15 Things To Do in Port Angeles
Your All-in-1 Guide
This blog post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase through these links. Your support helps keep our content free and allows us to continue sharing valuable tips and resources for your RV adventures. Thank you for supporting us!
15 Things to Do in Port Angeles, Washington: The Ultimate 2025 Guide
Port Angeles, Washington, is a gateway to Olympic National Park and a vibrant coastal city bursting with adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re searching for unique things to do in Port Angeles, planning your weekend, or looking for free family activities, this comprehensive guide covers it all—including the iconic Black Ball Ferry Line and high volume/low difficulty keywords to help you discover the best of the Olympic Peninsula.
Table of Contents
- Why Visit Port Angeles?
- How to Spend a Day in Port Angeles
- 15 Best Things to Do in Port Angeles
- Unique & Unusual Things to Do in Port Angeles
- Things to Do in Port Angeles This Weekend & Today
- Things to Do in Port Angeles at Night
- Free Things to Do in Port Angeles
- Things to Do in Port Angeles with Kids
- Things to Do in Sequim
- Port Angeles vs. Forks: Where Should You Stay?
- Is Port Angeles Republican or Democrat?
- FAQs
1. Why Visit Port Angeles?
Port Angeles is a coastal gem nestled between the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. It’s known for its stunning natural scenery, access to Olympic National Park, and vibrant arts and food scene. The city’s unique location means you can hike mountain trails in the morning, stroll sandy beaches in the afternoon, and enjoy local seafood by evening.
2. How to Spend a Day in Port Angeles
Morning:
- Walk or bike the Port Angeles Waterfront Trail for panoramic views of the Salish Sea and Olympic Mountains.
- Explore downtown’s art murals and local shops.
Afternoon:
- Visit the Feiro Marine Life Center for hands-on marine exhibits—great for kids and adults alike.
- Head to Ediz Hook for beachcombing and incredible city and mountain vistas.
Evening:
- Enjoy a sunset from the City Pier or take in a show at the Port Angeles Community Players theater.
- Dine at a local seafood restaurant or brewery downtown.
3. 15 Best Things to Do in Port Angeles
1. Ride the Black Ball Ferry Line
Take the historic Black Ball Ferry Line (MV Coho) from Port Angeles to Victoria, BC. This iconic ferry offers stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and is a must for travelers wanting to explore both Washington and Vancouver Island.
2. Explore Olympic National Park
Port Angeles is the main gateway to Olympic National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hike Hurricane Ridge, visit Lake Crescent, or wander through the Hoh Rainforest for unforgettable outdoor adventures.
3. Walk or Bike Ediz Hook
This three-mile sand spit offers sweeping views of the city, Olympic Mountains, and Vancouver Island. It’s perfect for walking, biking, birdwatching, and beachcombing.
4. Visit the Feiro Marine Life Center
Located on the waterfront, this interactive center lets you touch sea stars, hermit crabs, and learn about local marine life—ideal for families and curious travelers.
5. Stroll the Port Angeles Waterfront Trail
Stretching along the coastline, this scenic trail is great for walking, running, or cycling, and connects to the Olympic Discovery Trail for longer adventures.
6. Discover Downtown Murals and Art
Port Angeles boasts over a dozen outdoor murals and public sculptures celebrating local culture, history, and Indigenous heritage. Don’t miss the downtown Art Mural Trail.
7. Relax at Hollywood Beach
A sandy urban beach perfect for picnics, swimming, and watching ferries come and go. It’s a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.
8. Tour the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center
Visit the Esther Webster Gallery and Webster’s Woods Sculpture Park for contemporary art exhibits and outdoor installations set in a five-acre forest.
9. Explore Salt Creek Recreation Area
Just west of town, Salt Creek offers tide pools, WWII-era bunkers, hiking trails, and some of the best beachcombing on the peninsula.
10. Enjoy Local Wineries and Breweries
Sample local wines at Harbinger Winery or Camaraderie Cellars, or check out Port Angeles’ craft beer scene with a brewery tour.
11. Visit the Elwha Klallam Museum
Learn about the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe’s history and culture at this fascinating museum, which features artifacts and exhibits on the region’s Indigenous peoples.
12. Take the Olympic Discovery Trail
This multi-use trail stretches from Port Townsend to the Pacific Coast, passing through Port Angeles and offering scenic views for cyclists and hikers.
13. Experience Whale Watching
Join a whale watching tour to spot orcas, humpbacks, and gray whales in the Strait of Juan de Fuca—one of the top wildlife experiences in the region.
14. Visit the 9/11 Memorial Waterfront Park
A peaceful waterfront park with a poignant memorial and beautiful views, ideal for reflection and sunset watching.
15. Enjoy the Port Angeles Farmers Market
Held every Saturday year-round, the market features local produce, crafts, baked goods, and live music—a great way to experience the community vibe.
4. Unique & Unusual Things to Do in Port Angeles
- Tour WWII-era bunkers at Salt Creek Recreation Area.
- Walk the downtown Art Mural Trail for public art and Klallam language street signs.
- Explore the Elwha Dam Overlook for stunning river views and a glimpse into local environmental restoration.
- Attend the Dungeness Crab & Seafood Festival for a taste of local culinary culture.
5. Things to Do in Port Angeles This Weekend & Today
- Check out the Port Angeles Farmers Market (Saturdays).
- Visit the Fine Arts Center for rotating exhibits and events.
- Explore Hollywood Beach or City Pier for free outdoor fun.
- Look for live music or theater performances downtown.
6. Things to Do in Port Angeles at Night
- See a show at Port Angeles Community Players.
- Enjoy live music at local bars or breweries.
- Stroll the illuminated City Pier and waterfront for night views of the harbor.
- Try stargazing on Ediz Hook for a peaceful evening experience.
7. Free Things to Do in Port Angeles
- Ediz Hook - Scenic walks, birdwatching, and city views
- Port Angeles Waterfront Trail - Coastal walking and biking
- Downtown Art Murals - Self-guided public art tour
- Hollywood Beach - Urban beach for picnics and swimming
- 9/11 Memorial Waterfront Park - Reflection and sunset views
- Farmers Market (browsing) - Local culture and crafts
8. Things to Do in Port Angeles with Kids
- Dream Playground: A large, colorful, community-built playground with slides, climbing walls, and a skate park.
- Feiro Marine Life Center: Hands-on marine exhibits and touch tanks.
- Olympic National Park: Easy family hikes and wildlife spotting.
- City Pier: Great for fishing, crabbing, and watching the ferries.
- Port Angeles Fine Arts Center: Art workshops and outdoor sculpture park.
9. Things to Do in Sequim
Sequim, just east of Port Angeles, is famous for its sunny climate and lavender fields. Top activities include:
- Touring lavender farms (best in July).
- Exploring downtown shops and art galleries.
- Visiting the Sequim Farmers and Artisans Market (May–October).
- Hiking and biking on the Olympic Discovery Trail.
- Wildlife watching at Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge.
10. Port Angeles vs. Forks: Where Should You Stay?
Port Angeles offers more lodging, dining, and shopping options, plus easier access to Olympic National Park’s eastern trails and amenities. It’s a larger, more welcoming town for tourists.
Forks is smaller and closer to the Hoh Rainforest and Pacific beaches, but has fewer amenities and is more remote. For most travelers, Port Angeles is the better base for exploring the peninsula, especially if you want a mix of nature and city comforts.
11. Is Port Angeles Republican or Democrat?
Port Angeles, located in Clallam County, leans liberal. In the most recent presidential election, the county voted Democratic by a slim margin (50.2% Democrat, 46.8% Republican), reflecting its status as a politically balanced but slightly left-leaning community.
12. Frequently Asked Questions
How to Spend a Day in Port Angeles?
Start with a walk on the waterfront trail, visit downtown art and shops, explore the Feiro Marine Life Center, and end with sunset at Ediz Hook or City Pier.
What is Special About Port Angeles?
Port Angeles stands out for its stunning natural setting, vibrant arts scene, access to Olympic National Park, and the historic Black Ball Ferry Line to Victoria, BC.
Is Port Angeles Republican or Democrat?
Port Angeles and Clallam County lean slightly Democratic, with recent elections showing a slim majority for Democratic candidates.
Is it Better to Stay in Forks or Port Angeles?
Port Angeles offers more amenities, dining, and access to a wider range of attractions, making it the preferred choice for most visitors.
Conclusion
Port Angeles is a Pacific Northwest treasure with something for everyone—outdoor enthusiasts, families, foodies, and art lovers alike. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a family adventure, or a day trip before catching the Black Ball Ferry to Victoria, this city delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn. Use these high volume/low difficulty keywords to plan your trip and make the most of your visit to Port Angeles in 2025.
Comments
Related Articles
Travel & hiking tips, product reviews, and more!
Share this page
Recommended
Crochet tips & tricks, pattern collections, and more!
