Join Harbor WildWatch for a fun and educational public beach walk program on the stunning shorelines of the Salish Sea. Our knowledgeable and friendly biologists and volunteer naturalists will guide you through a hands-on exploration of the intertidal zone, where you will discover the incredible diversity of marine life that calls our local waters home.
During the program, you’ll learn good beach etiquette and get the chance to touch and examine creatures such as sea stars, crabs, and sea anemones, while learning about their unique adaptations and behaviors. You’ll also hear about the challenges facing our ocean ecosystems, and what you can do to help protect them.
This beach walk program is suitable for all ages and skill levels, and is perfect for families, school groups, or anyone with an interest in the natural world. Whether you’re a seasoned beachcomber or a first-time visitor, Harbor WildWatch’s beach walk program is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and complexity of our local marine environment.
Our programs run in all weather, so please dress appropriately. We recommend closed-toe shoes for safety, rain boots, water shoes, or an old pair of sneakers you don’t mind getting a little wet and muddy. Bring a water bottle, sunscreen, layers, and a snack if you think you will need it. Each beach walk will last approximately 60-90 minutes but you are welcome to peel off at any time before the beach walk concludes. Harbor WildWatch programs are always free, but a suggested donation of $2 per person or $5 family is appreciated.

Tolmie State Park:
Discover Pass Required: $30 per year or $10 per day, available online at https://discoverpass.wa.gov/ or at pay stations at the park. 
Getting to the Beach: We will meet at the picnic tables in the lower parking area at the scheduled time. There are a couple options for parking which include the angle in parking at the lower lot. If you park in the upper lot, take the beach access trail with stairs which is to the left of the bathrooms – the trail to the right is a steep paved path that will lead you directly to the beach but not to our meeting location. When you arrive, look for Harbor WildWatch staff and volunteers wearing blue. If you arrive late, find us on the beach! 
Terrain: Getting from the parking area to the beach can be difficult if you parked in the upper lot – the trails are steep albeit short. Beach access is easiest from the lower parking lot where the terrain transitions in a gentle slope from paved to gravel. This is a low sloped beach with primarily gravel, cobble, and sand with very occasional boulders. There is a seep on most of the exposed beach which makes for lots of puddling – prepare to get your feet wet for this beach walk.
 Restroom: Yes – in upper lot. 
Drinking Water: Yes 
Address: 77360 61st Ave Olympia, WA 98506