We are touring around Olympic NP on August 5-7 and want to know where there would be an oppotunity to "get in the water." Any beaches where we can get in? We'll have 9 and 11 year-old kids with us. Any additional advice on things not to miss or to avoid would be great. Thanks

Ocean temperatures are cold year round. In August, the water temperature for the ONP beaches are usually in the upper 50s. It's fine for dipping your toes in, but too cold for actual swimming. Lake Crescent might be a better option.

Water temperatures in both the Strait of Juan de Fuca and at the ocean beaches are too cold for swimming. There are hardy soul who surf at some of the ocean beaches, but everyone wears a wetsuit.

There is one beach near Port Townsend (at Fort Worden, next to the pier)) where it is sometimes possible to swim safely and comfortably after high tide when the sun has warmed the shallow water. But that is likely out of your way for ONP.

Your best bet is Lake Crescent as suggested by 321go.

Thanks for your responses. We'll check on Lake Cresent.

What about Sol Duc hot springs? Do they still have the pool? That may be a fun experience for your kids, swimming in the pool filled by water from the springs.

They do! Here's a link that tells you the temps of the different pools and the hours etc:

http://www.olympicnationalparks.com/...t-springs.aspx

Thanks Toucan2,that looks really fun.