Coastal Communities
North & South Beach Areas
Seabrook, WA
Locals in Grays Harbor refer to the beachside communities as the North and the South Beach areas. These two areas are separated by the harbor that weaves through the county creating two uniquely wonderful areas that draw in tourists from around the world while creating an enjoyable way of life for locals who call the Pacific Ocean their backyard. These beach communities are further broken down into various cities that all have their own distinct qualities.
North Beach
Ocean Shores is the largest city in the North Beach area and boasts six miles of stunning coastline accessible by foot and by car. Along with abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation on the intertwining fresh waterways, Ocean Shores offers many restaurants, art galleries, a golf course and large casino all just steps from the beach. Unlike many other coastal cities around the United States, oceanfront homes are incredibly affordable making coastal living easily attainable. A new community within Ocean Shores, Oyhut Bay Seaside Village, offers a tranquil escape for home buyers or those looking to rent a house near the Oyhut Bay Wildlife Refuge where rare birds and other animals flourish.
Located north of Ocean Shores along the scenic coastline are the beach communities of Moclips, Pacific Beach and the newer seaside town of Seabrook Washington. This picturesque town is complete with quaint cottages available to buy or rent, locally owned shops, restaurants, and sporting equipment rentals in a town that celebrates both nature and community.
South Beach
South Beach
The city Westport is a world-class fishing community that prides itself on its’ working marina and charming downtown. Charter boats are available for a day of deep-sea fishing as well as gray whale watching tours that give a glimpse into the everyday lives of fishermen in the area. The coastal city celebrates its rich maritime heritage with the Grays Harbor Lighthouse, Washington’s tallest, a historic Coast Guard station and the Westport Maritime Museum.
The South Beach is also known for its world-class surfing, and despite the cold water and weather in the winter months, enthusiasts from around the world can be found surfing year-round. Another fascinating attraction in the area are the cranberry bogs that supply berries that can be found around the country and are celebrated at the annual Grayland Cranberry Festival.
Opportunities are endless in the idyllic communities on Washington’s peaceful coast where creating the perfect weekend getaway, summer escape or retirement destination is easier than you may have realized.
Port Cities
Aberdeen, Hoquiam, and Cosmopolis
The Port Cities of Grays Harbor are larger than other cities in the area but still offer the qualities of a small-town community. These cities include: Cosmopolis, Hoquiam, and Aberdeen. These three cities form the commercial and industrial core of the county and make up almost half of the population of Grays Harbor. With Olympia located less than an hour away, and Seattle roughly two, the port cities are a short drive from major metropolitan life while still offering a sense of peace and distance from the hustle and bustle. The towns have compact, walkable downtowns that are not far from the gracious turn of the century homes in family-friendly neighborhoods. They also offer plenty of restaurants, shopping experiences, nightlife and much more, making life in the city enjoyable for all ages.
Cosmopolis is the oldest city in Grays Harbor, with its unique name meaning “city of the world.” Local residents prefer, with noticeable affection, to use the city’s nickname, “Cosi”. Cosmopolis is home to a number of parks, including the 39-acre Makarenko Park and newly re-opened Mill Creek Park, as well as a public boat launch available for easy access into the scenic Chehalis River. Outdoor recreation is convenient and as easy as walking out your front door.
Hoquiam
Hoquiam is located just under 30 minutes from Ocean Shores and has plenty to offer both locals and tourists. Located in the downtown corridor are multiple restaurants, shops and bars as well as the historic 7th Street Theatre hosts classic movies, live theatre performances and other entertaining shows. The Polson Museum and the 1897 Hoquiam Castle give a glimpse into the wealthy lives of the timber barons that built the city from the ground up and took pride in their hometown Hoquiam roots. To celebrate this rich logging history, take part in the annual Loggers Playday festival each September that celebrates the logging heritage of the area.
The City of Aberdeen is known as the ‘Gateway to the Olympics’ due to its close proximity to the stunning Olympic National Park, one of the most visited National Parks in the nation. Aberdeen is also proud of being the home to Grays Harbor Historical Seaport, a non-profit organization that operates the Lady Washington, a full-scale reproduction of the tall ship that gained is notoriety after being the first American vessel to visit the West Coast. While Aberdeen has over 200 acres of park land, it can also boast that it has the largest retail center on the coast of Washington as well as many incredible restaurants and nightlife including Rediviva Restaurant, Steam Donkey Brewing Co., CaKeCaKes Bakery and many other locally owned establishments. Tourism plays an important role in the economy of Aberdeen with over four million yearly visitors passing through on the scenic Highway 101.
The Port of Grays Harbor, headquartered in Aberdeen, has boundaries that include all of Grays Harbor. Once the leading export port for U.S. grown timber, Grays Harbor now leads the U.S. in exports of American grown soybean meal and is the number one seafood landing point in Washington State also well as shipping automobiles, biodiesel and other liquid and dry bulk products.
These three charming port cities welcome all to join in on a peaceful quality of life complete with strong schools and diverse industries with the history and charm of small-town living.
East County
Montesano, Elma, McCleary and Oakville
Elma
If you enjoy the peace and quiet of the Pacific Northwest, then Eastern Grays Harbor County is the ideal place for you. Montesano, Elma, McCleary and a number of small farming communities make up this area, all sitting on stunning agricultural land that’s conveniently located near the bustling 400-acre Satsop Business Park.
Montesano
Montesano is located near the confluence of the Wynoochee River and Chehalis River which provide year-round recreational opportunities including fishing and river floating. The town is bordered on the north by Lake Sylvia State Park which makes for the perfect place to enjoy the surrounding forests or cast a line in the lake. Montesano is the county seat and features the prominent Grays Harbor County Courthouse which is complete with historic murals and exquisite architecture from 1911. The quaint downtown features several dining options and retail options including Montesano Farm and Home and The Bee Hive Restaurant.
Lake Sylvia
The city of Elma is located just east on Montesano and about 40 miles east of the coastal communities. Elma is home to the 119-acre Schafer State Park that attracts locals and tourists year-round and boasts a charming downtown area complete with all of the basic necessities. The city has historically served as the commercial center for the East Grays Harbor County agricultural and timber industries, which continue to serve as mainstays to the local economy. The economy of East County, in general, has become progressively influenced by increasing numbers of commuters and retirees choosing to live in this area as it’s a short drive to the beaches and Thurston County to the east while still holding onto the small city feel many strive for.
McCleary is a former logging camp city steeped in rich history. This city hosts the annual Bear Festival that attracts thousands of participants for its unique qualities and delicious bear stew. McCleary is also home to a large wood product manufacturing company providing employment to many of its residents.
Montesano, Elma, McCleary and the small farming communities that make up the East County all offer a tranquil escape from the larger neighboring cities while still remaining in close proximity to all necessary needs. Find the escape that you’re looking for when you explore this quiet area of Grays Harbor.
Oakville
Quinault Rainforest
Lake Quinault and Olympic National Park
Lake Quinault
The Olympic National Park extends into Grays Harbor County’s northern border and receives over four million visitors a year, making it one of the most visited National Parks in the country. Lake Quinault is located on the western side of the National Park on the Olympic Peninsula. The area is rich in natural wonders and history dating back centuries. The abundance of outdoor recreational activities draws in tourists from far off corners of the globe to enjoy unforgettable camping, hiking, kayaking, swimming, and world-renowned steelhead fishing.
The temperate rainforest is unique to the western hemisphere of the globe and allows for a wide variety of wildlife to be easily spotted including hers of Roosevelt Elk, black bears, cougars, black-tailed deer, beavers, river otters, and many others animals. The bald eagle, golden eagle, osprey, and blue heron are seen along the river valley and at Lake Quinault, marveling bird watchers from near and far. The Quinault Rainforest completely surrounds Lake Quinault helping to keep the temperature moderate all year round and foster the growth of towering trees, ferns, and other plants indigenous to the area. The Quinault Indian Nation (QIN) is a sovereign nation and owns the lake.
The Quinault Indian Reservation is home to forests, rivers, lakes and 23 miles of unspoiled Pacific coastline. Nearly 700 people are employed by QIN and its many enterprises including the Quinault Beach Resort and Casino in Ocean Shores, making it one of the largest employers in Grays Harbor.
Lake Quinault is home to the towns of Amanda Park, Quinault, Neilton, and Humptulips. These communities offer affordable small town living in the pristine Quinault region that offers a serene way of life few ever get to experience. Whether you’re considering making the rainforest your permanent home or are planning on driving north for a day trip, Quinault will leave you refreshed and longing for your next trip to tranquility.