If you yearn for the rugged winter ocean, a bit of clamming and some good seafood, you might want to venture north for a getaway to Ocean Shores, Washington. You'll be driving north on I-5 and then head west on Hwy 12. It's a little over a three hour trip.
Beach Walking and Clamming
Ocean Shores is a resort community with 6 miles of walkable beach and interior roads and paths. In fact, a walking club from Olympia Washington is putting on a weekend of walk events over President's Day Weekend 2013. Their self-paced walks are open to the public. The event website will tell you how to join in the fun and fitness.
Ocean City State Park is a year-round, 170-acre camping park, featuring ocean beach, dunes and dense thickets of shore pine. Migratory birds may be viewed at the park, and beach combing is a popular activity. Currently you can even run across some Japan tsunami debris.
In season, you can dig for razor clams on the Ocean Shores beaches. The Pacific razor clam is one of the most sought after shellfish in the state of Washington. All the equipment needed is a flat shovel and metal tube. Look for the squirts in the sand and you may have found a Razor Clam.
Gambling and Dining
After a day walking the windy beach, you might want a little fun and relaxation. The city of Ocean Shores has a resort and casino, Quinault Beach Resort and Casino. Try a relaxing seafood dinner at Emily's.
There are also a wide variety of dining opportunities in town.
Birding
Ocean Shores is a great birding location Look for waterfowl and migratory birds, Be sure to visit Damon Point (also known as Protection Island) for a chance to see the snow plover, peregrine falcon, and brown pelican. It's a popular fishing spot and another great place for beach walking. Look for agates as you walk along the point.
More Information
Ocean Shores Visitors Website
Places to Stay in Ocean Shores
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