Visiting Mora and Rialto Beach

Waves crash on 3rd Beach near Rialto on the Olympic coast.

Photo by Sheltren NPS Photo

Overview

Rocky beaches, giant drift logs, pounding waves and views of offshore islands known as 'seastacks' are features that define Rialto Beach.

Just inland is the Mora area, characterized by towering trees, lush undergrowth and the omnipresent roar of the Pacific Ocean in the background.

Rialto Beach is accessible by Mora Road, off of La Push Road. Rialto Beach is about 36 miles southwest of Lake Crescent, and about 75 miles from Port Angeles (directions).

A general map and information regarding facilities, picnic areas, camping, and regulations can be found on the park's Mora brochure.

 

Places to Stay

The 94-site Mora campground is about three miles from Rialto Beach. Mora Campground is on a reservation system for the peak season months beginning mid June to mid September (new in 2020). Reservations can be made up to six months in advance through www.recreation.gov. Outside of the reservation season, Mora Campground is on a first-come, first-served basis. Some loops close during the winter months. Visitors self-pay for campsites in the campground at designated registration boards outside of the reservation season.


The town of Forks is nearby and lodging can be found through the Forks Chamber of Commerce website.

Recreation

Hole-in-the-Wall is a sea-carved arch about 1.5 mile north of Rialto Beach, within the Olympic wilderness.

The Quillayute River blocks access from Rialto Beach to First, Second, and Third Beaches. First Beach is part of the Quileute Indian Reservation; Second and Third Beaches just to the south are located within Olympic National Park and are part of the Olympic Wilderness Coast.

Always check the tides! It's possible to get stranded when certain areas of the coast become impassable when high tide rolls in.

Nearby Areas

The town of Forks can be reached in less than 30 minutes by car. The Hoh Rain Forest and the southern coast, such as Ruby Beach and Kalaloch, are within a one-hour drive from Rialto. Consult the Getting Around page for mileages to and from different park destinations.

 

Kids play in the surf at Rialto Beach during sunset.