Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge
One of the planet’s longest sand spits sprawls 38 miles west of Port Townsend. To reach it, switchback down a forested bluff, then stretch your legs on the flat five-mile trek to an 1857 lighthouse. The refuge and nearby town of Sequim (“Sqwim”) — known for its lavender farms — make for excellent afternoon excursions from Port Townsend.
Mystery Bay State Park
The Chemakum people first harvested the abundant clams in this scenic spot 17 miles southeast of town. Today the sanctuary — on the western edge of Marrowstone Island — still delights visitors seeking shellfish and crabs (make sure to buy a license from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife). Divers and paddlers will also appreciate this off-the-radar destination, which has six picnic tables with stunning vistas of the Olympic Mountains.
Port Townsend Marine Science Center
Fort Worden State Park harbors this museum and aquarium, along with two miles of coastline — a mix of sand, cobblestones, and dramatic glacial bluffs. The educational nonprofit showcases one of the few full orca skeletons on display in the country, along with exhibits about the Salish Sea ecosystem. In summertime, the center hosts naturalist-led beach walks and wildlife-viewing cruises, including jaunts to see tufted puffins.