Chito Beach sits along the pristine Strait of Juan de Fuca on Washington's remote Olympic Peninsula, located 8 miles west of Clallam Bay and 26 miles north of Forks along scenic Highway 112. This peaceful beach forms part of Chito Beach Resort, a quiet getaway destination that has maintained its non-fishing resort character for decades, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries, and special occasions. The wide beach extends on both sides of the resort property, featuring a mix of sand, gravel, and smooth stones characteristic of Pacific Northwest shorelines. Views across the strait extend to Vancouver Island's mountains on the Canadian horizon, creating dramatic scenery especially during sunset when the peaks glow in alpenglow. The surrounding landscape combines rocky headlands, forested slopes, and the ever-changing moods of the strait waters. Eagles soar overhead while harbor seals, sea otters, and occasionally gray whales and orcas can be spotted in the waters offshore. The remote location on the eastern Olympic Peninsula provides access to nearby wilderness destinations including Cape Flattery, Shi Shi Beach, Rialto Beach, and the beach loop from Lake Ozette, making Chito Beach an ideal staging area for exploring the northwest coast.
Beachcombing is the primary activity at Chito Beach, with miles of shoreline revealing treasures ranging from Japanese glass fishing floats to interesting driftwood, agates, and shells deposited by Pacific storms and tides. Tide pooling during low tides exposes marine life including sea stars, anemones, crabs, and various mollusks clinging to rocky areas. Wildlife watching rewards patient observers with sightings of bald eagles fishing along the shore, river otters playing in the kelp beds, harbor seals hauled out on offshore rocks, and occasional whale spouts during migration seasons. Kayaking and paddleboarding allow exploration of the protected waters near shore, though the Strait of Juan de Fuca can develop dangerous conditions quickly so checking marine forecasts is essential. The resort provides fire pits, grills, and lawn game areas for guest entertainment, with bocce ball and horseshoes popular options. Swimming is possible during calm summer days, though the cold Pacific waters rarely exceed 55 degrees Fahrenheit, making wetsuits advisable for extended water contact. Photography opportunities abound with dramatic coastal scenery, wildlife, and constantly changing light conditions. Nearby hiking trails access old-growth rainforest, coastal headlands, and remote beaches requiring permits on the Makah Reservation. The peaceful atmosphere and lack of fishing activity creates a truly tranquil beach experience unlike busier Olympic Peninsula destinations.
Dining options near Chito Beach are limited due to the remote location, with the closest restaurants in Sekiu and Neah Bay. By the Bay Cafe in Sekiu serves American cuisine including comfort food favorites, small plates, seafood preparations, and quick bites, with both indoor and outdoor seating, children's menu options, and takeout services available for bringing meals back to the beach. Warm House Restaurant in Neah Bay offers American cuisine with steaks, fresh seafood from local waters, and traditional preparations served in a casual atmosphere at 1471 Bayview Avenue. Linda's Wood Fired Kitchen in Neah Bay specializes in pizzas with various toppings baked in wood-fired ovens, creating crispy crusts and flavorful combinations perfect for casual dining at 1110 Bayview Avenue. Calvin's Crab House in Neah Bay combines coffee shop atmosphere with fresh seafood including Dungeness crab caught in local waters, fish and chips, clam chowder, and other Pacific Northwest specialties at 160 Bayview Avenue. Bigginz Burgers Seafood in Neah Bay features burgers prepared with quality beef, fresh seafood options including halibut and salmon, and food truck-style casual service ideal for beachgoers seeking convenient meals.
