8 Reasons to Visit Westport This Winter
To experience the community and the rugged authenticity that makes Westport, WA, Westport, you've got to visit in the winter. We are talking about small-town hospitality mixed with wind blowing, salt spraying, wave crashing, treasure finding good times. For people who live in Westport, they'll tell you that winter is their favorite time here. It's when life slows down, people come together to celebrate the holidays, and Mother Nature provides the entertainment. Everyone thinks about visiting the beach in the summertime, but if that's the only time you're coming to Westport, you're missing out.
(1) Storm Watching
Storm watching on the Washington Coast will awaken your senses. Mother Nature loves to put on fabulous shows in Westport, with storms rolling in throughout the fall and winter months. They can bring some of the most jaw-dropping scenes, with massive waves, strong winds, and majestic sunsets. Experiencing the power of nature in Westport will bring you unadulterated joy.
(2) Beachcombing
One of our favorite things about Westport in the winter is beachcombing after a big storm or high tide. Mother Nature hides treasures all over our beaches, from agates to incredible pieces of driftwood. The beach constantly changes, and even if you walk it every day, you will find something new to discover. Westport is also well known for our Float Fairies, who, in partnership with the South Beach Historical Society and their Wild Floats program, leave authentic Japanese Glass Floats on our beaches for visitors to discover. So, keep an eye out for these coveted beach treasures.
(3) Dig Razor Clams
Digging razor clams is the ultimate PNW experience, and it's absolutely something visitors to Westport should do at least once! The Pacific Razor Clam is one of the most sought-after shellfish in Washington, and it's so fun to go clam digging with friends and family. When you choose Westport for your razor clamming adventure, you will find everything you need. We have miles of pristine beaches that are accessible by walking or driving.
(4) King Tides
People come from all over to experience the King Tides in Westport. A King Tide refers to an extreme high tide. These high tides combined with larger surf or storms can make for quite the show on our breakwater, and the Observation Tower at the Westport Marina has become a popular place to, relatively safely, witness the power of the mighty Pacific. King Tides create hazardous conditions on the coast, so please use extreme caution when visiting during these times.
Upcoming King Tides for 2023
Nov 26 11:19AM +10.7ft
Nov 27 11:59AM +10.7ft
Nov 28 12:39PM +10.5ft
Dec 13 12:15PM +10.5ft
Dec 14 12:59PM +10.5ft
Dec 15 1:45PM +10.4ft
(5) Holidays
Celebrate the holidays in Westport this year for an affordable, stress-free getaway. Skip the airport and the chaos of holiday travel with an unforgettable vacation in Westport. Thanksgiving this year offers the unique opportunity to experience digging razor clams and King Tides. And you won't want to miss out on Christmas in Westport. The community comes together to decorate the Marina District for the holidays, and you'll love our famous Crab Pot Christmas tree.
Dec 2: Santa by the Sea - If you are looking for the best way to see Santa for Christmas photos and skip the mall, you'll want to visit Santa by the Sea. In preparation for the holidays, Santa will visit Westport to meet with the children. The US Coast Guard will deliver Santa to Float 6 at 10:30 AM. South Beach RFD will then take Santa to the Destruction Island Lens Hall on the grounds of the Westport Maritime Museum to greet the kids and be available for photo opportunities from 10:30 AM until 12:00 Noon.
Dec 9 - 10: Grayland Holiday Bazaar - Holiday fun featuring Santa from 11 AM - 3 PM, Gingerbread House Contest, Christmas Bazaar with local vendors, and a Community Christmas Party.
Dec 16: A Day with Santa - Join the South Beach Regional Fire Authority for A DAY WITH SANTA from 10 AM to 2 PM at the Grayland Fire Hall, 1785 WA State Route 105. Refreshments are available. Bring your cell phones and take a selfie with Santa.
(6) Affordable
Visiting Westport in the winter is an opportunity for an affordable getaway. Accommodations are inexpensive in the fall and winter, and Mother Nature's entertainment is free to experience. Empty beaches, ocean views, and good food make it the perfect place to escape from your busy life and reset. And the best part, Westport is extremely dog-friendly!
(7) Community
There is no better way to support our community than to stay in the fall and winter months. We are a town with small businesses run by local families. Consider staying in the "off-season," doing some holiday shopping at our shops, eating at our fabulous restaurants, and picking up some locally caught seafood. We know you'll love your experience in Westport, and your visit will make a significant impact on our community.
(8) Ring in the New Year
Get your friends and family together and ring in the new year in Westport. This year, we're having our first New Year's fireworks celebration. Join us December 31, the show starts at midnight at the Westport marina.