Ocean Shores Beach
Experience the unique thrill of driving on miles of firm sand at Ocean Shores Beach, a vast and invigorating coastal escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calmer winds, fewer crowds
Ocean Shores Beach
Best Time
Calmer winds, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the unique thrill of driving on miles of firm sand at Ocean Shores Beach, a vast and invigorating coastal escape.
"The very fine sand makes for a firm walking surface. Many automobiles drive on the firm sand."
🚗 Drive with Confidence
Firm sand allows driving on most of the beach, even in 2WD. Be aware of tides!
🌬️ Pack for Wind
It's often windy here, especially in summer. Layers are your friend!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Miles of Driving Beach
Ocean Shores Beach
Drive for miles along the firm sand, perfect for endless walks and scenic cruises. See wildlife and enjoy the vast coastline.
Damon Point State Park
Southern end of Ocean Shores
Explore this beautiful bay area with a cool park, offering views of distant cities and unique rock formations.
Wildlife Spotting
Ocean Shores Beach and surrounding areas
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer and elk, often spotted near the beach and forest lines.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Driving on the Beach
Embrace the Wind
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
How to spend a day in Ocean Shores
🚗 Drive with Confidence
Firm sand allows driving on most of the beach, even in 2WD. Be aware of tides!
🌬️ Pack for Wind
It's often windy here, especially in summer. Layers are your friend!
Stay in Ocean Shores area or Forks?
Things to do at Ocean Shores?
🦀 Crabbing Potential
Consider bringing crab snares; crabbing is an option when razor clamming is closed.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Strolls
Many hotels and the beach itself welcome pets, making it great for dog owners.
Things to do in Ocean Shores?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive with Confidence
Firm sand allows driving on most of the beach, even in 2WD. Be aware of tides!
🌬️ Pack for Wind
It's often windy here, especially in summer. Layers are your friend!
🦀 Crabbing Potential
Consider bringing crab snares; crabbing is an option when razor clamming is closed.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Strolls
Many hotels and the beach itself welcome pets, making it great for dog owners.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique experience of driving on Ocean Shores Beach, praising its vastness and the freedom it offers for long walks and exploration. The natural beauty, opportunities for wildlife spotting, and the invigorating coastal air are frequently highlighted as positives. While some note the wind can be strong, most find it adds to the charm. +1
"A fabulous beach. No one was swimming the day I visited, but the very fine sand makes for a firm walking surface. Many automobiles—even those lacking 4WD—drive on the firm sand. The waves were choppy yet mesmerizing, and the day very windy, but those present were obviously enjoying themselves."
John Quist
"It was a great experience... I went around August it was very windy and chilly.. but we don't mind we love it there very easy to get it I totally recommend going very peaceful and calming"
mary alcala
"Beautiful day today for visiting the beach. In town from Arizona and had to get our ocean fix. Just beautiful 😍"
Theresa Heim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ocean Shores is located on the Washington coast. The most common way to reach it is by car. From Seattle, it's about a 3-hour drive west.
Yes, you can drive on a significant portion of Ocean Shores Beach. The sand is often firm enough for most vehicles, but always be mindful of tide levels and other beachgoers.
Public transportation options are limited. It's primarily a destination best reached by private vehicle.
From Seattle, take I-5 South to Olympia, then US-101 West towards Aberdeen, and finally WA-109 West to Ocean Shores.
Parking is generally available in town and near beach access points. If you're driving on the beach, ensure you're in a designated driving area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, a permit is generally not required to drive on Ocean Shores Beach itself. However, always check local regulations as they can change.
Ocean Shores Beach is a public beach and typically does not have an entrance fee.
Damon Point State Park is a public access area and is generally open from dawn to dusk.
Ocean Shores hosts various events throughout the year, including sandcastle contests and kite festivals. Check the local tourism website for schedules.
Beach access points and town amenities aim for accessibility, but the natural beach terrain can be challenging. Inquire locally for specific access details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can drive on the beach, walk for miles, fly kites, beachcomb, and enjoy the ocean views. Wildlife spotting is also popular.
While the beach is beautiful, swimming can be challenging due to cold water temperatures and choppy waves. It's more popular for walking and driving.
Visitors often spot deer and elk near the beach and forest edges. Marine life is also present, and birdwatching is common.
Crabbing is possible, especially when razor clamming is closed. Consider bringing crab snares and checking local advisories for the best opportunities.
Damon Point offers scenic views, a bay area, and unique rock formations. It's a great spot for a relaxed walk and enjoying the coastal landscape.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Ocean Shores has a variety of dining options, from casual seafood shacks to restaurants with ocean views. Many places offer fresh local catches.
Yes, several hotels and independent restaurants in Ocean Shores offer rooms or dining areas with ocean views.
Absolutely! Being on the coast, Ocean Shores boasts numerous seafood restaurants serving fresh catches like oysters, clams, and fish.
You can find more affordable options like diners, cafes, and fast-casual spots in Ocean Shores for budget-conscious travelers.
Don't miss trying local oysters, razor clams (when in season), and fresh Pacific Northwest fish.
📸 📸 Photography
The expansive beach, especially during sunrise or sunset, is a prime spot. Damon Point with its unique rock formations also offers great photographic opportunities.
Yes, the long stretches of beach, dramatic waves, and coastal scenery make Ocean Shores an excellent location for landscape photography.
Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset offer beautiful light. Midday can be bright but still offers opportunities for capturing the vastness of the beach.
Yes, with patience, you can photograph local wildlife like deer and various bird species. Remember to maintain a respectful distance.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. Be mindful of private property and any specific park regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the summer for potentially warmer (though still cool) weather. While swimming might be too cold for little ones, the sheer joy of playing on the sand, watching the waves, and perhaps spotting some local wildlife like deer can make for a memorable family adventure. Many hotels in Ocean Shores are also pet-friendly, so your furry family members can join the fun too.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Travelers
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
For those on a longer road trip, Ocean Shores offers a variety of hotels and vacation rentals, including beachfront options, making it a convenient overnight stop. The town also provides dining and amenities, ensuring you can refuel and relax before continuing your journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Driving on the Beach: A Unique Experience
This unique access also means you'll share the beach with other cars, so maintaining a safe speed and being aware of your surroundings is paramount. It transforms the beach into a dynamic, accessible landscape where you can cover more ground and discover secluded spots. For those who prefer not to drive on the sand, there are plenty of access points and parking areas available in town.
Embracing the Coastal Climate
The weather can change quickly, so being prepared for sun, wind, and occasional mist will ensure a more comfortable visit. The brisk air can be incredibly refreshing, making long walks along the shore even more invigorating. Don't let the wind deter you; it's a characteristic that contributes to the wild beauty of Ocean Shores.
Wildlife Encounters and Natural Beauty
The beach itself is a dynamic ecosystem. While swimming can be challenging due to the cold and choppy waters, the shoreline is perfect for beachcombing, where you might find interesting shells and driftwood. The vastness of the beach and the ever-changing ocean create a mesmerizing backdrop for photography and quiet contemplation.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit