For generations, sunsets have been a reason to pause and look upwards to the west, watching the beauty of yet another gorgeous day in the Pacific Northwest come to a close.
Each night, as the sun plunges below the horizon, the summer sky above Grays Harbor erupts in colorful wonderland, making this one of the most gorgeous places in the state to watch the setting sun. While any location may be a perfect sunset spot, these six destinations are some of our favorites. With great dining near each place, we encourage you to make a romantic evening or a family getaway to any and all of these areas.
Westport Boardwalk
Westport is the perfect coastal city for a fun day and evening, followed by a stunning sunset. While the region has numerous parks and viewpoints that are breathtaking in their own right, we recommend walking the boardwalk for a sunset, giving you an up close and personal view of the boats returning for the night in the foreground and the sun setting in the background. Crossing the wooden bridge, make your way along the seawall and watch for seals and pelicans as the sky starts to get colorful. Before or after sunset, hit up Bennett’s Fish Shack for an incredible meal right near the marina. The combination of a full stomach and a beautiful sunset is sure to make the day end on the perfect note.
Wynoochee Lake
Remote, rugged and gorgeous, Wynoochee Lake is one of many hidden gems around Grays Harbor. Located about 30 miles north of Montesano, the lake is tucked against the wilderness of the Olympic Peninsula and is perfect for those hoping for an isolated sunset in the midst of Sasquatch territory. At the lake, your best bet for a summer sunset will be found along the eastern edge of the lake by hiking the Wynoochee Lake Shore Trail. For the best possible evening and night, plan on bringing a picnic dinner and staying at one of the yurts at the Coho Campground in Olympic National Forest. Located right at the southern end of the lake, the campground is private, gorgeous and gives you great chances to explore a lesser visited region of the Olympic Peninsula.
The Mouth of the Copalis River
Along the North Beach of Grays Harbor, one of the most scenic and secluded spots to watch a sunset is found along the mouth of the Copalis River. From Griffiths-Priday Ocean State Park, walk north the mouth of the river, sit on a piece of driftwood and have one of the prettiest views around. As eagles soar overhead and seagulls gather on the shoreline, watching the sunset directly next to the crashing waves of the Pacific is a must-experience event for any and all Grays Harbor residents. Before or after sunset, those hoping for a delicious bite to eat should head north to Seabrook and dine at the Stowaway. Located just 7.8 miles from the State Park, your taste buds will thank you.
Ruby Beach
While this destination is technically outside Grays Harbor County, the extra bit of driving is completely worth it. Known as one of the most gorgeous and accessible beaches in Washington State, Ruby Beach has been captivating hearts and imaginations for generations, with sunset being one of the prettiest times. As the sun drops below the horizon, the sky above the sea stacks illuminates in a tapestry worthy of the greatest museums. If you haven’t witnessed a sunset at Ruby Beach, you are missing out on one of the most perfect and picturesque events in the Pacific Northwest. During your trip here, make sure you stop at Kalaloch Lodge for a meal or snack, taking in yet another jaw-dropping view of the mighty and majestic Pacific Ocean.
Friends Landing
Sandwiched between the Chehalis River and Lake Quigg in Montesano, Friends Landing has 152 acres of land and waterfront access that is perfect for a quick getaway after a log day of work or play. Offering 1.7 miles of walking trails, as well as four docks spread around the area, you are sure to find a favorite place to watch the last rays of light over the salmon and sturgeon filled river. Your best meal option in Montesano is the cozy and historic Bee Hive Restaurant, where you can enjoy delicious foods from a restaurant that was started in the region during the 1930s.
Lake Quinault
In the northern stretches of Grays Harbor County, just off of Highway 101, one of the most scenic and gorgeous regions in the world is your next sunset destination. The sunsets found along the shores of Lake Quinault, surrounded by seemingly endless rainforest wonders, as a breathtaking display of beauty. There are dozens of great places to watch the final splashes of sunlight dart across the sky, but there are two popular and scenic areas. They are found at the Lake Quinault Lodge and on the shores of the river near the bridge that connects the South and North Shore drives. In both destinations, the majesty of the region is overwhelming and worth numerous trips. For a fun dining option after or before sunset, have a meal at the historic Lake Quinault Lodge.
