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Ocean Shores

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City
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Ocean Shores (United States)
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Practical info — Ocean Shores

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

  • Driving on the beach is allowed, but strictly adhere to the 25 mph speed limit and only venture onto hard-packed sand to avoid getting stuck.
  • Rent a fat-tire electric bike or a pedal car to explore the town and the beach without worrying about parking.
  • Check the tide tables before heading to Damon Point; it's the best spot for finding agates and watching snowy owls.
  • The coastal breeze can be chilly even in mid-summer, so always pack a windbreaker and dress in layers.

🍽 Food

🍽
Razor Clams

Try a hearty bowl of local razor clam chowder at a seafood spot near the town entrance.

🍽
Fish and Chips

Grab a basket of freshly battered cod from a casual eatery near the marina.

🍽
Saltwater Taffy

Sample the classic coastal taffy available in various flavors at the colorful sweet shops in the center.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍
Kite Shops

Ocean Shores is notoriously windy; pick up a bustling kite from a specialty store on Point Brown Avenue.

🛍
Beach Gear and Souvenirs

Browse the small strip mall area for local crafts, beachwear, and sand toys.

🧘
Weatherwax Trail

Take a peaceful walk through this protected old-growth coastal forest right in the middle of town.

🧘
North Jetty

A dramatic, less crowded spot to watch massive ocean waves crash against the rocks.

Ocean Shores is a bustling resort city on the Washington Coast, situated on a peninsula between the Pacific Ocean and Grays Harbor. The town is famous for its miles of flat, sandy shoreline, including Ocean Shores Beach and Chance A La Mer Beach. A unique feature of this destination is that driving vehicles directly on the sand is permitted in designated areas, making it easy to set up for a day of beach activities. Originally designed as a planned vacation community, the city features a unique 23-mile interconnected canal system, excellent for boating and freshwater fishing. The downtown area is packed with attractions such as mini-golf, arcades, boutique shops, and theaters. The culinary scene shines with fresh Pacific oysters, razor clams, and casual seafood dining that caters to families and tourists alike. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Oyhut Wildlife Recreation Area for birdwatching or enjoy horseback riding along the surf. The steady coastal winds make it a premier location for kite flying and beach combing. Accessible via Highway 115, Ocean Shores provides a quintessential beach experience with plenty of lodging options ranging from oceanfront hotels to cozy vacation rentals. Year-round events like kite festivals and sandcastle building contests keep the energy high. With its wide-open spaces and the rhythmic sound of the Pacific surf, Ocean Shores provides a great escape for those seeking the classic American beach town atmosphere.

Geography

Population
5,699 (2017)
Coordinates
46.97370, -124.15628

Facts

  • Driving permitted on beach
  • 23-mile canal system
  • Peninsula resort location
  • Chance A La Mer Beach
  • Famous for Razor Clams
  • Oyhut Wildlife Recreation Area
  • Annual kite festivals
  • Bordered by Pacific & Grays Harbor

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Sights in the town Ocean Shores (3)

Ocean Shores Airport Wildlife Area🌿 nature

A wildlife protection area located near the Ocean Shores airport.

Weatherwax Nature Preserve🌿 nature

A nature reserve in Ocean Shores featuring trails through coastal forests and wetlands.

Ocean Shores Beach🎡 recreation

A popular sandy beach in Ocean Shores, convenient for long walks and seaside recreation.

Frequently asked questions

Can you drive your car on the beach in Ocean Shores?
Yes, vehicle access is permitted on certain sections of the beach; follow local signs.
Are there many deer in the city?
Yes, local black-tailed deer roam freely and are often seen in yards and on streets.
What can you do on the canals?
You can rent electric Duffy boats or kayaks to navigate the 23 miles of fresh water canals.
Is Ocean Shores good for kite flying?
Yes, the consistent coastal winds and wide open beach make it a top kite-flying destination.
Is there a casino nearby?
The Quinault Beach Resort and Casino is located at the northern edge of Ocean Shores.
Ocean Shores: where is it located?
Ocean Shores is located in United States.
Ocean Shores: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ocean Shores Airport Wildlife Area, Weatherwax Nature Preserve, Ocean Shores Beach.
Ocean Shores: why is it worth visiting?
Ocean Shores is a bustling resort city on the Washington Coast, situated on a peninsula between the Pacific Ocean and Grays Harbor.
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