Copalis Refuge consists of a portion of 870 islands, rocks, and reefs extending for more than 100 miles along Washington's Pacific coast from Cape Flattery to Copalis Beach. These islands are protected from human disturbance, yet are close to abundant ocean food sources.

They are a vital sanctuary where 14 species of seabirds nest and raise their young. During migration the total populations of seabirds, waterfowl, and shorebirds may exceed a million birds. Sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, and whales may also be seen around the islands. Most of the coastal islands are designated as wilderness.

Located over 100 miles of Washington's Pacific coast from Flattery Rocks south to Copalis Beach. Because of the fragile and remote nature of the Refuge all the islands are closed to human disturbance. A 200-yard buffer zone surrounds each island to protect the wildlife. However the Refuges and their inhabitants may be viewed with binoculars or spotting scopes from several beaches along the coast, including Shi Shi, Cape Alava, Rialto, Second, Ruby, and Kalaloch. These islands are closed to the public in order to protect seabird nesting sites. Islands can be viewed from coastal highway or ocean beaches.