The coastal city of Ocean Shores is a popular beach resort for day-trippers and vacationers from the Washington area. With plenty of family-friendly attractions and activities, summers here can get pretty busy! 

With over 90 vacation rentals to choose from, find your perfect log cabin or beachfront villa with FlipKey.

About Ocean Shores, Washington

Once used by the Chehalis and Chinook tribes as a trading point, Ocean Shores later became a cattle ranch run by white settlers to the area. It wasn’t until the 1960s that the streets began to be laid out and the city as we know it today started to take shape.

Coming here for guaranteed sunshine may lead to disappointment. Whilst summers are generally hot and sunny, the climate is affected by the Pacific, so you can expect unpredictable wind, fog and mist even during the peak summer months.

Whilst visiting Ocean Shores, don’t miss the opportunity to dine out on fresh fish and seafood, or head for Quinault Resort Casino for their legendary Sunday brunch – most restaurants have stunning ocean views, too!

What to do in Ocean Shores

Life in Ocean Shores revolves around the golden, sandy beach which stretches for miles. Here you can take a fishing trip to catch tuna, dig for clams, go beach combing, fly a kite, try your hand at a range of watersports, or simply relax in the sunshine listening to the soothing sound of the sea.

There’s plenty to keep active types happy, too, with a few golf courses and the diverse ecosystem of Lake Quinault Valley to explore. The area is home to over 15 maintained hiking trails and a wilderness area, so the options for exploring are endless.

Families can head for Pacific Family Fun Center with its mini golf, arcade games and bumper boats. There is also the local bowling alley where you can enjoy a game or treat the kids to something sweet at the ice cream parlor.

Shopping for antiques, collectables and handcrafted souvenirs is a must on your trip and you’ll find a variety of thrift stores and boutiques in the resort center.

Top travel tips for Ocean Shores

The nearest major airport, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, is 122 miles from Ocean Shores. This means car rental is a must for most vacationers, and you’ll get the best deals if you book your rental in advance for collection at the airport.

While the beach here can get crowded during the summer months, there are 19 festivals held in Ocean Shores throughout the year, with most of them happening during peak season. So this does remain the best time to visit!

This family-friendly coastal resort is the perfect place for a weekend retreat from the city or a longer vacation with the kids.

Imagine coming home to your own beachfront condo after a day of shopping, hiking and sightseeing. Browse FlipKey’s vacation rentals and you’re sure to find your perfect property.