The 9 most beautiful beach towns on the West Coast

Port Townsend, Washington

Nestled on the Olympic Peninsula, Port Townsend boasts Victorian architecture, scenic trails, and beaches, along with cafes, restaurants, and breweries. Explore Fort Worden State Park for hiking and WWII bunkers.

Ocean Shores, Washington

A family-friendly destination on the Washington coast, Ocean Shores offers expansive beaches for driving and horseback riding, making it a perfect spot for solo travelers and couples alike.

Anacortes, Washington

Just 90 minutes from Seattle, Anacortes charms visitors with its mountain and ocean views, bars, eateries, parks, and trails. It's also the gateway to the San Juan Islands via ferry.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Famous for its white sandy beaches and Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach is a popular spot for tide-pooling, hiking, and exploring galleries and boutiques along the coast.

Newport, Oregon

Located south of Portland, Newport is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, two lighthouses, and activities like beachcombing and exploring tide pools.

Florence, Oregon

An undiscovered gem on the Oregon coast, Florence offers sand dunes, beaches, seafood, and antique shopping, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

With its fairytale-like cottages and white sand beaches, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a picturesque town full of boutiques, restaurants, and cafes, ideal for a relaxing coastal getaway.

Half Moon Bay, California

Located just a short drive from San Francisco, Half Moon Bay features cliffs, historical sites, boutique shopping, and beaches perfect for tide pooling and swimming.

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