Forks · Washington · USA
Second Beach
You descend through a tunnel of Sitka spruce and western hemlock, mud slicking the final switchbacks, before the forest suddenly breaks to reveal driftwood logs the size of boxcars and monolithic offshore rocks rising from pewter surf. The air tastes of salt and Douglas fir.
Reading live conditions…
Live from Open-Meteo · sea surface temperature and wave data modelled at 1-km grid resolution for Second Beach. Numbers refresh at the hourly tick.
- Purity
- 0%
- Conditions
- 0%
- Crowd
- 0%
- Vibe
- 0%
The OnlyBeaches Index weighs four pillars against your chosen persona. Purity comes from water clarity and air-quality heuristics; Conditions from Open-Meteo waves, wind and temperatures; Crowd from historical patterns; Vibe from nearby events within 50 km. The score rebalances throughout the day.
You descend through a tunnel of Sitka spruce and western hemlock, mud slicking the final switchbacks, before the forest suddenly breaks to reveal driftwood logs the size of boxcars and monolithic offshore rocks rising from pewter surf. The air tastes of salt and Douglas fir.
Photos
8 captures from Second Beach
About this beach
Where it is
Second Beach
Forks, Washington, USA
47.9048°, -124.6367°
Top things to do
At Second Beach
Forest Trail Descent
Muddy switchbacks through ancient spruce
Sea Stack Portraits
Low tide reveals best angles
Tide Pool Exploration
Anemones and ochre stars abound
Driftwood Fort Building
Massive logs create natural shelters
Near this beach
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Second Beach.
Questions people actually ask about Second Beach.
Is it safe to swim at Second Beach in Forks, Washington?
Swimming at Second Beach is generally not recommended due to cold water temperatures year-round (typically 45-55°F), strong currents, and unpredictable waves. Sneaker waves can appear suddenly and pull swimmers into the ocean. There are no lifeguards on duty. The beach is better suited for wading in tide pools, beachcombing, and photography. If you do enter the water, never turn your back on the ocean, stay close to shore, and watch children closely.
When is the best time to visit Second Beach?
Second Beach is accessible year-round, with each season offering different experiences. Summer (June-September) provides the most stable weather and easier hiking conditions on the trail to the beach. Winter brings dramatic storm watching and fewer crowds, though the trail can be muddy and slippery. Low tide is ideal for exploring tide pools and sea stacks. Check tide tables before visiting, as high tide significantly reduces beach access and can be dangerous.
