Countryside Beach sits in Olympia in Thurston County along Eld Inlet, a picturesque half-mile stretch of fine beige sand nestled in a residential area providing unique blend of natural beauty and local charm. The beach name derives from its countryside residential setting removed from downtown Olympia's urban center, creating peaceful neighborhood beach atmosphere. Eld Inlet extends as the southernmost arm of Puget Sound reaching deep into Thurston County, with calm protected waters supporting shellfish beds, eelgrass meadows, and diverse marine ecosystems. Olympia developed as Washington's state capital on the southern terminus of Puget Sound where the Deschutes River enters Budd Inlet, with the city and surrounding Thurston County featuring extensive shoreline access along various Puget Sound inlets creating recreational opportunities for residents.
Swimming in Eld Inlet's calm waters attracts visitors during warm summer months when the protected inlet moderates wave action and waters warm compared to more exposed Puget Sound locations, creating suitable conditions for families and recreational swimmers. Sunbathing on the fine beige sand provides comfortable beach lounging during favorable weather with the half-mile stretch offering ample space for spreading towels and enjoying Pacific Northwest summer days. Picnicking utilizes the beach and adjacent areas with families bringing meals to enjoy while children play in the sand and shallow waters along the gently sloping shoreline. Kayaking and paddleboarding launch from the beach for exploration of Eld Inlet's protected waters with routes paddling along shorelines, exploring coves, and observing waterfront homes and natural areas characteristic of south Puget Sound inlets. Beachcombing along the sandy shoreline reveals smooth stones, shells from clams and other bivalves, beach glass, and driftwood deposited by tidal action. Wildlife watching includes great blue herons stalking shallow waters, bald eagles perching in shoreline trees, harbor seals occasionally appearing in the inlet, and diverse seabirds utilizing Eld Inlet's marine environment. Views capture stunning panoramas of Eld Inlet with forested shores, waterfront properties, and the Olympic Mountains visible to the west on clear days. The beach's residential location requires visitors to park along residential streets observing local parking regulations and respecting private property, as no designated parking lots serve the beach, with limited street parking potentially requiring patience during busy summer days.
Olympia dining offers diverse restaurant options throughout Washington's capital city near Countryside Beach. Waterfront restaurants along Budd Inlet and downtown Olympia provide seafood and Northwest cuisine with views of the working waterfront and Capitol building. Local establishments emphasize farm-to-table dining using ingredients from Thurston County farms and Puget Sound waters. Olympia Oyster House celebrates the region's famous Olympia oysters, the only oyster species native to Puget Sound. Brewery and pub options include Fish Tale Brew Pub and other craft beer destinations. Downtown Olympia features diverse ethnic cuisines, cafes, and fine dining establishments serving state government workers, students from Evergreen State College and Saint Martin's University, and residents throughout the south Puget Sound region.
