Live Webcam Cedars at Dungeness, Sequim, Washington (2024)

Sequim is a city located in Clallam County, Washington, United States. It is situated on the Olympic Peninsula, approximately 66 miles northwest of Seattle. Sequim has a rich history that dates back thousands of years.

Before European settlement, the area now known as Sequim was inhabited by the S'Klallam tribe, who lived along the shores of the Salish Sea. They relied on fishing, hunting, and gathering for their sustenance and had a complex social structure.

The first recorded European contact in the area occurred in the late 18th century when Spanish explorers, led by Juan Francisco de la Bodega y Quadra, mapped the coastline. In the early 19th century, British and American explorers arrived, including George Vancouver and Charles Wilkes.

In the mid-1800s, settlers began to arrive in the region, attracted by the fertile land and abundant natural resources. Sequim became known for its rich farmland, particularly its "blue hole" or rain shadow effect, which creates a drier climate compared to the surrounding areas. This unique climate made Sequim suitable for agriculture, especially for cultivating crops such as lavender.

The city of Sequim was officially incorporated in 1913. In the early years, the community relied on farming, logging, and the railroad for economic growth. The first railroad line, the Seattle and Walla Walla Railroad, reached Sequim in 1896, connecting the town to other parts of the region.

Over time, the economy diversified, and industries such as timber, dairy farming, and poultry farming flourished. The Sequim-Dungeness Valley became known for its high-quality dairy products, and the area's agricultural success continued to grow.

In the 20th century, Sequim became a popular destination for retirees and those seeking a more relaxed lifestyle. Its mild climate, scenic beauty, and proximity to outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating attracted many newcomers. Today, Sequim is known as a retirement community and a hub for outdoor enthusiasts.

Sequim has also become famous for its annual Lavender Festival, which celebrates the region's lavender farms. The festival attracts visitors from around the world and showcases Sequim's role as the "Lavender Capital of North America."

In recent years, Sequim has experienced significant population growth and development, with new residential and commercial projects transforming the city. Despite these changes, the community continues to embrace its agricultural heritage and the natural beauty that surrounds it.

Overall, Sequim's history is rooted in its Native American heritage, agricultural legacy, and the unique climate that has shaped its development. It remains a vibrant and picturesque city on the Olympic Peninsula, offering a blend of natural wonders and small-town charm.

Top Tourist Attractions

Sequim offers a variety of tourist attractions that highlight the city's natural beauty, agricultural heritage, and vibrant community. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Sequim:

• Olympic National Park: Located just a short drive from Sequim, Olympic National Park is a must-visit destination. It encompasses diverse ecosystems, including mountains, rainforests, and coastal areas. Hiking trails, breathtaking viewpoints, and opportunities for wildlife viewing make it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge: Situated on the Dungeness Spit, this wildlife refuge is home to a diverse range of bird species, marine life, and other wildlife. Visitors can hike along the sandy spit, explore the tide pools, and enjoy birdwatching opportunities. The historic Dungeness Lighthouse is also located within the refuge.
• Lavender Farms: Sequim is renowned as the "Lavender Capital of North America" due to its thriving lavender industry. Several lavender farms offer tours, allowing visitors to wander through fragrant fields, learn about the cultivation and distillation of lavender, and purchase lavender products.
• Sequim Museum & Arts: This local museum showcases the history and culture of Sequim and the surrounding area. It features exhibits on the Native American heritage, early settlers, the agricultural industry, and more. The museum also hosts rotating art exhibitions, highlighting the talent of local artists.
• Railroad Bridge Park: Located along the Olympic Discovery Trail, Railroad Bridge Park offers scenic trails, picnic areas, and a historic railroad bridge. Visitors can learn about the area's railroad history and enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride through the park's beautiful surroundings.
• Sequim Bay State Park: This waterfront park is a popular spot for camping, boating, kayaking, and beachcombing. It offers stunning views of Sequim Bay, a boat launch, hiking trails, and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
• Sequim Farmers Market: If you're visiting Sequim during the spring and summer months, make sure to check out the Sequim Farmers Market. Held on Saturdays, it features a wide array of locally grown produce, artisanal goods, crafts, and live music.
• John Wayne Marina: Named after the iconic actor John Wayne, who had a strong connection to Sequim, this marina offers picturesque views of Sequim Bay. Visitors can take a stroll along the marina, enjoy a meal at the waterfront restaurant, or embark on a boating adventure.

These are just a few of the top tourist attractions in Sequim, Washington. The city's natural beauty, agricultural heritage, and community spirit create a welcoming and memorable experience for visitors.

Climate

Sequim has a unique climate that is often referred to as a "blue hole" or rain shadow effect. Here are some details about the climate in Sequim:

• Mild and Dry Summers: Summers in Sequim are generally mild and dry. The average high temperatures range from the upper 60s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit (20-24 degrees Celsius). It is a relatively dry season, with lower precipitation compared to other parts of western Washington.
• Cool and Wet Winters: Winters in Sequim are cool and wet but milder compared to many other regions in Washington. The average high temperatures range from the mid-40s to the low 50s Fahrenheit (7-10 degrees Celsius). Rainfall is more frequent during this season, with the majority of precipitation occurring as rain rather than snow.
• Rain Shadow Effect: Sequim's unique climate is due to its location in the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains. The mountains act as a barrier, causing moist air masses from the Pacific Ocean to release much of their precipitation on the windward side of the mountains. As a result, Sequim and the surrounding area receive significantly less rainfall compared to other coastal areas in Washington.
• Annual Rainfall: Sequim receives an average annual rainfall of around 17 inches (430 millimeters), which is considerably lower than the coastal regions of western Washington. This drier climate makes Sequim suitable for agriculture and contributes to the success of lavender farming in the area.
• Sunlight and Clear Skies: Sequim is known for its relatively sunny and clear skies, especially during the summer months. It receives more sunshine hours compared to the western part of Washington, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a milder and sunnier climate.

It's important to note that while Sequim has a drier climate compared to other areas in the region, it still experiences some rainfall throughout the year. It's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before planning outdoor activities in any season.

Geography

• Location: Sequim is situated in the northwest part of Washington state, approximately 66 miles (106 kilometers) northwest of Seattle. It is nestled between the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the north and the Olympic Mountains to the south.
• Olympic Peninsula: Sequim is part of the Olympic Peninsula, a large landmass known for its diverse geography. The peninsula is characterized by mountains, forests, rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. It is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the north.
• Rain Shadow Effect: Sequim is located in a rain shadow, which is created by the Olympic Mountains. The mountains block much of the moisture carried by prevailing winds from the Pacific Ocean, resulting in lower rainfall in the Sequim area compared to the western slopes of the Olympic Mountains.
• Dungeness Spit: To the northeast of Sequim, you'll find the Dungeness Spit, a long and narrow sand spit that stretches into the Strait of Juan de Fuca. It is one of the longest natural sand spits in the United States, extending approximately 5.5 miles (8.9 kilometers) into the water. The Dungeness Spit is a designated national wildlife refuge and offers opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and beachcombing.
• Dungeness River: The Dungeness River flows through Sequim, originating in the Olympic Mountains and emptying into the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The river is known for its salmon runs, offering opportunities for fishing and wildlife observation.
• Agricultural Land: Sequim is surrounded by fertile agricultural land, particularly in the Sequim-Dungeness Valley. The valley's soils and climate make it suitable for farming, and it is known for its lavender farms, berry farms, dairy farms, and other agricultural enterprises.
• Mountain Views: Sequim is nestled between the Olympic Mountains to the south, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks. The mountains provide a scenic backdrop and also offer opportunities for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.

The geography of Sequim combines stunning natural landscapes, from mountains to coastlines, with fertile agricultural areas. The rain shadow effect contributes to a drier climate compared to neighboring regions, making it a unique and appealing destination on the Olympic Peninsula.