Discover the Long Beach Peninsula
Welcome to one of the Pacific Northwest's best-kept secrets! The Long Beach Peninsula stretches between the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean, offering wide sandy beaches, charming small towns, lush forests, and a rich maritime heritage. Whether you're seeking family adventures, outdoor exploration, or quiet retreats, you'll find it here.
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Discover hiking trails, wide beaches, and hidden wildlife sanctuaries across the Long Beach Peninsula. Explore Leadbetter Point, Willapa Bay, and Cape Disappointment for unforgettable outdoor adventures.
State Parks
The Long Beach Peninsula is surrounded by numerous state parks, each offering its own unique natural beauty and recreational opportunities. These parks provide the perfect setting for outdoor activities like hiking, picnicking, wildlife observation, and camping. Notable parks include Cape Disappointment State Park (home of the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center), Leadbetter Point State Park, Pacific Pines State Park, and Loomis Lake.
The Discovery Trail
Embark on a journey along the Discovery Trail, an 8.5-mile paved path from Long Beach to Ilwaco featuring breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, dunes, forests, cranberry bogs, and interpretive displays about Lewis and Clark’s historic journey.
Lighthouses and Hiking Trails
Visit the iconic North Head Lighthouse and Cape Disappointment Lighthouse. These historic structures offer breathtaking views and connect to a network of coastal hiking trails.
Razor Clam Digging
Learn the techniques behind digging for razor clams, a beloved local pastime. Visit during the fall or spring seasons and check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife for dig dates and regulations.
Horseback Riding on the Beach
Experience the exhilaration of horseback riding along the scenic beaches of the peninsula — an unforgettable way to enjoy the coastal scenery. You can find horse rental options available.
Bird-Watching
Discover the rich birdlife of the region, including bald eagles and peregrine falcons. Prime birding areas include Leadbetter Point and the Willapa National Wildlife Refuge.
Storm Watching
Visit during the late fall through early spring to witness dramatic Pacific storms from safe vantage points like Cape Disappointment’s overlook areas.
International Kite Festival
Experience the colorful International Kite Festival in August, where the skies come alive with kites of all shapes and sizes on Long Beach’s shores.
Sandsations and Sandcastle Building
Unleash your creativity at Sandsations, Long Beach’s summer sandcastle festival with master sculptors and family-friendly activities.
Cranberry Festival
Join in October’s Cranberry Festival, celebrating the local harvest with food, crafts, and fun at the Cranberry Museum.
Garlic Festival
Celebrate everything garlic at the Ocean Park Garlic Festival with food vendors, crafts, and cooking demos.
Peninsula Blues Festival
Groove to world-class blues during the Peninsula Blues Festival, an annual highlight featuring music, food, and fun in the summer sun.
Wild Mushroom Celebration
Forage and feast during the Wild Mushroom Celebration with themed restaurant menus and mushroom forays each autumn.
Fourth of July Parade and Fireworks
Celebrate Independence Day with Long Beach’s patriotic parade and dazzling fireworks show over the Pacific Ocean.
Razor Clam Festival
Honor the region’s shellfish traditions at the Razor Clam Festival featuring competitions, live music, and delicious dishes.
Crab Pot Christmas Tree Lighting
Ring in the holidays at Ilwaco’s charming Crab Pot Christmas Tree Lighting celebration each winter.
Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center
Learn the inspiring story of the Corps of Discovery at the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Local Museums
Visit the World Kite Museum, Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum, Cranberry Museum, and Willapa Bay Interpretive Center for local heritage and ecology.
Fort Columbia
Explore bunkers, restored buildings, and trails at Fort Columbia Historical State Park.
Historic Oysterville and the Oyster Industry
Discover the rich oyster farming heritage of Historic Oysterville — a living maritime town preserved in time.
Ilwaco Art Walk
Enjoy local artists, live music, and refreshments during Ilwaco’s lively Art Walks held June through September.
Beachpets Treasure Hunt
Search for hidden glass floats and support animal rescue through the Beachpets Treasure Hunt.
Expansive Dining Options
Enjoy a diverse array of dining options throughout Long Beach, Ocean Park, and Ilwaco — from seafood feasts to farm-to-table meals.
Downtown Long Beach Activities
Visit Marsh’s Free Museum, play arcade games, walk the historic boardwalk, and enjoy vibrant coastal shopping.
Plan Your Adventure
Ready to experience the best of Washington’s Long Beach Peninsula? Whether you're chasing sunsets, exploring coastal trails, or uncovering hidden gems, a memorable beach getaway awaits. Book your stay today!