Bird Watching in Sequim
Tucked into the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains, Sequim is one of the Pacific Northwest’s best-kept secrets for birdwatching. With its mix of coastal shoreline, wetlands, forests, and farmland, this small town offers a remarkable diversity of habitats—and birds to match.
Why Sequim Is So Special for Birding
The Olympic Peninsula is home to 300+ bird species, making it one of the richest birding regions in the state. What makes Sequim stand out is how easily accessible these habitats are. Within a short drive—or even a single morning—you can explore saltwater bays, river deltas, and forested trails.
Even better, birding here is a year-round activity. Winter brings trumpeter swans, massive flocks of ducks and seabirds, while spring and fall migrations introduce an ever-changing cast of species.
Top Birdwatching Spots in Sequim
1. Dungeness Spit & National Wildlife Refuge
One of the most iconic birding destinations in Washington, Dungeness Spit stretches into the Strait of Juan de Fuca and hosts over 250 bird species.
Expect to see:
- Shorebirds like sandpipers and plovers
- Waterfowl such as brant and bufflehead
- Raptors, including bald eagles
It’s especially magical during migration, when thousands of birds stop to rest and feed.
2. Dungeness River Nature Center & Railroad Bridge Park
At Dungeness River Nature Center, beginners and experienced birders alike can enjoy guided walks, educational programs, and easy access to riparian habitats.
This area is perfect for spotting:
- Songbirds in the trees
- Woodpeckers and warblers
- Seasonal visitors along the river
3. Sequim Bay State Park
Sequim Bay State Park offers calm waters and forest edges that attract a wide variety of birds.
Keep an eye out for:
- American wigeons and other ducks
- Arctic terns during migration
- Forest birds like sapsuckers and jays
4. John Wayne Marina & Dungeness Bay
Coastal viewpoints like John Wayne Marina are excellent for scanning open water, especially during changing tides.
You might spot:
- Cormorants and murres
- Gulls and loons
- Occasional puffins offshore
Birds You Might See
Sequim’s diversity means you never know what you’ll encounter, but common highlights include:
- Bald eagles and peregrine falcons
- Great blue herons and belted kingfishers
- Ducks like northern shovelers and green-winged teal
- Forest species such as Steller’s jays and Pacific wrens
Each season brings something new, making repeat visits just as exciting as the first.
A Community Built Around Birding
Birdwatching isn’t just a pastime in Sequim—it’s part of the local culture. Events like the annual Olympic BirdFest draw enthusiasts from across the country. Timed with spring migration, the festival offers guided field trips, workshops, and opportunities to explore multiple ecosystems in just a few days.
Tips for a Great Birdwatching Experience
- Bring binoculars: Essential for spotting distant shorebirds
- Check the tides: Coastal bird activity changes dramatically with water levels
- Go early or late: Dawn and dusk are peak activity times
- Dress for the weather: Coastal breezes can be chilly, even on sunny days
Final Thoughts
Birdwatching in Sequim is more than a hobby—it’s a way to connect with a landscape where mountains, sea, and sky converge. Whether you’re scanning the horizon for seabirds or listening for songbirds along a quiet trail, Sequim offers a peaceful, ever-changing window into the natural world.
If you’re looking for a place where birding feels both accessible and extraordinary, Sequim might just become your new favorite destination.