Thinking about escaping to the Pacific Northwest this summer? Olympic National Park is the perfect destination! Only a short drive from Seattle, it is packed with beautiful scenery, breathtaking hikes, and easy-going vibes. There’s a real back to basics atmosphere, making it a great place to try out fishing and camping.
Make no mistake, Olympic National Park is deceptively large! There aren’t any towns within the park itself, but there are lots of spots to choose from around the outskirts. Each town and village has something different to offer, so you want to get a good idea of what they’re all about before booking your accommodation.
Which is where I come in! Not only do I have some personal experience of visiting Olympic National Park – but I’ve also got in touch with locals, tour guides, and experts to bring you this guide to the four best places to stay near Olympic National Park.
Whether you want scenic hikes, outdoor adventures, or somewhere to chill out for a few days, I’ve got you sorted.
So let’s dive right in!
- Where to Stay in Olympic National Park
- Olympic National Park Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Olympic National Park
- Olympic National Park’s 4 Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQs about Finding a Place to Stay in Olympic National Park
- What To Pack For Olympic National Park
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Olympic National Park
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Olympic National Park?
Like many of the National Parks in the US, Olympic is pretty big, but if you’ve got a car, getting around is a piece of cake. For that reason, you might not be too fussed about which town you end up in. If that’s the case, here are my top three overall accommodation picks for the region.
Lavender Castle | Quirky Hideaway Near Olympic National Park
This is certainly one of the more unique options on offer in the region! This gorgeous castle comes with ocean views, beautiful architecture, and traditional interiors. It can sleep up to 12 guests and is surprisingly affordable for its size, making it great for groups on a budget. Live like a fairy princess in the master suite, which is located right in the front turret.
Cottage Cove | Spacious Cottage Near Olympic National Park
Just want to get away from it all? This reclusive retreat is the perfect getaway from the stresses of life! It comes with a large decked area that provides stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and Lake Quinault from this Lake Quinault lodge. Constructed using local timber, it has a rustic charm that will let you connect with nature during your stay. It can sleep up to eight people across three bedrooms.
Olympic Lodge | Cosy Hotel Near Olympic National Park
Olympic Lodge is the perfect accommodation for those that want the added convenience of staying in a hotel! The four-star lodge comes with excellent guest reviews thanks to its unbeatable service levels and stylish interiors. Located in Port Angeles, it is well connected to the rest of the Olympic National Park area. A complimentary American style breakfast is included in the rate.
Port Angeles
Port Angeles is the largest city in the Olympic Peninsula. For this reason, it is often the most popular starting point for visitors heading into the National Park.
Lake Quinault
Nestled on the edge of Olympic National Forest, Lake Quinault is a sleepy little area that balances a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of recreational facilities.
Sequim
Sequim isn’t by any means off the beaten path, but it still enjoys lower prices than other parts of the Olympic Peninsula. The restaurants here are usually locally owned, offering some truly unique cuisine.
Belfair
Belfair is only a 40-minute drive from Seattle and about 30 minutes from Olympic National Park. This makes it the perfect spot for travellers wanting to visit both areas!
Lake Crescent
Olympic National Park is full of beautiful nature spots, and one of the most beautiful has to be Lake Crescent. Lake Crescent is a beautiful freshwater lake that offers boating, canoeing and kayaking adventures. Around the lake, you will find a forest full of spruce trees and short and easy hiking trails.
Olympic National Park is a nature lovers’ paradise. The park spans 3,734 square km of Washington’s Pacific Northwest, and showcases several different ecosystems, from old forests to huge dramatic peaks of the Olympic Mountains.
Adventurer lovers will love Olympic. Not only can you summit the glacier of Mt. Olympus, but there are a ton of hiking and mountain biking trails through the park’s forests and along its sprawling coastline.
So when it comes to choosing a neighborhood to stay in, you’re going to need to choose one that has the activities that best suit your needs.
If it’s your first visit Olympic National Park, I recommend staying in Port Angeles, the major city in Olympic National Park. It’s full of laid back bars and boutique shops, plus it’s right on the coast so you can choose between heading into the forests and the mountains or taking a trip out on the ocean. If you can’t decide what to do, Port Angeles is a great starting point.
If you’re still not sure what to see and do in Olympic National Park but you’re travelling on a budget, then you’ll want to consider Sequim. It’s 5 minutes out of Port Angeles and so the accommodation prices are a little cheaper, yet you have access to all the best things to do in the city.
Lake Quinault is a great place to visit if you’re travelling with a family. Located on the Southern Edge of the national park, Lake Quinault is nestled in a glacial lake valley where there are a ton of fishing and hiking opportunities to explore.
Finally, there’s Belfair, which is halfway between Seattle and Olympic National Park. It’s a sleepy town with lakes and rivers and gets less tourism than other towns, so you can find seclusion and privacy here if that’s what you’re after.
Then, there’s the stunning Lake Crescent area. This is where you’ll find outstanding natural beauty and some easy hiking trails. If you’re looking for a romantic retreat, with little strenuous activity in nature, then this is the area for you.
If you’re still not sure where to stay in Olympic National Park, don’t worry, because I’ve got more information on each area below.
Olympic National Park’s 4 Neighborhoods to Stay in
Olympic National Park is a diverse destination with plenty to offer. Its coastal towns are popular, but heading further inland (or even towards Seattle) will throw up a few surprises.
Keep reading for my top four best places to stay in and around Olympic National Park. I’ve even included my top accommodation and activity picks in each!
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Buy the Pass!#1 Port Angeles – Overall Best Place to Stay Near Olympic National Park
Port Angeles is the largest city in the Olympic Peninsula. For this reason, it is often the most popular starting point for visitors heading into the National Park. Here you will find laid-back vibes, locally-owned bars, and quirky little boutiques. It is also right on the coast, so it is a great place to hire a boat or try out some water sports.
As the largest city in the region, Port Angeles is well connected to Seattle – and therefore basically everywhere else in the United States and Canada! Olympic National Park is one of the few areas of natural beauty in the US that can be visited without a car. This is mostly due to the number of excursions that depart from Port Angeles.
Klahhane Ridge | Luxury Apartment in Port Angeles
Airbnb Plus is a range of apartments that are handpicked for their stylish interiors, excellent guest service, and unbeatable locations! This minimalist dream is a calm and airy space for you to unwind after long days of exploring the surrounding natural beauty. There is a skylight in the master bedroom with views of the forest canopy – and plenty of stars on clearer evenings.
Chez ZigZag | Apartment with Stunning Views in Port Angeles
Here for the stunning coastal views? This is the perfect holiday home for you! The outdoor seating area comes with sweeping vistas of the ocean, as well as an outdoor fireplace for those chillier evenings. If you opt to stay two or more nights, there are four electric bikes available for guests to use throughout their stay.
Olympic Lodge | Rustic Lodge in Port Angeles
I love this cosy little four-star lodge! It’s big enough to give you all the benefits of staying in a hotel but small enough to give you an intimate and inviting atmosphere. The on-site restaurant provides a complimentary breakfast every morning using locally sourced ingredients. There’s a large whirlpool for guest use, as well as an extensive fitness suite.
Things to See and Do in Port Angeles
- Try some hiking in the Olympic Mountains on a guided tour.
- Head on a guided fishing trip.
- Check out Downtown Port Angeles where you will find quirky thrift stores, creative boutiques and fashionable high street brands.
- The Pacific Northwest is well known for its American-Asian fusion cuisine, with Golden Gate Chinese Restaurant offering some delectable Chinese cuisine.
- Explore Hurricane Ridge and it’s iconic peak.
#2 Lake Quinault – Best Place to Stay in Olympic National Park for Families
Nestled on the edge of Olympic National Forest, Lake Quinault is a sleepy little area that balances a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of recreational facilities. For this reason, it is a great pick for families. Olympic National Forest is also technically a separate park, so it’s ideal for those interested in discovering this verdant wonderland.
Amanda Park is the main settlement along the lake – and where you will have to go if you want to visit restaurants or grab supplies for your self-catering accommodation. Some of the best accommodations are in a secluded location along the lake. This is the best place to get away from it all for a few days (or weeks!)
Timber Haven | Roomy Guesthouse in Lake Quinault
Another stunning timber house with views of the lake and mountains, this holiday cottage comes with two bedrooms, making it ideal for smaller families on a budget. The deck area is the length of the house, meaning it has ample space for the barbecue, gas heater and dining table. The interiors are a little dated, but this gives it a more rustic atmosphere.
Lakefront Vacation | Modern Family Home in Lake Quinault
This stunning lake house is the perfect getaway for large families! There is a dedicated studio apartment on the top floor, giving parents a little extra privacy from the kids. The balcony overlooks the lake, with a small table where you can enjoy the views with your morning coffee. There is also a luxurious jacuzzi bath in the en-suite.
Cottage Cove | Homespun Cottage in Lake Quinault
With such stunning views, you won’t ever want to leave this cosy cottage on the shores of Lake Quinault! It has three bedrooms, plus a pull-out bed in the living room, meaning it can sleep up to eight people – perfect for larger families. There is a small barbecue area on the deck, and you can purchase firewood for chilling out in the garden at night.
Things to See and Do in Lake Quinault
- Quinault Rain Forest Trail is a reasonably easy hike, making it an excellent option for families visiting with younger kids.
- Head to Quinault Lake Fisheries to learn about fish farming in the area and grab a couple of catches for family dinner later in the evening.
- Speaking of delicious seafood, The Salmon House offers some of the best in the area with gorgeous lakeside views.
- Head into Olympic National Forest for an insight into one of the most unique ecosystems in the United States – and make sure to pay the largest Sitka spruce in the world a visit.
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Only a five-minute drive away from Port Angeles, Sequim is like the city’s little brother! It comes with all the same facilities as its larger neighbour, but as a small town, it has a much more intimate and authentic atmosphere. For this reason, Sequim is popular with couples and solo travellers looking for something a bit different.
Sequim isn’t by any means off the beaten path, but it still enjoys lower prices than other parts of the Olympic Peninsula. The restaurants here are usually locally owned, offering some truly unique cuisine. You can also find some excellent deals on accommodation, especially if you’re a larger group.
Lavender Castle | Castle on a Budget in Sequim
Castle on a budget!? Absolutely! Given this castle can sleep up to 12 people, if you are coming as part of a larger group, this will end up far cheaper than staying in a hotel. It’s a two-minute walk from central Sequim, giving you quick access to all the main attractions. The waterfront is also a stone’s throw away, and the overall atmosphere is very peaceful in this part of the town.
Sequim Heritage House | Traditional Villa in Sequim
Another great option for history lovers, this cute little bolthole dates back to 1924! With this in mind, the interior design also harks back to the roaring twenties, with decadent furnishings and ornate finishes. The New Discovery bike trail is about a minute of cycling away, making this a great pick for cyclists and adventure travellers. The garden is kept private with luscious vegetation.
Juan de Fuca Cottages | Cute and Affordable Holiday Homes in Sequim
Can’t decide between a hotel or a cottage? You don’t have to! This coastal accommodation combines the best of both worlds. You will get to chill in your own private cabin while still enjoying a complimentary breakfast and communal barbecue facilities. If you’re coming as a couple, they also offer a self-contained studio – excellent if you are on a strict budget.
Things to See and Do in Sequim
- Cycling in Olympic National Park.
- Sequim is well known across Washington State for its lavender fields. Take a tour of Purple Haze Organic Lavender Farm.
- Try the excellent cuisine in Sequim. Alder Wood Bistro is a must-visit.
- A romantic rainforest waterfall tour is a great couples’ day out.
- Hike up the iconic Hurricane Ridge.
#4 Belfair – Charming Off the Beaten Path Town Near Olympic National Park
Located just outside the Olympic Peninsula, Belfair is a sleepy little town that feels as if it’s a world away! It doesn’t have the same tourism numbers as other destinations in the region, meaning you’ll get to enjoy a more local and authentic atmosphere. Just looking to kick back and relax? Nearby Hood Canal is the place to be.
Belfair is only a 40-minute drive for those staying in Seattle and about 30 minutes from Olympic National Park. This makes it the perfect spot for travellers wanting to visit both areas! The wetlands here also offer some truly unique hiking trails to suit all levels.
Buddy & Bucky’s | Beachside Bungalow in Belfair
Another great holiday home with canalside views, this bungalow is located within the Belfair neighborhood, meaning you will feel a little more connected. Guests have access to a private beach right on the hood canal, so you will also get to enjoy some quiet time away from the tourist crowds. If you have your own kayak, bring it with you and launch straight into the water from the patio!
Gorgeous Home on Mason Lake | Lakeside Cabin Near Belfair
Located right on the lake, this beautiful luxury property is just what you need for a relaxing vacation. The property is located right next to Washington’s cleanest freshwater lake, Mason Lake. With 2 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, there’s plenty of space for up to 8 guests. There are also 2 decks with large outdoor living spaces, complete with BBQ. This property was made for those who love to be in the outdoors.
Home on Hood Canal | Rustic Cabin in Belfair
Gladwin House is a charming and rustic log cabin on the North Shore of Hood Canal. It was built over 100 years ago, but don’t worry, it has since been expanded and upgraded with modern furnishings and fittings. Curl up around the river rock fireplace in the living area, or in one of the four bedrooms, and you’ll feel completely cosy. If you prefer to be outside, the fire pit and hot tub add the perfect ambience. Being right on the lake means you can take your kayak or boat out and explore the Theler Wetlands and Union River Estuary, right from your backyard. Or, enjoy a hike or mountain bike trail nearby.
Things to See and Do in Belfair
- Hood Canal Theler Wetlands is a must-visit destination in the area for those interested in environmental conservation and outdoor recreation.
- Head to the Farmers Market in the community centre every Saturday.
- Seabeck Pizza is a well-renowned takeout spot in the city – grab a pie and head down to the canal for dinner with a view.
- Belfair is also very close to Tahuya State Forest. Try out off-road driving, horse riding, and mountain biking.
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Grab an eSIM!#5 Lake Crescent – Best Area to Stay for Couples
Olympic National Park is full of beautiful nature spots, and one of the most beautiful has to be Lake Crescent. Lake Crescent is a beautiful freshwater lake that offers boating, canoeing and kayaking adventures. Around the lake, you will find a forest full of spruce trees and short and easy hiking trails.
If you love waterfalls, the gorgeous Marymere Falls is just a short hike away through the forest. On a hot day, you can swim in the lake or relax on the banks with a picnic. This is an area that is more relaxed than other parts of the park, where you can simply sit back and enjoy being in nature.
Unique 1930s rustic cabin | Cabin on the Lake
This unique 1930s rustic cabin is located right on Lake Crescent and has one of the most beautiful views in the park. From Lake Crescent Lodge, you’ll have access to hiking trails and kayaking and canoeing, right on your doorstep. The historic lodge rooms are small but cosy, but is kitted out with everything you need including a full kitchen and three spacious bedrooms.
Serene Waterfront Cabin | Log Cabin Resort
This luxury waterfront cabin on Lake Crescent has luxury all over it, it’s like staying in a resort. It comes with a full kitchen with a coffee maker and a grill, plus there’s a washer and dryer for doing laundry. Since it’s right on the lake, there’s a kayak rental nearby, and the lake is accessible from the yard. The outdoor wraparound porch is the perfect place to admire the view from.
Poulsen Point Tiny Home | Vacation Rental Nearby
Located just a few miles over the hill from Lake Crescent is Port Crescent, where the scenic Poulsen Point is located. This 1 bedroom vacation rental is the perfect tiny home for a couple looking for a romantic retreat by the lakes. The home may be small but it has everything you need. Plus, there’s a ton of hiking and cycling in the surrounding area.
Things to See and Do in Lake Crescent:
- Hike the scenic and historic Spruce Railroad trail.
- Hike or bike the Olympic Discovery Trail.
- Soothe your aching limbs in the Sol Duc Hot Spring Pools.
- Kayak along the Elwha River.
- Hike up the Pyramid Peak trail.
- Look for deer and eagles from the Hoh rainforest.
- Take a dip at the cascading Merrymere Falls.
- Battle the iconic Mt. Storm King trail.
- Take a trip over to Ruby Beach, the inspiration for Twilight.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs about Finding a Place to Stay in Olympic National Park
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Olympic National Park and where to stay.
What To Pack For Olympic National Park
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Olympic National Park
It definitely pays to be prepared. One of the best things you can do is sort good travel insurance before you leave for your trip.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Olympic National Park?
Officially a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Olympic National Park is a must-visit attraction for any American! For that reason, I reckon it is the perfect hiking staycation destination in the Pacific Northwest this summer. Whether you’re a photographer, hiker, or just someone that needs to chill out for a few days, you’re sure to find plenty of delights in Olympic National Park.
Sequim probably takes the crown for my top destination in the region! It has all the convenience of Port Angeles, but with more off-beat attractions and budget-friendly prices. It’s also a fantastic option for couples and young solo travellers heading to the area.
All that said, wherever is best for you really depends on what you want to get out of your trip. All the places mentioned in this guide have their pros and cons. I hope I’ve helped you narrow down your options for your upcoming trip to Olympic National Park.
Did I miss anything? Let me know in the comments!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in USA.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in USA instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in USA to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
