The best anniversaries aren’t necessarily the most elaborate. Sometimes it’s a weekend with no plans beyond a good breakfast and a beautiful view. Other times, it’s finally taking that trip you’ve talked about for years. If you’re looking for anniversary getaway ideas that offer a little of both, Washington’s Olympic Peninsula is an excellent place to start.
For couples considering romantic getaways in Washington state, Sequim makes a wonderful home base. You can hike to a historic lighthouse, soak in natural mineral hot springs, take a ferry to Victoria for afternoon tea, or spend an entire weekend watching the water from a private cottage on Dungeness Bay.
Here at Juan de Fuca Cottages, we welcome couples celebrating everything from their first anniversary to their fiftieth. Our waterfront property has been family-owned for years, and we know how much thought goes into planning a special trip. These are ten of our favorite anniversary trip ideas, with suggestions for different milestones, interests, and seasons.
1. Book the Honeymoon Cottage and Barely Leave
A romantic anniversary getaway doesn’t need a packed itinerary. In fact, some couples come to Sequim specifically to spend a few days together without having to be anywhere at all.
Our Honeymoon Cottage is one of the most private accommodations on our seven-acre property. Located at the southern end of the grounds, it overlooks open fields toward the Olympic Mountains. Inside, there’s a king bed, an electric river-rock fireplace, and a jetted tub. The private deck is a lovely place to enjoy your morning coffee or watch the stars after dark.
The cottage is also pet-friendly, so you don’t have to leave your four-legged family member behind.
Ask us about romance packages, including special touches like champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries, and flowers. With breakfast brought to your door, you can spend the morning together before deciding whether you want to venture out.
Best for: First anniversaries, weekend escapes, and couples who would rather enjoy their time together than fill every hour with activities.
2. Light a Beach Fire on Dungeness Bay
There’s something particularly romantic about sitting beside a fire with the sound of waves in the background. At Juan de Fuca Cottages, our private beach overlooks Dungeness Bay, with views toward Dungeness Spit, the New Dungeness Lighthouse, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
On clear days, you can see the San Juan Islands and Vancouver Island’s mountains across the water. It’s a wonderful setting for an evening together, especially around sunset.
Ask us about arranging a beach fire and purchasing firewood. Bring a bottle of wine, a few snacks, and an extra blanket, and enjoy the evening without having to leave the property. Beach fires are subject to current fire restrictions.
If you’re interested in spending time on the water earlier in the day, consider kayaking or paddleboarding in Sequim. Dungeness Bay is home to harbor seals and numerous seabirds, although paddling conditions depend on wind, tides, and weather.
Of all our anniversary trip ideas, this one is particularly appealing because you can make the day as active or relaxing as you’d like.
Best for: Fifth and tenth anniversaries, couples who love the outdoors, and anyone who enjoys a waterfront sunset.
3. Walk Five Miles to a Lighthouse
If your idea of romance includes a little adventure, consider hiking to the New Dungeness Lighthouse.
The lighthouse has stood at the end of Dungeness Spit since 1857 and remains an active aid to navigation. Reaching it requires a substantial walk along one of the country’s longest natural sand spits.
The journey begins at the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge, where a forested trail leads down to the beach. From there, you’ll follow the designated shoreline route to the lighthouse. The entire hike is approximately 11 miles round trip, much of it over sand and gravel.
Check the Sequim tides before setting out. Low tide generally provides more walking room, and you’ll want to bring plenty of water, food, and suitable footwear. Lighthouse tours and tower access depend on current operating conditions.
For couples considering 10-year anniversary trip ideas, completing the lighthouse hike together makes a wonderful shared accomplishment. Reservations are competitive and often made well in advance.
Our guide to visiting the Dungeness Spit Lighthouse explains the hike, access options, and what to expect.
Best for: Tenth, twentieth, and twenty-fifth anniversaries, particularly for couples who enjoy hiking, history, and unusual places to visit.
4. Take the Ferry to Victoria for Afternoon Tea
An international getaway might sound ambitious for an anniversary weekend, but Victoria, British Columbia, is surprisingly accessible from Sequim.
Drive approximately 30 minutes west to Port Angeles, where the M.V. Coho ferry crosses the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Victoria’s Inner Harbour. The crossing takes about 90 minutes, and you’ll arrive within walking distance of downtown Victoria’s restaurants, shops, gardens, and historic architecture.
One of the city’s best-known traditions is afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress. The hotel has served afternoon tea since 1908, making it a fitting choice for an anniversary celebration. Reservations are recommended, particularly during summer and holiday weekends.
You could spend the afternoon exploring Victoria before returning to Sequim. Keep in mind that ferry schedules vary seasonally, and everyone crossing the international border needs the appropriate travel documents. A passport is generally the simplest choice.
Our Victoria to Port Angeles ferry guide has more information to help you plan.
If you’re researching 20th anniversary trip ideas or want to do something different for your twenty-fifth, a trip to Victoria offers history, excellent dining, and the fun of visiting another country.
Best for: Twentieth and twenty-fifth anniversaries, couples who enjoy historic cities, and anyone who appreciates a traditional afternoon tea.
5. Soak at Sol Duc Hot Springs, Then Dine at Lake Crescent
Few anniversary activities sound more appealing than spending an afternoon in natural mineral hot springs surrounded by the forests of Olympic National Park.
Sol Duc Hot Springs is located in the Sol Duc Valley, approximately 40 miles west of Port Angeles. The resort has mineral soaking pools with different temperatures, generally ranging from the upper 90s to around 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Pool access is offered in scheduled sessions, so check current availability before visiting.
If you’d like to add a short hike, the Sol Duc Falls Trail is approximately 1.6 miles round trip from the main trailhead. The waterfall is particularly impressive when rain and snowmelt increase the river’s flow.
On your way back toward Sequim, stop at historic Lake Crescent Lodge, which opened in 1916. Its dining room overlooks the lake, making it an appealing place for an anniversary dinner when the restaurant is operating.
Both Sol Duc Hot Springs and Lake Crescent Lodge have seasonal operations. Check the official Olympic National Park website and resort schedules before planning your visit.
For winter anniversaries, when the hot springs are generally closed, consider a day exploring the forests around Lake Crescent or visiting the Hoh Rain Forest instead.
Best for: Spring, summer, and fall anniversaries, particularly for couples celebrating their fifteenth or thirtieth year together.
6. Catch the Sunset from Hurricane Ridge
Hurricane Ridge offers some of the most impressive mountain scenery in Washington, and it’s only about 17 miles south of Port Angeles.
At an elevation of approximately 5,242 feet, the ridge provides panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains. On a clear summer evening, the changing light across the peaks is extraordinary.
Pack a picnic, bring warm clothing, and explore the overlooks and trails before sunset. Even during summer, temperatures at the ridge can be considerably cooler than in Sequim. Keep in mind that access depends on weather, road conditions, and park operations. The Hurricane Ridge Day Lodge was destroyed by fire in 2023, so visitor facilities remain more limited than they once were.
Winter visits require additional planning. Hurricane Ridge Road typically operates on a limited schedule during the snow season, and tire chains may be required. Check current Hurricane Ridge road conditions before leaving.
Our Hurricane Ridge guide has more information about visiting throughout the year.
Best for: Summer anniversaries, outdoor-loving couples, and anyone who wants spectacular mountain views without committing to a long hike.
7. Make a February Anniversary a Red Wine and Chocolate Weekend
If your anniversary falls in February, the Olympic Peninsula’s wineries offer a good excuse to plan a weekend around wine, chocolate, and a few excellent meals.
The region has a tradition of wine and chocolate events around Valentine’s Day, with participating wineries offering tastings and special activities. Dates, participating businesses, and event formats can change each year, so check the Olympic Peninsula Wineries website for current information.
Start in downtown Sequim, explore local tasting rooms, then head to Port Angeles or Port Townsend to visit additional wineries. Plan your route around the participating locations and arrange for a designated driver.
Afterward, enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants featured in our Sequim restaurant guide.
Return to your cottage for an evening by the fireplace. February is a lovely time to enjoy the Olympic Peninsula without the busier summer crowds.
Best for: Winter anniversaries, wine enthusiasts, and couples who enjoy planning a weekend around good food.
8. Time a Summer Anniversary to Lavender Season
Sequim is famous for its lavender farms, and July is generally the best month to see the fields in bloom.
The Sequim Lavender Festival traditionally takes place the third weekend of July, drawing visitors for farm tours, lavender products, demonstrations, and local vendors. Individual farms may also offer U-pick lavender, depending on their schedules and growing conditions.
Spend an afternoon visiting the farms, choosing lavender products, and enjoying the countryside before returning to our Sequim lodging. For a romantic stay, consider our Lavender Suite. This one-bedroom suite features water and mountain views, an electric fireplace, a spacious tiled shower, and a private hot tub overlooking Dungeness Bay.
Festival weekends are popular, so we recommend booking well in advance. If your anniversary falls earlier or later in July, you can often still enjoy the lavender fields without planning around the festival itself.
Our guide to Sequim lavender farms will help you decide which ones to visit.
Best for: July anniversaries, garden enthusiasts, and couples looking for a romantic summer weekend in Sequim.
9. Renew Your Vows on the Water
Some anniversaries deserve more than dinner and a weekend away. Renewing your vows can be a meaningful way to celebrate the life you’ve built together, especially after 25 or 40 years of marriage.
Imagine gathering a few close friends and family members beside Dungeness Bay, with the lighthouse in the distance and the Olympic Peninsula’s coastline as your backdrop.
Our waterfront property offers a beautiful setting for a small celebration. Contact us directly to discuss your plans, available spaces, and whether we can accommodate the type of gathering you have in mind.
Whether you’re planning a simple ceremony with just the two of you or a gathering with family, planning ahead helps ensure the arrangements suit the occasion.
For couples exploring 25th anniversary trip ideas, a vow renewal can turn a special weekend into a celebration involving the people who have been part of your marriage.
Best for: Twenty-fifth and fortieth anniversaries, milestone celebrations, and couples who want to include close family and friends.
10. Gather the Family for a 50th (or Give the Trip as the Gift)
A fiftieth wedding anniversary deserves a celebration, and for many couples, the best gift is time with family.
At Juan de Fuca Cottages, our Lavender Suite and the Hideaway connect to provide extra space for groups traveling together. The combined accommodations offer multiple bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen, fireplaces, and private hot tubs, with capacity for up to eight adults. For larger gatherings, our Sequim vacation rentals offer additional nearby accommodations.
Spend the weekend sharing meals, exploring the Olympic Peninsula, and enjoying the waterfront. Family members can plan their own daytime activities before gathering again in the evening.
If you’re looking for 50th anniversary trip ideas in the USA and aren’t sure when the couple can travel, consider giving them a Juan de Fuca Cottages gift certificate. That way, they can choose the dates and accommodations that work best for them.
Best for: Fiftieth anniversaries, multigenerational celebrations, and families who want to give a trip rather than a traditional anniversary gift.
Matching Anniversary Getaway Ideas to Your Milestone Year
Whether you’re celebrating one year or fifty, the right anniversary trip depends on what you enjoy doing together. Here are a few suggestions for choosing an activity and the best time to visit.
1st Anniversary: A Romantic Cottage Weekend
Book the Honeymoon Cottage, enjoy a beach fire, and spend a weekend exploring Dungeness Bay. This is an excellent year-round option, especially for couples who want a few days to themselves.
5th Anniversary: Beach Adventures and Mountain Views
Combine kayaking on Dungeness Bay with a sunset visit to Hurricane Ridge. Late spring through early fall generally offers the best opportunities for outdoor activities.
10th Anniversary: A Lighthouse Hike or Victoria Getaway
For couples researching 10-year anniversary trip ideas, consider hiking to the New Dungeness Lighthouse or taking the ferry to Victoria for afternoon tea. Plan the lighthouse hike around favorable weather and low tide, and make Victoria an excellent year-round destination when ferry schedules permit.
15th to 20th Anniversary: Hot Springs and Lakeside Dining
If you’re exploring 20th anniversary trip ideas, spend a day soaking at Sol Duc Hot Springs and enjoy dinner at Lake Crescent Lodge. Spring through fall is generally the best time to plan this combination, depending on seasonal operating dates.
25th Anniversary: A Vow Renewal or Lighthouse Keeper Stay
Among our favorite 25th anniversary trip ideas is renewing your vows beside Dungeness Bay. Another possibility is arranging a volunteer stay at the New Dungeness Lighthouse. Both require advance planning, especially the keeper program, which can book up years in advance.
30th to 40th Anniversary: Lavender Fields, Hot Springs, or a Vow Renewal
Spend a July weekend exploring Sequim’s lavender farms, enjoy the mineral pools at Sol Duc, or plan a small anniversary celebration overlooking the water. Lavender typically blooms during summer, while Sol Duc operates seasonally.
50th Anniversary: A Family Celebration on Dungeness Bay.
Reserve adjoining accommodations at Juan de Fuca Cottages and gather the family for a waterfront weekend. These are flexible, year-round options.
Plan Your Anniversary Getaway
Whatever anniversary you’re celebrating, we’d love to help you make it special. At our Sequim lodging, you can choose from private waterfront accommodations, romantic hot-tub suites, and comfortable cottages with mountain views. Enjoy breakfast delivered to your door in the morning, explore the Olympic Peninsula during the day, and return to the beach for a beautiful evening beside Dungeness Bay.
When you book directly with us, let us know what you’re celebrating. Ask about our romance packages, breakfast options, and beach amenities, and we’ll help you plan a weekend that suits the occasion.
For more inspiration, explore our guide to romantic Sequim lodging or browse our recommendations for things to do in Sequim. We look forward to welcoming you to Juan de Fuca Cottages for your next anniversary. Book your aniversary getaway today!
Anniversary Getaway FAQ
How many days do you need for an anniversary trip to the Olympic Peninsula?
We recommend three nights for most anniversary trips. That gives you time to enjoy the cottage and beach, spend a day exploring Olympic National Park, and plan another outing to Victoria, a local winery, or Sequim’s lavender farms. A two-night stay also works well if you focus on one major excursion.
When is the best time for an anniversary getaway on the Olympic Peninsula?
July through September generally brings the driest weather, making summer especially appealing for hiking, kayaking, and waterfront activities. Lavender typically blooms in June and July, while Sol Duc Hot Springs generally operates from spring through fall. Winter is an excellent choice for couples who enjoy fireplaces, hot tubs, and quieter weekends. Sequim’s location in the Olympic Mountains’ rain shadow means it receives considerably less precipitation than the peninsula’s western rainforests.
What are some anniversary trip ideas on a budget?
If you’re looking for anniversary trip ideas on a budget, consider a beach picnic, exploring downtown Sequim, or spending an afternoon watching wildlife along Dungeness Bay. Hiking to the New Dungeness Lighthouse requires a modest refuge entrance fee, while visiting Hurricane Ridge requires Olympic National Park admission. Choosing one of our Sequim cottages with a kitchen or kitchenette can also help you save on restaurant meals. Midweek and off-season stays may offer additional savings.
Which Juan de Fuca cottage is most romantic for an anniversary?
Our Honeymoon Cottage is a favorite for couples who want privacy, a king bed, a fireplace, and a jetted tub. The Lavender Suite and Hideaway offer private hot tubs overlooking Dungeness Bay. Another romantic choice is our Fireplace Room, which features a wood-burning fireplace, expansive water views, and a two-person jetted tub.
Where should we go for a 10-year anniversary trip in Washington state?
The Olympic Peninsula is one of our favorite destinations for a tenth anniversary. Stay in a waterfront cottage in Sequim, hike to the New Dungeness Lighthouse, or take the ferry to Victoria for afternoon tea. If you’re comparing anniversary trip ideas in the USA, Sequim is particularly appealing because you can combine mountains, beaches, historic attractions, and excellent restaurants without spending your entire vacation driving.