With six state parks, endless beaches and miles of trails, the Evergreen Coast is a coastal hideaway just waiting to be explored. Pack your bags and prepare to immerse yourself in a pristine Pacific Northwest paradise with a dash of small-town charm.

Long Beach Boardwalk

Enjoy a scenic stroll at one of the most iconic spots in Long Beach, WA—the Long Beach Boardwalk. This nearly half-mile wooden path floats above the dunes, offering panoramic views of the Washington coast and glimpses of the North Head Lighthouse. The walk is leisurely and low impact, making it ideal for families and those with limited mobility.

Insider Tip: This is the perfect place to take in a waterfront sunrise, unwind at sunset or capture unforgettable family photos.

Willapa River

Kayaking on the Willapa River is one of the many family-friendly activities that deserve a spot on your itinerary. This tranquil adventure will carry you along the watery highway, home to marine life, birdsongs and lush scenery. Plan ahead and paddle to uninhabited Long Island, where the Trail of Ancient Cedars awaits.

Discovery Trail

The Discovery Trail is a paved 8.5-mile route stretching from the Port of Ilwaco to Clark’s Tree, a 20-foot bronze sculpture in Long Beach. Hike or bike your way through windswept dunes, coastal forests and wetlands as the rhythmic roar of the Pacific Ocean echoes fills the air.

Cape Disappointment State Park

Contrary to its name, Cape Disappointment State Park is anything but a letdown—it’s an outdoor lover’s dream. Build sandcastles and watch the waves crash at Benson or Waikiki Beach. Channel your inner history buff by exploring the remains of Fort Canby scattered throughout the park. Or carve out some time to trek across eight miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy-going walks to sweat-inducing climbs.

Naturally, any excursion to Cape Disappointment should include a stop at its two functioning lighthouses. Built in 1856, the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse proudly holds the title of Washington’s oldest lighthouse. North Head Lighthouse, on the other hand, has guided ships through the treacherous Graveyard of the Pacific since 1898. These two towering landmarks offer incredible 360-degree views of the peninsula and turbulent waters below.

Insider Tip: Stick around to watch the sunset and experience a breathtaking kaleidoscope of colors as the sun slides into the coast. 

Willapa National Wildlife Refuge

Home to over 200 bird species, Willapa National Wildlife Refuge is an excellent place to perch and do some birdwatching. Seventeen thousand acres of tidelands, beaches, temperate rainforests and streams provide a thriving habitat for its feathered residents. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, herons, owls, hawks and other winged wonders.

While you’re here, don’t forget to check out the Willapa Boardwalk. Snaking through the lush foliage of Cutthroat Creek, this low-key wooden path is less than a mile long, making it a great option for a quick nature escape. Vibrant art installations punctuate the surrounding forest, which also brims with birds and frogs. For a more challenging hike, tackle the Cutthroat Climb boardwalk offshoot, which takes you further into the trees. 

Leadbetter Point State Park

Hop in the car and journey to the tip of the peninsula to visit Leadbetter Point State Park. Embraced by the Pacific Ocean and Willapa Bay, this locale features miles of shoreline to wander.

Spend the afternoon hiking and taking in the sights, and be sure to pack your binoculars—the park borders the Willapa National Wildlife Refuge, so animal sightings are abundant.

No trip to the Evergreen Coast is complete without catching some fresh seafood. Charter a boat and haul in Dungeness crabs, or try your hand at reeling in salmon, halibut and sturgeon. And if nothing’s biting or the crab pot comes up empty, head to a local market to sample the ocean’s delights.