Grays Harbor

There's a stretch of Washington coastline in the Pacific Northwest where the ocean rolls onto miles of open beach, inland canals wind through friendly beach towns, and a lush rainforest blends seamlessly into the rugged landscape. Located on the southwest corner of the Olympic Peninsula, Grays Harbor County extends from the Pacific Ocean to the flowing waterfalls of Wynochee Valley, and from glacial lakes to pristine dunes.

These features draw families year after year to the laid-back atmosphere of Grays Harbor towns, such as the popular community of Ocean Shores on the northern beaches. Here, driving on the beach, world-class razor clam digging, horseback riding on the sand, and kite flying bringing them back again and again.

Along the southern beaches, Westport stands out as Washington’s largest coastal marina and is renowned for its deep-sea fishing. Nearby Quinault Rainforest, one of only three temperate coniferous rain forests in the Western Hemisphere, offers towering trees and hiking trails to add to the sense of adventure.

History buffs will appreciate that Grays Harbor is named after Captain Robert Gray, who sailed these waters in 1792. During the late 1800s, the area grew into a booming timber and shipping hub, still evident in Aberdeen and Hoquiam.

Annual events are another reason to visit this alluring part of Washington. The Ocean Shores Kite Festival paints the sky each summer, while Grays Harbor Shorebird Festival celebrates the spring migration. Sand and Sawdust brings sandcastle artists to the beach, and the Dixieland Jazz Festival fills town with music.

Whether you want adventure, relaxation, or a little of both, Grays Harbor delivers.