Ocean Shores, Washington
Spread Across the Point Brown Peninsula on Washington's Scenic Mid-Coast, Salty Ocean Shores Boasts a Long Flat Oceanside Beach
Spread across the Point Brown Peninsula on Washington’s scenic mid-coast, this salty Gray’s Harbor town was once a cattle ranch and then a favorite destination for Hollywood jet setters. It had a rough time in the 1970s and 1980s, but it has grown 30% during the last 10 years.
Although it is a rural place and accessible via only one road, Ocean Shores is a popular weekend tourist destination. Motels and condos line the northern end of Ocean Shores Boulevard, which runs along the western side of the peninsula.
There is no true town core, but the busier part of Ocean Shores has some fast food places, a post office, a hardware store, a grocery store, some gift shops and such.
Stage West offers affordable community theater, and the North Beach Artists Guild maintains a gallery. The Coastal Interpretive Center has exhibits and lectures.
Special events include the annual Razor Clam Festival and a wearable art show. The Quinault Beach Resort and Casino is a big attraction.
Locals enjoy six miles of flat, windswept saltwater beach and acres and acres of freshwater lakes, marshes and canals in and around town. Kayaking, canoeing and sailing are all close at hand.
North Bay Park on Duck Lake has a boat launch and fishing dock. The Oyhut Wildlife Recreation Area on the southern end of the peninsula has tidal flats and world-class bird watching.
Population: 8,000
Median Home Price: $390,000
Climate: Summer temperatures are in the 50s, 60s and low-70s, and and winter temperatures are in the 30s and 40s. On average, the area receives 70
inches of rain and 4 inches of snow each year. Skies are often overcast, and there is usually a breeze.
Crime Rate: Meets the national average
Age 45 or Better:Â 67%
Hospital: Harbor Regional Health, 23 miles away
Public Transit:Â Yes, but it is limited.
Political Leanings: Liberal
Is Washington Retirement Tax-Friendly: Yes
Drawbacks: None, although a lot of residents leave during the winter.