Shi Shi Beach Camping: 2024 Guide with Insider Tips

Camping on Shi Shi Beach: Your Ultimate Guide to an Unforgettable Experience

For breathtaking sunsets and a dose of adventure, camping at Shi Shi Beach should top your Pacific Northwest bucket list. We’ve compiled everything you need to know for your first trip to this stunning destination in Olympic National Park!

Why Shi Shi Beach?

Perhaps you’ve spotted Shi Shi Beach on your Instagram feed or overheard friends raving about it in Seattle. If you haven’t yet discovered this hidden gem in Washington, allow us to introduce you. This picturesque beach is a photographer’s paradise and arguably one of the coolest camping spots in the state. Intrigued by its beauty, we decided to make it a highlight of our Olympic Peninsula journey.

However, camping at Shi Shi Beach requires a bit more planning than simply rolling up with a tent. We’re here to share tips that will make your trip seamless, covering everything from necessary permits to the best camping spots!

How to Pronounce Shi Shi

First things first: how do you say “Shi Shi”? I often mispronounce things, and I was corrected when I said “She-She” at the visitor center in Port Angeles. To spare you the same eye rolls, it’s pronounced “Shy-Shy.” Now you can sound like a pro when you talk about this stunning location!

Getting to Shi Shi Beach

Directions:

From Port Angeles, head west on Highway 101, then turn right onto WA Hwy 112 West. Follow this road through Joyce, Clallam Bay, and Sekiu until you reach Neah Bay on the Makah Reservation. On the reservation, Hwy 112 becomes Bayview Ave.
Continue to the end of the bay, turning left onto Fort Street, right onto 3rd Ave, and then a left onto Cape Flattery Road. After about 2.5 miles, turn left onto Hobuck Road, following the signs to the Shi Shi Beach trailhead.
If you’re camping overnight, remember to park about 0.6 miles from the trailhead in designated areas (typically someone’s yard).
Once parked, head down the road to the trailhead and follow the (often muddy) path for about 1 hour and 15 minutes until you reach the downhill section leading to the beach. Use the ropes as needed, as it can be slippery when wet.
You can camp anywhere along the beach, but we recommend heading south towards the Point of Arches for the best sites. The walk along the beach may take 45 minutes to an hour.

The Hike to Shi Shi Beach

Distance: 3-4 miles one way, depending on how far down the beach you wish to explore.
Elevation: 583 feet
Difficulty: Rated as “moderate” on AllTrails, with the main challenge being the muddy sections.
Trail Type: Out & back
Crowds: Moderate, with fewer visitors in late spring. Expect more crowds in summer.

What is the hike like?

The hike primarily traverses Makah Indian Reservation land, crossing into the National Park just before you reach the beach. While it’s generally an easy hike, the mud can be challenging. Waterproof shoes or rubber boots are highly recommended.

The trail begins on a well-maintained path with wooden bridges, but after about a mile, you’ll encounter some serious mud. Look for alternative, less muddy trails on the sides or, if equipped with rubber boots, embrace the squishy trail experience!

The lush forest eventually opens up to reveal the ocean, signaling the end of your muddy trek. Walking along the beach can be a workout in itself, but the stunning scenery makes it worthwhile. There’s a reason Shi Shi Beach is a must-visit in Olympic National Park!

What to Pack for Shi Shi Beach Camping

Although the hike isn’t too strenuous, carrying unnecessary gear can make your journey less enjoyable. As with most backcountry camping trips, aim to pack light while ensuring you have all the essentials. Essentials may include:

Tent and sleeping gear
Cooking supplies (stove, fuel, cookware)
Food and snacks
Bear canister for food storage
Appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions
Plenty of water or a water filtration system

Now that you’re armed with the knowledge to tackle Shi Shi Beach camping, you’re ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of Washington’s most beautiful spots. Happy camping!