There’s nothing quite like enjoying the warmth of spring and summer with your loved ones. Ocean Shores, located on the scenic coast of Washington State, is just a two and a half hour drive from Seattle and a three hours drive from Portland. The charming seaside city is a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of our everyday lives. With the area’s pristine natural wonders and unique attractions, visitors have plenty of options to choose from while visiting Washington’s Coast.

Intracoastal Waterways

Enjoy 23 miles of fresh intracoastal waterways, one of Ocean Shores’ most distinctive features. Many don’t realize that these fresh waterways exist and rather focus their time on beach activities. These waterways encourage many activities that can only be enjoyed in calm waters, not to mention the cooling, fresh water alternative to the ocean.

Cruise along the canals with ease while watching for wildlife around every corner. An option for rental equipment that can be used on the waterways is through Oyhut Bay, one of the Washington Coast’s newest resort communities. Have your own equipment handy? Take advantage of one of the three popular launch sites located at Texmar Avenue, North Bay Park and Chinook Park.

Surfing

For the adventurous souls, cold-water surfing is a huge draw to the area. The North Jetty is the ideal place for both experienced surfers and beginners to catch a wave. North Coast Surf Shop rents out equipment as well as offers lessons from an expert who will teach the ropes of this coastal sport.

Beach-combing

If you’re in search of a more leisurely activity, beach-combing is a fantastic option. Damon Point is a treasure hunters paradise where avid searchers can uncover gems that have washed up from around the world. Commonly discovered items include bottles, shells, polished rocks, seaglass or something completely unexpected. Even on a rainy day, waves will wash ashore special keepsakes that will help visitors remember their trip for years to come.

Hiking

Another hidden gem in the city is the magical rainforest hiking trails. Located in the heart of the city, these scenic trails will transport you straight into a Jurassic Park film. The lush green colors of Weatherwax Trails weave through 121 acres of old growth forest. With 1.2 miles of looping pathways running along Duck Lake, these paths are ideal for all skill levels.

Golfing

Not often will you find an 18-hole golf course located just minutes from the beach. The Ocean Shores Golf Course offers some of the best greens in the state and may remind players of the beautiful courses in Scotland. The Course first opened in 1961 as a 6-hole golf course and after two years, three more holes were added. In 1966, during a huge development boom throughout the city, the current front nine was completed with the help of singer/actor Pat Boone and Ginny Simms. Challenging yet fun, this year-round course will be unlike any other in Washington.

Kite Flying

No trip to the beach is complete without flying a kite! All you need is a colorful kite, a gust of wind and you’re set. Purchase a unique kite at one of the many shops located downtown, with the largest selection available at Ocean Shores Kites.

Horseback Riding

Whether you’re on a romantic date night or out with the whole family, horseback riding on the beach is an unforgettable activity. A few of the many horseback riding companies in the vicinity include: Chenois Creek Horse Rentals, NanSea Stables and Honey Pearl Ranch. An expert tour guide accompanies groups on the rides ensuring safety along the way. While on a ride prepare to spot some of the area’s abundant wildlife ranging from various seabirds to majestic grey whales in the spring.

Ice Cream Shops

Who doesn’t love a delicious ice cream cone on a warm beach day? Luckily for visitors, Ocean Shores is chock full of specialty ice cream shops. With its brightly painted exterior, the Peppermint Parlor will bring out the kid in all of us,  especially with 43 flavors of ice cream to choose from. For more options to cool you down on a warm summer’s day, check out Murphy’s Candy and Ice Cream with their walls and shelves lined with delicious treats. Additionally, Surely Sweet serves up frozen yogurt with rotating flavors such as Cheesecake, Dutch Chocolate and Mountain Blackberry.

Beach Biking and Mopeds

Test your skills with a fat tire bike rental and cruise alongside the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean. Electric Beach Bike Rentals has you covered and will suit up riders with the correct size bike and safety equipment. For those with a little more need for speed, check out Affordable Mopeds and bring out your adventurous side while feeling the sea breeze in your hair. These mopeds are street legal enabling adventures to many of the hidden hotspots in Ocean Shores.

Fun Centers

As we all know, some children have endless amounts of energy, and the best place to it burn off is at one of Ocean Shores’ fun centers. Playtime Family Fun is packed with fun activities that will delight kids of any age. With go-karts, bumper cars, slick race track and playlive video game area, you can’t go wrong with a pitstop here. Another fun center that’s sure to impress the young ones is Pacific Paradise Family Fun Center. Complete with the largest miniature golf course on the Washington Coast, bumper boats on a massive lake and 5,000 sq. feet of indoor video arcade, prepare to spend the day exploring the entire facility.

Art Centers

Appreciate works of art and add a little culture to your trip with a visit to one of the city’s art galleries. The Gallery of Ocean Shores features a workshop space, clay studio as well as a gallery space that’s open to the public. Fusions Art Gallery is another option that features nearly 100 local artists work showcasing various mediums such as photography, watercolor, copper, pottery and more.

Beach Driving

Were you aware that you can drive your car right out onto the sand in Ocean Shores? Rather than parking in town and packing out all of your beach toys to the sandy shores, pull out and park directly on the beach. Bring some snacks and watch the sunrise or sunset from the comfort of your vehicle. Always keep safe practices in mind and avoid driving too close to the waves as the tide can quickly creep up the shore. For more safety tips on beach driving, follow this link, and for information regarding beach access points, click here.

Discover even more exciting activities to enjoy while visiting Ocean Shores and the surrounding area by checking out our other blogs. Make it a vacation and plan to stay overnight to make the most of this beautiful area on the coast of Washington in one of Ocean Shores’ many hotels, motels and campgrounds.