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Destination

Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge – Sequim

A worthwhile Olympic Peninsula day trip featuring coastal views, wildlife, picnic spots, and a scenic drive through historic Dungeness.

Cj Willette

— 2 min read
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Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge – Sequim

📍 Location: Sequim, Washington
🗺 Directions:
Google Maps: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Dungeness+National+Wildlife+Refuge

📂 Type: Destination / Activity / Day Trip

Why we went:
A day trip to explore the Washington coast, enjoy a scenic walk, and experience one of the state's most unique wildlife refuges.

🌊 Our Visit

We visited Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge as a day trip from the Seattle area, taking the Edmonds-Kingston ferry crossing to the Olympic Peninsula.

The refuge was easy to find, well maintained, and absolutely worth the trip.

One of our favorite parts of the day was bringing a picnic lunch and enjoying it on the bluffs overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The views alone made the trip worthwhile.

Highlights

  • Beautiful coastal scenery
  • Access to Dungeness Spit
  • Wildlife and bird watching opportunities
  • Easy walking trails
  • Scenic bluff-top views
  • Excellent picnic spots

Beachcombing Reminder

If you enjoy beachcombing, please remember that the refuge is a protected area.

While it may be tempting to collect shells, rocks, driftwood, or other natural items, visitors are encouraged to leave them where they are for others to enjoy and to help preserve the natural environment.

Take photographs and memories—leave the beach as you found it.

On the way back, consider taking the coastal route through Old Town Dungeness rather than heading directly back to Highway 101.

Follow Cays Road from the refuge area toward Dungeness and explore more of the coastline before connecting with Sequim-Dungeness Way and returning to Highway 101.

It's a quieter drive that offers additional views of the water, farmland, and coastal scenery that many visitors miss.

Ferry Route

Suggested route:

  • Edmonds → Kingston Ferry
  • Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge
  • Explore Cays Road and Old Town Dungeness
  • Return via Sequim-Dungeness Way
  • Kingston → Edmonds Ferry

👥 Who This Is For

  • Nature lovers
  • Wildlife enthusiasts
  • Scenic day trips
  • Couples
  • Beach walkers
  • Picnickers

🏁 Verdict: WORTH-IT 🔵

"An easy and rewarding Olympic Peninsula day trip with beautiful coastal views, wildlife, and one of the best picnic spots we've found."

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