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Washington State Travel Destinations

It’s nice to know as an American, that you don’t need to go all the way to Holland for colorful tulip fields.  An hour north of Seattle is the annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival from April 1 – 30.  Here, you can observe the vivid tulips exploding into bloom.  As a Seattleite, I go to the tulip festival wherever I can and love sharing the highlights of this Washington state travel destination.

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival Background

Just a 1 hour drive north of Seattle is the beautiful Skagit Valley, near Mount Vernon.  Since 1984 the vivid Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is open for visitors from April 1 – 30.  Overall, there are dozens of tulip and daffodil fields in full bloom scattered throughout Skagit Valley for one glorious month.  The crops all come from 2 companies:  RoozenGaarde / Washington Bulb Co. and Tulip Town.

 

Each year the crops are rotated to different fields.  Visitors explore the rainbow of flowers by bicycle, car and even walking.  It does get crowded, especially on weekends, so it’ recommended to carpool if taking a car. (Check out Park N Ride locations)  And if you go on a bike, drive defensively as everyone is excited about the tulips.

 

The festival celebrates the tulips through various events and shows.  For example, there are art shows, galas, Mount Vernon Street Fair, local food vendors and kite flying.  There’s even winetasting at the Tulip Valley Winery and an alpaca farm.   Besides its numerous tulip fields, the RoozenGaarde has a display garden with various flowers, such as, tulips, daffodils, peonies, hyacinths and crocus.  Here, there are also gift shops and various flower exhibits.

    Hoh Rainforest Hall of Mosses
    Washington State Travel Destinations

    Amazing 2-Day Olympic Coast Guide near Forks, WA at Beaches and Hoh Rainforest

    by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac April 13, 2025
    written by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac

    The Washington coast is a unique blend of ruggedly beautiful beaches and lush rainforests.  Where else can you find in close proximity majestic beaches near a temperate rainforest.  Even more, the Olympic National Forest is the largest temperate rainforest in the U.S. lower 48.  Near Forks, WA are attractions that astound with natural scenery.  As a Washingtonian, I love sharing the wonders of the state and this area does not disappoint.   An Olympic Coast Guide helps to plan for the plethora of attractions.  This summer in August I spent 2 days exploring solo the Rialto, Kalaloch and Ruby Beaches, The Tree of Life Root Cave and the Hoh Rainforest.  

    For many, the mysterious forests and coastline inspire a gothic setting known from the vampire dwellings in the Twilight series.  Forks, Washington is the actual town where author Stephenie Meyer based her Twilight saga novels inspiring the film series. This is not a Twilight Guide, however, I highlight some of the most mysterious and magical places to visit, where anyone can easily imagine whatever story line you chose.  Along the Highway 101 corridor, most of the main attractions are accessible, such as, Hoh Rainforest, The Tree of Life Root Cave, and numerous beaches (Rialto, Ruby, First, Second, Third and Kalaloch Beaches).

    Best Tips for Exploring Olympic Coast Region

    IMG_1618
    Rialto Beach

    All beaches and the Hoh Rainforest parking lots are filled from 10 am – 5 pm.  For everything, plan ahead to go either before 10 am or after 5 pm, especially in summertime. 

    For the beaches check out tide tables for the low and high tide timings.  Low tide is the best time to explore the tidepools for colorful marine life, such as, sea stars, anemones and shellfish. 

    The beaches are rugged with rocky shorelines.  So, wear waterproof hiking boots or closed toed hiking sandals. 

    Even in summer, remember this coastline is near the rainforest and rain is possible anytime.  On a hot day, the marine air can still be cool so dress in layers with raingear. 

    Cell phone coverage is very patchy here, with limited internet.  The Forks Chamber of Commerce has free internet if needed.

    Forks Chamber of Commerce is an excellent source with very friendly staff to answer questions or help plan your trip.  I stopped there a couple times for guidance and using their free internet. 

    Olympic Coast Guide – Top Things to Do in 2 Days

    Along the Highway 101 corridor near Forks, most of these top things to do are accessible.  Everything here I did in 2 days on my solo journey.  However, I kept in mind the above tips to get it all in which always considered arriving either before 10 am or after 5 pm.   First, let’s talk beaches and then I will explain the Hoh Rainforest

    Best Beaches Near Forks, WA

    twin
    Twin Sea Stacks at Rialto Beach

    The rugged Olympic coastline is unique with spectacular sea stacks, driftwood, sea cliffs and trees.  Its beaches are gorgeous in a wild way.  Their moody settings can change any moment requiring planning and vigilance while connecting to their unpredictable beauty.  It’s a far cry from the Caribbean, but its settings take you to the primal essence of Mother’s Nature’s power.   The breathtaking views and fresh, marine air are invigorating to say the least, making for adventurous beach walks.   

    Fun Fact: Sea stacks are formed from waves crashing against headlands, eroding the rocks.  Firstly, caves form and then the caves break forming an arch.  Eventually, the arch center collapses, forming a sea stack.

    Rialto Beach and Hole-in-the-Wall Beach Hike

    IMG_1600
    Hole-in-the-Wall via Rialto Beach only accessible during Low Tide

    I planned my day around arriving early for Rialto Beach’s low tide at 10:30 am.  This beach is especially known for incredible tide pools.   I did the Hole-in-the-Wall walk, which is 3.3 miles up and back from the parking lot.  The hole in the wall is only accessible at low tide and is chock full of tide pools on the rocks, with marine life, such as, anemones, shellfish and sea stars.   It’s definitely worth planning your day around arriving here for low tide findings.

    La Push Beaches (First, Second and Third)

    IMG_1476
    Relaxing on First Beach

    These beaches are near and just south of Rialto Beach.  Once again, the Second and Third Beach parking lots were always full.  However, if you plan ahead there is awesome beach camping at Second Beach.  First Beach has a large parking lot and is usually always accessible for some incredible beach time.  I went there a couple times for beach walks.

    Ruby Beach

    IMG_1668
    Ruby Beach – Olympic Coast Guide

    About 45 minutes south of Forks is the popular Ruby Beach.  Also, its south of the Hoh River, creating a natural boundary from the more northern beaches.  It gets the name from the red sand that occasionally gathers on the beach.  Its parking lot is bigger than Rialto Beach, but still gets full during the daytime.  This beach is known for the spectacular sea stacks and driftwood.  I found some incredible tree trunks to sit on and take in the incredible sea air for a deep and rejuvenating meditation. 

    Kalaloch Beach and Tree of Life or Root Cave

    IMG_1666
    Tree of Life at Kalaloch Beach

    Just 5 minutes south of Ruby Beach is Kalaloch Campground and parking lot.  I ventured here specifically to see the Tree of Life or Root Cave.  From the campground parking lot, I took the trail to the beach and almost immediately to the right I saw a small gathering of people taking photos of the Tree of Life. 

    The Tree of Life is as marvel and some would even say immortal.  This Sitka Spruce stands on top of the beach bluff, despite its soil eroded away, with most of its roots dangling in the air without soil.  This creates a tree root cave that you can walk into and be among the resilient tree roots.  For many it’s a symbolic journey to visit this landmark.  I mean the Tree of Life, how much more meaningful can you get.  I met a lovely couple and took their photo, celebrating their 40-year wedding anniversary underneath the Tree of Life. 

    Kalaloch Beach is gorgeous for beach walking and bird watching.  Coastal birds here include bald eagles and western gulls.  Beach 4 is known for its colorful tide pools with sea stars and anemones.  Like most beaches in this area, during high tide some of the beach area is inaccessible. 

    Olympic National Park’s Hoh Rainforest (Hall of Mosses)

    Related: Olympic National Park

    IMG_1503
    Hall of Mosses at Hoh Rainforest

    Olympic National Park is the largest temperate rainforest in the lower 48 of the U.S.  (Tongass Rainforest in SE Alaska is the largest temperate rainforest in U.S.)  Between Forks and Ruby Beach go east on the Upper Hoh Road to the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center.   The winding 45-minute road becomes quite scenic through the corridor of ancient, tall trees and viewpoints along the Hoh River.  Hoh is the name of the indigenous western Washington Indian tribe.  Once again, don’t rely on mobile phone coverage once you immerse yourself in the heart of Olympic National Park. 

    Arrive before 10 am or after 5 pm at the Hoh Visitors Center parking lot.  I got there at 4:30 with the parking lot opening up and found most of the crowds waning, especially after 6 pm in August.   The star attraction is the Hall of Mosses Trail, just .8 miles through mossy Old-growth rainforests, draped in lichen and carpeted with ferns.  Here is a grand opportunity for some Green Therapy.  There is a specific section in the trail for the Hall of Mosses.  A gothic and primeval setting among cathedral like trees, enswathed by moss and draped with lichen.  It’s a marvel and worth taking your time and walking more than once for the full majesty. 

    Additionally, the visitor center is the trailhead for other noteworthy trails, like the Spruce Nature Trail (1.25 miles) and Hoh River Trail to Mineral Creek Falls (2.5 miles).  Also, the visitor center offers naturalist walks, campfire programs and photographic opportunities.

    Overall, Olympic Coast Guide

    IMG_1652
    Ruby Beach

    This unique region offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to see both majestic ocean beaches and a temperate rainforest. There is not many places in the world where you can get the best of sea and trees. However, visiting the Olympic Coast of Washington requires planning and preparation to fully enjoy its tempestuous beauty.


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  • Washington State Travel Destinations

    Washington’s Spectacular Skagit Valley Tulip Festival Highlights

    by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac April 13, 2025
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    20 Amazing, Must-Do Hiking Trails in Washington State

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    A Fabulous Day at Sequim, WA’s Lavender Festival and Dungeness Spit

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    Mt. Rainier’s Awesome Grand Park Trail Guide via Lake Eleanor

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Hello, Hola, Namaste, Ni hao, Ciao and Bonjour! My name is Trudy and I have been traveling like everyday is my last, over the last 10 years. I've visited 105 countries and still counting! As an Acupuncturist and traveler, I love sharing my experiences and tips on travel and wellness. Feel free to join below my community for coupons and latest travel guides.

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Budapest is the crowning jewel of the Danube River Budapest is the crowning jewel of the Danube River. The city lights up the banks with historic treasures from its architecture, bridges and culture. Even more, Budapest is known as the “World’s Spa Capital,” offering 100 local thermal springs. The flow of the river takes you through time and the many layers of the Budapest Hungary top attractions.

During my 5-week tour in Central Europe and the Balkans, I experienced 5 days in Budapest. I visited all these 20 attractions in 5 days. All this time was needed to fully enjoy the sites. Budapest’s World Heritage Sites include the Buda Castle Quarter, Banks of Danube and Andrassy Avenue. I love sharing tips and recommendations. 

Pictures: Chain Bridge, Shoes on the Danube Monument, New York Cafe, Gellert Spa and Hotel, Central Market, Liberty Bridge, Matthias Fountain

Check out my blog on Budapest:
https://truewindhealingtravel.com/budapest-hungary-top-attractions/

#budapest
The Langkawi archipelago is a pristine paradise wi The Langkawi archipelago is a pristine paradise with a biodiversity of beauty. Its mountains, rainforests, mangroves and beaches are a nice refuge for travelers. Even more the islands offer amenities with its restaurants, hotels, spas and tourist destinations. 

The duty-free island and archipelago, Langkawi, lies in the Strait of Malacca. Overall, it consists of about 104 islands about 30 km off the coast of Malaysia. Inhabits live on only 4 of the islands. The name Langkawi has many interpretations. One of the most popular being reddish-brown eagle as a symbol of the islands. Mountains and forest-covered hills cover almost two-thirds of the islands. 

Check out my blog/video:
https://truewindhealingtravel.com/langkawi-malaysia-day-tour/

#langkawi #langkawiisland #langkawiisland🌴 #malaysia #malaysiatravel #southeastasia #southeastasiatravel #southeastasiacruise #cruise #beaches
The historic Split, Croatia is a treasure trove of The historic Split, Croatia is a treasure trove of history all in a compact area that’s easy to see in a day. Just a block over from the beautiful waterfront, you can easily explore afoot the World Heritage Site created from the Roman Emperor Diocletian. 

The Let Me Pass Street is a narrow street located alongside the Baptistery of St. John. 

Check out my blog/full video:
https://truewindhealingtravel.com/split-croatia-highlights-tour/
It is claimed to be the narrowest street in the world. With a width of about a meter in some places, the street is just a few meters long.

#splitcroatia #croatiatravel #croatia #cruise #europetravel #streetlife #streetphotgraphy #narrowstreets #travelblog
Historic Dubrovnik is known as the “Pearl of the Historic Dubrovnik is known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” It’s astounding scenery and architecture make for an incredible getaway to a cultural landmark in Croatia. As an Acupuncturist-at-Sea, I spent 2 days in this port-of-call and enjoy sharing the highlights of Dubrovnik’s Walled City Tour and Lovrijenac Fortress.

Check out my blog/video:
https://truewindhealingtravel.com/dubrovniks-walled-city-tour/

#dubrovnik #dubrovnikoldtown #croatiatravel #croatia #cruise #balkans #europetravels
The Bodrum peninsula is a gem on the Turkish Rivie The Bodrum peninsula is a gem on the Turkish Riviera. Among the sparkling turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea are superyachts, ancient historic landmarks, bazaars and a delicious culinary scene. I enjoyed my time spent here and love sharing tips on Bodrum Turkey travel highlights. So, read on to discover why you should visit this incredible destination. 

Formerly the Greek city of Halicarnassus, Bodrum is filled with history and was home to the Carians, the Greeks, Knights of St. John and Ottomans before becoming part of modern Turkey. It lies between 2 sheltered bays on southernmost tip of the Aegean coast. 

Check out my blog/video:
https://truewindhealingtravel.com/bodrum-turkey-travel-highlights/

#bodrum #turkeytravel #turkeytravels #mediterraneanlife #cruise #travelblog #bodrumturkey
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