Neah Bay Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay and more in Neah Bay, Washington.


Introduction to Neah Bay

Nestled in the Olympic Peninsula, Neah Bay is a small unincorporated town in the northwest corner of Washington state, bordering the Pacific Ocean. It is home to the Makah Tribe, a Native American tribe that has called this region home for thousands of years. Neah Bay is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a closer connection with Mother Nature.

List of Places to Visit in Neah Bay

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Makah Cultural and Research Center: The Makah Tribe’s cultural museum features exhibits on Makah history, art, and traditions, including a reconstructed longhouse that shows how the tribe lived hundreds of years ago.

  • Cape Flattery: This is the most northwest point of the contiguous United States and the first land seen by explorers traveling from the Pacific. It is part of the Makah Tribe’s reservation and is home to a scenic hiking trail to the tip of the cape.

  • Ozette Archaeological Site: This is the site of an ancient Makah village, which was buried by a mudslide centuries ago. Today, the excavation site provides insights into the history of the Makah people.

  • Makah Marina: This marina offers boat charters for whale watching and fishing, as well as a picturesque boardwalk and access to the ocean.

Natural Attractions of Neah Bay: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Shi Shi Beach: This is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Pacific Northwest, known for its rugged sea stacks, wild ocean waves, and tide pools full of sea creatures.

  • Cape Flattery Trail: This short hike offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding coastline, including Tatoosh Island and its lighthouse.

  • Hobuck Beach: This beach is popular for swimming, surfing, kayaking, and fishing, with stunning views of Vancouver Island and the Olympic Mountains in the distance.

  • Olympic National Park: This park was established in 1938 and covers more than 1,400 square miles of forests, mountains, glaciers, rivers, and beaches. It is a paradise for hikers, campers, and nature lovers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Neah Bay

Neah Bay offers some of the most scenic hikes and bike rides in the Pacific Northwest. Here are some of the most popular trails:

  • Ozette Loop: This 9.4-mile trail leads hikers through old-growth forests, over boardwalks, and along the rugged coastline of Olympic National Park.

  • Shi Shi Beach and Point of the Arches: This moderate, 8-mile hike takes hikers to two of the most beautiful beaches and sea stacks in the region, passing through lush rainforests and sand dunes along the way.

  • Cape Flattery Trail: This easy, 1.5-mile trail leads to the tip of Cape Flattery, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding coastline.

Best Things to Do in Neah Bay: Activities and Tours

  • Whale Watching: Take a boat tour with a local guide to see gray and humpback whales, Orcas, and other marine life in the wild.

  • Fishing: Go saltwater or freshwater fishing with a local guide, who will show you the best fishing spots for salmon, halibut, and other species.

  • Scuba Diving: Explore the underwater world of the Pacific Northwest with a scuba diving tour. The waters around Neah Bay are home to colorful marine life, including giant octopuses, wolf eels, and rockfish.

  • Kayaking: Rent a kayak or take a guided tour to paddle around the beautiful coastal waters of Neah Bay, spotting wildlife like seals, otters, and bald eagles along the way.

Week-Long Itinerary for Neah Bay

Day 1: Arrive in Neah Bay and take a self-guided tour of the Makah Cultural and Research Center.

Day 2: Hike the Shi Shi Beach and Point of the Arches trail, and have a picnic lunch on the beach.

Day 3: Take a whale watching tour in the morning, and go fishing in the afternoon.

Day 4: Go scuba diving to explore the underwater world of the Pacific Ocean.

Day 5: Visit Cape Flattery and take in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Day 6: Rent a kayak and paddle around the beautiful coastal waters of Neah Bay.

Day 7: Explore the Ozette Archaeological Site in the morning, and spend the afternoon soaking in the natural hot springs of Olympic National Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Neah Bay

Must-Try Dishes

  • Halibut Fish and Chips: This is a classic Pacific Northwest dish, made with fresh halibut caught off the coast of Neah Bay.

  • Clam Chowder: Neah Bay is known for its delicious clam chowder, made with local clams, potatoes, and cream.

  • Fry Bread Tacos: This is a twist on the traditional tacos, with fry bread replacing the tortilla and filled with meat, cheese, lettuce, and salsa.

Local Beverages

  • Makah Tea: This is a traditional tea made with local plants, including salmonberry, fireweed, and devil’s club.

  • Blackberry Wine: The Olympic Peninsula is known for its blackberries, and Neah Bay is no exception. Try some local blackberry wine for a sweet and fruity flavor.

Where to Stay in Neah Bay: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several lodging options in Neah Bay, depending on your budget and preferences.

  • Hobuck Beach Resort: This oceanfront resort offers cabins, RV sites, and tent sites, as well as a restaurant and a small grocery store.

  • Makah Marina: This marina offers cabins for rent, as well as boat charters and a fish cleaning station.

  • The Warm House: This cozy guesthouse offers private rooms and a shared kitchen and living room. It’s a great option for budget-conscious travelers.

What to Buy in Neah Bay: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Makah Art: The Makah Tribe is known for its beautiful and intricate wood carvings, baskets, blankets, and jewelry.

  • Blackberry Products: Choose from blackberry jam, wine, syrup, and other products made with local blackberries.

Local Culture and Customs of Neah Bay

The Makah Tribe has a rich history and culture, which is reflected in their art, music, dance, and traditions. Visitors should be respectful of the tribe’s customs and etiquette, and ask for permission before taking photographs or entering sacred spaces.

Best Time to Visit Neah Bay

The best time to visit Neah Bay is in the summer months, between June and September, when the weather is warm and dry and the ocean waters are calm. However, be prepared for crowds and book your accommodations and tours in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Neah Bay

Do:

  • Respect the Makah Tribe’s culture and customs.

  • Sample the local seafood, including salmon and Dungeness crab.

  • Take a guided tour to learn more about the rich history and natural beauty of Neah Bay.

Don’t:

  • Enter sacred spaces without permission.

  • Disturb the wildlife or their habitats.

  • Drive off-road or on prohibited areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Neah Bay

Neah Bay is a safe and welcoming community, but visitors should take normal precautions to avoid theft or accidents. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, and follow the advice of local officials.

Health in Neah Bay

Neah Bay has a small clinic that provides basic medical services, but serious injuries or illnesses will require a trip to a hospital in nearby Port Angeles.

Getting to Neah Bay: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Neah Bay

The closest major airport to Neah Bay is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, which is about a 3.5-hour drive away.

Bus Stations Near Neah Bay

Greyhound offers daily bus service to Port Angeles, which is about a 1.5-hour drive from Neah Bay. From there, you can rent a car or take a taxi to Neah Bay.

Other Options

Some visitors choose to arrive in Neah Bay by boat, either by private yacht or as part of a cruise.

How to Get Around in Neah Bay

Neah Bay is a small town that is easily walkable, but you may need a car or bike to explore the surrounding areas. There are also several tour companies that offer transportation for guided tours.

Where to Go Next from Neah Bay: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Olympic National Park: This vast park offers endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

  • Port Angeles: This charming town is the gateway to Olympic National Park and offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions.

  • Seattle: This vibrant city is about a 3.5-hour drive from Neah Bay and offers a thriving food and drink scene, world-class museums, and iconic landmarks like the Space Needle.

Conclusion

Neah Bay is a hidden gem in the Pacific Northwest, offering a unique blend of Native American culture, outdoor adventure, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to hike, fish, kayak, or simply relax on the beach, Neah Bay is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves exploring off-the-beaten-path.

Cape Flattery Cape Flattery These statues and the cultural center and museum are in Neah Bay. These statues and the cultural center and museum are in Neah Bay.