Westport is a small-town seaside gem in Grays Harbor on the Olympic Peninsula. It began as fishing port where those who brave the seas could bring some of the best seafood on earth to locals. As the years progressed, this lazy little fishing town grew to host various fishing events, surfers from all over the world, unique shops, exquisite restaurants and more recently, breweries and wineries. There are a ton of things to do in Westport for those who love the sea air, are obsessed with great food, beer or wine and want one-of-a-kind experiences. So, take a day trip to Westport, you’ll be glad you did.
Fishing in Westport
Clamming is a popular activity for hundreds of tourists year-round up and down the Washington coast, but if you want a different type of fishing experience, why not charter a boat and try your hand at bottom fishing? The Deep Sea Charter Fishing experience starts in March and runs through October. Book your excursion early as many choose to experience deep diving for their dinner!
If heading out to sea on a boat isn’t your cup of tea, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to stay on dry land and still fill your fishing adventure. Westport offers a variety, including jetty fishing off the Westport Jetty Chehalis Point, surf fishing, or crabbing for Red Rock Dungeness crab. No matter which you choose, there are experts who have weathered the stormy seas ready to assist you through the process. Some require licensing, so check the Westport Jetty website for more information.
Walk on the Beach in Westport
Westport has some of the most beautiful beaches primed for long walks, or just to take in the scenery as the sun sets on another blissfully peaceful day. There are five picturesque beaches to choose from and hotels as well as restaurants welcome your furry little friends. Don’t hesitate to bring your dog to the Westport Trail and Beach, Twin Harbors State Park or Westport Light State Park, where they can run along the shore and chase the waves!
You also might want to check out the Grays Harbor Lighthouse. It’s one of the oldest buildings still standing, built in 1898 it guided ships through the foggy nights safely to shore. Not only is it 124 years old, but it is also the tallest lighthouse in Washington. It makes for some stunning photographs against the sea.
Dining in Westport
There are a lot of tantalizing restaurants, breweries and wineries in Westport. One of the best for beer lovers is Blackbeard’s Brewing Company and is not to be missed. Sample a variety of beer made at the brewery and grab a bite to eat in their pub-like atmosphere. Their menu includes pizza, wraps and various sharable appetizers.
If you’re looking to try out some local wines, don’t miss Westhaven Wines situated just across the Marina in Westport, which has become a favorite amongst wine connoisseurs. And, if you’re looking for a full winery experience, Westport Winery Garden Resort is the place to be! Although located in Aberdeen, about 30 minutes east of Westport, it carries the unique Westport vibe. Not only can you stay at an incredible location, but guests can sample over 30 wines that have won international wine competitions. In addition, their gift shop is considered one of the top 10 in Washington due to its vast variety of wines, gourmet foods and other local artisan fare. Their Sea Glass Mill Restaurant has a wide variety of cocktails and fresh seafood, as well as mouthwatering burgers, sandwiches and decadent dessert.
Westport Shopping and Events
If you need to walk off a few pounds after a big meal in one of Westport’s award-winning restaurants, hit the shops along the marina.
For the seafood lover, don’t miss Westport’s Fresh Catch, including incredible, family owned and operated, fresh seafood markets—Merino’s Seafood Market, Seafood Connection. They offer a wide variety of seafood that is literally purchased straight from the local fishing boats, then processed from the working waterfront that has been the backbone of Westport for decades.
There are various events throughout the year in Westport including the Cranberry Harvest Festival, yearly Seafood Festival and Craft Show and vintage car shows, but one of the most anticipated is the Rusty Scupper’s Pirate Daze. Ever wonder what it was like when Pirates ruled the waters and invaded seaports to pillage and plunder their ill-gotten gains? Rusty Scupper and his slew of one-eyed bandits puts on quite a show as townsfolks and tourists are thrust into the past for a weekend of fun, food and lots of photo ops with the pirate ship and crew! It’s usually scheduled for the end of June so keep checking the Westport Events Calendar.
No matter what you decide to do, Westport’s small-town, cozy seaside atmosphere is a must-see destination where there is something new for everyone to discover in Westport.
