March 29, 2023
The Olympic Peninsula & islands itinerary
10 days – The Olympic Peninsula and the PNW coast
If you have 10 days to explore and the Olympic Peninsula is on your bucket list, here’s a suggested itinerary that allows you to take your time and fully experience the natural beauty, charming towns, and outdoor adventures of this scenic driving route, with a focus on the stunning PNW coast and the rugged splendor of the PNW:
Day 1: Seattle to Everett
- Pick up your camper van in Seattle and head north to Everett, the starting point of the Cascade Loop.
- Spend the day exploring Everett’s historic district, visiting the Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum or the Imagine Children’s Museum.
- Overnight near Everett – Kayak Point Park
Day 2: Everett to Anacortes
- Drive north to Anacortes, the gateway to the San Juan Islands.
- Explore the town’s quaint shops and cafes, and take a ferry to the nearby islands for whale watching or hiking.
- Overnight in Anacortes – Deception Pass State Park
Day 3: Anacortes to Whidbey Island
- Take a scenic drive to Deception Pass State Park (an AMAZING place to camp) on Whidbey Island, where you can hike to stunning vistas of the rugged coastline and sea cliffs.
- Spend the afternoon exploring the island’s charming towns, such as Coupeville or Langley.
- Overnight on Whidbey Island – Fort Ebey State Park
Day 4: Whidbey Island to Port Townsend
- Take a ferry to Port Townsend, a charming Victorian seaport town on the Olympic Peninsula.
- Explore the town’s historic district, galleries, and boutiques, or visit the nearby Fort Worden State Park for hiking and beachcombing.
- Overnight in Port Townsend – Fort Worden
Day 5: Port Townsend to Port Angeles
- Head west on Highway 101 to Port Angeles, the gateway to Olympic National Park.
- Spend the day exploring the park’s rainforest trails, alpine vistas, and pristine beaches, or take a scenic drive to Hurricane Ridge for panoramic views.
- Overnight near Port Angeles Salt Creek Recreation Area
Day 6: Port Angeles to Lake Quinault
- Drive south on Highway 101 to Lake Quinault, a beautiful glacial lake in the heart of the Olympic National Forest.
- Spend the day hiking the Quinault Rainforest Trails or taking a scenic drive around the lake.
- Overnight in Lake Quinault – Willaby Campground
Day 7: Lake Quinault to Forks
- Drive west on Highway 101 to Forks, a small town known for its association with the Twilight book series.
- Explore the town’s shops and restaurants, or take a guided tour of the nearby Hoh Rainforest or Rialto Beach.
- Overnight near Forks – Bogachiel State Park
Day 8: Return to Port Angeles for an early ferry to Victoria
- Drive back east on Highway 101 to Port Angeles and catch an early ferry to Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.
- Spend the day exploring the city’s charming neighborhoods, shops, and museums, or take a whale-watching tour from the harbor.
- Overnight in Victoria – Salish Seaside RV Haven
Day 9: Victoria to San Juan Island
- Take a ferry to San Juan Island, one of the most scenic and wildlife-rich islands in the Puget Sound.
- Spend the day hiking, kayaking, or whale watching, and visit the charming town of Friday Harbor for shopping and dining.
- Overnight on San Juan Island. – San Juan County Park
Day 10: San Juan Island to Seattle
- Take a ferry back to Anacortes and drive south to Seattle, enjoying the scenic views of the Cascade Mountains and Puget Sound along the way.
- Return your camper van and spend the evening exploring Seattle’s iconic landmarks, such as the Space Needle or Pike Place Market.
