This Washington beach named one of the world's best by Lonely Planet

This Washington beach named one of the world’s best by Lonely Planet

Ruby Beach in Olympic National Park has been recognized as one of the best beaches in the world!

The iconic beach was featured in a new book by Lonely Planet, a well-known travel website that reviews destinations all over the world and shares insights for travelers. The book Best Beaches: 100 of the World’s Most Incredible Beaches highlights beaches travelers should know about all around the globe.

Ruby Beach and Kalaloch are located on the southwest coast of the Olympic Peninsula and are accessible directly off Highway 101. Kalaloch is one of the most visited areas of Olympic National Park, according to the National Park Service (NPS).

The coastal waters off Ruby Beach are home to thousands of marine species, the NPS said.

The marine environment and offshore islands are protected by three national wildlife refuges and Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary,” the NPS said. “The refuges manage the islands visible above high tide waters for 135 miles along the coast. Large nesting colonies of birds like common murres and tufted puffins need these rocky outposts.

Lonely Planet described Ruby Beach like a “giant emptied his pockets on the shores… tree trunks are strewn like matchsticks. Sea stacks cluster like crumbled chocolates. And a colorful assortment of agates, garnets and sea glass add a touch of glitter to the captivating mess.”

Just about three and half hours away from downtown Seattle, Ruby Beach is certainly an option for a weekend getaway or early morning day trip. Been there before? Share your photos of Ruby Beach with us on Chime-In.