The Coast Line: Local Attractions Guide

How to Do the Most on The South West Washington Coast

Sora Blu / Sep 17th 2024

Your Ideal Long Beach Peninsula Itinerary

Ready to experience the Long Beach Peninsula like a local? We’ve got the inside scoop on the best sights, activities, dining, and drinks from Chinook to Oysterville!

Staying at The Sou’wester Lodge in Seaview, WA, places you right in the heart of the peninsula, making it the perfect starting point for any adventure. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature, unwind and recharge, indulge in fresh seafood, or shop to your heart’s content, the peninsula has something for everyone.

We’ll start south and work our way North

As you cross the Astoria-Megler Bridge, you’ll pass through a tunnel and emerge just before Fort Columbia State Park—definitely a must-see! A few miles later, you’ll enter the little town of Chinook, WA. We recommend stopping by Chinook Coffee Co. for a delicious drink and a tasty baked good, or browsing the treasures at Shipwreck Cove Antiques & Treasures.

When you reach a fork in the road, take the left toward Ilwaco, WA. This charming town welcomes you with fresh, salty air, harbor chimes, and a variety of delicious local cuisine from places like The Salt Pub and Ilwaco Cider Company. Let your creativity flow at Ilwaco Artworks, a clay studio where you can craft your own unique souvenirs. Don’t miss the Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum and the quaint mom-and-pop shops that line the streets. For adventure, lace up your boots and embark on a fishing charter or explore the breathtaking trails of Cape Disappointment State Park, where you’ll encounter stunning vistas, North Head Lighthouse, Beards Hollow, and Deadmans Cove—each a must-see.


Just five minutes north of Ilwaco, you’ll be enchanted by the charming Victorian homes and cottages, feeling like you’ve stepped into a Thomas Kinkade painting. Welcome to the whimsical town of Seaview, WA—our neighborhood! Everything you need is within walking distance here. Start your day with a hot cup of Sou’wester coffee, then stroll over to Seaview Biscuit Company for a delicious breakfast. Explore the town on foot or rent bicycles from Beachin’ Bike Rentals to take in stunning views of golden dunes, bald eagles, and the picturesque shoreline along The Discovery Trail, accessible just steps from our grounds. Clamming season is open October through April if catching your own meal is your kinda thing. In the evenings, we recommend making a reservation at The Depot, followed by a visit to North Jetty Brewing for a refreshing drink. Cap off your night with a classic VHS movie from our porch lending library or free live music in The Sou’wester Lodge Living room on Saturday nights!


Just north of Seaview is Long Beach, WA—the vibrant pulse of the peninsula, brimming with shops, family-friendly activities, and a diverse array of dining options. Some of our favorite all-ages attractions include go-kart racing, horseback riding, and fun at the Family Fun Center Arcade & Laser Tag, along with visits to Marsh’s Free Museum and The World Kite Museum. Don’t miss Dylan’s Cottage Bakery for freshly baked treats!
If shopping is on your agenda, downtown Long Beach offers a delightful mix of boutiques, unique treasures, and quirky oddity stores. Start your day at 42nd Street Cafe and Bistro, where breakfast is a cozy affair. For lunch, indulge in the comforting dishes at The Shelburne, a local favorite. Perhaps self care is on the top of your list, sink into an unforgettable massage from Peace Pad Wellness and then grab a slice of pie next door at The Long Beach Pie Lady.
Take a trip to the Cranberry Museum to discover how cranberries are grown and harvested. If you’re visiting from late October to early November, you might catch the excitement of the harvest in action! In spring or summer, sling a bucket over your shoulder and pick berries to your heart’s content at Cranguyma Farms. Enjoy a round of golf and a meal at The Cove & Peninsula Golf Course, or challenge yourself with the famous Tsunami burger at The Corral Drive-In.
As the sun sets, head to The Pickled Fish for an evening filled with delicious dinner and drinks, all set against stunning views and a lively atmosphere. Wrap up your day with a sunset stroll along the Long Beach boardwalk, savoring a scoop of ice cream from Scoopers Market or catch a movie at the Neptune Theatre.

North of Long Beach, WA, lies a treasure trove of hidden gems and natural beauty that often goes unnoticed. Loomis Lake, with its enchanting surroundings, is perfect for kayaking and birdwatching. Just beyond Loomis is the sleepy town of Ocean Park, a peaceful spot worth exploring. Be sure to stop by The Bay Avenue Art Gallery to admire the works of talented local artists, or visit Jack’s Country Store—the oldest retail business in Washington, offering an eclectic selection of classic games and nostalgic candies.

Continuing north to Surfside, WA, you’ll find a quintessential beach village alive with wild bunnies, deer, and expansive sandy areas ideal for kite flying and beach biking. Be sure to visit Leadbetter Point State Park—a beautiful day-use park where you can explore diverse wildlife and the thriving, preserved coastal forest habitat.

A Change of Directions

Now, let’s head east! Discover the Oysterville Cemetery, one of the oldest in Washington, where you can pay tribute to Chief Nahcati, the last Native American chieftain of the Long Beach Peninsula, and honor the unknown sailors lost at sea. The village of Oysterville, WA resembles a historic movie set, surrounded by ancient cypress trees and offering stunning views of Willapa Bay. For the freshest seafood with a view, visit Oysterville Sea Farms and don’t miss a stroll around Oysterville Church and take in the impressive gardens cultivated by local residents.

As you head south, you’ll pass Nahcotta and its towering piles of oyster shells. Approaching Long Beach from the bay side, you can choose to extend your adventure at the Tarlatt Slough hiking and birding trails or explore the Willapa National Wildlife Refuge.

28 Miles of Endless Coastal Adventures

No matter how you choose to spend your time on the evergreen coast, each moment is an opportunity for discovery and enjoyment. From scenic walks along the beach to savoring delicious local cuisine, this vibrant area offers a little something for everyone. So pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and create unforgettable memories in this beautiful coastal paradise. We can’t wait to welcome you to The Sou’wester Lodge & the Long Beach Peninsula!