Winter Wonderland (& warning)

 This time of year the beach is a wonderous place to be. Massive whitewater from dune to horizon... and on a clear day it can be breathtaking.

It can also be "risk taking"...

the large logs on the beach can be an "attractive nuisance",

luring people to sit or stand on them as the water comes and goes.

It is difficult to imagine that a few inches of water around

and under a massive hunk of timber could be a problem.

But each year on the beaches of Washington and Oregon

people get swept off of logs and once in awhile... the log

rolls over someone with fatal result.

It can happen pretty fast. One moment there is a small

wave that wraps the log harmlessly...

Today I explained the potential problems to these 2

girls and they had the good sense to get off of the log.

Not 3 minutes later a "sneaker wave" came ashore,

turbulently swamping the stump.

The receding water drug the log westward about 10 feet.

With the kids far up the beach on dry sand watching

instead of stranded on a moving tree trunk in the winter ocean.

The ocean is a powerful and beautiful force

that deserves your respect...

and of course your appreciation.

We hope to see you at the beach soon.

Beach Vacation Rentals

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.