The Juan de Fuca Marine Trail takes hikers along a narrow strip of coastal wilderness parallel to Highway 14. Starting at China Beach, the marine trail runs some 29 miles northwest along the shore of the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Botanical Beach, just south of Port Renfrew. Blessed with sandy beaches, rocky bluffs, ample wildlife, and some outstanding tide pools, the shoreline is largely wild. The forest behind the shore features some old-growth and some older second-growth.

Experienced and fit backpackers with plenty of time can hike the entire trail, but they must deal with bears, tides, unpredictable weather, and sometimes tricky creek crossings. For an abbreviated challenge, try a long day hike over a section of the main trail.

The highlights of the marine trail, Botanical Beach and Botany Bay, lie near its northern end. Drive several miles south of Port Renfrew on a gravel road to the trailheads. For a fine loop, take the trail down to Botany Bay, turn southeast along the shore to Botanical Beach, then go back to the parking lot on the Botanical Beach Trail. You could complete this easy loop in an hour, but allot some extra time for lingering.