The 8 most beautiful beach towns on the West Coast

Port Townsend, Washington

Nestled on the Olympic Peninsula, this town boasts Victorian architecture, scenic trails, and beaches. Fort Warden State Park offers hiking, camping, and exploring WWII bunkers.

Ocean Shores, Washington

A family-friendly destination on the Washington coast, Ocean Shores offers beach access with activities like driving and horseback riding on the beach.

Anacortes, Washington

Located close to Seattle, Anacortes provides mountain and ocean views, numerous bars, eateries, parks, and hiking trails. It's also the ferry hub for the San Juan Islands.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Famous for its expansive sandy beaches and Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach is ideal for tide-pooling, hiking, and exploring galleries and boutiques.

Newport, Oregon

Larger than Cannon Beach, Newport is family-friendly with plenty of activities, including visits to two lighthouses. The town is also very pet-friendly.

Florence, Oregon

Known for its impressive sand dunes and long beaches, Florence offers top-notch seafood and antique shopping, making it a hidden gem on the Oregon coast.

Half Moon Bay, California

Located near the Bay Area, Half Moon Bay offers dramatic coastal views, a historic main street with boutiques and galleries, and beach activities like tide pooling and swimming.

Santa Cruz, California

This surf and college town features a lively boardwalk, whale watching, and the Surfing Museum. There are also numerous hiking trails in the surrounding mountains.