End-of-Summer Fun on Washington’s Long Beach Peninsula

August may be coming to a close, but there are still many ways to enjoy the last stretch of summer with a beach getaway. The Long Beach Peninsula has a variety of events taking place through Labor Day and beyond, so pack a suitcase and follow these ideas for a fun-filled weekend.

Celebrate: The Pacific County Fair (State Route 6 in Menlo) celebrates its 120th year August 24–27. This year’s theme is “Pacific County from Tide to Table.” You won’t want to miss the oyster shucking and eating contest on the main stage, where you’ll also find an assortment of entertainment throughout the weekend, including the Old Time Fiddle Festival. Saturday, August 27th is Kid’s Day, so children under 12 receive free admission to the fair.

Next up, head to Cape Disappointment State Park (244 Robert Gray Dr in Ilwaco) for the Waikiki Beach Concert Series. Each 90-minute performance features regional musicians, such as this Saturday’s event with Ben Hunter and Joe Seamons.

Discover: While at Cape Disappointment State Park, challenge yourself on the hiking trails, catch impressive views of the Pacific Ocean and the Columbia River, and explore history at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. Then take a stroll along the Ilwaco waterfront where you’ll find fisherman sharing their bounty on food carts along the promenade.

During Labor Day weekend, stop in at the Chinook Arts Festival for an assortment of stained glass, pottery, wood sculptures, and more. That same weekend, watch the grand parade in South Bend during Come Play on Labor Day. Join the Tin Man Triathlon or kick back for a night of fireworks. Festivities take place September 2–5.

Indulge: One of my favorite aspects of visiting the Long Beach area is for all the foodie fun. With an abundance of local seafood and farmers markets, there’s always something fresh to taste and take home. If you’d rather have someone cook for you, grab a seat at Crab Pot Seafood Market and Restaurant (1917 Pacific Ave S), celebrating its 70th year in Long Beach. Here you’ll find Dungeness crab, oysters and clams, and a seasonal variety of fish like salmon, tuna, halibut, and cod. If you’re in need of a quick warm-up, try Captain Bob’s Chowder (409 Pacific Ave S in Long Beach). You’ll always find clam chowder here, but keep an eye out for rotated favorites like crab, lobster, or salmon chowder.

For an evening of farm to table fine-dining, visit The Depot Restaurant (1208 38th Place in Seaview) to try some of Chef Michael Lalewicz’s creations. From Willapa Bay Oysters and Dungeness Crab Mac on the small plates menu to the Southern Comfort Pork or Clams Bucatini on the entrée list, there’s something for seafood and land lovers alike.

Next, you’ll want to treat yourself to an ice cream at Scoopers Market (101 Pacific Ave N in Long Beach). With dozens of local varieties to choose from, this is also a favorite stop for me because of the late-night availability of espresso beverages.

Relax: If you want to sleep under the stars, there are plenty of RV parks and camping options along the Long Beach Peninsula. If you’d rather nap in modern luxury, make a reservation at Adrift Hotel (409 Sid Snyder Drive in Long Beach). A variety of themed packages are available, such as the romance package or the bonfire package that will help ensure a weekend of dreamy relaxation. With a beachfront location, Adrift Hotel is an ideal homebase for evening strolls and sunsets. Plus, pets are welcome.

Play: If you’re a guest at Adrift Hotel, loaner bicycles are available at no charge so you can spend the day cycling the coastline. Or, head to Oysterville WA for a historic walking tour of their town, on the Register of National Historic Districts since 1976. The Visitors Bureau has maps and recommendations for your self-guided tour. Another enjoyable discovery zone is the Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum (115 SE Lake St in Ilwaco). Thursdays are free for all, and children under 12 are always free. Exhibitions include a permanent collection and special features, so there is always something new to explore.

A visit to the Long Beach Peninsula wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the World Kite Museum & Hall of Fame (303 Sid Snyder Dr W in Long Beach). While the international kite festival has just passed (it takes place in mid-August), there is year-round fun with kites to be had along the beach and inside the museum. Plus, coming up in October is the One Sky, One World event that’s celebrated around the world, including festivities on Long Beach.

Long Beach is 169 miles from Seattle and a mere 110 miles from Portland. For more ideas on how to make the most of the end of your summer, visit FunBeach.com.