Fodor's Expert Review Fort Ward Park

On the southwest side of the island is this lovely and tranquil 137-acre park. There are two miles of hiking trails through forest, a long stretch of (sometimes) sun-drenched rocky beach, several picnic tables, a boat launch, and even an underwater park for scuba diving. Along with views of the water and the Olympic Mountains, you might be lucky and get a peek of Mt. Rainier—or of the massive sea lions that frequent the near-shore waters. A loop trail through the park is suitable for all ability levels, and will take you past vestiges of the park's previous life as a military installation.