Washington Coast Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Washington Coast
Photo provided by Resort at Port Ludlow/Olympic Peninsula Visitor Bureau
Photo provided by Resort at Port Ludlow/Olympic Peninsula Visitor Bureau
Rialto Beach which includes a pebble beach, general coastal views and landscape views
Photo provided by Resort at Port Ludlow/Olympic Peninsula Visitor Bureau

Miles of sandy beaches, lush rainforest valleys and ample recreational activities make this Washington region a well-loved destination for enjoying the great outdoors.

The Washington Coast encompasses an assortment of oceanfront towns and cities overlooking the deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. From quiet hidden inlets to popular sandy beaches, families, couples and solo visitors can find lots of places to get active or relax. Go whale watching in early spring, hike through temperate rainforests and climb up the steps of a historic lighthouse.

Head to the beaches of Ocean Shores for family-friendly activities such as sandcastle competitions and kite flying. In town, shop at quirky gift shops and play mini golf at the Pacific Paradise Family Fun Center. From Ocean Shores, take a trip to Olympic National Forest to explore majestic waterfalls and discover the Quinault Rainforest.

On the southwestern coast, experience the beauty of Long Beach, a city that takes full advantage of its coastal location. Climb up to the two working lighthouses, the peculiarly named Cape Disappointment and North Head. Explore the Discovery Trail dedicated to the early 19th-century Lewis and Clark expedition. Take part in an annual sand sculpture competition and browse the exhibits at the World Kite Museum.

For a quiet beach, head for the Marylyn Nelson County Park at Port Williams. Enjoy a picnic on the tables overlooking the shore, watch ships passing by and head out on your own boat via the dedicated boat launch. Kayaking and paddleboarding are available at Sequim Bay.

Marine wildlife abounds on Washington Coast. See the seasonal whale migration along Shipwreck Point Beach and discover tide pools filled with colorful anemones and starfishes. Seafood, naturally, is abundant with freshly caught razor clams and fried oysters featuring on many menus.

Many festivals are held during peak tourist season from June to September, so book ahead to ensure accommodations during these busy months. While the weather might not be prime for sitting on the beach in the winter, consider planning an off-season vacation to go skiing or snowboarding on Hurricane Ridge.

Visit Washington Coast to see prime examples of the beautiful, varied terrain of the Pacific Northwest.

Where to stay in Washington Coast

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Seabrook

If you're spending some time in Seabrook, Old Stump and Community Garden are top sights worth seeing.

Seabrook
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Mains Farm

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Mains Farm and surrounding area, you can visit Dungeness Spit and Olympic Game Farm.

Mains Farm
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Highland Hills

While Highland Hills may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Museum and Art Center and John Wayne Marina.

Highland Hills
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Bay Side

While visiting Bay Side, you might make a stop by sights like Weatherwax Trail and Ocean Shores Golf Course.

Bay Side
Ocean Shores showing tranquil scenes and a house

Downtown Ocean Shores

While visiting Downtown Ocean Shores, you might make a stop by sights like Pacific Paradise Family Fun Center and Playtime Family Fun.

Downtown Ocean Shores
Lighthouse Suites Inn

Lighthouse Suites Inn

2.5 out of 5
491 Damon Road, Ocean Shores, WA
The price is AU$152 per night from 2 Nov to 3 Nov
AU$152
2 Nov - 3 Nov
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this beach hotel in Ocean Shores. Enjoy free parking, a fitness center, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,759 reviews)
"Our 2nd floor king room was very clean, spacious, and quiet. The private balcony had a great view of the dunes and ocean. There was plenty of parking, with an easy walk to the beach."

Reviewed on 6 Oct 2025

Lighthouse Suites Inn
Olympic Inn & Suites

Olympic Inn & Suites

2 out of 5
1510 E Front Street, Port Angeles, WA
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Port Angeles. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
7/10 Good! (1,683 reviews)
"The park was closed because of govm't shutdown. The property was clean and comfortable."

Reviewed on 5 Oct 2025

Olympic Inn & Suites
Red Lion Hotel Port Angeles Harbor

Red Lion Hotel Port Angeles Harbor

3 out of 5
221 N Lincoln St, Port Angeles, WA
The price is AU$196 per night from 26 Oct to 27 Oct
AU$196
26 Oct - 27 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star beach hotel in Port Angeles. Enjoy free parking, an outdoor pool, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,451 reviews)
"Good hotel , nice location ..very good restaurant"

Reviewed on 8 Oct 2025

Red Lion Hotel Port Angeles Harbor
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Grey Gull

The Grey Gull

2 out of 5
651 Ocean Shores Blvd NW, Ocean Shores, WA
Book a stay at this beach aparthotel in Ocean Shores. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,160 reviews)
"Good"

Reviewed on 6 Oct 2025

The Grey Gull
Breakwater Resort

Breakwater Resort

3 out of 5
2013 Washington State Route 105, Grayland, WA
Stay at this 3-star beach condo in Grayland. Enjoy free parking, a beach locale, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Grayland Beach State Park and ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (33 reviews)
"First visit to the Tokeland but definitely not our last. The property is private, cozy and inviting. Room was comfortable and loved all the amenities."

Reviewed on 10 Oct 2025

Breakwater Resort
Sea Breeze Cottage - Pet Friendly, Walk to Beach!

Sea Breeze Cottage - Pet Friendly, Walk to Beach!

Ocean Shores
Stay at this cottage in Ocean Shores. Enjoy laundry facilities, patios, and cable/satellite TV service. Popular attractions Ocean Shores Beach and Pacific Paradise ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (155 reviews)
"Cute little cottage"

Reviewed on 11 Sept 2025

Sea Breeze Cottage - Pet Friendly, Walk to Beach!
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Cities near Washington Coast

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