With a population of fewer than 2,100 residents Westport, WA is a remarkable place making it the home of the tallest lighthouse in the state of Washington. The Westport Lighthouse, also known as the Grays Harbor Lighthouse, stands at an impressive height of 107 feet (33 meters).
The tower was built in 1898 and it has been guiding ships into the entrance of Grays Harbor for over a century. The lighthouse is not only a historic landmark but also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline.
Besides its famous lighthouse, Westport has attractions for every nature lover. Let’s explore together!
Things to Do in Westport, WA
1. Explore the historic Westport Lighthouse and enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline
Originally constructed in 1898, the Westport Lighthouse, also known as the Grays Harbor Lighthouse, was built to guide ships safely into the entrance of Grays Harbor. Its strategic location on the Westport peninsula made it a vital navigational aid for vessels navigating the treacherous waters of the Pacific Northwest.
Standing at an impressive 107 feet (32.6 meters) tall, the Westport Lighthouse is not only the tallest lighthouse in Washington State but also one of the tallest lighthouses on the West Coast of the United States.
Its distinctive black and white stripes give it a unique appearance that adds to its visual appeal and makes it easily recognizable.
2. Go fishing
There are several places you can go fishing if you are in Westport. The easiest option is the marina in Westport. This is a bustling hub for fishing enthusiasts, offering a variety of charter fishing services.
Here you can join a guided fishing trip to catch salmon, halibut, bottom fish, and more in the abundant waters of the Pacific Ocean.
3. Take a stroll on the beach
Westport has several beaches that you can have easy access to. The closest one is Westport Beach. This is the primary oceanfront beach in town and stretches for miles along the Pacific coastline.
Another one would be located just north of the Westport Marina, Half Moon Bay is a picturesque beach with stunning views of the ocean. It is known for its large driftwood logs scattered along the shore, creating a unique and natural ambiance.
Both places are ideal for beachcombing, building sandcastles, flying kites, and taking leisurely walks along the water’s edge.
4. Explore the Westport Maritime Museum
If you want to get into a bit of history, Westport Maritime Museum is the best place to start with. Here you can learn about maritime traditions, industries, and cultures that have shaped the coastal communities.
plus, you can learn about notable shipwrecks in the area, the challenges faced by sailors, and the efforts undertaken to salvage and preserve maritime artifacts.
5. Go clamming and crabbing
Clamming and crabbing in Westport provide an exciting and rewarding experience, allowing you to connect with nature and enjoy the bounty of the sea.
Westport Beach is a prime location for clamming, particularly for razor clams. The beach stretches for miles, providing ample space for digging and gathering clams.
Check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website for information on specific clamming seasons and regulations.
6. Enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants and sample renowned Dungeness crab
Dungeness Crab is the tastiest of all the crabs and the backbone of Westport’s seafood industry. In the summer, you will find fishermen regularly selling fresh crab from their boats each weekend in the marina. Crab is available live, cooked, and locally canned.
Here you can have all kinds of foods made with crabs such as omelets or fish and chips.
7. Enjoy water sports
Here at Westport Beach, you have the ideal opportunity for water sports like surfing, kiteboarding, and windsurfing. The marina offers convenient access to the ocean and nearby estuaries, providing opportunities for kayaking, paddle boarding, and jet skiing.
You can rent equipment for all these water activities and the prices can vary depending on the type of equipment and the duration of the rental.
8. Take a scenic drive along Westhaven State Park
Spanning approximately 79 acres, the park offers visitors ample space to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The length of the park, in terms of distance, can vary depending on which specific areas you choose to explore within the park.
The main attraction of Westhaven State Park is it is stunning beachfront, which stretches for about 1.5 miles. This expansive shoreline provides plenty of room for leisurely walks with a wide sandy beach that offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, and during low tide, you can explore tide pools and search for marine life.
9. Visit the Westport Aquarium
The aquarium is home to a wide variety of marine species found in the coastal waters of Washington. Marvel at the colorful fish swimming gracefully in the tanks, including species like rockfish, lingcod, salmon, and more.
Throughout the aquarium, you’ll find informative exhibits that offer insights into the local marine ecosystem.
10. Explore the Westport Winery
The winery is a great place to spend a couple of hours sampling their exquisite wines, ranging from crisp whites to bold reds, crafted with meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to quality.
It is a family-owned winery that combines the passion for winemaking with the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The winery boasts a stunning vineyard where they grow a variety of grapes, carefully selected to thrive in the coastal climate.
11. Attend the Westport Seafood Festival
At the festival, you can indulge in a wide variety of mouthwatering seafood delicacies. From grilled seafood to seafood chowder, there are options to satisfy every seafood lover’s palate.
The Westport Seafood Festival also provides a lively and festive atmosphere. The festival features live cooking demonstrations by skilled chefs.
It is typically held during the summer months, but the exact dates may vary from year to year, so make sure you check this in advance.
12. Discover the Westport Surf Shop
If you are into surfing this is the right stop for your visit. Westport Surf Shop offers a selection of surfboards suitable for different skill levels and surfing styles. They also provide wetsuits to keep you comfortable and protected in the water.
It’s important to note that Westport Surf Shop curates a selection of products from various brands. While some products may be handmade, the majority of items are manufactured by reputable surfing and beachwear brands.
13. Take a charter boat tour and enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Ocean
Westport Charters offers a variety of fishing charters and scenic tours. You can choose from options like deep-sea fishing trips, whale-watching tours, and wildlife excursions. These tours provide an opportunity to witness the stunning coastal scenery, spot marine wildlife, and experience the thrill of being out on the open ocean.
A charter boat tour is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of the Pacific Ocean in Westport.
14. Visit the Cranberry Museum
This museum is unique! Not often do you see a museum like this one. Cranberries are an important agricultural crop in the region, and therefore the museum showcases the techniques and processes involved in their cultivation.
The museum also has a gift shop where you can purchase a variety of cranberry-related products including fresh cranberries, cranberry preserves, sauces, juices, and other cranberry-themed items that make for unique souvenirs or delicious treats to take home.
15. Take a leisurely walk along the marina
The promenade stretches for approximately 1 mile offering a picturesque view of boats gently swaying in the water, colorful fishing vessels, and the vibrant activity of a bustling harbor. The marina also provides a pleasant pathway for pedestrians, lined with benches and picnic spots where you can take breaks, relax, and soak in the surroundings.
Conclusion
Sometimes immersing yourself in history is exactly what you need. Westport can make you feel a deep connection to the sea but also about the challenges faced by its fishermen over the years. Pack your bags, breathe in the fresh ocean air, and immerse yourself in the charm of Westport.
Discover a coastal paradise where the beauty of the Pacific Ocean meets the rich traditions of a thriving fishing community. Come and experience the magic of Westport for yourself!
