Washington: A Place Full of Wonder
Long Beach, Washington is full of wonder. It’s one of those magical coastal towns that makes you breathe a little deeper, smile a little wider, and fall a little more in love with life. Whether you’re visiting for the views, the food, the bike trail, or the famous kite festival—this little town has something unforgettable waiting around every corner.
We’ve spent a lot of time here over the years, and it’s one of our favorite stops as full-time RVers. There’s just something about it—the salty breeze, the sound of the ocean, and the endless things to see and do. Let me take you through a few of our favorite experiences.
🚴️ The Discovery Trail — Our Favorite Bike Ride & Hike
If there’s one thing you must do while you’re in Long Beach, it’s ride (or hike!) the Discovery Trail. This 8.5-mile paved path winds along the ocean from the heart of Long Beach all the way to Cape Disappointment State Park—and it is pure magic.
We ride this trail every chance we get. It starts right in town, just behind the arch that reads “World’s Longest Beach,” and from the very beginning, it feels like you’re on an adventure. You’ll travel through grassy dunes with views of the crashing waves, and as you head south, the trail takes you into a shaded forest that feels straight out of a storybook.
It’s also a beautiful trail to hike in sections, especially the stretch between Beard’s Hollow and North Head Lighthouse. There are side trails, tidepool views, and photo ops galore. It’s peaceful, shaded, and the air smells like salt and pine.
One of the coolest stops along the trail is a giant gray whale skeleton! Yes, really! It’s just off the path and always makes us stop and take a second look. It’s fascinating, a little eerie, and totally unforgettable.
The ride or hike to North Head Lighthouse is the cherry on top. You’ll work up a bit of a sweat on the climb, but the reward is more than worth it. The lighthouse has been guiding sailors since 1898, and when you’re standing there looking out over the Pacific Ocean, it kind of makes you feel small in the best possible way.
🧱 The Kite Festival That Fills the Sky
If you time your visit right in August, you’ll get to experience the Washington State International Kite Festival—and wow, it is something else.
The sky comes alive with color and motion. There are massive kites shaped like dragons and sea creatures, synchronized kite ballets (yes, that’s a thing!), and the beach just bursts with energy. It’s the kind of event that brings out your inner child—you’ll find yourself smiling the whole time.
Even if you’re not there during the festival, Long Beach is always a great place to fly a kite. Bring one along or grab one from a local shop and hit the sand.
🍽️ Food You’ll Dream About Later
We’re big foodies, and Long Beach always hits the spot. Here are a few of our favorite places to eat:
Pickled Fish
Located on the top floor of the Adrift Hotel, this restaurant has ocean views and incredible food. The menu changes with the seasons, and everything feels fresh and thoughtful.
The Depot
This cozy spot in nearby Seaview is perfect for date night. Intimate, welcoming, and seriously delicious.
The Lost Roo
Laid-back, fun, and full of options. It’s one of those places where everything on the menu is good.
Castaways Seafood Grille
A classic coastal stop with chowder, fish and chips, and all your seafood favorites. It’s hearty, nostalgic, and oh-so satisfying.
🍒 A Little Hidden Gem: The Cranberry Museum
One of the most unexpectedly fun stops in Long Beach is the Cranberry Museum. It’s small, but full of charm—and it gives you a peek into how cranberries are grown and harvested in this region.
You can walk the cranberry bogs (especially beautiful in the fall), learn about the harvesting process, and browse a little gift shop packed with cranberry treats, sauces, teas, and more.
It’s a quick visit, but definitely worth it.
🌊 Marsh’s Free Museum: Weird, Wacky & Wonderful
Long Beach WA
You can’t visit Long Beach without stopping at Marsh’s Free Museum. It’s quirky, nostalgic, and full of oddities that keep you entertained for hours. From vintage arcade machines and old-school souvenirs to the infamous Jake the Alligator Man, this museum is a wild mix of the bizarre and the charming.
It’s part curiosity cabinet, part gift shop, and part step back in time. Kids love it, adults get a kick out of it, and best of all—it’s free!
🦛 Coastal Wildlife Encounters
One of the things we love most about Long Beach is how close you feel to nature. From the beach, especially early in the morning or at sunset, keep your eyes out for:
- Sea lions (we once spotted one right from the sand and got an amazing photo!)
- Seals bobbing in the surf
- Bald eagles flying overhead
- Pelicans and shorebirds walking the tide line
And if you’re really lucky, you might even spot a whale spout off in the distance. Just another reminder of how wild and wonderful this place really is.
💬 Why We Love It
Long Beach is one of those places that just stays with you. Between the incredible bike trail, the festive energy of the kite festival, the charming lighthouse, and the cozy spots to eat—it’s an ideal coastal getaway.
Whether you’re an RVer like us, a weekend explorer, or someone looking to unplug and unwind, you’ll find a little piece of magic here.
🏡 Want to Stay in Long Beach?
Make sure to read our blog on the best places to camp in Long Beach, Washington for our favorite campgrounds and RV parks in the area! Whether you’re looking for beachfront views or peaceful forest settings, we’ve got you covered.