Murdock Beach lies along the Strait of Juan de Fuca west of Port Angeles in the Shadow area of Clallam County, offering visitors a quieter coastal experience away from the busier downtown waterfront parks. This beach features a mix of sand, gravel, and smooth stones characteristic of Olympic Peninsula shorelines, with driftwood logs creating natural seating and windbreaks along the upper beach. Views across the strait extend to Vancouver Island's peaks on the Canadian side, with the distance creating stunning scenery on clear days when the mountains appear to rise directly from the water. The surrounding area maintains a more natural character with forested slopes meeting the shoreline, providing habitat for eagles, deer, and other wildlife. The strait's waters shift in color from deep blue to gray depending on weather and light conditions, while currents flow steadily past carrying nutrients that support rich marine ecosystems. Located along the scenic coastal corridor between Port Angeles and points west, the beach provides a peaceful stop for travelers exploring the Olympic Peninsula's northern shore. The relative remoteness compared to city beaches means fewer crowds and a more contemplative beach experience.
Beachcombing attracts visitors year-round, with tides depositing shells, interesting stones, agates, and driftwood pieces along the shoreline that shift with storms and seasonal patterns. Tide pooling during low tides reveals marine life including colorful sea stars, green anemones, hermit crabs, and various mollusks clinging to rocks at the beach margins. Wildlife watching rewards patient observers with bald eagle sightings as they hunt along the shore or perch in nearby trees, harbor seals swimming offshore or hauled out on rocks, and great blue herons stalking the shallows for small fish. Swimming is possible during calm summer conditions, though the Strait of Juan de Fuca waters remain cold throughout the year, rarely warming above 55 degrees Fahrenheit even in August, making wetsuits advisable for extended water contact. Kayaking and paddleboarding allow exploration of the nearshore environment, though paddlers must monitor conditions closely as the strait can develop dangerous winds, currents, and waves quickly without warning. Fishing from shore attracts anglers pursuing salmon during migration runs and various bottom fish species. Photography opportunities include mountain views across the strait, dramatic driftwood formations, wildlife, and the ever-changing moods of Pacific Northwest coastal weather. Picnicking on driftwood logs provides relaxing lunch spots with water views, though visitors should pack out all trash and respect the natural environment.
After exploring Murdock Beach, Port Angeles restaurants provide diverse dining showcasing Pacific Northwest ingredients. Kokopelli Grill in downtown serves upscale cuisine with waterfront views from the upstairs bar area, featuring locally caught seafood including the chef's award-winning 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 aioli, perfectly aged steaks, and the famous prickly pear salad dressing. Next Door Gastropub features fresh local ingredients in an extensive menu including gourmet burgers topped with caramelized onions and artisan cheeses, shareable appetizers like wings with creative sauces and loaded nachos, hearty sandwiches including pulled pork and grilled chicken, seasonal salads, full dinner entrees, and ten rotating craft beer taps plus a playful wine list. 48 Degrees North Restaurant offers exquisite waterfront dining with breakfast and dinner service, featuring stunning strait views alongside Pacific Northwest seafood specialties including fresh oysters, grilled salmon, and locally sourced produce prepared with seasonal creativity. The Port Angeles dining scene emphasizes superb fresh-caught seafood including Dungeness crab from nearby waters, oysters from Olympic Peninsula bays, and grilled salmon or halibut that showcase regional marine bounty.
