Fourth of July in Ocean Shores: Visitor Guide
Fourth of July can be one of Ocean Shores’ busiest weekends. This guide covers fireworks rules, beach safety, and the planning details to check before you go.
Fireworks on the Beach
Ocean Shores permits personal fireworks only in designated areas and during the hours set by the city. Confirm the current rules before bringing or using fireworks [1].
Designated Fireworks Area and Hours
Fireworks are permitted on the beach between the Damon Road approach and the Marine View Drive approach, a minimum of 100 feet west of the dunes. It’s crucial to adhere to these boundaries for safety and legal reasons. The hours for fireworks discharge are typically:
- July 2 & 3: Noon – 11:00 p.m.
- July 4: Noon – 11:59 p.m. [2]
Important Fireworks Rules and Safety Tips
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all, several rules and guidelines must be followed:
- No fireworks in the city or on the Dune Trail: This is strictly enforced. All fireworks activity must be confined to the designated beach area [2].
- Maintain distance from dunes: Keep at least 100 feet away from the dunes and never aim fireworks towards them [2].
- Legal fireworks only: Only legal fireworks are permitted; bottle rocket-type fireworks are prohibited [2].
- Fire burn restrictions: Always adhere to any fire burn restrictions in place. Beach fires should be 100 feet from dunes and completely extinguished with water [3].
- No fireworks on decks/balconies: Discharging fireworks from hotel or residential property decks/balconies is not allowed [2].
- Emergency Services: Grays Harbor Auxiliary Volunteer Emergency Resource Team (AVERT) provides first aid tents at the Damon, Chance, and Ocean Lake Way approaches [2].
Violations of fireworks laws can result in significant citations, ranging from $150 to over $1,000 [3].
Beyond Fireworks: Other Fourth of July Festivities
While fireworks are a major draw, Ocean Shores offers other activities to enhance your Independence Day celebration.
Convention Center West Parking Lot Event
On July 4th, the Convention Center West parking lot hosts a free event from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. This family-friendly gathering features live music, food trucks, and a beer garden, providing a festive atmosphere away from the beach [2]. Tune into 88.9 FM for music and emergency messaging during this event [2].
Dune Trail Rules
The Dune Trail offers a different perspective for enjoying the holiday, but it has its own set of rules:
- No Fireworks or Sparklers: Fireworks, including sparklers, are strictly prohibited on the Dune Trail [3].
- No BBQs or Campfires: To prevent fire hazards, BBQs and campfires are not allowed [3].
- Seating: Set up your seating area on the ocean side of the Trail, ensuring room for emergency vehicles to pass [3].
Planning Your Visit to Ocean Shores
Ocean Shores is a popular destination, especially during holiday weekends. Here are some tips for planning your Fourth of July getaway:
- Accommodation: Book your accommodations well in advance, as hotels and vacation rentals fill up quickly. For a comfortable and memorable stay, consider the unique offerings of The Tidal House.
- Beach Driving: The beach is considered a state highway, so all traffic laws apply. The maximum speed limit is 25 mph, and it’s reduced in crowded areas [3].
- Water Safety: There are no lifeguards on Ocean Shores beaches. Exercise extreme caution and supervise children closely when near the water [3].
- Keep it Clean: Help keep Ocean Shores beautiful by packing out everything you pack in. Designated litter bag dump stations are available at each beach approach [3]. Volunteers also organize a beach clean-up on July 5th [3].
If you visit during the holiday, expect heavier traffic, full restaurants, and a crowded beach. Keep your plan flexible and follow posted safety guidance.
Book your stay at Tidal House
Check availability at Tidal House for an A-frame cottage near the beach.
References
- Ocean Shores Fourth of July: Fireworks Like You’ve Never Seen … – visitoceanshores.com
- Ocean Shores announces 4th of July fireworks schedule, guidance – thedailyworld.com
- Fourth of July in Ocean Shores – osgov.com