Ocean Shores, WA

Ocean Shores

Ocean Shores sits at the northern tip of the Point Brown Peninsula on the Washington coast, offering 23 miles of wide, drivable Pacific beach backed by a canal network. The large Pacific tidal range shapes the beach dramatically; low tide reveals a vast, firm sandy expanse popular with kite flyers, equestrians, and clam diggers.

Pacific tidal range of 10+ ft creates the most dramatic tidal variation on this list: minus tides expose an almost unbelievably wide expanse of firm wet sand ideal for driving, kite flying, and horse riding; high tides bring the surf close to the foredunes. Swimming is not advisable due to cold water (48–55°F) and strong surf; a small local surfing community uses the beach; razor clam digging at low minus tides is the signature activity when WDFW declares harvest days; surf perch fishing is productive at mid to high tide. Local note: beach driving and OHV use are broadly permitted; horse and ATV rentals are available in town; the North Jetty park at the south end gives views of the Grays Harbor shipping channel entrance; always check wdfw.wa.gov for current razor clam harvest status before visiting.