How to Spend a Perfect Day at the Beach

Breathe in the fresh, salty air on a trip to the beaches of Grays Harbor County! Whether you’re hoping for an adventurous outing or day full of relaxation, the over 50 miles of beautiful coastline is the retreat you’ve been longing for. Located just 30 minutes from Aberdeen, Ocean Shores, Westport, Pacific Beach, Grayland and the various other towns and beach access points along the coast each are patiently awaiting your arrival.

While visiting our beaches (or anywhere outdoors!) we encourage you to Leave No Trace. By cleaning up after yourself, you are directly helping in the effort to sustain healthy and vibrant lands for future generations.

Comb the Beach for Treasures

Uncover a unique keepsake to commemorate your trip that won’t cost you a penny from the sandy shores. From whole sand dollars to driftwood and even the occasional glass float, you never know what you’ll find on a stroll along the coast. Wondering what you should bring? Consider packing a bag with plenty of water, snacks, a flashlight, first aid kit, rain gear, a plastic bag or bucket to put your items in and, most importantly, a tide chart.

For your the very best beach combing, head to Damon Point, Griffiths-Priday Ocean State Park, Grayland Beach State Park, Roosevelt Beach, Twin Harbors State Park and Westport Light State Park.

Horseback Riding Fun

Children and adults alike will jump for joy when they hear that they get to partake in a day of horseback riding alongside the Pacific Ocean. Pick up the pace and gallop along the shoreline or opt for a slower-paced nearby trail ride along one of the many scenic nature trails.

Your best bet for easily finding a horse rental for the day is directly on the beach in Ocean Shores all throughout the year. Contact Honey Pearl Horse Rental, Chenois Creek Horse Rental or Nan-Sea Stables to book a day full of fun.

Fly a Kite

Fill the sky with color while launching your kite into the sky. Don’t own a kite? No problem! Various stores in the beach communities sell them, one of those being the longstanding, Ocean Shores Kites that will happily point you in the right direction while choosing your dream kite.

Storm Watch

Particularly in the off season, the beaches of Grays Harbor get shaken with storms that often bring high winds and massive waves. While many people would rather frequent the beach on a sunny day, others find beauty in the power of nature. Before driving to the coast on a blustery afternoon, be sure you follow safety advice including parking at designated parking areas to ensure that your adventure goes smoothly. Read more on this activity here.

Get Active Playing Beach Sports

Who needs the gym when you have a warm, sunshine filled day at the beach! Bring your friends and set up a volleyball net for a competitive game in the sand. Alternatively, pack along a soccer ball, frisbee or even a croquette set. The options are endless for a fun activity that’s sure to get your heart pumping!

Dig for Razor Clams

Razor clam digging is perhaps one of the most exciting and unique activities in Grays Harbor. Tourists from across the PNW make the drive to the beach during scheduled clam tides in the hopes of filling their buckets and bringing home a bounty of these local delicacies. For those that have never had the chance to clam dig, head to our Clam Digging 101 blog for everything you need to know to prepare you for the next dig.

Drive Along the Beach

Many beaches in Washington actually allow cars to drive directly on them, making for great photo opportunities and a unique way to appreciate the beauty from the warmth of your car.

Please note: the loose, dry sand is very easy to get your car stuck in. For optimal driving, cruise closer to the waters’ edge where the sand is more compact. Remember not to get too close though, as tides and sneaker waves can quickly approach, not to mention the salt water is not a friend of your vehicle.

For beach access point in Ocean Shores, click here. In Westport, the southern portion of the beach can be accessed with cars.

Watch the Sunset

What better way to relax than by watching the sun dip into the Pacific Ocean? Whether you’re on a date or gathered with friends, it’s hard not to enjoy watching nature put on a show while the sound of the ocean laps the shore. Get cozy on a blanket or watch from your car any time of the year!

Catch a Wave

Cold-water surfing on the Coast of Washington is an adventurous sport that’ll get your blood pumping. If this activity is new for you, we highly suggest first taking a lesson from one of the experts in the area. They will help you learn the ropes, and, most importantly, stay safe. In Westport, Steepwater Surf Shop, PNW Surfboard Co., and Westport’s Surf Shop are great contacts for all levels of surfers to gain some knowledge. No matter who you choose, the knowledgable staff are sure to have you ready to glide the waves in no time. Gear is also available for rent for those without their own slew of equipment at North Coast Surf Inc in Ocean Shores or Buck’s NW in Seabrook.

When pinpointing where to paddle out, one if the most reliable options in the Pacific Northwest is Westport. Recognized as Washington’s surf city by voters on KING 5’s Evening Magazine’s Northwest Escapes, the area is known for over 300 days of head-high or taller waves. Launch in at Westhaven State Park. In Ocean Shores, Damon Point and the area near the jetty are known as the best areas to catch a wave. For more detailed information on surfing the Grays Harbor, click here.

If you’re looking to enjoy the waves without paddling too far out, consider skim boarding along the beach for a quick thrill!

Build a Sandcastle

One of life’s most simple pleasures is sandcastle building. Kids will love packing the cool sand into their buckets and building up a magical castle. Patronize one of the many shops along the coast in case you need a new shovel or bucket!

Rent a Motorized Vehicle

Fulfill you need for speed by renting a moped or motorized bike to cruise the coast! Children can ride along with a licensed adult so the whole family can enjoy the activity together. Take your adventure from the streets directly onto the sand. In Ocean Shores, check out Electric “Fat Tire” Beach Bike Rentals and Affordable Mopeds.

Enjoy the sea air, the wind in your hair and rent a bike or moped!

Attend a Local Event

Throughout the year, dozens of annual events take place in the beach communities of Grays Harbor. June is known for Westport’s Galway Bay’s Celtic Music Festival while Ocean Shores hosts their annual Hog Wild motorcycle rally. For more information on upcoming events, head to our event calendar.

This original content is produced by Greater Grays Harbor, Inc. and sponsored by Grays Harbor County Tourism.