Twin River Surf Beach takes its name from the confluence of West Twin River and East Twin River where they meet and flow into the Strait of Juan de Fuca, creating the twin river mouth conditions that produce the area's distinctive surf breaks. Located at mile marker 38 on Highway 112 west of Port Angeles, this beach has become one of the most popular surfing destinations along Washington's northern coast, with the river mouths creating point breaks favored by surfers throughout the Pacific Northwest. The western river produces a left-hand Malibu-style break with soft waves, easy drop-ins, and long rippable walls that can handle big swells while remaining forgiving for intermediate surfers. The eastern river creates a right-hand break that typically runs smaller than the left but features more energy, faster breaking waves, and highly rippable faces that challenge experienced surfers. The beach sits within the broader Twin Rivers area which includes camping facilities, making it convenient for multi-day surf trips. The best swell direction comes from west to northwest, with winter months, particularly January, providing the most consistent clean waves. Views extend across the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Vancouver Island's mountains on the Canadian side, creating dramatic backdrops when swells arrive from Pacific storms.
Surfing dominates the activity scene at Twin River Surf Beach, with both point breaks offering excellent conditions when swells arrive from the proper direction and tidal conditions align favorably. The forgiving nature of the western break makes it ideal for beginners learning to surf in cold Pacific Northwest waters, while the more energetic eastern break attracts experienced surfers seeking rippable walls and faster sections. Full wetsuits with hoods, gloves, and booties are essential year-round as water temperatures rarely exceed 55 degrees Fahrenheit even in summer. Surf kayakers frequent the area when waves are running, paddling out to catch the same breaks as board surfers. The beach provides space for spectators to watch surfers tackle the waves while enjoying the scenic strait setting. Beachcombing between surf sessions reveals shells, driftwood, agates, and other materials deposited by tides and currents. Fishing from shore or the river mouths attracts anglers pursuing salmon during migration runs and various bottom fish species. Bird watching includes spotting bald eagles, osprey, herons, and seabirds that frequent the river mouths where nutrients concentrate. Hiking trails in the surrounding Twin Rivers Wildlife Area provide opportunities to explore beyond the beach with wildlife viewing for deer, birds, and other species. Mushroom foraging during appropriate seasons yields various edible fungi in the coastal forests. Camping at nearby Twin Rivers Campground allows surfers to camp close to the breaks and catch optimal tidal windows and swell conditions. Photography captures surfers riding waves with mountain backdrops, dramatic coastal scenery, and the interplay of rivers meeting ocean waters.
After surfing at Twin Rivers, Port Angeles offers excellent dining options approximately 30 miles east along Highway 112. Kokopelli Grill serves upscale Pacific Northwest cuisine in downtown with waterfront views from the upstairs bar, featuring locally caught seafood including the chef's award-winning smoked salmon chowder with cream and fresh herbs, grilled wild king salmon with seasonal vegetables, pan-seared halibut with lemon caper butter, Dungeness crab cakes with aioli, perfectly aged steaks, and the signature prickly pear salad dressing that has become legendary. 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 with fresh toppings, hearty sandwiches including pulled pork and grilled chicken, seasonal salads with house-made dressings, full dinner entrees, and ten rotating craft beer taps plus a diverse wine list. 48 Degrees North Restaurant provides exquisite waterfront dining ideal for every occasion, serving breakfast classics and dinner menus with stunning strait views, featuring Pacific Northwest seafood specialties including fresh oysters on the half shell, grilled salmon with herb butter, and locally sourced seasonal produce. 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 the region's rich marine bounty.
