culinary gem in Port Angeles.

These are just a few hidden gems in Port Angeles that I recommend checking out. Have fun exploring and discovering the unique charm of this city!

Shopping Smart in Port Angeles

When it comes to shopping in Port Angeles, there are plenty of ways to save money and get the most out of your budget. Here are some tips to help you shop smart in the area:

1. Visit Second-Hand Stores:
  • Check out thrift stores like Goodwill and Salvation Army for great deals on clothing, household items, and more.
2. Look for Local Sales and Discounts:
  • Keep an eye out for local sales events and promotions at stores in Port Angeles.
3. Compare Prices:
  • Before making a purchase, compare prices at different stores or online to ensure you're getting the best deal.
4. Use Coupons and Promo Codes:
  • Look for coupons and promo codes online or in local newspapers to save money on your purchases.
5. Shop in Bulk:
  • If you're buying items in bulk, consider shopping at stores like Costco or WinCo Foods for discounts.

By following these tips, you can shop smart in Port Angeles and make the most of your budget while still enjoying everything the city has to offer.

We use cookies to personalise ads and to analyse our traffic. By clicking "Accept", you consent to the use of these cookies. Learn more

0
    0
    Your Cart
    Your cart is emptyReturn to Shop
    function conditionally_load_skimlinks_script() { // Change this to match your post ID or slug // If you prefer slug, you can use: if ( ! is_single( 'my-example-post' ) ) { ... } if ( ! is_single( 123320 ) ) { // Only load the script on all pages except post #123 ?>