Welcome to the stunning evergreen coast of Long Beach, Washington, and the charming coastal cities of Pacific County. Our endless sandy shores and exceptional outdoor recreation make us a premier family-friendly destination for creating cherished memories. Experience a treasure trove of things to do with kids in Long Beach, WA, featuring hidden gems stretching from Chinook to Tokeland. Get ready to discover your heavenly slice of Pacific Northwest splendor.
Discover Fun Family Things to Do Around Long Beach
Unforgettable, all-ages family adventure awaits on our coast. From the silver shores of Long Beach offering beloved beach activities for kids to the wonders of Willapa Bay teeming with wildlife, there’s something magical for everyone to discover. Whether you’re clam digging at sunrise, exploring historic lighthouses, or finding local charm, come immerse yourself in the natural beauty and vibrant culture that make this coastal haven a perfect playground for every generation.
1. Washington’s Long Beach Boardwalk
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the nearly half-mile wooden Long Beach Boardwalk. If you’re looking for quick and fun beach activities for kids, the boardwalk is perfect for embarking on scavenger hunts while watching magical sunrises and sunsets. This attraction stretches above the whispering sea dunes and is peppered with sculptures that are easy for kids to spot.
2. Gray Whale Sculpture
Visit the famous gray whale pod sculpture off the Discovery Trail. Carved by chainsaw from one 14-foot log, the sculpture sits in the exact spot where a real whale once washed up. Take in the artistry with breathtaking views of the ocean beyond. Curious kids will spy old whale bones hidden in the nearby dune grass!
3. World’s Largest Frying Pan & Razor Clam
Quirky roadside attractions are some of our favorite places to take photo ops, and they don’t get much quirkier than one of the world’s largest frying pans and razor clams! Given that Long Beach is home to the infamous annual Razor Clam Festival, it’s only fitting to have towering carvings devoted to our whimsical icons. Capture a photo with these treasured record-setters.
Insider tip: Bring a quarter to activate the fountain inside the clam!
4. Deadman’s Cove
Explore the mystery of Deadman’s Cove in Ilwaco. You’ll find the hidden inlet in Cape Disappointment State Park. Plunder the private beach and search for seashells along the rugged shoreline. Keep your eyes peeled for tidepool treasures and soaring seabirds while imagining the adventures of sailors from long ago.
Insider tip: Only visit during low tide to avoid the perils of Davy Jones’ locker!
5. Long Beach Arch
Take your next family picture under the famous Long Beach Arch. We don’t want to boast, but this iconic landmark is the backdrop to endless Long Beach adventures. While we’re technically not the world’s longest beach, we have 28 open miles of sand, making us the world’s longest contiguous beach, which is something to brag about.
6. Funland Arcade
If you’re looking for fun activities for your kids in Long Beach, WA take a trip to Funland! This classic arcade in downtown Long Beach is full of new and nostalgic good times. Race virtual motorbikes, take a whirl on the mini carousel, rediscover retro games, or go head-to-head in blacklight laser tag. Prizes and bragging rights await the whole family.
7. Ilwaco Artworks
Unleash your inner artist at Ilwaco Artworks, where creativity blossoms in the heart of Ilwaco. Join an interactive art class that caters to all ages and skill levels. Specializing in pottery and clay play, you’ll have fun as a family creating masterpieces together.
8. The Long Beach Candy Company
Dive into a storybook candyland at the Long Beach Candy Company. With pounds of decadent fudge, wild chocolate creations, and an entire wall devoted to unbelievable salt-water taffy flavors waiting for you, there’s no end to the joy you’ll have indulging your sweet tooth.
9. Fun Beach Speedway
Find your need for speed at the Fun Beach Speedway! Feel the wind in your hair with these performance go-karts that are fun for the whole family. Race each other around the winding course or partner up in the double-kart for those who want to ride shotgun. After you’ve claimed your top spots, enjoy a round of putt-putt in the 18-hole mini golf course.
10. Scooper’s Market
Can you imagine anything more fun than eating waffle cones as a family by the coast? Us neither! Head down to the popular Scooper’s Market for some of the creamiest ice cream you’ve ever tasted. Dive into flavors like Caramel Toffee Crunch, Huckleberry Cheesecake, or Death by Chocolate. Flavors change seasonally, so create a new combination with every visit.
11. Kraken Kafe
The Kraken Kafe offers the perfect combination of coffee and family-friendly crafts. This cheerful pink building in the heart of downtown Long Beach houses an all-in-one coffee shop, ice cream store, and crafting corner. Enjoy your favorite caffeine buzz while your kids create a masterpiece from the hundreds of craft options available.
12. Neptune Movie House
Family movie night is even better by the sea! Catch blockbusters or your favorite kid’s movies at the local Neptune Movie House. Our charming hometown theater is festive with colorful murals and screenings that are perfect for the whole family. Grab your popcorn and settle in for showtime.
13. Willapa National Wildlife Refuge
Immerse yourself in the lush wonderland of Willapa National Wildlife Refuge. Hike the numerous educational trails that snake through the 17,000 acres of tidelands, rainforests, beaches, and marshes. Keep your eyes peeled for an array of wildlife. You’ll likely see majestic bald eagles, playful otters, and hundreds of bird species.
14. Razor Clam Digging Along the Coast
Dig this! Enjoy razor clam digging season as a family along our picturesque evergreen coast. With miles of beaches, there are plenty of places to unearth our celebrated razor clams. Have memory-making fun on the shoreline as you study the sand for telltale signs of the shy shellfish. Experience the thrill of successfully unearthing the coveted clam. Whether you’re a seasoned digger or a first-timer, this cherished pastime is a bucket-list beach activity for families.
Insider tip: Plan your dig around the confirmed dates.
15. World’s Largest Oyster
Strike a pose at South Bend’s iconic attraction, the World’s Largest Oyster, and become the pearl of the Oyster Capital of the World. Capture a whimsical “shellfie” in front of this super-sized shellfish sculpture, symbolizing the area’s rich maritime heritage and larger-than-life charm.
16. Willapa Hills Bike Trail
Embark on an exhilarating journey along the Willapa Hills Bike Trail, where stunning landscapes and unique sights await around every bend. This scenic trail takes you through lush forests, across historic trestle bridges, and past picturesque farmlands, offering a delightful mix of nature and history. Ideal for families, the Willapa Hills Bike Trail promises a fun and memorable adventure, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting, picnicking, and enjoying the great outdoors together.
Best State Parks for Kids in Long Beach
With seven state parks in our region, our evergreen coast offers unparalleled natural beauty. Grab a Discover Pass and create magical family memories while connecting with nature.
17. Fort Columbia Historical State Park
Another popular family thing to do in Long Beach, WA is an educational family outing, visit the 618-acre Fort Columbia State Park. As one of the most intact coastal defense sites, the park is full of incredible military relics and stunning panoramic views. Walk amongst World War II guns, artillery batteries, and officer’s homes. Take in the scenic views of the Columbia River, hike the secluded forests, and keep your eyes peeled for a menagerie of wildlife.
18. Cape Disappointment State Park
Cape Disappointment is never disappointing! Spend the day adventuring through more than 2,000 acres of natural wonder. Hike the old-growth forests and discover the Cape Disappointment and North Head Lighthouses. Unearth decaying military bunkers hidden in the overgrowth. Visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center and view water-logged artifacts from the Graveyard of the Pacific. If you’re looking for beach activities for kids, head to Waikiki Beach during low tide and enjoy sand castle building, kite flying, and beachcombing. To capture even more coastal beauty, bike the paved 8.5 Discovery Trail that runs through the park to Ilwaco.
19. Leadbetter Point State Park
Journey to the secluded tip of the peninsula with a visit to Leadbetter Point State Park, a hidden gem embraced by the Pacific Ocean and Willapa Bay. This tranquil haven offers miles of pristine ocean and bay beaches, perfect for families seeking to connect with nature through beach exploration. Bordering the Willapa National Wildlife Refuge, the park is a paradise for bird-watching and hiking, providing countless opportunities for wildlife sightings while you’re embracing the great wide open as a family.
Kid-Friendly Museums Near Long Beach Washington
Discover the kid-friendly museums near Long Beach, Washington, where education meets adventure in a delightful blend of history and culture. Our museums transform learning into a fun-filled experience, offering interactive exhibits that make the past come alive. Families can discover the eclectic tapestry of our region with hands-on activities and engaging displays that captivate young minds and foster a love for learning.
20. World Kite Museum
Soar into the vibrant world of the World Kite Museum, home to an extraordinary collection of kites from across the globe. This unique museum showcases dazzling designs and cultural treasures, while interactive exhibits let kids delve into the fascinating physics of kite flying. Don’t miss the annual Washington State International Kite Festival, where the skies above Long Beach burst into a kaleidoscope of color, offering a breathtaking spectacle and endless family fun.
21. Marsh’s Free Museum
Step into the whimsical world of Marsh’s Free Museum, a treasure trove of oddities and curiosities that captivate visitors of all ages. Though not technically a museum, this quirky curiosity features everything from vintage penny arcade machines to bizarre taxidermy, creating a fascinating blend of fanciful novelty. With engaging displays and interactive activities, families can embark on a delightful journey through the past, marveling at the unique collections and discovering surprises at every turn. Be sure to visit Jake the Alligator Man while you’re there!
22. Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center
Explore the captivating Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center at Cape Disappointment, where the legendary expedition comes to life through engaging interactive exhibits. Perched on a cliff 200 feet above the raging sea, the center offers stunning panoramic views of the Columbia River bar, headlands, and ocean. This educational treasure trove gives families a hands-on experience, immersing kids in the adventurous journey of Lewis and Clark with fascinating artifacts and immersive displays. As you wander through the center, the rich history of this monumental trek unfolds, making it a fantastic destination for both fun and learning.
23. Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum
Dive into the rich cultural heritage of the Columbia Pacific region at the Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum in Ilwaco. Their vibrant curations offer captivating exhibits that bring the area’s history to life, showcasing everything from indigenous artifacts to maritime treasures. Visitors of all ages will be enchanted by the engaging displays and interactive activities, making it a must-visit attraction for families seeking an informative and entertaining afternoon.
24. Northwest Carriage Museum
Step back in time and get carried away at the Northwest Carriage Museum, where history and family fun come together in a delightful journey through the golden age of transportation. Stroll amongst the impressive collection of meticulously restored carriages and marvel at the history of travel. Activities for families abound, with interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences. Discover the stories behind these elegant vehicles as you explore this charming slice of history in Raymond, Washington.
25. Shoalwater Bay Museum
Visit the Shoalwater Bay Museum in Tokeland, a vibrant celebration of cultural heritage that immerses visitors in the rich history of the Shoalwater Bay community. The museum’s impressive collection of indigenous artifacts, from intricate basketry to early fishing techniques, tells the story of the region’s first inhabitants with authenticity and reverence. Engaging exhibits and beautifully preserved pieces offer a fascinating glimpse into the traditions and lifeways of the Shoalwater Bay people, making the museum a captivating journey back through time.
26. Willapa Seaport Museum
Ahoy, young adventurers! Set sail for the Willapa Seaport Museum in historic Raymond, Washington, where maritime wonders await. Explore interactive exhibits showcasing the region’s rich seafaring heritage, from model ships to vintage fishing gear. Kids can dive into hands-on activities, discovering the art of knot tying or navigating a virtual ship’s wheel. It’s a nautical playground that blends education with excitement, perfect for families seeking a splash of maritime history in the Pacific Northwest.