ADDRESS
Shipwreck Point Natural
Resources Conservation Area
Along Hwy 112
HOURS
Open Year Round
CONTACT
AMENITIES
Trails
Shipwreck Point is a 3-mile stretch of beach along the Strait of Juan de Fuca, east of Neah Bay.
The landscape of the Strait of Juan de Fuca was carved out by ice-age glaciers 13,000 years ago. The retreat of the glaciers created deep fjords which provide abundant food and habitat for many species of marine mammals.
By the mid-1900’s, commercial whaling had pushed many great whales to the edge of extinction. Through decades of conservation efforts, species like gray whales have rebounded. Others are endangered, and need our help to recover.
WHERE THE WHALES ARE
Shipwreck Point is a great place to spot gray whales, and occasional passing orcas. Local citizens and visitors to this coastline enjoy watching marine mammals all year long. Access the beach from the path near the Whale Tail sign. Look towards the kelp beds, and out across the Strait. If the water is calm, you might hear whales before you see them. Keep an eye out for sea otters, floating on their backs, especially in the kelp beds just offshore.
WHICH ANIMALS YOU CAN EXPECT TO SEE
TRAVEL TIPS
From the town of Sekiu, travel west on Highway 112 along the coast to approximately mile post 6. In this area, the beach can be accessed via several small pullouts. Shipwreck Point is a remote location with no facilities. Bring what you need, and be sure to carry your trash out. A Washington State Discover Pass is required for parking at this site.