Even in “Sunny Sequim” the rain does fall, and the area proves rainy days can be some of the best days. Sitting in the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains—the famous “Blue Hole”—Sequim enjoys a sunnier, drier climate than much of Western Washington. There are only 16 inches or so of annual precipitation. When drizzle arrives, lean in to it: the unique light, reflections, and petrichor, or earthy scent, make for memorable experiences indoors and out to embrace the rain in Sequim.
Rainy Day Hikes and Waterside Views
Dungeness Spit, New Dungeness Lighthouse, and Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge
Stretching 5.5 miles into the Strait of Juan de Fuca, the Dungeness Spit is the longest natural sand spit in the nation. Driftwood, shorebirds, and sweeping views make this a classic “rain hike.” Plan for low tide, check conditions, and respect protected habitat as you walk to the historic lighthouse.
Sequim Bay State Park and the Olympic Discovery Trail (ODT)
Follow a fern-framed mile loop and connect to the ODT, a 135-mile trail network spanning the Olympic Peninsula. Sequim Bay State Park offers campgrounds, sports courts, a marina/boat launch, and tranquil Sequim Bay vistas. It’s an ideal place to be when raindrops patter on the canopy.
John Wayne Marina and Port Williams Beach
Prefer restful water views from the comfort of your car? Park at John Wayne Marina or at the water’s edge at Port Williams Beach. Watch sailboats and sea life as rainwater dimples Sequim Bay.
Olympic Game Farm
Stay dry on a family-friendly drive-through Olympic Game Farm to view resident animals year-round. Summer walking tours are also available. You will see bison, Roosevelt elk, zebra, prairie dog, llama, yak, deer, wild cats, coyote, emu, and the famous waving bears.
Cozy Indoor Locales for Rainy Day Explorers
If you prefer the comfort of indoors on a rainy day, Sequim has plenty of options.
Sequim Library (North Olympic Library System)
A brand new Sequim Library facility featuring expansive windows with Olympic Mountain views, an outdoor stage for concerts, and storytelling is expected to open in early 2026. The library is a welcoming community hub with free technology, media, and programs. Some services continue at a temporary location during construction.
Olympic Theatre Arts
Olympic Theatre Arts, offering the best of community theatre since 1980, is located in a fully renovated venue with a historic Gathering Hall and a 160-seat Main Stage. The 2026 season spans fairytales, comedies, dramas, and musicals. It’s perfect for a cozy rainy day.
Sequim Museum & Arts
Learn about Sequim history and culture by perusing admission-free exhibits that are rotated regularly in Sequim Museum & Arts. Don’t miss the Manis Mastodon, Journey Through Time, and The Boys in the Boat display honoring Sequim’s Olympic gold medalist Joe Rantz. Local and visiting artists showcase media from driftwood sculpture and glass to painting and photography.
Railroad Bridge Park, Dungeness River Nature Center, and the ODT
Cross the historic railroad trestle bridge on the ODT then step indoors into Dungeness River Nature Center to explore watershed exhibits, a wildlife viewing room with binoculars, and a rain garden overlook. Warm up with treats from Hurricane Coffee at The River and browse the nature-focused gift shop.
Jamestown S’Klallam Heron Hall Library and Northwest Native Expressions Art Gallery (Blyn)
Open to the public, the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe’s expanded Heron Hall Library, opened in 2024, features cultural exhibits, a small theater, and modern learning spaces. Next door, the Northwest Native Expressions Art Gallery offers Native art, books, and gifts from Pacific Northwest artists.
Blue Whole Gallery
Over 25 local artists at this artist cooperative Blue Whole Gallery display oil, acrylic, watercolor, photography, ceramics, glass, wood, jewelry, and more—named for Sequim’s signature “blue hole.”
Rain or Shine Events
Sequim Sunshine Festival
Celebrate the coming of spring at the 7th annual Sequim Sunshine Festival on Saturday, March 7, with the Sun Fun Color Run (1K/5K), Sunshine Market, drone show, live music, a talent competition, art, food and drink, light exhibits, and more. We can’t guarantee the sun will shine, but we can guarantee fun for all ages!
First Friday Art Walk
First Friday Art Walk is a self-guided downtown tour on the first Friday each month from 5 – 8 pm, rain or shine, featuring special exhibits, live music, and pop-up events.
Where to Eat and Warm Up
From cozy cafés to destination dining, you’ll find plenty of places to refuel between showers, sprinkles, and sun breaks.
Embrace the rain—whether you’re hiking the Dungeness Spit under a gentle sprinkle, listening to the patter of raindrops on Sequim Bay, or exploring art and culture indoors—in Sequim, even rainy days shine.
By guest blogger Patsene Dashiell, City of Sequim Marketing Coordinator
Ready for your next adventure? Explore upcoming Olympic Peninsula events.
