From horseback riding to kite flying, there are many things to do in Long Beach, WA. Pack your bags and get ready for fun-filled adventures in this idyllic part of Washington State.
Any mention of Long Beach Peninsula conjures memories of family seaside vacations and bonfire weekend getaways. A trip to the southwestern-most corner of Washington State takes you through lush forests and wetlands to historic towns. The narrow, vertical peninsula extends into the Pacific across the border from Oregon. Known for windswept beaches and colorful kites, it comes to life in the spring and summer with the swell of the crowds. Get sand between your toes and sea salt air in your hair with these things to do in Long Beach, WA.
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A brief overview of Long Beach Peninsula
The Long Beach Peninsula is a stretch of land on the southern coast of Washington State. It spans 43 square miles and is located entirely within Pacific County. The forest-covered Willapa Hills run north to south through its entirety, as do several waterways that flow out to the mighty ocean. The Columbia River forms the southern boundary while the shores of the Pacific and Willapa Bay define its western border.
A beloved summer destination, there are many things to do in Long Beach, WA. It is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with recreational opportunities ranging from beach combing and kite flying, to fishing and kayaking. As the longest contiguous, drivable beach in the United States, Long Beach Peninsula extends for 28 miles into the Pacific with an approximate width of 1.5 miles. Its immersive landscape is shaped by grassy dunes, basalt cliffs, cranberry bogs, and old-growth forests. With six state parks and a scenic coastline, the Peninsula is ripe for exploration.
Located about 146 miles from Seattle and 108 miles from Portland, the Peninsula includes several towns and cities, including Chinook, Ilwaco, Long Beach, Nahcotta, Ocean Park, Oysterville, and Seaview. The nearest major airport is Portland International, which is approximately 120 miles away.
More than a stretch of sand
Perhaps the best known local landmark in the Peninsula is the white arch proclaiming the “World’s Longest Beach” above Bolstad Way. And while the beach is certainly a defining feature of the Peninsula, there’s more to this place than a long stretch of sand on the Washington Coast.
The area is prized for its plentiful seafood harvest. Its natural bounty includes Dungeness crab, salmon, sturgeon, halibut, and littleneck and razor clam. The briny Willapa Bay oysters are a crowd favorite and are served fresh, fried, smoked, and barbecued in many local restaurants. It is estimated that half the oysters harvested in Washington State are sourced from Willapa Bay.
The Peninsula’s historic fishing and oyster farming towns have stood since the turn of the century and have welcomed numerous visitors in search of a peaceful seaside community. To the right of the coastline is the City of Long Beach, which is dotted with 1930s beach bungalows, pastel storefronts, and mom-and-pop eateries serving fantastic clam chowder and artisanal ice cream. There are seven public beach access points within the city limits, making it a popular spot for vacationers.
In addition to outdoor recreation, there are several cultural attractions in the city, such as the World Kite Museum & Hall of Fame, Marsh’s Free Museum, and the Cranberry Museum & Gift Shop. These museums offer a rare glimpse into the agricultural roots and Native American heritage of the Peninsula.
A short history of Long Beach Peninsula
Founded by postmaster Henry Harrison “H.H” Tinker in 1880 and incorporated in 1922, Long Beach was a summer retreat for wealthy Portland residents, who came to town by stage coach and sternwheelers before the rail was built.
The area was home to the Chinook before American explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark navigated the Lower Columbia River in 1805. The arrival of settlers in the 1850s spurred growth and development. Fort Canby was built in 1852 and Cape Disappointment Lighthouse was built in 1856.
Long Beach earned the nickname “Iowa By the Sea” for the influx of visitors and new residents from the Hawkeye State and the Midwest region. The migration began in the late 1920s and continued well into the 1950s. Annual picnics for migrants were a huge event in the city until the 1960s.
More recently, in 2018, The Washington Post named Long Beach “The city with the most nice days per year in America”, beating out major cities like San Diego and Los Angeles with 210 days of amazing weather per year.
THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN LONG BEACH, WA
From outdoor attractions to historic sites, there’s something for everyone in the Peninsula:
Long Beach & Boardwalk
Long Beach lies at the confluence of the Columbia River and the Pacific on Washington’s southwestern coast. The beach is open to the public and offers an array of activities. Visitors spend their days strolling along the beach, digging for clams, and flying kites. Horseback riding and beach driving are allowed in the many areas of the beach. The sunny weather and pleasant temperatures allow for plenty of outdoor fun.
When it comes to the water, guests can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and surfing. The water is usually several degrees colder than the air, according to weather sources. Swimming is generally not recommended except for experienced swimmers – the currents are strong and surfers are advised to wear a wetsuit.
The Long Beach Boardwalk meanders through grass-covered dunes for half a mile along the beach. It offers sweeping views of the open ocean between the Bolstad and Sid Snyder beach approach. Interpretive displays and installation art like the gray whale carvings provide insight into the city’s rich maritime history.
Guests can play arcade games and enjoy go-karting on boardwalk as well as explore the shops selling beach gear and souvenirs. The boardwalk is also an excellent spot for storm-watching. Marvel at the sight of winter storms rolling along the Pacific and waves crashing into the coastal cliffs.
Discovery Trail
Retrace Lewis and Clark’s footsteps at this 8.5-mile paved trail, which extends from the north end of Long Beach, passes through Cape Disappointment State Park, and leads to the historic town of Ilwaco. A popular spot for hiking, running, and cycling, the trail offers breathtaking coastal views.
Marsh’s Free Museum
The museum is home to an eclectic collection of antiques, taxidermies, and other curiosities from all over the world. From the macabre (shrunken heads and mutated animals) to the delightful (music boxes from 1890s France), there’s never a dull moment at Marsh’s Free Museum. The arcade is no less fascinating, with mechanical fortune tellers and vintage peep shows.
Cranberry Museum & Gift Shop
Washington State produces about a third of the cranberry crop in the U.S. and Long Beach is known for its abundant cranberry harvest. This museum provides insight into cranberry production, from planting top product marketing. It hosts the Cranberry Harvest Weekend every October with live music and a cranberry-inspired breakfast and lunch. The museum gift shop carries an assortment of cranberry products and other locally made items.
World Kite Museum & Hall of Fame
Browse colorful exhibits at the World Kite Museum, which features aerial photographs, stamps, and kites from Japan and Afghanistan. The Hall of Fame Alcove pays tribute to kite makers, artists, and world events that have left an indelible mark on kite flying as an art form. It hosts indoor kite flying competitions, performances, and other special events.
Cape Disappointment State Park
Cape Disappointment encompasses 1,882 acres of sandy beaches, coves, trails, and historic sites. It gets its name from English explorer John Meares, who called the area “The Disappointment” after struggling to find the mouth of the Columbia River. The state park is anything but disappointing – its many highlights include:
- The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is perched about 200 feet above the surf and features immersive exhibits and timelines panels documenting the Lewis and Clark Expedition as well as the Long Beach Peninsula’s maritime and military past. Guests can also look forward to a short film screening, a well-stocked gift shop, and an observation deck with stunning views of the water.
- The Cape Disappointment Lighthouse was built in 1856 and is considered the oldest lighthouse in Washington State. It is located roughly two miles from the North Head Lighthouse and can be accessed via trail from the main parking area of the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center.
- The North Head Lighthouse dates back to 1898 and stands on the northwestern spur of Cape Disappointment. It is still in use today and is lit by an automated beacon. It offers panoramic views of the Pacific, Columbia River Bar, and the northern edge of the Oregon Coast.
- The 8-mile trail system meanders through old growth forests with serene paths and numerous opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.
- Waikiki Beach is nestled between two cliffs and is often covered in driftwood. It offers one of the best vantage points for watching winter storms during the colder months.
- Deadman’s Cove is a small and secluded cove with tree-covered slopes and rocky areas. It is accessible via the Cape Disappointment Trail but was closed to the public in 2020.
- Fort Canby was built during the U.S. Civil War in 1863 and expanded in 1875. It gets its name from Gen. Edward R.S. Canby. Several structures from the Civil War era still remain on the site, including the Right, Left, and Center Batteries.
- Fort Columbia looms over the mouth of the Columbia River and features vacation rentals and camping facilities, including the Steward House and Scarborough House.
- Fort Columbia Theater is a modern rental facility for weddings, workshops, and other gatherings.
Willapa National Wildlife Refuge
Spanning over 17,000 acres, this refuge features miles of trails that snake through coastal dunes, freshwater wetlands, and the remnants of old-growth coastal cedar forests. It is a fantastic spot for bird watching with more than 200 species living in its diverse ecosystem, including brown pelicans and marbled murrelets. It also offers hiking and camping in designated areas.
Peninsula Golf Course
Located about a mile north of downtown Long Beach, this nine-hole, par 33 course offers the ultimate golf experience in the Pacific Northwest. The challenging layout makes for an exhilarating game for players of all skill levels. Set amidst firs, rhododendrons, and sea pines on a gorgeous 55 acre property, this picturesque golf destination is truly remarkable. The Peninsula Golf Course also features a pro shop that offers a wide variety of gear and a fine dining restaurant specializing in sumptuous coastal fare.
OTHER BEACH AND WATER ACTIVITIES TO ENJOY
Whale-Watching
Depending on the season, it’s possible to spot gray, minke, and humpback whales as well as some orcas amidst the crashing waves. On land, there are various whale-watching spots with binoculars or telescopes throughout the Long Beach Peninsula. The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center and the North Head Lighthouse are good places to start.
Fishing and Clamming
There are several companies offering fishing charters out of the Ilwaco Marina. These vessels come with various gear and equipment for an unforgettable fishing excursion. There are also ports throughout the Peninsula with boat ramps for commercial and recreational fishing.
Clamming is a local tradition and cherished pastime in the Peninsula. Razor clam season typically runs from October through April. However, spring is considered the best time for clam digging due to low tides coinciding with daylight hours.
The north end of the Peninsula is supposedly one of the best places for razor clam digging. However, there are many sections along the coastline where one will readily find clams. All individuals aged 15 years or older must have a current shellfish and seaweed license for clamming.
Shopping and Dining
Downtown Long Beach features an array of shops and boutiques selling beach gear, apparel, homewares, and handmade items. Several galleries specialize in fine art and ceramics. Visitors in need of accommodations will also find hotels, motels, condos, cottages, and RV lots in the area.
There is a high concentration of coffee shops, bakeries, bars, and restaurants along Pacific Avenue. From blueberry waffles and French toast to halibut fish and chips, the city is a foodie’s paradise. Some of the best restaurants offer water views along with fresh seafood, midday soups, and delectable pastries.
Events
- Sandsations is a sand-sculpting competition that takes place every July. With local vendors and live music, this family-friendly event invites participants of all skill levels to build sand castles and enjoy the beach.
- The Washington State International Kite Festival is a week-long event that takes place in August. It features contests, workshops, and a lighted kite show with expert kite fliers from around the world. As one of the largest kite festivals in North America, it draws thousands of attendees each year. A highlight of the event are the mass ascensions, in which hundreds of colorful kites are flown simultaneously in the air in a moment that is nothing short of magical.
- The annual Long Beach Razor Clam Festival has been drawing crowds from all over the Pacific Northwest since the 1940s. It is usually held in April and features a beer garden, clam chowder contests, clam digging lessons, food trucks, and live music.
- The Columbia-Pacific Farmers Market takes place from June through September and in downtown Long Beach. It offers fresh and organic produce from all over in the Pacific Northwest. Visitors can have their pick of the finest berries and apples as well as handmade ceramics and ornaments.
- The 4th of July is an important Long Beach Peninsula celebration with fireworks displays over the port of Ilwaco.
- The Peninsula R&B Music Festival takes place in August of each year and showcases the talents of incredible blues musicians. This two-day event also offers amazing food, beer, and merchandise.
DISCOVER LONG BEACH, WASHINGTON REAL ESTATE
If you want to be part of the wonderful community of Long Beach, let Pacific Realty help you find your next home. You can reach our team at 503.858.3667 or send us an email to get started. As the #1 selling real estate brokerage on the Long Beach Peninsula, we specialize in beachfront properties, luxury real estate, entry-level homes, and long-term and short-term rentals.
With more than 30 years in real estate and property management, our brokers would be more than happy to provide valuable information on vacation rental investing as well as local and national real estate trends. Fun but professional, we handle over $40 million in sales each year. Designated Broker Leslie Brophy has been the top selling agent for many years. We hope to hear from you soon.