Washington’s coast includes the spectacular Olympic Peninsula, with 57 miles of glorious beaches in Olympic National Park, including the longest stretch of wild coastline outside Alaska. This is a haven for hikers, beachcombers, backpackers, surf-fishers, sea kayakers, wildlife watchers, surfboarders, and families with children fascinated with tide pools and the crashing surf.
Farther south along the coast is Grays Harbor, where traditional salmon fishing ports like Westport still offer charters to catch salmon or bottom-fish. Gray whales migrating along the coast are another attraction, and whale-watching cruises are scheduled. Pounding surf and edible riches are hidden in the beaches of the Pacific shores. Here, theres sweet satisfaction smelling the salt sea air, combing secluded coves, taking to the ocean on skippered fishing charters and tasting the local fruit of the sea.
Way south on the Long Beach Peninsula you may gather your own oysters any time at the state-owned bed in Nahcotta. Also try for Dungeness crab off the public dock and check out the outdoor interpretive center. Call the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (360-562-6010) for information on licenses and regulations, or enjoy local seafood preparations in cozy coastal eateries. Better yet, do both. Call the Long Beach Peninsula Visitors Bureau at 800-451-2542, or visit www.funbeach.com for details.
LOCALS SUGGEST:
March is often the best time to see gray whales from Westport and Ilwaco. First Beach near LaPush in Olympic National Park is a fine place to picnic, take relaxing walks, or watch surfboarders and sunsets.