You do need a permit to camp here- obtain from the ranger station in Port Angeles (in person, or call). The hike in is mellow- almost all pretty flat until the final descent to the beach. Pack in your water or bring a filter for the creeks in the area. The beach can be a bit of a mob scene- packed out with photographers and instagramers who seem more interested in getting a cool selfie than the actual stunning beach. To each his own, I guess. It is well worth braving the crowds and sleeping to the sound of the ocean and living with the cadence of the tides for a while. Low tide reveals incredible tide pools- be sure to check them out.