The weather was gorgeous and the surf stunning. Sea stacks tower ominously over the scene. From the parking lot just off of Highway 101 it is a short walk down to the beach. Don't expect sand though. This is a straight up rock beach. Our plan had been to head north 3 miles to the Hoh River. Several years ago I had walked the beach south form La Push to the Hoh and I wanted to finish off this section of the coast. The little lagoon and tides had another plan though. We waited an hour for the tide to start heading out before going thigh deep to cross the river. Once across we managed <1/2 mile before being turned back by high water and cliffs which didn't seem very appetizing with the huge surf. I would advise monitoring the tides very closely to take on this stretch of beach.

Walking along this part of the coast was a wonderful way to spend Christmas Day. Last time I went on this hike WTA was there fixing the trail and I have to say it looks great! No water on the main trail down to the beach. I hit the beach just before low tide. Cedar Creek was running pretty hard and it has made it impossible to go North without getting soaked. But as always, Ruby Beach offered great photo opportunities and I look forward to heading back the next chance I get.

It was too cold to wade across the water to explore the sea stacks, but Ruby Beach is still a beautiful playground.

This was our last hike of our Olympic Peninsula camping trip and, boy, did we save the best for last! We had timed it to arrive in plenty of time to watch the sunset. Timing was perfect. We arrived at low tide and enjoyed seeing all the things the tide pools had to offer including numerous starfish and beautifully colored sea anemones. The dogs thoroughly enjoyed the beach as well, with the exception of the off-leash dog that thoroughly ignored his master when he was called.

Needed a road trip and Ruby Beach was our last stop. Had coastal fog that wanted to hover over the beach but still came out with wonderfully beautiful views to end our day.