19 Best Things To Do In Ocean Shores, Washington
Ocean Shores, Washington isn’t where you go to check things off a list. It’s where you go to breathe differently. The kind of place where your phone magically stays in your pocket, your shoulders drop a few inches, and you remember what it feels like to just be. It’s equal parts beach town, foggy adventure zone, and “holy crap, is that a wild elk walking by?” energy. This place moves at its own pace—and once you tune into it, you’re hooked.
You can ride horses on the sand, drive your car straight onto the beach, dig for clams like your life depends on it, or just walk the shoreline with no goal but to exist. That’s the beauty of it—there’s no wrong way to Ocean Shores. If you’re hunting down the best things to do in Ocean Shores, Washington, get ready for a little chaos, a lot of wind, and some weird, wild charm that stays with you long after you’ve rinsed the sand out of your shoes. Come curious. Leave salty, sandy, and seriously refreshed.
Dive into our guide to discover the best attractions in Ocean Shores, Washington and start planning your adventure today!
1. Enjoy the Beaches
Ocean Shores, Washington, is renowned for its vast, sandy beaches that stretch along the beautiful Pacific Ocean. These beaches offer visitors the perfect backdrop for various activities. Ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike, the beaches here are perfect for experiencing the soothing rhythm of the sea and capturing stunning sunset photos. Make the most of your visit by exploring the wide-open sands and enjoying the cool breeze of Washington’s coast.
Fun fact: The beaches of Ocean Shores are so expansive that they were once used as an emergency landing strip for small aircraft!
2. Explore the Ocean Shores North Jetty
For a more rugged coastal experience, the Ocean Shores North Jetty is a must-visit. This natural attraction provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, with waves crashing against the rocks and seagulls flying overhead. The North Jetty is an excellent spot for photographers, birdwatchers, and anyone looking to witness the raw beauty of the ocean. On stormy days, it’s a dramatic scene of powerful surf, while calm days offer tide pools to explore and opportunities to spot sea life. It’s also a popular spot for fishing and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. With its panoramic views and untouched coastal charm, the Ocean Shores North Jetty is a perfect place to appreciate nature’s power and tranquility.
Fun fact: The Ocean Shores North Jetty was built in the 1930s to help stabilize the entrance to Grays Harbor and protect the shoreline from erosion.
3. Visit Damon Point
Damon Point is a stunning peninsula that extends into Grays Harbor, offering visitors a unique spot for beachcombing, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. Known for its long, narrow shoreline and panoramic views, Damon Point is perfect for those looking to explore a more secluded and peaceful section of Ocean Shores. It’s an excellent location for finding driftwood, sea glass, and unique shells, making it a favorite for treasure hunters and nature enthusiasts alike. The area is also a prime habitat for various bird species, including bald eagles and shorebirds, making it an ideal spot for birdwatchers. With its serene beauty and diverse ecosystem, Damon Point invites visitors to unwind, take in the scenery, and connect with nature.
Fun fact: Damon Point is one of the few places in Ocean Shores where you can spot agates and other unique beach stones washed up after storms.
4. Go Horseback Riding
Experience the beauty of Ocean Shores in a truly unique way by going horseback riding along the beach. Local stables offer guided horseback rides that cater to all skill levels, allowing visitors to enjoy the fresh ocean breeze and the rhythmic sound of waves while riding along the sandy shores. This activity is perfect for those seeking a memorable way to experience Ocean Shores’ natural landscape and adds an element of adventure to any visit.
5. Experience Local Wildlife at the Coastal Interpretive Center
For an educational and immersive experience, visit the Coastal Interpretive Center in Ocean Shores, Washington. This center offers fascinating exhibits that delve into the local wildlife, coastal ecosystems, and rich history of the area. Visitors can learn about the unique flora and fauna that thrive along Washington’s coast and participate in interactive displays that make learning fun for all ages. From shell displays and marine life exhibits to information about the area’s Native American heritage, the center provides a comprehensive look at the region’s natural and cultural history. Perfect for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and curious travelers, the Coastal Interpretive Center is a must-visit for those who want to deepen their understanding of Ocean Shores’ natural wonders.
Fun fact: The Coastal Interpretive Center showcases real specimens of marine life, including a giant preserved squid that once washed up on the local shore.
6. Try Your Luck at the Quinault Beach Resort and Casino
Add some excitement to your visit by trying your luck at the Quinault Beach Resort and Casino in Ocean Shores. This premier resort offers an array of gaming options, including slot machines, poker, and table games, providing entertainment for both experienced and casual players. Beyond the casino floor, the resort features luxurious accommodations, ocean-view dining, and a spa for relaxation. Visitors can enjoy live music, comedy shows, and special events, making the Quinault Beach Resort and Casino a perfect blend of fun and luxury.
Fun fact: The Quinault Beach Resort and Casino is owned by the Quinault Indian Nation, and it’s not just a place for gaming—it also hosts events and cultural celebrations that showcase Native American heritage.
7. Rent Mopeds, Bikes, or Scooters
Explore Ocean Shores in a fun and laid-back way by renting a moped, bike, or scooter. Multiple rental shops in the area offer visitors the chance to cruise along the scenic roads, visit local attractions, and take in the coastal beauty at their own pace. Perfect for couples, families, or solo adventurers, this activity adds an element of freedom and fun to your visit. Enjoy the breeze, discover hidden spots, and experience the sights and sounds of the coastline up close.
8. Take a Scenic Boat Tour
Experience the waterways of Ocean Shores, Washington, with a scenic boat tour that showcases the area’s stunning natural beauty and abundant marine life. Boat tours often traverse Grays Harbor and nearby channels, offering a chance to see seals, sea lions, and a variety of seabirds. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the local ecosystem, wildlife, and the history of the region, making it both an entertaining and educational experience. Perfect for families, friends, or couples, a boat tour is an excellent addition to any itinerary.
9. Visit the Ocean Shores Golf Course
Golf enthusiasts will find the Ocean Shores Golf Course to be a perfect destination for a day of relaxation and recreation. This well-maintained, 18-hole course offers a fun yet challenging layout, complete with water hazards, lush greens, and a picturesque coastal backdrop. On-site amenities include a pro shop stocked with gear and a snack bar for refreshments, making it a great spot for a full day of outdoor fun. Tee off at the Ocean Shores Golf Course and enjoy the blend of sport and seaside charm.
10. Explore the Shops and Eateries in the Town
Strolling through Ocean Shores' main drag is like flipping channels between chill, quirky, and unexpectedly delicious. You’ll pass gift shops with hand-carved driftwood signs next to arcades blasting 80s music, and suddenly—boom—you're hit with the smell of something deep-fried or smoked, and you know you're not leaving hungry. This town may be small, but it comes through hard with flavor.
Start with Bennett’s Fish Shack—a fried seafood paradise where the halibut melts and the fries could win awards. Craving pizza? Dugan’s serves up slices so cheesy you’ll forgive the wait. Oyhut Bay Grill surprises you with elevated comfort food and cocktails that sneak up on you. And for dessert, don’t skip Peppermint Parlor—ice cream so good, you’ll consider a second scoop before the first one melts. If you’re hunting for the best places to eat in Ocean Shores, don’t overthink it—just follow your nose (and maybe the locals). Walk, eat, shop, repeat. It’s the only real plan you need.
11. Pacific Paradise: Mini-Golf and Family Fun
Pacific Paradise is a top destination in Ocean Shores, Washington, for families and fun-seekers looking to enjoy a day of classic entertainment. This mini-golf center features an 18-hole course complete with creative obstacles, water features, and vibrant landscapes that make every round a delightful experience. Beyond mini-golf, Pacific Paradise offers an arcade filled with a variety of games that kids and adults can enjoy.
On my visit to Pacific Paradise, I found myself reminiscing about childhood afternoons spent with family, sharing laughter over tricky putts and celebrating even the smallest victories. The course’s design is charming and just challenging enough to keep everyone engaged, while the arcade brings out everyone’s competitive side. With its friendly atmosphere and family-friendly environment, Pacific Paradise truly lives up to its name as a local hotspot for fun and bonding.
12. Sharky’s: A Unique Shopping Experience
For a quirky, must-visit spot in Ocean Shores, head to Sharky’s. Known for its iconic shark-shaped entrance, Sharky’s is a local favorite for gifts, souvenirs, and unique trinkets. As you step through the giant jaws, you’re welcomed by a whimsical array of beachwear, toys, and Ocean Shores memorabilia.
During my visit, I couldn’t resist picking up a colorful beach towel and a few fun seashell crafts as keepsakes. The shop’s playful atmosphere, combined with the friendly and helpful staff, made browsing an enjoyable part of my day.
Fun fact: The shark-shaped entrance of Sharky’s has become a famous photo op for tourists, making it one of the most recognizable storefronts in Ocean Shores.
13. Ocean Shores Kites: Colorful Fun on the Beach
A trip to Ocean Shores isn’t complete without the vibrant experience of kite flying, and Ocean Shores Kites is the go-to shop for all your kite-related needs. This specialty store offers a wide selection of kites, from simple single-line models perfect for beginners to intricate stunt kites that appeal to seasoned enthusiasts. The staff is knowledgeable and always eager to help you pick out the right kite and provide tips for flying it successfully.
During my visit, I picked out a bold, colorful kite and felt an immediate sense of excitement as I took it to the wide, breezy beaches. Watching it dance against the blue sky, with the sound of waves in the background, was both exhilarating and peaceful.
14. Buddy and Howie’s Old Fashioned Sweet Shoppe: A Taste of Nostalgia
Step into Buddy and Howie’s Old Fashioned Sweet Shoppe for a delightful dose of nostalgia. Located in Ocean Shores, this charming candy shop transports visitors back in time with its colorful displays of classic confections, homemade fudge, and vintage candies. From saltwater taffy to handmade caramel apples, the shop is a treat for the eyes and the taste buds.
During my visit, I indulged in a rich piece of fudge that instantly reminded me of childhood trips to old-fashioned candy stores. The friendly staff and cozy ambiance added to the experience, making it feel like stepping into a scene from a beloved movie. Buddy and Howie’s is a perfect stop for families, couples, or anyone with a sweet tooth who wants to experience a little taste of yesteryear.
15. Shores Bowl: Classic Bowling Fun
For some laid-back entertainment in Ocean Shores, head to Shores Bowl. This classic bowling alley offers a fun atmosphere complete with lanes, arcade games, and a snack bar to keep everyone entertained.
I spent an evening at Shores Bowl, sharing laughs with friends over gutter balls and strikes, followed by a round of arcade games that brought out our playful side. The welcoming environment made it easy to relax and enjoy the night, and the snack bar’s comfort food was the perfect touch to refuel between games. Shores Bowl is a must-visit for anyone looking to add some classic fun to their Ocean Shores itinerary.
16. Oyhut Wildlife Recreation Area: A Natural Haven in Ocean Shores
There’s something about Oyhut that makes you go quiet—not in a forced, polite way, but in that “okay wow” kind of way. You step into this wild sprawl of dunes, wetlands, and open sky, and suddenly the stress you carried in just… disappears. You’re walking paths carved by wind and wildlife, not people, and the air smells like salt and grass and something you forgot you missed. Herons lift off like slow-motion paper airplanes. Deer tiptoe across trails like they own the place (because they do). It’s raw, it’s wide open, and it feels more like a moment than a park.
You can hike, bike, bring your dog, or just stand still and let the silence hit you. This isn’t a photo op—it’s the kind of place that gives your brain a reset. If you're looking for meaningful outdoor activities in Ocean Shores, this is one of those spots that reminds you nature isn’t a backdrop—it’s the main event. And Oyhut delivers it with no filter, no noise, and no crowds. Just you, the wind, and whatever’s waiting around the next bend.
17. Chinook City Park: Community Charm and Outdoor Fun
Chinook City Park isn’t trying to be some overhyped Instagram hotspot. It’s just solid. You’ve got open fields, tall trees, a playground that keeps the kids busy, and enough breathing room to stretch out and feel like life just got quieter. You don’t need a schedule here. You show up with snacks, maybe a soccer ball or a kite, and somehow end up staying longer than planned. It’s the kind of park that reminds you how good it feels to just be outside—no entry fee, no waiting in line, just fresh air and space to be a little more human.
If you're making a list of parks in Ocean Shores, this one deserves a spot near the top. It’s perfect for families, couples, solo wanderers—basically anyone who wants to pause and reset without fuss. Watch the wind roll through the trees. Let the kids run wild without checking your phone every five seconds. Chinook City Park is where you go when you want something real, something easy, and something that still feels like a small-town gem. It’s not fancy—but it’s kind of perfect.
18. Visit the Ocean Shores Interpretive Center
Let’s be honest—most people don’t walk into a small-town interpretive center expecting to be blown away. But this one? It delivers. The Ocean Shores Interpretive Center is packed with weird, wonderful, hands-on exhibits that tell the story of the coast in a way that’s actually fun. We’re talking old shipwreck artifacts, real whale bones, vintage surf rescue gear, and a collection of local oddities that makes you ask, “Why don’t more people talk about this place?” It’s like a love letter to the ocean, storms, wildlife, and all the chaotic beauty that comes with living by the sea.
And here’s the thing—it’s run by people who really care. You’ll probably end up chatting with a volunteer who knows every seabird in the region by name and still gets excited about storm footage from the ‘80s. It’s quirky, low-key educational, and absolutely one of the most unexpectedly cool spots in town. If you’re mapping out your list of fun things to do in Ocean Shores, WA, make time for this place. It’s budget-friendly, off the beaten path, and a reminder that sometimes the smallest buildings hold the biggest stories.
19. Go Clam Digging (Seasonal)
Clam digging in Ocean Shores isn’t just a quirky beach activity—it’s a full-on community obsession. When razor clam season hits, the beach transforms. Locals and visitors line the shore with headlamps before sunrise or hustle out at dusk with buckets, shovels, and way too much excitement for something that lives in the sand. It’s messy, competitive, and honestly kind of addicting. You poke around, feel that little give under your foot, dig like crazy, and boom—clam victory. It sounds weird until you try it. Then you get it.
You’ll need a shellfish license (easy to grab online or at local shops) and a clam gun or shovel. But after that, it’s just you, the tide, and the hope that your dinner is buried somewhere under your boots. Families go out together, strangers trade tips, and everyone heads home with sandy jeans and bragging rights. It’s one of those things to do in Ocean Shores, Washington that turns a quiet beach trip into a muddy, hilarious memory you’ll talk about way too often. Bonus: razor clams taste amazing—especially when you dug 'em up yourself.
Conclusion
Ocean Shores is one of those places that sneaks up on you. You come thinking it’s just beaches and driftwood, and you leave wondering if you should buy a kite, a clam gun, and a beach cruiser. There’s something oddly comforting about the way this place doesn’t try too hard. The waves crash, the seagulls yell, and somewhere, someone’s trying to dig razor clams in rain boots two sizes too big. It's equal parts peaceful and ridiculous—in the best way possible.
If you’re still wondering about the best things to do in Ocean Shores, here's the secret: don’t overthink it. Walk the beach. Ride a horse. Fly a kite and get sand in your shoes. Eat fish and chips with your hands. Get lost in a gift shop full of sea glass and oddly specific saltwater taffy flavors. Then, do it all again tomorrow, but slower.
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FAQ
1. What is Ocala, Florida, known for?
Ocala is known for its beautiful horse farms, earning it the title “Horse Capital of the World.” It is also recognized for the scenic Ocala National Forest, rich history, and outdoor recreation opportunities like Silver Springs State Park.
2. What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Ocala?
Visitors to Ocala can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and canoeing in Ocala National Forest, exploring the crystal-clear waters of Silver Springs State Park by kayak, horseback riding through the area’s trails, and zip-lining at The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park.
3. Is Ocala a family-friendly destination?
Yes, Ocala offers plenty of family-friendly attractions, including the Appleton Museum of Art, Sholom Park for peaceful nature walks, and Gypsy Gold Horse Farm, where visitors can learn about the famous Gypsy Vanner horses.
4. What is the best time of year to visit Ocala, Florida?
The best time to visit Ocala is during the spring and fall when temperatures are pleasant, making outdoor activities more enjoyable. The cooler months also coincide with fewer crowds and special seasonal events.
5. Are there any cultural attractions in Ocala?
Yes, cultural attractions in Ocala include the Appleton Museum of Art, which showcases a variety of art collections, and the Ocala Civic Theatre, which hosts live performances and community productions.
6. What is there to do in Downtown Ocala?
Historic Downtown Ocala is full of charm, offering local shops, art galleries, and restaurants. The Ocala Downtown Market is a popular spot for browsing local produce, artisan goods, and crafts.
7. Is Ocala a good place for outdoor enthusiasts?
Absolutely. Ocala is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities such as hiking, birdwatching, fishing, and camping in places like Silver Springs State Park and Ocala National Forest.
8. Are there any unique events or festivals in Ocala?
Yes, Ocala hosts a variety of events, including horse shows and equestrian events at venues like the World Equestrian Center. Seasonal festivals and art shows are also common throughout the year.
