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. Winter in Westport means 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 of year. 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. Here are just a few ideas for your next visit with us:
(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, release authentic Japanese Glass Floats that land on our beaches for visitors to discover. So, keep an eye out for these coveted beach treasures, and tag #WildFloats2024 or #WildFloats2025 on social media with your photos!
(3) Dig Razor Clams
Digging razor clams is the ultimate PNW experience, and it's something Westport visitors 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, and it doesn’t matter if you don’t have the gear—Westport shops have you covered The Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife lists the current dates for razor clamming—check it regularly!
(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 witness the power of the mighty Pacific relatively safely. King Tides create hazardous conditions on the coast, so please use extreme caution when visiting during these times. Want to know when the next King Tides are coming? Visit our storm-watching page.
(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 of 2024 offered 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, the Coast Guard brings Santa to visit the Maritime Museum, and everyone loves our famous Crab Pot Christmas tree.
(6) Affordability
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, so bring along your furry friends!
(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
They say that what you’re doing when the clock strikes 12 on New Year’s Eve can define your intentions for the coming year. So what better way to celebrate New Year’s Eve than with a bang! Get your friends and family together and ring in the new year in Westport. Join us on December 31 for the New Year's fireworks celebration. The show starts at midnight at the Westport marina. It’s the perfect way to ring in 2025.
If this sounds like fun, the next step is simply choosing a place to stay! Westport has lots of different options—cabins, hotels and motels, vacation properties, and campgrounds. The best part is you can usually save on room rates in winter months, so book your stay today to maximize your time on the coast this winter.