When it comes to a coastal getaway in Washington State, two destinations often come to mind: Ocean Shores and Long Beach. Both offer the quintessential Pacific Northwest beach experience, but they cater to different tastes and travel styles. So, which one is right for you? This guide will help you decide.
At a Glance: Ocean Shores vs. Long Beach
| Feature | Ocean Shores | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Vibe | Relaxed, family-friendly, traditional beach town | Charming, laid-back, slightly more eclectic and artsy |
| Beach | Wide, drivable beach | 28-mile continuous, drivable beach, world’s longest on a peninsula |
| Proximity to Seattle | ~3 hours | ~3 hours |
| Proximity to Portland | ~3.5 hours | ~2.5 hours |
| Signature Event | Various smaller events | Washington State International Kite Festival |
| Dog-Friendly | Very | Very |
Ocean Shores: A Family-Friendly Resort Town
Ocean Shores is a well-established resort town that has been a popular destination for families for decades. Its layout is more compact and developed, with a variety of hotels, rental homes, and amenities clustered together. The town exudes a classic beach town ambiance, with a focus on family-friendly entertainment and activities.
Attractions and Activities in Ocean Shores
Ocean Shores offers a diverse range of activities to keep visitors entertained. For a bit of kitschy fun, Sharky’s Gift Shop, with its giant shark-mouth entrance, is a must-visit for souvenirs and photos. For outdoor enthusiasts, the North Jetty provides a scenic spot for beachcombing, watching fishermen, and enjoying the powerful waves of the Pacific. At the southern end of the peninsula, Damon Point is a mile-long stretch of beach that is a haven for birdwatchers and those seeking a peaceful walk with the chance of spotting gray whales in the distance.
Family entertainment is a cornerstone of the Ocean Shores experience. Pacific Paradise offers mini-golf, bumper boats, and an arcade, while the Peppermint Parlor combines ice cream with indoor bumper cars and go-karts, making it a perfect rainy-day escape. For those interested in a more active adventure, the town is very bike-friendly, with rentals available for all ages and even for pets. The beach itself is a major draw, with opportunities for kite flying, horseback riding, and even driving on the sand.
Dining and Nightlife in Ocean Shores
Ocean Shores has a variety of dining options, from casual to more upscale. For a taste of the local seafood, Bennett’s Fish Shack is a popular choice, known for its crab and cheddar melt. For a more authentic Irish pub experience, Galway Bay Irish Pub offers traditional food, live music, and a cozy atmosphere. The town also has a couple of taprooms, Ocean Pours Taproom and Elk Head Tap Room, for those looking to sample some of the region’s craft beers.
Long Beach: A Charming and Eclectic Coastal Escape
Long Beach, situated on the Long Beach Peninsula, offers a more laid-back and eclectic atmosphere compared to Ocean Shores. The town is more spread out, with a charming main street that is home to a variety of independent shops, galleries, and restaurants. The peninsula is famous for its 28-mile-long continuous beach, the longest on a peninsula in the world, which provides a vast and dramatic landscape for exploration.
Attractions and Activities in Long Beach
Long Beach is a haven for those who appreciate a blend of nature, art, and history. The Discovery Trail, an 8.5-mile paved path, is perfect for biking or walking and winds through dunes and coastal forest. The Long Beach Boardwalk offers a more leisurely way to enjoy the ocean views. For a dose of quirky fun, Marsh’s Free Museum is a local institution, filled with an eclectic collection of oddities and curiosities.
Which Beach Town is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between Ocean Shores and Long Beach depends on the type of vacation you’re looking for. If you’re seeking a classic, family-friendly beach town with a wide array of activities and entertainment options, Ocean Shores is an excellent choice. If you prefer a more laid-back, eclectic, and artsy atmosphere with a focus on nature, history, and a vast, dramatic coastline, Long Beach is the ideal destination. Both towns offer a unique and memorable Washington coast experience, and with this guide, you can choose the one that best suits your travel style.
