Penrose Point State Park — Sunday, Aug. 17, 2014

Olympic Peninsula > Kitsap Peninsula

This could be the best beach park in the state, especially when the weather is sunny and the tide is out like it was yesterday. Several families were also enjoying the park, but it wasn't so crowded that this was in any way problematic. This park has a number of nice picnic tables and well-maintained restroom facilities. The beach was so clean and gorgeous! It's rocky, though, so bring your water shoes. When the tide is out, there is a lagoon you can access- it feels like an exclusive resort beach. Well, except for the amazing sea life growing in the tidepools. We saw live sand dollars, tiny crabs, clusters of limpets, mussels, and clams, and tiny baby anemones. I spent a long time just marveling at the creatures, clearly visible once the water has a chance to settle. The hike portion of the trip was not strenuous, but there are a number of beautiful wooded trails with gentle hills. The dogs loved it, and so did we. Very refreshing walk in the woods. So, gorgeous views, nice trails, and stunning rocky beach. On a sunny day, you can't go wrong with Penrose Point State Park. I had been here once before when it was rainy, and though it was still beautiful, this is one where the sunshine helps a lot.