West Twin Beach takes its name from the West Twin River that flows into the Strait of Juan de Fuca at this location, paired with the nearby East Twin River to create the twin rivers that define this coastal area along Highway 112 west of Port Angeles. This beach sits at the mouth of the western river at mile marker 38, creating one of the area's most consistent surf breaks that draws wave riders from throughout the Pacific Northwest. The point break formed by the river mouth produces predominantly left-hand waves with Malibu characteristics including soft wave faces, forgiving drop-ins, long rippable walls, and the ability to handle big swells while remaining accessible to intermediate surfers. The beach features mixed sand and cobblestone typical of river mouth environments, with driftwood accumulations marking high tide lines and the river's fresh water mixing with salt water from the strait creating nutrient-rich conditions. Views extend across the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Vancouver Island's peaks on the Canadian horizon, providing dramatic backdrops when northwest swells arrive. Located within the Twin Rivers area which includes camping facilities and wildlife areas, the beach serves as basecamp for surfers seeking consistent winter waves and beachgoers exploring Washington's northern coast. The surrounding Twin Rivers Wildlife Area provides habitat for deer, elk, birds, and other species that thrive in the coastal ecosystem.
Surfing is the primary draw to West Twin Beach, with the left-hand point break offering some of Washington's most reliable waves when swells arrive from west to northwest directions. Winter months, particularly January, provide the most consistent clean conditions, though surfers can find rideable waves throughout the cold season. The forgiving nature of these waves makes the break ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers learning to navigate Pacific Northwest surf conditions, while still providing entertainment for experienced riders on bigger swell days. Full wetsuits with hoods, gloves, and booties are essential year-round as water temperatures rarely rise above 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Surf kayakers paddle out alongside board surfers when conditions align properly. Between surf sessions, beachcombing reveals shells, interesting stones, driftwood, and agates deposited by strait currents and weather patterns. Fishing at the river mouth attracts anglers pursuing salmon during migration runs, steelhead entering the river system, and various bottom fish species. Bird watching includes spotting bald eagles perched in riverside trees or hunting along the shore, osprey diving for fish, great blue herons, and various seabirds. Wildlife viewing extends into the surrounding Twin Rivers Wildlife Area with hiking trails providing access to forests where deer and elk browse. Mushroom foraging during appropriate seasons yields chanterelles and other edible fungi. Camping at Twin Rivers Campground allows multi-day stays for surfers timing optimal tidal conditions and swell windows. Photography captures surfers riding waves with mountain backdrops, river mouth dynamics, coastal scenery, and dramatic Pacific Northwest weather moods.
Port Angeles, approximately 30 miles east along scenic Highway 112, provides diverse dining after sessions at West Twin Beach. Kokopelli Grill delivers upscale Pacific Northwest cuisine with waterfront views from the upstairs bar area, featuring fresh local seafood including the chef's famous smoked salmon chowder with cream and herbs, grilled wild king salmon with seasonal vegetables, pan-seared halibut with lemon caper sauce, Dungeness crab cakes with house aioli, perfectly aged steaks grilled to order, and the signature prickly pear salad dressing. Next Door Gastropub showcases fresh local ingredients in an extensive menu including gourmet burgers topped with caramelized onions and artisan cheeses, shareable appetizers like wings tossed in creative sauces and loaded nachos with fresh toppings, hearty sandwiches, seasonal salads with house-made dressings, full dinner entrees, ten rotating craft beer taps, and a playful wine list. 48 Degrees North Restaurant offers exquisite waterfront dining with breakfast and dinner service featuring stunning strait views, Pacific Northwest seafood specialties including fresh oysters, grilled salmon with herb preparations, and seasonal menus highlighting locally sourced produce. The Port Angeles restaurant scene emphasizes superb fresh-caught seafood including Dungeness crab from nearby waters, oysters harvested from Olympic Peninsula bays, and grilled salmon or halibut that showcase the region's exceptional marine bounty.
