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Port Angeles and Olympic Mountains on a sunny morning, Washington

Things to do in  Port Angeles

Gateway to Olympic National Park

On the tip of the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State, overlooking the Salish Sea, Port Angeles is a compact city. Because it serves as a major base for visiting the Olympic National Forest and Olympic National Park, it should come as no surprise that many of the top things to do in Port Angeles involve spending time in the forest. Port Angeles is also a gateway city for visitors headed to or from Victoria on British Columbia’s Vancouver Island, so make sure to bring your passport if you plan to venture north.

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When to visit

Port Angeles is a year-round destination, but it also gets a lot of rain from fall until spring. Summer is by far the best time to visit, and July and August get particularly good weather (and the crowds to match). The high season kicks off in late May with the Juan de Fuca Festival—a 3-day music event over Memorial Day weekend—and continues through Labor Day. Pleasant temperatures often linger well into September, so consider visiting later in the month for smaller crowds.

Getting around

While the downtown area is compact, driving is the easiest way to get around Port Angeles. If you’re coming from Vancouver Island, you can leave your car in Victoria and take the ferry, though not having a vehicle will limit your ability to visit the nearby Olympic National Park. The Clallam Transit System offers bus service around town and connects to nearby destinations such as Sequim.

Traveler tips

If you're a fan of seafood or steak, don't miss a visit to Dupuis Restaurant on the eastern end of town. Housed in a yellow log cabin, this roadside café has been serving up hearty meals to locals since 1920. Options range from beer-battered prawns to filet mignon, and most dishes come with soup or salad and potatoes or whipped yams.

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People Also Ask
Q:What are the top outdoor activities to do in Port Angeles?
A:

Top outdoor activities in and around Port Angeles are mostly centered on Olympic National Park and the Olympic National Forest. Many people come to the area to hike or soak in hot springs. Cycling is also popular, particularly along the Olympic Discovery Trail, which runs through town.

Q:How do I get to Port Angeles from Seattle?
A:

The easiest way to get to Port Angeles from Seattle is by car, and the drive usually takes around 2.5 hours, depending on traffic. You can also take Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service 8778 from Seattle's King Street Station to the Gateway Transit Center in Port Angeles.

Q:What are the best hiking trails near Port Angeles?
A:

Some of the best hiking trails near Port Angeles are within the bounds of Olympic National Park. These include the Living Forest Trail, a short path that leads to the Beaumont Cabin near the park's visitor center, and the Heart O' the Forest Trail, a 4.4-mile (7-kilometer) out-and-back trek through old-growth forest.

Q:What attractions can I visit in Olympic National Park from Port Angeles?
A:

Many of Olympic National Park’s top attractions are within day-tripping distance of Port Angeles, though it may make sense for you to camp in the park (or stay in one of the park’s lodges or cabins) if you plan to hike a lot. Popular attractions include the Hoh Rainforest and Sol Duc Hot Springs.

Q:Can I take a ferry from Port Angeles to Victoria BC, Canada?
A:

Yes, you can take a ferry from Port Angeles to Victoria, BC. The trip takes around 90 minutes and you’ll have the option of either driving your car onboard or buying passenger-only tickets. Parking is available near the Port Angeles ferry terminal if you don’t plan to bring your car.

Q:What is the best month to visit Port Angeles?
A:

August is the best month to visit Port Angeles if weather is your main concern, with high temperatures typically hovering around 69°F (21°C) and a low chance of rain. July has similar weather, and while things start to cool off a bit in September, the crowds tend to be fewer, too.

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