The Ocean Shores Peninsula
.avif)
Overview
#1
Pacific Beaches
There are multiple access points to the 6 mile long beach that extends the entire length of the Ocean Shores Peninsula. Locals like to walk their dogs in the high dunes where you'll find all kinds of animals, from deer to coyote to eagles. Razorclam digging and beachcombing are fun activities at different times of year! In winter, visitors come from all across Washington to witness the impressive waves brought by king tides.
What did the ocean say to the beach?
Nothing, it just waved!
#2
Weatherwax Natural Area
This forest was saved by the citizens of Ocean Shores! Located in the middle of town, this unassuming natural area is host to everything from birds to fungi and includes a quiet 1.5 mile walk through the dense canopy. As a contrast to the beaches that the town is well known for, the Weatherwax demonstrates the diversity of ecosystems present along Washington's Outer Coast.
The Weatherwax Natural Area may look ancient, but like most forested areas on the Ocean Shores peninsula, much of the Weatherwax likely started growing only in the 1950s, when use of the peninsula changed from ranching to residential tourism.
.avif)
#3
Coastal Interpretive Center
Located just a couple miles from the Weatherwax, stop by the CIC Museum to learn all about the natural and cultural history of the Ocean Shores peninsula and the city itself. You'll find displays for children and details for adults. Our bookstore is stocked with everything from children's books to specialist guides.
Looking for lunch? Get a bite to eat at the Oyhut Bay Grill. On a sunny day there's nothing like sitting outside on the patio! Oyhut Bay also offers short-term rentals for those looking to stay overnight on the peninsula.
Looking for lunch?
Get a bite to eat at the Oyhut Bay Grill. On a sunny day there's nothing like sitting outside on the patio! Oyhut Bay also offers short-term rentals for those looking to stay overnight on the peninsula.
.avif)
#4
Oyhut Wildlife Area
Park at Oyhut Bay Seaside Resort and follow the trail from Tonkin Avenue into this area managed by Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife. With a wide marshland and mudflats, be sure to bring your binoculars for excellent sunset birdwatching.
Ocean Shores is an excellent destination for birders, as is all of the Grays Harbor Estuary, an internationally important site for migrating birds. If you'd like to spot more shorebirds, go to the Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge (in Hoquiam) during springtime.
.avif)
#5
Point Grenville
While some of the best tidepools around are located at this rocky spit, please know that beaches on the Quinault Indian Nation are closed to members of the public without a tribal tour guide.
For nature and fishing guides, call the QIN information line, +1 (360) 276-8211
Go Further
The Hidden Coast Scenic Byway (State Route 109) is the route that all the northern Grays Harbor beaches are located along. Take the Moclips Highway (just north of Moclips) to connect to Highway 101 to continue up the Peninsula to find the rainforest and seashore of Olympic National Park.
Continue Your Discovery
Touch whale bones, examine shipwreck artifacts and connect with the coast's living history.
Join Our
Community
When students are proud to grow up here, they'll be proud to live here as adults. Adults that are proud to live here are proud to be members of the CIC community.
