Makah Tribe 

Stewards of the sea, keepers of ancient traditions. 

Welcome 

Discover the unique heritage of the Makah Tribe and the awe-inspiring beauty of their ancestral homeland. From the historic artifacts of the Makah Museum to the breathtaking views at Cape Flattery, your visit promises a journey into the heart of this vibrant coastal community. Plan your adventure today! 

Community Introduction 

At the northwesternmost point of the continental United States lies the homeland of the Makah Tribe, a people whose identity is deeply intertwined with the ocean. For thousands of years, the Makah have thrived as skilled mariners, hunters, and artisans, living in harmony with the rugged beauty of Washington State’s Olympic Peninsula. Known as “Qʷidiččaʔa·tx̌” in their traditional language, the Makah are renowned for their ancient whaling practices and cedar craftsmanship. Their history is preserved through the centuries-old stories, songs, and carvings passed down through generations. The 1855 Treaty of Neah Bay recognized their sovereign fishing, whaling, and hunting rights, vital to their cultural survival. Today, the Makah Tribe continues to honor its heritage while embracing modern opportunities. 

A Breathtaking Landscape 

The Makah Reservation is located on the breathtaking Makah Peninsula, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Strait of Juan de Fuca. This coastal paradise features towering cliffs, pristine beaches, and dense rainforests, creating a dramatic and serene landscape. Cape Flattery, the northwesternmost point of the continental United States, offers unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean and the nearby Tatoosh Island. The area teems with wildlife, from sea otters and seals to migratory seabirds and gray whales, making it a haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike. 

Adventure Near the Reservation 

Explore the Makah Peninsula and its surroundings with these nearby attractions: 

• Cape Flattery Trail (6 miles): A short hike to a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking sea caves, the Pacific Ocean, and Tatoosh Island. 
• Shi Shi Beach (15 miles): Renowned for its stunning tide pools, sea stacks, and unforgettable sunsets. 
• Olympic National Park (35 miles): A UNESCO World Heritage Site offering diverse ecosystems, from temperate rainforests to alpine meadows. 
• Neah Bay Marina: Launch a fishing expedition or explore the rich waters surrounding the peninsula. 

Experience Makah Hospitality 

The Makah Tribe warmly invites visitors to engage with their culture and history through a range of immersive experiences: 

• Hobuck Beach Resort: Explore the beautiful beaches and stay in cabins with Pacific Ocean views or enjoy the RV and Camping spaces. 
• Makah Cultural and Research Center: Home to the Makah Museum, this center showcases artifacts from the ancient Ozette Village, preserved for over 500 years beneath a mudslide. Learn about the Tribe’s seafaring heritage, intricate carvings, and traditional whaling practices. 
• Annual Makah Days Celebration: Held each August, this three-day event features traditional canoe races, singing, dancing, and a grand parade, offering an authentic glimpse into the Tribe’s vibrant traditions. 
• Fishing and Whale Watching: Charter a boat and experience the rich marine life of the Pacific Northwest firsthand. 
• Local Artisans: Discover handcrafted items, such as basketry, carvings, and jewelry, created by Makah artists. 

Travel Essentials 

• Contact: For more information on cultural events, museum tours, and visitor activities, contact the Makah Tribe at (360) 645-2711 or visit their website at www.makah.com. 
• Transportation: The Makah Reservation is accessible by car via Highway 112, approximately 4.5 hours from Seattle. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is the nearest major airport. Ferry services from Port Townsend to Coupeville offer an alternate route for travelers.