Long Beach
One branch of Highway 101 takes a scenic detour onto the Long Beach Peninsula on the north side of the Columbia River. Like other coastal gems, Willapa Bay and the Long Beach Peninsula are well worth a week, some would argue a lifetime. Artists, intellectuals, culinary enthusiasts, retirees, lovers of life have all come here, turning this area into a place nearly as culturally stimulating as it is breathtakingly beautiful.
The peninsula is 28 miles long, capped by Leadbetter Point, a 1740 acre park with hiking paths through grassy dunes and moss-laden old growth forest. Comb the wide, 20-mile sandy beach. Kayak, horseback ride, eat just-caught seafood, fly kites, breathe deeply of the clean air off the ocean.
Salmon, sturgeon, tuna, oysters, clams, and crab from the rich waters of the wild Pacific and shallow bay have lured big city chefs and those who seek out exceptional food. Seafood markets and canneries complement a mix of gourmet and family-friendly restaurants. Cranberry harvest is celebrated in October, as are ever-delectable wild mushrooms.
The Peninsula’s seaside communities form a string of pearls, including Oysterville an entire community on the National Register of Historic Places! – and several unique small towns which welcome visitors. Museums and antique stores abound.
Throughout the year, the Peninsula hosts a large number of festivals, including the week-long International Kite Festival when the skies are filled with colorful kites. From the Doggie Olympic Games to a series of musical events which pair seafood with jazz & bluegrass, the annual calendar is jam-packed with activities.
The Peninsula’s two lighthouses guard the "Graveyard of the Pacific" and tours of the North Head Lighthouse lead to spectacular views of the waters where the mighty Columbia River meets the turbulent Pacific Ocean.
Lewis and Clark made their mark here more than two centuries ago. Several of the 12 locations which comprise the Lewis and Clark National Park are on the Peninsula, including the fortifications of Fort Columbia and the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center at Cape Disappointment State Park.
Take the detour on your next trip to the ‘Oregon’ coast.
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Boreas Bed & Breakfast Inn
Boreas Inn offers Oceanfront peace, luxury and intimacy paired with award-winning breakfast cuisine in a resort-style setting. Five exquisite guest suites, all private baths, one with spa. Very private spa by the dunes offers the best hot tub experience on the coast! Full concierge service.
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Shelburne Inn
The Shelburne Country Inn is a historic hotel on the Washington coast, established in 1896. Ambiance includes 4 star dining, gourmet breakfasts,a cozy pub and antique furnishings throughout.
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China Beach Retreat
China Beach is the perfect place to unwind. Nestled in a waterfront cove, the landscape is isolated like a Shangri La, with a view of the mouth of the Columbia River and Bakers Bay.