{"id":719,"date":"2023-05-26T20:31:53","date_gmt":"2023-05-27T03:31:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.beachhousewa.com\/?p=719"},"modified":"2023-05-29T06:45:35","modified_gmt":"2023-05-29T13:45:35","slug":"long-beach-washington","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.beachhousewa.com\/long-beach-washington\/","title":{"rendered":"A Traveler’s Guide to Long Beach, Washington"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The sandy shoreline of Long Beach, Washington, is a captivating coastal haven where time always seems to slow down, and nothing seems to matter except for the comforting lull of crashing waves and the refreshing, salty sea breeze touching your skin. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This picturesque seaside town in Pacific Country also offers a treasure trove of experiences, from the gorgeous beach itself to the idyllic Downtown Long Beach<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s also charmingly quirky! Ask any of the families who return every year to its shores, and you\u2019ll hear stories about Jake the Alligator Man, amongst other unique museums. They\u2019ll also tell you about the legendary Scooper\u2019s ice cream parlor, hours spent on rainy days at the downtown arcade and days that turn into long nights on the Long Beach Boardwalk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easily accessible for a getaway from Seattle or Portland, Long Beach is a gorgeous little slice of the Pacific Northwest to book a vacation home rental<\/a>. This is your guide to one of Washington State\u2019s most beloved coastal treasures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The History of Long Beach<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The history of this West Coast stronghold starts with the Chinook Tribe. In the very early 1800s, the land was explored by European settlers, including Lewis and Clark of the Corps of Discovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Unlike other nearby areas in Southern Washington, fur traders had no interest in Long Beach, as there weren\u2019t many mammals here. However, in the 1840s and 1850s, traders searching for berries, which were difficult to find at the time and a crucial source of Vitamin C, would venture into Long Beach to trade with the Chinook Tribe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the late 1800s, more and more travelers and vacationers sought out the coastal reprise of Long Beach, Washington, and the area quickly grew into the idyllic Washington Coast resort town it is today. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Beachfront<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Photo Credit: austin j harvey<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The main attraction of Long Beach, which has drawn tourists here for hundreds of years, is the beach, of course! Long Beach, aptly named, stretches for about 28 miles. Its claim to fame is that it is the longest, continuous stretch of beach on the Pacific Ocean side of the US! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nestled between rolling green hills and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, Long Beach has been hosting travelers at beautiful beachfront rentals for decades. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Whether it’s the stunning views or the invigorating salty sea air, the beach at Long Beach beckons families for summer fun, festivals, and year round ambling down its lengthy stretch of sand. From relaxing beach walks to hiking along the Discovery Trail, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on this breathtaking shoreline.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Downtown Long Beach<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Photo Credit: commons.wikimedia.org<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re looking for shopping, restaurants, history, culture, and a flavor of nostalgia that will bring you right back to your childhood,\u00a0 you\u2019ll find it all in Downtown Long <\/a>B<\/a>each<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

All along Pacific Avenue you can browse antique stores and boutiques, marvel at the World\u2019s Largest Frying Pan, and walk under the World\u2019s Largest Beach Arc. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Downtown Long Beach perfectly walks the line between small beach town charm and having more than enough activities to keep your family entertained. You can\u2019t miss the Funland Arcade<\/a>, the iconic oddity that is the Marsh\u2019s Free Museum<\/a>, or Carnival Gifts.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During your trip to Long Beach in between enjoying the beach and amenities at your cozy beach house rental, take at least a few hours to walk around and explore Downtown Long Beach. It\u2019s a great place to grab a bite to eat, do a little sightseeing and souvenir shopping, or simply get out and stretch your legs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Events Hosted in Long Beach<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Photo Credit: Bob Pool<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Throughout the year, Long Beach hosts several anticipated events and festivals. Here are some of the beloved events that bring visitors from near and far. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Razor Clam Festival<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Razor Clams are an integral part of the Long Beach coastal and cultural communities. Every year, the Razor Clam Festival<\/a> offers an opportunity for residents and tourists alike to come together and learn all about the clams, along with enjoying samples of some delicious razor-clam made fare. Clam fritters, anyone?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The multi-day festival includes a clam chowder taste-off, a beer garden courtesy of North Jetty Brewing, food trucks, live music, and Razor Clam digging lessons. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kite Week<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A colorful kite fluttering around in the wind is a quintessential sight in Long Beach, Washington. The Washington State International Kite Festival<\/a> (Kite Week) is a week-long kite festival, and competition held every summer, where you can witness the magic of hundreds of kites in the sky and some of the best kite fliers in the world in action- right in the heart of Long Beach.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rod Run to the End of the World<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Classic Car Rod Run<\/a>, sponsored by Beach Barons Car Club, is one of the biggest vintage car shows around. The car show includes parades and thousands of unique vintage cars, food, and music. If you want to experience the fun, come to Long Beach during Labor Day weekend, when the event takes place.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Black Lake Fishing Derby<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you love fishing, you won\u2019t want to miss the Black Lake Fishing Derby<\/a>. This fun, family-friendly event happens every year on the opening day of trout season at Black Lake, just a 10-minute drive from Long Beach.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Beach to Chowder Run<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re a running enthusiast scouting out your next competition, look no further than the annual Beach to Chowder Run<\/strong> in Long Beach! You can participate in the 5k or the 10k and enjoy running along the hard-packed sand adjacent to the gorgeous Long Beach. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Columbia-Pacific Farmer\u2019s Market<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Columbia-Pacific Farmer\u2019s Market<\/a> is a summer staple of Long Beach. From June to August, every Friday from noon to 5 pm, you can indulge in wholesome, healthy foods, sample locally baked treats, and shop for artisanal goods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Things to Do <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There is no shortage of things to do in Long Beach<\/a>! Here\u2019s a quick guide to some of the must-do\u2019s on your coastal getaway.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Clamming<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Photo Credit: Arthur Villator<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Clamming<\/a> is a quintessential Long Beach activity, and if you\u2019re in town during the clamming season (October-April), be sure to hit the beach and dig for those delicious, protein-rich Razor Clams. Razor Clams are a true Long Beach delicacy!\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fly a Kite<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

With year-round steady coastal breezes, Long Beach has ideal kite-flying conditions. You can pick up your own kite to fly at Wind World, Stormin\u2019 Normans, or the World Kite Museum<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take a Hike<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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The area surrounding Long Beach has several scenic hiking trails that cater to all different levels of hikers. The Discovery Trail<\/a> <\/strong>is an 8.5-mile walking and biking trail that takes you past interesting historical landmarks and a wooden statue of an enormous gray whale skeleton.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can venture into nearby Cape Disappointment State Park and the Willapa National Wildlife Refuge for more hiking opportunities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Explore the Quirky Museums in Long Beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Dive into Long Beach\u2019s rich history at the Cranberry Museum, Marsh\u2019s Free Museum, and the World Kite Museum. These peculiar museums depict a unique slice of Long Beach\u2019s culture and history. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Horseback Riding on the Beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

One of the most memorable things to do in Long Beach is to go horseback riding<\/a> down the coastline. Whether you go for a romantic sunset ride or a seaside cruise with the whole family, it doesn\u2019t get much better than galloping down the beach surrounded by nothing but sand, the waves, and the tall, swaying grasses.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Family Fun<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Long Beach really packs a punch when it comes to fun activities for the whole family. For an epic movie night, head on over to the historic Neptune Movie House. Or, play round after round of mini golf (in between go-kart laps) over at the Fun Beach Speedway. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to Eat<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Surrounded by an abundance of oysters, Pacific razor clams, and crab it might not shock you that Long Beach has some pretty phenomenal seafood restaurants<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, in addition to clam chowder galore, Long Beach also has delicious pub food, steakhouses, and even tasty Mexican and Australian fare. Here are just a few of the many delicious restaurants in Long Beach. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Depot Restaurant<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Housed in a beautifully restored historic train depot, The Depot Restaurant<\/a> is a must-visit in Long Beach. This farm-to-table restaurant showcases locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and offers them at a reasonable price point.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some popular menu items include the pan-seared Willapa Bay Oysters, Clamshell Railroad Clam Chowder, and the mouthwatering Chef\u2019s Special Cut of the Steak Killian. Seafood lovers will also appreciate the fresh catch of the day, while vegetarians can enjoy a delicious Asian Noodle dish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lost Roo<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Lost<\/a> <\/a>Roo<\/a> is a lively, family-friendly restaurant that serves a tasty fusion of Australian-inspired cuisine and flavors from the Pacific Northwest.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At The Lost Roo, you can enjoy everything from chowders, salads, and burgers, to a Columbia River Steelhead Filet and several variations of Dungeness Crab dishes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

42nd Street Cafe & Bistro<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

42nd Street Cafe & Bistro<\/a> is the original \u201croadside cafe\u201d on the Long Beach Peninsula and has been dishing out tasty breakfasts and dinners with fresh, local ingredients since the \u201890s. Try their Chicken Fried Steak, Smoked Salmon Scramble, and famous New Orleans Style Beignets.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Weather and Climate<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Long Beach has a mild maritime climate with cool summers and mild, wet winters. While the summer months are ideal for beach activities, the off-season months offer their own charm, with fewer crowds and the opportunity to witness dramatic coastal weather and moody sunsets. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, no matter when you visit, be prepared for the possibility of rain and pack accordingly. It is the Pacific Northwest, after all! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Temperatures in Long Beach:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n