Third Beach in Neah Bay takes its name from the sequential designation system for beaches along Bayview Avenue on the Makah Reservation, where several beaches line the protected bay waters parallel to the main waterfront road through this indigenous community at the northwestern tip of the Olympic Peninsula. This bay beach sits along the Strait of Juan de Fuca rather than facing the wild Pacific Ocean directly, offering more protected conditions compared to the dramatic coastal beaches accessed from Cape Flattery and other western points on Makah tribal lands. The beach features typical Pacific Northwest bay characteristics with mixed sand and gravel shoreline, accumulated driftwood from storms and high tides, and views across Neah Bay toward the working marina and distant mountains. The Makah Tribe maintains this beach as part of their reservation lands, with water quality monitoring conducted to ensure safe recreation conditions. A Makah Recreation Pass is required for parking and beach access, costing 20 dollars per vehicle and remaining valid for the calendar year, with proceeds supporting tribal management of these public recreation areas. The location provides visitors a chance to experience Makah culture and the unique character of this remote corner of Washington state where indigenous traditions remain vibrant and the landscape meets the sea dramatically.
Beachcombing occupies many visitors as they explore the shoreline searching for shells, interesting stones shaped by wave action, driftwood pieces in sculptural forms, and the occasional prized Japanese glass float that drifts across the Pacific. Walking the beach offers gentle exercise combined with scenic bay views and opportunities to observe the working waterfront of Makah Marina where commercial fishing vessels prepare for Pacific voyages or return with salmon, halibut, and other catches. Bird watching rewards those who bring binoculars, with bald eagles frequently visible either perched in shoreline conifers or soaring overhead on thermal currents, great blue herons stalking fish in the shallows with patient precision, and various gull species, cormorants, and other seabirds that thrive in these nutrient-rich waters. Swimming is possible during calm summer days when weather cooperates, though water temperatures remain quite cold even in July and August, making wetsuits advisable for anything beyond brief wading at the shoreline. Fishing from shore can be productive depending on seasons and regulations, though visitors should research current Makah tribal fishing rules and respect indigenous fishing rights in these waters. Photography captures the essence of this remote community with marina scenes, bald eagles, mountain backdrops across the strait, and the constantly changing weather patterns that sweep through this northwest corner. The beach provides convenient access for those exploring nearby Makah attractions including the Makah Cultural and Research Center with its renowned collection of artifacts from the Ozette archaeological site, Cape Flattery Trail to the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States, and Shi Shi Beach requiring a rainforest hike with Makah permit.
Neah Bay offers satisfying dining options despite its remote location at the western edge of the Olympic Peninsula. Warm House Restaurant delivers American cuisine with waterfront location at 1471 Bayview Avenue, serving steaks grilled to guest preference, fresh seafood caught in Makah tribal waters including grilled salmon with herbs, pan-seared halibut, classic burgers with lettuce and tomato, and family-friendly dishes in a casual atmosphere overlooking the bay. Linda's Wood Fired Kitchen specializes in pizzas baked in traditional wood-fired ovens at 1110 Bayview Avenue, creating crispy crusts topped with pepperoni, Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, seafood combinations, and artisan cheese blends with sauce made from scratch. Calvin's Crab House combines coffee shop comfort with seafood specialties at 160 Bayview Avenue, featuring Dungeness crab caught fresh from local waters, beer-battered fish and chips with halibut or cod, creamy clam chowder loaded with clams, salmon preparations highlighting the Pacific catch, and other northwest coastal favorites. Bigginz Burgers Seafood serves classic burgers in multiple styles from simple cheeseburgers to loaded specialty versions, fresh seafood including grilled wild salmon and halibut, fish tacos with cabbage and salsa, and casual food truck-style service perfect for quick satisfying post-beach meals. Cedar Shack Espresso and Ice Cream provides espresso-based coffee drinks, drip coffee, hand-scooped ice cream in various flavors, frozen yogurt with toppings, and sweet treats ideal for families seeking dessert after waterfront exploration at 1260 Bayview Avenue.
