I always chase windswept coasts, and I want you to feel that same salty rush—so I’m sending you to Long Beach. I love standing on one of the nation’s longest sandy stretches while you watch gulls sweep past vintage boardwalk lights. I treasure the kite festivals, classic arcades, and nearby lighthouses that let you taste the Pacific Northwest I’ve covered in 25 years of travel writing. When you storm-watch, dig razor clams, or launch a neon kite, you share moments I revisit every season.
Long Beach, WA Highlights:
- When you crave adventure, I point you to the Discovery Trail – you can bike or walk a sweeping path between grassy dunes and the restless Pacific that I still photograph on every trip.
- If you love history, I guide you to the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center – you explore hands-on exhibits while I admire views over Cape Disappointment that frame the expedition’s dramatic finale.
- When you want culture, I steer you toward the Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum – you’ll meet vibrant, living traditions that I believe broaden every coastal getaway.
- If you shop for kitsch, I nudge you through downtown’s quirky stores – you pick saltwater taffy or hand-made crafts while I hunt for vintage postcards and beach-glass jewelry.
- I always tell couples to stroll the Long Beach Boardwalk at sunset – you share uninterrupted wave views while I snap that golden-hour photo you’ll frame back home.
Best Time to Visit Long Beach, WA
I notice the coast sings loudest from late spring through early fall, and I think you’ll agree May through September give you the warmest, driest days. I chase festival energy in midsummer, yet I urge you to embrace moody autumn skies that invite cozy storm-watching and quieter sands.
How to Get to Long Beach, WA
- If you drive: I find the 2.5–3-hour trip from Portland or Seattle eases you into beach mode along US-101 and WA-103.
- By air: I usually land at PDX or SEA, and you’ll want a rental car for the scenic final leg.
- By bus: I’ve used Pacific Transit for local hops, but you may prefer driving when you crave flexibility.
Where to Stay in Long Beach, WA
- Adrift Hotel – I like its hip, eco-friendly vibe, and you’ll get free bikes, ocean views, and a lively on-site restaurant.
- Inn at Discovery Coast – I book this boutique hideaway when you need fireplaces, soaking tubs, and serene adults-only downtime.
- Boardwalk Cottages – I choose these charming digs so you and your family can walk from porch to beach in minutes.
Best Things to Do in Long Beach, WA
Stroll Wide Sandy Beaches and Breathe in Ocean Air at Long Beach -
Bike or Hike Scenic Coastal Paths on the Discovery Trail -
Explore the Sweet and Tart Story of Cranberries at the Cranberry Museum -
Step Into a World of Curiosities and Oddities at Marsh’s Free Museum -
Celebrate the Art and Joy of Flight at the World Kite Museum -
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth With Handmade Treats at The Candy Man -
Sip Local Spirits Crafted Right on the Coast at Adrift Distillers -
If You Love Scenic Rides, Saddle Up for a Beach Adventure with Back Country Horse Adventures -
Dine With Ocean Views and Coastal Flavors at Pickled Fish Restaurant -
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • Stroll Wide Sandy Beaches and Breathe in Ocean Air at Long Beach
- • Bike or Hike Scenic Coastal Paths on the Discovery Trail
- • Explore the Sweet and Tart Story of Cranberries at the Cranberry Museum
- • Step Into a World of Curiosities and Oddities at Marsh’s Free Museum
- • Celebrate the Art and Joy of Flight at the World Kite Museum
- • Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth With Handmade Treats at The Candy Man
- • Sip Local Spirits Crafted Right on the Coast at Adrift Distillers
- • If You Love Scenic Rides, Saddle Up for a Beach Adventure with Back Country Horse Adventures
- • Dine With Ocean Views and Coastal Flavors at Pickled Fish Restaurant