Scenic Beach sits at Scenic Beach State Park in Seabeck in Kitsap County along Hood Canal's eastern shore, providing one of the finest views of the Olympic Mountains rising from sea level to peaks of 4,000 to 7,000 feet across the water. The beach and park take their name from the scenic quality of the location with stunning clear-day views of Hood Canal and the Olympic Mountains creating picturesque waterfront landscape. The state park encompasses 88 to 121 acres with 1,500 feet of saltwater beachfront, developed as a camping park offering year-round recreational opportunities on Hood Canal's protected waters. The park features wild native rhododendrons creating spectacular displays typically peaking from late April through June, adding seasonal color to the forested park above the beach.
Swimming in Hood Canal's relatively calm and protected waters attracts families during summer months when the gradual beach slope and sandy areas create favorable conditions compared to more exposed Puget Sound beaches, though water temperatures remain cool requiring tolerance for Pacific Northwest marine conditions. Beachcombing along the 1,500 feet of shoreline reveals smooth stones, driftwood deposits, shells from Hood Canal's marine life including clams and oysters, and interesting finds deposited by tidal action. Fishing from shore and nearby areas yields bottom fish, salmon during appropriate seasons, and shellfish harvesting when regulations allow. Boating launches from Hood Canal with kayaking and paddleboarding popular activities exploring the canal's shoreline and paddling with views of the Olympic Mountains creating dramatic backdrop across the water. Wildlife watching includes bald eagles fishing Hood Canal and perching in park forests, harbor seals hauling out on beaches and rocks, great blue herons stalking shallow waters, and diverse seabirds including cormorants, gulls, and mergansers utilizing the productive canal ecosystem. The park offers approximately 50 campsites with 18 RV sites and one group camping site in wooded sections, with 25 sites available year-round and full 50-site capacity operating from April through October. Day-use amenities include one kitchen shelter with electricity, six sheltered picnic tables, and 60 unsheltered tables throughout the park providing facilities for gatherings and events. Hiking trails wind through forested areas showcasing the native rhododendron displays and providing elevated viewpoints above the beach and Hood Canal.
Kitsap Peninsula dining offers seafood restaurants near Scenic Beach State Park throughout the region. Anthony's at Sinclair Inlet sits at 20 Washington Avenue in Bremerton overlooking the Bremerton Marina with spectacular views of Sinclair Inlet, the Bremerton ferry, and Naval ships, serving delicious seafood in waterfront setting by the Bremerton-Seattle Ferry Terminal. The BoatShed serves local favorites and fresh seafood with great views for over 40 years on the Manette Waterfront in Bremerton. Sea J's Cafe prepares seafood and American fare with waterfront views in Seabeck near the state park. Anthony's HomePort in Silverdale features fresh Northwest seafood with local produce in waterfront setting overlooking Dyes Inlet. Hale's Ales Brewery and Pub offers craft beers and pub food in Silverdale.
