La Push on the Quileute Indian Reservation

Everything about La Push appears exceptional. At the Quileute Oceanside Resort we have first class
accommodations, an ocean view like no other, and a beach to roam with more driftwood than I’ve ever seen in one place. The best part is that we arrive in daylight and have time to enjoy it.

The view from our second floor balcony is like a painting out of someone’s imagination. The ocean here is shaped like a bay or large cove framed by large rock outcroppings on the left and right. A white sand beach makes up the shoreline where children play and adults roam around. At first glance the scene is what I can only describe as an eyeful. There’s almost too much to take in all at once.

Mark immediately discovers a large tree that will become his second home. Marc and I are joined by Aaron and we walk to the far right side and peer over the  embankment. On the other side is a small marina and Rialto Beach.

We have a sit down Chinese dinner in Forks and return to the hotel room in time to see the last remnants of the sunset. Marc watches from his tree. The next morning Marc and I rise early and go left as far as we can.

Something about the beach is confirmed. Not only can you make fires directly in the sand, but many sleep on the beach. The beauty is such that many people want to draw closer to the ocean and get immersed in it. They can’t tear away and trade a warm RV or hotel room for a driftwood shelter or tent. Their fires are still smoldering when Marc and I take our morning walk. On the left, the ocean beats against the tall rock cliffs. A tree line can be seen at the top of the ridge and there’s been significant landslides.

I wanted to mention that I nearly didn't stay here. I thought the person on the phone was less than helpful. I noticed a couple of Yelp reviews along those same lines. Then I did research and put things in perspective. La Push is an Indian Reservation. The Quileute run the hotel very well. But they are neither talkative or boisterous in their manners. By the time I call back and firm up my stay, the conversation goes much better. When we arrive and I get my room assignment, not a word is spoken. It's very friendly, but not a single word is spoken. When I check out, the girl is upbeat and talkative though just a bit reserved. Once I understood, I greatly appreciated their work and the effort they put out and I saw their service as exceptional.

La Push the seaside town is not impressive. There's really only one place to eat and we pass. It reminds me of what San Diego's Indian reservations looked like before casinos. Go for the resort, beach, and surf. It's still a fascinating place. To put things in further perspective, the coastline south and north of La Push is all part of the Olympic National Park. There is 73 miles of coastline belonging to the Olympic National Park, except for a little spot of land called La Push.

Quileute Oceanside Resort
330 Ocean Front Drive
La Push, WA 98350
(360) 374-5267
www.quileuteoceanside.com