Salt Creek Recreation Area

Low Tide at Crescent Beach, Port Angeles

Although Sequim beaches have their own unique beauty, I find that Salt Creek Recreation in PA offers a landscape I’m most drawn to as a photographer, and Tongue Point Marine Life Sanctuary and the tide pools to be a delight at low tide as well.

At less than 35 miles from Sequim, a day trip is entirely do-able and preferred, unless of course, you’re a camper and choose to take your rig or tent into the adjacent Clallam County Park, located on a former WWII military installation with campsites and spectacular trails with views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

But I prefer the beach, at low tide and low angle, to gain a perspective that many may never see. And on a warm day, to make the visit more memorable, I recommend removing one’s shoes and sinking one’s toes in the sand; then you’ll not only see it, but feel it – and you’ll never forget it!

Merganser Mama

Salt Creek Recreation Area, Pt. Angeles

Although considered “common” mergansers, in my book, this gal was anything but common, at least not in my world.

Aside from her beautiful head of feathers, she was extraordinary in that she was able to keep track of her seven offspring even as they darted in and out of the reeds surrounding the water, all the while evading me as I ran to keep up.

If you haven’t visited Salt Creek Recreation Area, a Clallam County Park, or stayed at the campground, I highly recommend it, and I know you wouldn’t be disappointed.

Aside from the beaches, sea stacks and tide pools, the wildlife is delightful and includes not only mergansers, but otters, eagles, hermit crabs and more.

And then there are the surfers. Suited up in dry suits, they’re amazing to watch as they sit for what seems like hours to catch the big ones; launch themselves on their boards and take off, all without seeming to mind the cold temperatures.

Aside from all this…it’s a fabulous spot to take family, friends and out of town visitors when you really want to show off the beauty of the peninsula.