James Island Viewpoint

The James Island Viewpoint in La Push, Washington within the Quileute Reservation is an easy 0.2-mile out-and-back walk that features views of the surrounding islands and sea stacks like James Island, Gunsight Rock, and Little James Island.

Explore First Beach's Sea Stacks

This short walk begins at a large parking lot located at the southern end of River Drive in La Push. Once you leave your vehicle, you'll find spectacular views of the small islands that sit just west of the shoreline. From left to right, you'll find the large James Island with its lush forest sitting atop its bedrock, Gunsight Rock sitting in the middle with its massive dark cave, and Little James Island located on the right-hand side.

While you don't need to walk very far to enjoy the views of the islands right off the shore, you can take a walk down to First Beach to get a different perspective. If you follow the parking lot south, you'll find a makeshift path that leads down to First Beach where you'll find closer views of James Island to the west. To the southeast, you might notice more sea stacks on the horizon in the distance, assuming it's a clear day. These sea stacks are named from left to right with Crying Lady Rock located on the left and the Quillayute Needles on the right side.

You can choose to stick around and enjoy the beach and its views or walk back to parking for a short 0.2-mile out-and-back jaunt.

Parking

Visitors will find a massive parking lot at the coordinates provided, located at the southern end of River Drive in La Push. The parking lot, as of June 2025, mentions the need of a parking permit however, I did not find any information on how to obtain or pay for a permit. Please be aware of this restriction. If you plan to show up for a very-short period of time (less than 10 minutes) the parking permit may not be an issue.

Pets

Dogs are allowed only if leashed and must be cleaned up after. Note that dogs may not be allowed on First Beach, please check the signage for more details upon your visit.

Know Before You Go

The James Island Viewpoint in La Push, WA, is a short, easy 0.2-mile walk offering views of islands and sea stacks like James Island, Gunsight Rock, and Little James Island.
The viewpoint is accessible from a large parking lot at the southern end of River Drive in La Push, and a path leads down to First Beach for closer views of James Island and distant sea stacks.
Leashed dogs are allowed at the viewpoint, but parking permits may be required (details uncertain as of June 2025) and dog access to First Beach should be checked for restrictions upon arrival.