Where To Stay When Visiting Olympic National Park: Best Areas & Hotels

Figuring out where to stay near Olympic National Park can feel like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded.

But fear not, fellow outdoor enthusiasts!

We’ve trekked through more national parks than we can count on our fingers, and Olympic holds a special place in our adventure-seeking hearts.

Navigating this vast expanse of wilderness might seem daunting, especially for those of you staring wide-eyed at the endless options, wondering where the heck to bunk down.

But we’re here to guide you through the labyrinth of lodging options, ensuring your stay is nothing short of epic.

So, let’s get started!

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Short On Time? Here’s The Scoop

What To Know To Determine Where To Stay

Before we dive into the cushiest pillows and dreamiest views near Olympic National Park, let’s chat about the park’s four ecosystems.

Because whether you’re here to hug trees in the rainforest, get sandy on the coast, gawk at mountains, or frolic in the lower valleys, where you lay your head at night kinda depends on which of these natural wonders you’re here to spend time at.

Consider this your sneak peek into the “choose your own adventure” portion of where to stay near Olympic National Park.

If you already know where you want to spend your time, feel free to skip ahead.

Mountains

If you’re the type who thinks a vacation isn’t complete without a bit of altitude sickness and majestic peak views, then the mountains of Olympic National Park are calling your name.

The peaks are so stunning they make the most seasoned hiker weep with joy—or maybe that’s just the sweat.

Here, you’ll find the towering Mount Olympus, reigning supreme at a whopping 7,965 feet, which isn’t just a residence for Greek gods but is actually a hiker’s paradise with its stunning glaciers.

And, speaking of glaciers, Olympic National Park boasts over 60 of them, silently shaping the landscape for millennia.

For the flora enthusiasts among you, the alpine meadows are a riot of wildflowers come spring, bringing Instagram to its knees with the sheer audacity of their natural beauty.

Staying near these majestic mountains means you’re just a hop, skip, and jump away from feeling on top of the world.

Valleys

If scaling Mount Everest Lite isn’t necessarily your cup of tea, the valleys of Olympic National Park, such as Sol Duc and Elwha, offer sceneries that can still knock your socks off without the altitude headache.

Take Sol Duc Valley, for instance, where hot springs invite you to soak your city stresses away. It’s like nature’s own spa, except you don’t have to book months in advance.

And then there’s the Elwha Valley, a testament to nature’s resilience, showcasing the largest dam removal project in U.S. history.

Wandering around these lush valleys will provide you with a soundtrack provided by babbling brooks and the occasional wildlife sighting.

Rain Forests

Heading into the rain forests of Olympic National Park is like walking into the world’s most oxygen-rich concert, where every leaf and moss-covered branch is part of the orchestra.

Here, the Hoh Rain Forest takes the spotlight, boasting rainfall measurements of over 14 feet annually that make umbrellas look like a necessity rather than a cute accessory.

It’s the kind of place where trees grow as if they’re competing for a Guinness World Record, with Sitka spruces and western hemlocks reaching for the skies.

And a little trivia fact for your dinner party conversations: this park is one of the few temperate rain forests in the U.S., making it a real-life fairytale forest minus the dragons and knights.

Instead, you get banana slugs – Olympic’s very own slow-moving, neon ambassadors, teaching us all the virtues of taking life at a glacial pace.

Pacific Beaches

Lastly, there’s the Pacific coast, Olympic National Park’s version of a beach party for the nature-inclined.

You won’t find any D.J.s or overcrowded bars here, but what you will find is miles of untouched shoreline, where the waves write poetry on the sand.

These beaches are strewn with massive driftwood, making them appear as if giants left their toys behind.

And speaking of size, the coastal area is home to some of the largest tidal pools in the United States, where you can spot sea stars, anemones, and the occasional octopus playing hide and seek.

It’s also one of the few places where you can witness the mighty Pacific in its natural, untamed glory, offering sunsets that turn the sky into a canvas of unimaginable colors.

Just remember, the water’s chillier than your ex’s heart, so maybe save the swimming for the hot springs in Sol Duc Valley.

3 Places near Olympic National Park

Alright, now that we’ve danced around the ecosystems and you’ve determined what you want to see, let’s get down to brass tacks and talk about the actual towns you can crash in when you’re not too busy being an outdoor model – here’s where to stay to visit Olympic National Park.

1. Port Angeles – Perfect For The Mountain & Valley Regions

Port Angeles prides itself as the gateway to Olympic National Park, arguably positioning itself as one of the best towns near Olympic National Park for those enchanted by mountain views and valley retreats.

But this seaside town isn’t just a pit stop; it’s a destination in its own right.

Port Angeles lays claim to being a crucial player in the United States defense during WWII, with remnants of military fortifications that whisper secrets of the past.

And if you’re thinking about culinary adventures, it’s reputed for its locally sourced seafood, promising a dining experience as fresh as the ocean breeze.

Wouldn’t it be nice to end a day of exploring with a plate of the day’s catch?

Luxury: Treehouse On The Water, Eagles Nest

Do you feel like you need a bit more adventure than your average hotel? Elevate your stay—literally—in the Treehouse.

Perched 20 feet up, hugged by the calmest tree canopies you’ve ever seen, it’s not just a room with a view—it’s a VIP box for nature’s greatest hits.

Perfect for lovebirds or solitude seekers, it’s where comfort meets wild. Get ready to make your friends jealous because this is one for the social feeds.

✅ Check Prices & Availability

Mid-Range: The Eagle’s Roost

If you’re looking for a spot where you can kick back, soak in some nature views, and maybe forget the world exists for a minute, the Eagle’s Roost has got you covered.

It’s a cozy nest with killer beach and ocean views minus the beach crowds. It’s like winning the vacation lottery without even trying!

Guests keep coming back for more, and honestly, who can blame them? It’s where “chill” gets real, and the beauty is legit; no filters needed.

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Budget: Aircrest Motel

The Aircrest Motel is where you can experience the luxury of not camping without emptying your wallet.

It’s a nice spot for visitors who think that a hot shower and a bed are the ultimate indulgence after a day of exploring.

Essential amenities? Check. Easy access to all you want to see? Double-check.

It’s basically your budget-friendly knight in shining armor, minus the horse, offering a solid night’s sleep without the frills. Who knew penny-pinching could feel so good?

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2. Forks – Perfect For The Rain Forest & Pacific Beach Regions

Forks, known for its moody weather and starring role in a certain vampire saga, offers more than just pop culture nostalgia.

Nestled between the lush Hoh Rain Forest and the rugged Pacific beaches, this town is your prime base camp for exploring Olympic’s wildest corners.

Forks is home to some of the most diverse ecosystems in North America, providing endless outdoor adventure opportunities.

And it boasts a variety of lodging near Hoh Rain Forest, ensuring you’re only a short drive from stepping into a verdant, moss-covered wonderland.

So whether you’re hunting for twilight or simply chasing waterfalls, Forks encapsulates the spirit of Olympic National Park, making it the ideal place to lay your head.

Mid-Range: Misty Valley Inn

Roll out of bed and straight into a postcard at the Misty Valley Inn.

This place is basically your grandma’s house…if your grandma lived in a magical forest.

It’s the comfort food of accommodation—cozy, warm, and with views that’ll have you pinching yourself to make sure you’re not dreaming.

Perfect for anyone who’s into breathing in that crisp, fresh air and pretending they’re in a nature documentary.

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Budget: Town Motel

Welcome to the Town Motel, the no-frills, yes-comforts spot for the economically savvy traveler.

This is a place where your wallet gets to relax right along with you, offering just enough amenities to keep you cozy without tossing in unnecessary fluff.

Located with convenience in mind, it’s a launchpad for your adventures—assuming your idea of adventure doesn’t require a five-star spa.

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✔️ Pros Of Staying Near The Park In Port Angeles Or Forks (But Not Inside The Park Itself)

3. Where To Stay IN Olympic National Park

Within the wilderness kingdom of Olympic National Park, you’ve got a few lodging options to play eeny, meeny, miny, moe with.

Surprisingly (or maybe unsurprisingly), they’re all buddies in the pricing department, meaning no matter which you choose, you can expect to pay about the same.

But because we’re all about the crème de la crème, here are our top 2 picks that are guaranteed to make your stay more magical than finding a unicorn.

Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort (open March To November)

Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort is where you swap out the buzz of your phone for the tranquil gurgle of mineral-spring pools.

Tucked away in what could very well be a forest from a fantasy novel, this spot’s all about kicking back in a cabin or sprawling out in a suite by the river.

Think of it as glamping without the glam.

Bring your dog, take a dip in the pool, and oh—forget about posting selfies because there’s no internet to speak of.

✅ Check Prices & Availability

Kalaloch Lodge (Year Round)

Kalaloch Lodge is your seaside ticket to “whoa, look at that view” moments, smack dab on the Olympic National Park coast.

Fancy waking up to the sound of waves without wreaking havoc on Mother Nature?

This eco-friendly spot’s got your back, with snug cabins and rooms that practically hug the coastline.

Perfect for beachcombers, bird nerds, and trail trekkers, it’s the ultimate chill-out zone for the nature-obsessed.

✅ Check Prices & Availability

✔️ Pros Of Staying INSIDE The Park Itself

FAQs For The Best Places To Stay Around Olympic National Park

Navigating the internet for overwhelming information on places to stay near Olympic National Park can feel like trying to find a needle in a haystack.

But fear not—our next section aims to answer some of your most frequently asked questions.

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