White Christmas (beach style)

Snow on the coast is a rare occurence (we actually look forward to it) but in it's absence we always can count on the "white christmas" that comes with winter waves! Miles of whitewater, stacked up from the beach to the horizon is a breathaking and exhilerating experience as you stroll the sandy beach.

The rumble of the pounding surf is intense and it has been written that the molecular composition of the air around the massive pounding walls of seawater is altered making it "hyper-oxygenated" providing a perceivable health benefit to those fortunate enough to breathe it!

If that isn't enough of a reason to head to the coast and get your feet in the sand (and your lungs in the sea air) consider the reduced price of "off season" lodging... the fresh seafood available and the unique shops where that perfect little Christmas gift can be found as reason enough to get in the car for the short drive to the closest ocean beach to you... Westport.

Lodging Link

Winery Link

Real Estate Link

Santa by the Sea

Each year the man in red arrives at the marina... escorted by the US Coast Guard. They tie up on float 6 and Mr & Mrs Claus (and an elf or two) greet the waiting families with christmas music by the Ocosta High School Band in the background.


Then the Westport Fire Department transports the entourage to the Maritime Museum where boys and girls get the opportunity to let Santa know whats on their list. The Rusty Scupper Pirates provide refreshments and entertainment in McCausland Hall.


Great opportunity for pictures from start to finish...

December is a wonderful month to be at the beach. Next year why not make it a new tradition to spend the first week end of december at the coast? Check out vacation rental options HERE

Why Westport in Winter?

As Fall turns to Winter... and as the temperatures along I-5 take a deep drop... the coast is often mild and beautiful. Here at dawn, the wind turbines on the bluff overlooking Grayland stand tall over the cranberry fields.

Temperatures can dip down here too (note the frost on the dune grass) but rarely stay down long and in the absence of wind (yes...it actually happens :-) even the colder moments allow an enjoyable walk on the beach!

Of course... your best friend doesn't mind the brisk air at all.

Colors are intensified by the rising sun and a solitary stroll in the sand is an inspiring way to start the day.

Beachcombing can be rewarding as well with the chance to find true treasure on the beach... or a seashell or agate for your collection.

Whether you find that rare glass ball... or simply find fresh air and open beaches... a visit to the coast will refresh your senses and may put life back in perspective. Why not rediscover the South Beach soon?

Vacation Rentals - CLICK HERE

Real Estate - CLICK HERE

Thankful for the beach...

The snow dumped on most of Western Washington recently but the beach was dry and clear... with whitewater as far as the eye could see.


At the marina the decorations are up for the holidays with the arrival of Santa... by Coast Guard Cutter scheduled for the first saturday in December.

Tis the season to gather family and friends and take time to enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Coast! For waterfront vacation rental options... CLICK HERE

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Dramatic November Weather

People talk about living in a region that has "changing seasons" but here at the beach we have some days where you get to experience several seasons... in the same day! These pictures were taken all on the same day...

I took a long lunch break and got the surfing and pelican pics...

and then in the afternoon as I left work I got this picture of the storm tower overlooking halfmoon bay...

Down the beach not 30 minutes later I spotted this young bald eagle in a tree top...

and then caught the sun on the wind turbines overlooking the cranberry bogs in Grayland.

Then I headed over to the beach to take this sunset picture before getting home at the end of a "days work".

All in all... an enjoyable day and more proof that the opportunity to appreciate nature (in all of it's forms) abounds here on the South Beach. Why not immerse yourself in it soon?

Real Estate

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Vacation Rental

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Westport Winery
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Westport Winery - From Farm to Fork

Last night we got to experience the new restaurant within the Winery. Seating Friday & Saturday, this new eatery offers a select menu of regional dishes and as anticipated... it was well worth the short drive from Westport as it would be from Aberdeen. I suspect once the word is out people will be driving from much further to enjoy the delicious creations at the Winery!

The dinners are served in four courses... soup, salad, entree' & dessert accompanied by homemade oat rolls or you can skip the entree' and enjoy the other three at a reduced price. Hors d'oevres are available and of course an impressive selection of local wines and regional artisan beers.

Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms on a bed of Spring Greens - An ample plate of delectably moist and flavorful mushrooms had just enough spice to add another layer of character to the dish. A fantastic beginning.


Tomato Basil Soup with Italian Sausage - Rich & flavorful. Served at the perfect temperature, this soup went very well with the oat roll. (sorry no picture of the razor clam chowder... my guests raved about it's flavor and texture... and the mixed green salad with baby spinach dressed with homemade herbal ranch was fantastic too)

Chicken Cordon Gold - This Chicken Breast stuffed with Cougar Gold cheese and maple smoked ham was a crowd pleaser. Moist and flavorful... it came with Rosemary Red Potatoes & oven roasted Asparagus with Bearnaise Sauce.

Dungeness Crab Cakes - My wife (international crab cake lover) gave these crisp and meaty cakes the highest praise. The best crab cakes on the coast... were served with Cranberry Rice Pilaf, Oven Roasted Asparagus House Remoulade.

Beef Washington - Prime Angus Filet with caramelized sweet onions baked in a puff pastry and served with Rosemary Red Potatoes and Asparagus with Bearnaise Sauce. Another 3 star dish! The meat was "melt in your mouth" tender and cooked to perfection.

Pappardelle Pasta - served with Oven Roasted Asparagus and a choice of Seared Filet with sour creme sauce, Sauteed Prawns with a light garlic cream sauce or Caprese with sun dried tomato, fresh basil, olive oil and fresh mozzarella. Our guest opted for the Prawns and was very happy with the choice.

The Beef Washington was chosen by two of us leaving the Pacific Salmon for another visit. It sounds equally tantalizing... baked in a phyllo wrap with an herb sauce. (can't wait to return to try it)

As for the Desserts... Owner Kim Roberts has said that she judges a restaurant by the Dessert Menu and accordingly the selection at the Westport Winery was impressive. 3 out of 4 in our party could not pass up the Molten Chocolate Souffle' which was amazingly delicious. (my camera skills in focusing on a dark souffle in low light prevents me from sharing a picture with you but trust me... it was beautiful)

I enjoyed the Vanilla Bean Cheesecake. The texture was perfect and it was the most flavorful cheesecake I have ever eaten. A drizzle of Blackberry Sauce and a dollop of Chantilly Cream... perfection!

All the while in the background... as we were enjoying each course, the wine and great company was music by soloist Ericka Corban. So often music during conversation around a dinner can be overbearing or distracting but Ericka's delicate voice was the perfect accompaniment to both the beautiful setting and the delicious food. Check out her page CLICK HERE

All in all the dining experience at the Westport Winery was first rate and one that I can recommend without hesitation. To view the full menu or learn more about the Westport Winery CLICK HERE

Stormy seas keep shorebirds on shore!

The storms of November are inpressive to say the least and in all honesty downright "stimulating"! The crashing white waves stretching as far as the eye can see are a pleasure to view and create an interesting dynamic on the beach as well.



Surfing waves can be impressive as well and there are three locations to surf (or view surfing) that are easily accessible. Don't let the suggestion of winter keep you from enjoying the coast. Now is a great time to get your boots in the sand!

Not only is beachcombing at its peak (glass balls are still found from time to time) but the inclement weather holds shorebirds tight to the beach so viewing Pelicans, Dunlin, Plover and many other of our fine feathered friends becomes a bit easier and more interesting.

Check out some great off season rates in some of the most beautiful waterfront vacation homes and condominiums on the Washington Coast at Westport Beach Escapes

And to find out more about Beach Real Estate... contact Windermere Real Estate

October Surfing is SENSATIONAL!

This month, with it's extreme tides means clamming and surfing... and the golden sunsets and incredible wave action means beauty whether you have your hands on a clam shovel or your feet on a long board. The 3 different surfing locations on the South Beach make it possible to find some waves no matter what the tide, wind or weather is doing. Grab your gear and head to the coast for some steepwater fun! CLICK HERE to get info on surfing, surf rental and gear for sale. CLICK HERE to discover how afforable a couple nights on the coast in waterfront lodging can be! Follow this blog and get an additional 10% discount off our already low rates!

October Razor Clamming Announced

WDFW announced recently the South Beach will have it's first fall razor clamming opportunity October 7th for 4 days! Clam populations in the Twin Harbors area are strong and digging is anticipated to be very good. Tides will be attractively low during the 4 days ranging between minus 0.8 to minus 1.4 This recreational opportunity is fun for all ages and the 15 clam limit means a bounty of fresh shellfish is the "bonus" for all that fun.

To see more about the season and digging rules CLICK HERE

To find out about Vacation Rental Specials CLICK HERE

To see pictures of clammers in action CLICK HERE

P.S. Take advantage of this unique time of year... when you can catch salmon right off of the dock at the marina in the morning and dig a limit of clams in the afternoon... and then watch a gorgeous sunset from your oceanfront condominium.

Stunning September & October Surf

Summer may be winding down but the surf in Westport is just beginning to spool up! For the next 6 weeks the opportunity to ride some incredible waves and experience breathtaking beauty is peaking as the 3 surfing locations in Westport offer a variety of surf options. Hit the Groins at low tide... easy access and a very short paddle, and the chance to catch a long and exciting ride. The Cove... at Halfmoon Bay booms at high tide. The shorebreak can be short and fast but on the right day HUMONGOUS. Out at the Jetty the waves are more consistent and usually an all day affair. Great day camp options and usually a bonfire or two to warm up at after a session. To see a few pictures of area surfing CLICK HERE

For Great Lodging Options - Westport Beach Escapes

For Real Estate Info - Beach Real Estate

For Area Surf Report - MagicSeaweed

Return of the Silver

It's September and the first coho salmon are beginning to return to the Westport Marina. This annual event began when these fish were smolt and were part of the Ocosta High School's Oceanography program. Each year the class gets 200,000 fingerlings which are reared in net pens on float 4 at the marina. The students feed them, weigh them and study their growth... then after the fish reach a certain size the nets are dropped and the fish are released into the marina. Out into the ocean they eventualy go and when they mature and start thinking about spawning... they return to the marina in search of home!

From any dock at the marina it is possible to see schools of up to 500 adult salmon (2 to 18 pounds) cruise by and fishing is OPEN! The limit is 6 salmon, 3 of which can be adults. The yearling "Jack" salmon accompany the full sized fish and these 1-2 pounders are exciting to catch on a trout rod! There is a "marina derby" which began on the 15th and runs to the end of October. You won't find a more convenient way to fish for salmon... just a hundred feet from the donut shop :-) Why not come check it out. For more pictures click here - http://www.windermere.com/tid52947

August Heat

It's been awhile since I posted.. sorry about that. Too much fun in the summer. This week end was one of the best in the history of the beach. It's rare to see the thermometer climb above 80 on the coast... and saturday we were hovering at 94!!! The "Run for the Light" 5 mile fundraiser was going on as well as the 2nd annual jet ski wave competition so there was lots to do and see... besides the 18 miles of wonderful beach. Fishing is HOT too this time of year with Salmon, Ling Cod and Albacore Tuna in full swing.

Sunny Saturday

It was a stellar week end on the coast. The sun was out, the wine was flowing at the Westport Winery for the Fleur de lis Festival and the pool was open! Take advantage of mid-week specials and enjoy a beautiful waterfront beach home for a few days in June! Check our website for availability and pricing... or call for a "Last Minute" Special! 888-FUN-SAND

King Salmon Early Opener!

In light of the anticipated stellar season for Chinook Salmon... the season opens early on June 12th... running 7 days a week with a 2 fish limit per angler (both can be kings!!!) This season will run until June 30th. Then beginning July 4th it will go to Sunday thru Thursday for Salmon with a 2 fish limit (1 King 1 Silver)

This is a wonderful opportunity to get in the middle of some fantastic fishing and take home a good supply of delicious and healthy salmon! Commercial salmon trollers have been having great success right off the beach in Grayland so the run out to the fishing should be short and sweet (at least until the fish move ;-)

Check out availability on a couple of our favorite boats.
Freedom or Slammer

And don't forget about Bottom Fishing! Ling Cod are still biting well and even though the season is over for Halibut there is a chance to hook and keep one during the bottom fishing trip as recently proven by Emmett Detraz of Renton who moved to the top of the derby with a 85 pounder hooked while on a Ling Cod trip! (That's a $1,500 Fish!)

While you are at it take a look at the fantastic accommodations available on the beach or overlooking the marina at Westport Beach Escapes

Cleanwater Classic Surfing Competition

Each May wetsuit clad warriors migrate to Westport (like shorebirds) to attend this 3 day contest and enjoy some of the tastiest waves in the Pacific Northwest. Sponsored by Surfrider Foundation... this wonderful spectator sport will show off surfing talent from age 6 to 66 as the various divisions take turns displaying their technique at the beach in Westhaven Park. New events this year includes a "Stand Up Paddle" race friday afternoon at The Cove as well as a "Costumed Surfer" competition sunday (hilarious).

Join in if you like or simply rent equipment and sign up for lessons at one of the local surf shops. You're never too old to try out this "lifetime sport". To find out more info on the competition CLICK HERE To check out one of our favorite surf shops... CLICK HERE

And to see what the availability is for a beautiful waterfront condominium or home so you can take your time exploring the pristine coast... CLICK HERE.

Westport Marina Facelift

Work is underway on Westhaven Drive, the marina main street. The street is being completely redone from Dock St on the south all the way to Neddie Rose Dr by the observation tower!

The road will become very "pedestrian friendly" as it goes from the past 2 lane / 2 way street to the new 1 lane / 1 way street with bike lane and gracious pedestrian crosswalks. Added into the project are additional storm drains to help move seawater when the winter storms decide to come over the revetment wall... as well as new sidewalks along many of the store fronts.

All in all the improvements will be FANTASTIC and a pleasure to stroll on... or drive along. Most of the shops are still open... with access from the large parking lots in the back of the buildings. Come see for yourself soon!

in the meantime... return to this gallery for updated pictures of the progress

Westhaven Drive Photo Gallery

May is for Seafood

Spring is the time to come to the coast for an amazing selection of fresh seafood! Carrying over through the winter there is still fresh Dungeness Crab, which is worth a trip to the coast on it's own merits. Several recent low tide series have moved Razor Clams to the top of everyones list for a delicious treat from the sea.

In May Halibut season opens making this month the best for getting some fresh, delicate and delectable Halibut on you table PLUS this is the best time of year for the even more rare Pacific Spot Prawns! There is nothing better than a grill full of these sweet (think lobster), succulent large prawns fished locally and delivered to the dock as fresh as possible!

Also in May, Charter Fishing is in full swing with daily trips for Ling Cod and Rockfish available for your sportfishing (and dining) pleasure. Last but not least for the fishers out there... Surf Perch fishing is HOT in May with some fish weighing in over 2 pounds! Perch is a delicate whitefish with a wonderful flavor.

So... good luck & good fishing if you are going to enjoy hooking your own dinner... or check out two GREAT options for buying fresh seafood! Both are located at the marina in Westport and even though our front street is under construction... you can still get to these wonderful markets to get your hands on the seafood you are craving!

Seafood Connection - Located on Float 8 right on the water

Merinos Seafood - Located on the corner of Nyhus and Harbor Streets.

And of course... while here why not spend a night or two in a beautiful waterfront home? Check out options at Westport Beach Escapes

Wind Power - Perfect for April

April has already had several major windstorms and the turmoil at sea has made the beach a bounty for beachcombers. Glass fishing floats have been washing up regularly and if you are out there near high tide and have the stamina to get out in the weather... you may be rewarded with a rare treasure. We're not talking about some artsy fartsy glass ball created to be dropped in the sand like easter eggs for the finding. These are the real thing... travelling from japan in the currents and washing up on our beaches after being at sea for years!

Big news is the Grayland Wind Farm nearing completion. 4 huge windmills mounted on the hills overlooking Grayland's cranberry bogs and the pacific ocean. These tremendous generators will power up to 700 homes when online and will provide an estimated $500,000 to the Coastal Community Action program which assists low income families in Grays Harbor and Pacific County. See more at GRAYLAND WIND

Don't forget... next week is clam digging, crab races,feed and derby & the Tokeland Art Festival. Why not settle into a beautiful oceanfront condominium for the week end and have a great escape? VACATION DEALS

Tasty Clams, Fast Crab and Coastal Art

April is a wonderous month on the coast for many reasons. The weather is a roller coaster of sun, rain and wind with flowers bursting from the ground and rainbows arching across the sky. Recent storms have gifted many with the ultimate beachcombers prize... a glass fishing float washed up after years at sea.

This month also brings several exciting "happenings" to the beach. The week end of April 16,17 & 18 there will be something for everyone. There will be a 3 day razor clam season starting on Friday the 16th with great minus tides in the mornings for the best digging of the year! To see more go to "Razor Clamming"

Also on the 17th & 18th will be the Annual World Class Crab Races, Derby & Feed! This popular event has live crab racing down a 6 lane track! Enter the derby, name your crab and cheer him to victory to win sweatshirts, kites and accomodations... and enjoy a delicious crab dinner too. During the week end the commercial crab fleet will be filling the marina with live crab for your fishing enjoyment... catch a tagged crab and win big bucks! See more at "Crab Festival"

Also on the 17th will be the Annual Tokeland & North Cove Artists Gallery Tour. Twenty local artists will hold open studio tours and public art displays throughout Tokeland, North Cove and Grayland. For more information contact Judith Altruda 360-267-2326

While at the coast take the time to really experience the relaxation possible by staying in a beautiful waterfront home overlooking the beach or the historic marina. Check out the SPRING SPECIALS

RARE 7 Day Razor Clam Dig

Spring always brings with it some of the most enjoyable digging of the year and this season we have a new twist that adds even more excitement on the coast. March 26th begins 7 consecutive days of digging with the first 3 digs during afternoon tides and the last 4 days are morning tides! That combination of night/day digging has not been seen on the coast before and may not be seen again... so you best come take advantage of it while you can!

The limit is still 15 per person per day and the populations are high. Grab friends, bring family and make this an unforgettable week of playing in the sand on the South Beach. Check out "Multi-Night Specials" that make your time at the coast affordable too!

If you are new to clamming... or just want a nice update CLICK HERE to link to the state's site on rules, regulations, digging and the cleaning of clams.

Tall Ships in Spring

April 9th we will be welcoming the Tall Ships Lady Washington & Hawaiian Chieftain to the Westport harbor for a 3 day visit. These beautiful vessels will offer dockside tours as well as bay sailing cruises with mock cannon battles so don't miss this rare opportunity to experience the thrill of tall ship sailing!

The Lady Washington has starred in Pirates of the Carribean films and travels the Western United Sates conducting educational cruises and tours. To see more about the Seaport and the history of the Lady Washington & sister ship the Hawaiian Chieftain CLICK HERE.

For prime Tall Ship viewing all week end long consider the luxury accomodations at The Point at Westport Harbor! Our top floor harborside homes have a stellar view of the ships as they arrive and depart on each tour and our oceanside home views the hoisting of the sails as these proud vessels take to the sea. Check out special rates for the week end at The POINT.

Fine Feathered Friends

All over the South Beach the return of shorebirds is evident. On the beach the Dunlin, Sanderling and Sandpipers are growing in numbers. Around the harbor the Pelican flocks are building and even the Raptors are seen more frequently. Typically this activity is a bit later in the Spring but everything is early this year.

The Annual Shorebird Festival held at Bowerman Basin and splilling over to the ebaches and bays of Grays Harbor is scheduled at the end of April but with this early pattern the best viewing may be well before that date! Find out more about the festival by clicking on the link above.

OR... head to the beach early and do a little "birding" on your own. Our accomodations at Westport by the Sea and Cohasset Beach are ideal for beach walking / birding and the luxury homes at The Point at Westport Harbor offer a view of Pelicans, Loons, Grebe, Cormorants, Godwit and more... right from the living room! Check available accomodations at Westport Beach Escapes and have a wonderful stay!

Thar she blows...

The gray whales have returned a month early and can be seen cruising the coastline! From the beach it is easiest to spot them in the afternoon... when the sun is behind the spray when they blow. Binoculars then come in handy as you follow them in the surfline. Soon Charters will begin conducting Whale Watching. A cruise in the bay or ocean to view these amazing creatures is an enjoyable adventure. The whales even cruise into surfing territory near the jetty (see pic).

Our recent family visit to the beach included kite flying & sand castle building with an eagle overhead and a whale playing in the surf! Why not join us soon and enjoy a beautiful waterfront condo from which to explore the coast? Westport Beach Escapes