Autumn afternoon at the Bavarian themed village of Leavenworth, Washington. Editorial credit: Kirk Fisher / Shutterstock.com.

8 Incredible Vacation Spots In Washington

Known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, legendary big city landmarks, and being the birthplace of Starbucks coffee and Microsoft Corporation, Washington is a fascinating state to explore. From the coastal wonders of Long Beach to the Salish scenery of La Conner, and the floral fields of Sequim; get ready to experience magic in The Evergreen State. Discover 8 incredible vacation spots in Washington you need to add to your bucket list today!

Long Beach

Marsh's Free Museum and Gift Store exterior in Long Beach, Washington
Marsh's Free Museum and Gift Store exterior in Long Beach, Washington. Editorial credit: Victoria Ditkovsky / Shutterstock.com.

Visit Long Beach Peninsula, the longest continuous peninsula beach in the world. Stretching 28 miles along the Pacific Ocean, this self-named beach is a magnificent spot to see mesmerizing panoramic views of the Washington Coast as you breathe in the fresh ocean air, wandering down the Long Beach Boardwalk. Discover unique sites in the city like the World Kite Museum, home to rare kite exhibits from World War II. Learn about lively events hosted here, such as the Asian New Year or A Special Night At The Museum. Funland Family Fun Center is another extraordinary place to take the kids. With over 60 arcade games, VR attractions, and a Laser Tag arena in the heart of downtown, the whole family will fall in love with Long Beach.

Forks

Sign welcoming visitors to Forks, Washington
Sign welcoming visitors to Forks, Washington. Editorial credit: Sean Pavone / Shutterstock.com.

Explore the home of the famous Twilight franchise with a trip to Forks; a fascinating town on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula. See the props used on screen and costumes worn by actors in Forever Twilight in Forks Collection, where plenty of photo opportunities are available. 27 miles west of Forks lies Ruby Beach. Renowned for its one-of-a-kind rock formations, abundant driftwood, and tide pools in Olympic National Park, Ruby was named one of the 25 World’s Best Beaches in 2024 by Lonely Planet. For history buffs, the 1984-built Forks Timber Museum is a wonderful spot to explore the area’s pioneer history and dive into its past as the self-proclaimed Logging Capital of the World.

La Conner

The riverfront in La Conner, Washington.
The riverfront in La Conner, Washington.

Spend some time by the Salish Sea in La Conner, a breathtaking coastal town set between Seattle and Vancouver. With its convenient location, welcoming small-town atmosphere, and access to the San Juan Islands (among the best orca whale-watching places in the world) from La Conner Marina, this is one of the most incredible vacation spots in Washington. See the brightly colored Rainbow Bridge that stretches over the Swinomish Channel, connecting the town with Fidalgo Island. La Conner also hosts the annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival every April, where acres of vibrant tulips, gorgeous display gardens, and plenty of photo opportunities attract international attention.

Leavenworth

Leavenworth, Washington, decorated for the winter holidays
Leavenworth, Washington, decorated for the winter holidays. Editorial credit: Mark A Lee / Shutterstock.com.

Get a taste of Europe with a mystical trip to Leavenworth. Known for its picturesque shop-filled downtown area, mesmerizing Cascade Mountain views, and traditional German treats in München Haus or Andreas Keller Restaurant, this charming Bavarian village is the perfect place for a mountain retreat. Get your steps in as you unravel the beauty of Washington State at The Enchantments, an otherworldly hiking area featuring alpine lakes and dramatic peaks, where mountain goats roam free. If you prefer to see wildlife in a supervised environment, Leavenworth Reindeer Farm allows you to interact with these magical creatures and feed them straight from your hand.

Port Angeles

Port Angeles, Washington
The waterfront in Port Angeles, Washington. Editorial credit: Angela Dukich / Shutterstock.com.

Nicknamed "The Gateway to Olympic National Park," Port Angeles is one of the most incredible vacation spots in Washington State. Admire the vibrant wildflowers blooming in the summer atop Hurricane Ridge, the jewel of this legendary UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve designation. There, you will unravel jaw-dropping mountain views from over 5,000 feet. See the exquisite Madison Creek Falls or Marymere Falls by foot all year round, or capture the extraordinary tidepools, sea stacks, and Sea Otters by Second Beach. Another place to visit is Port Angeles City Pier, known for its captivating views of the Olympic Mountains, Port Angeles, and the inner harbor from the heart of downtown.

Bainbridge Island

Aerial view of Bainbridge Island, Washington.
Aerial view of Bainbridge Island, Washington.

Take the ferry 35 minutes northwest from Seattle to Bainbridge Island, the perfect place to soak up the magic of the Pacific Northwest. Not only is the journey over Puget Sound incredibly scenic (you can see spectacular views of downtown Seattle when the forecast is clear), but you may even spot Orca Whales swimming in the waters. Once you arrive, explore the gorgeous gardens of the Bloedel Reserve; a 140-acre inland paradise featuring picture-perfect landmarks like the Swan Pond & Orchid Trail, The Japanese Garden, Arboretum, and more. Bask in the beauty of the Cascade Mountains and Puget Sound from Fay Bainbridge Park, a lovely 17-acre marine camping park with sandy beaches.

Poulsbo

The lively Front Street of Poulsbo, Washington
The lively Front Street of Poulsbo, Washington. Editorial credit: Ian Dewar Photography / Shutterstock.com.

This charming Norwegian city is both a cultural and natural wonderland, making it one of the most incredible vacation spots in Washington State. Wander through the captivating downtown area, admiring the traditional European-style architecture, souvenir shops, and cozy eateries like Tizley's EuroPub, where European foods and beverages are served. Taste the famous Poulsbo Bread in Sluys Poulsbo Bakery, a family-owned historic gem, where various types of breads and pastries are made from scratch. Make your way to Island Lake Park, a serene spot to spend time by the water in a lush forested area. Test your luck at fishing, hike through the picturesque paved or forested trails, enjoy a peaceful picnic, or hop in for a swim from the designated beach area.

Sequim

Chamber of Commerce and visitors center in Sequim, Washington
Chamber of Commerce and visitors center in Sequim, Washington. Editorial credit: CL Shebley / Shutterstock.com.

Make your way to the breathtaking Dungeness River to explore Sequim. Home to mesmerizing sites like the floral-filled Purple Haze Lavender Farm, Sequim is dubbed the "Lavender Capital of North America." Discover multi-colored rows of lavender and helichrysum, capturing stunning photos that will brighten your feed. Unravel magnificent views of the Olympic Mountains from Dockside Grill; the perfect place to have lunch in the John Wayne Marina. Soak up the sunshine with a relaxing stroll by Sequim Bay. You can also explore the Olympic Discovery Trail; head across the Dungeness River over the new 780-foot trestle.

Takeaways

Between the fascinating formations and world-famous beaches of Forks, the architectural gems and Cascade treasures of Leavenworth, and the gorgeous gardens of Bainbridge Island; you will be blown away by the beauty of The Evergreen State. These 8 incredible vacation spots in Washington offer their own magic and charm that will make for a very fulfilling getaway. Prepare to create unforgettable memories in a beautiful place that will last you a lifetime.

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Victoria Gimelfarb March 25 2025 in Places

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