The Pacific Northwest is filled with an overload of outdoor recreation opportunities. During Spring, the weather is perfect for skimboarding. This perfect window of time is around spring break – when school is out for the kids – on the west coast.

The Pacific Northwest is one of the best places to learn how to skimboard. It is home to some of the best skimboarding spots in the United States. CNN rated Washington’s coastline as one of the top places in the U.S. to visit due to not only the endless recreation, but the beautiful scenery unique to the PNW. There is a pristine stretch of the Hidden Coast byway that is perfect for skimboarding!

What Is Skimboarding?

Skimboarding is a board sport that needs only a shallow pool of water on a flat surface, a fin-less flat board, and a little bit of running speed. The idea is to “skim” the board across the water and hop on for a ride! Think of sliding around on the hardwood kitchen floor in your socks, or an air hockey puck sliding on the air hockey table – that’s the basic idea, and it just gets more advanced from there on.

Flatland skimboarding is just as the name implies: skimboarding on a flat surface. The advanced athletes will add tricks much like skateboarding and includes everything from Ollie’s to even Kick-Flips.

Flatland skimboarding is most popular in Washington State and you can see many skilled riders sponsored by Tacoma-based DB Skimboards such as Adrian Raza, Casey Gackle, and Blake Zimmerman.There are two main types of skimboarding: flatland and wave.

Wave skimboarding is more popular on beaches that have a steeper slope to the water and athletes will “skim” into a wave to perform tricks much akin to surfing. Harder to do without the right beach, you can find pros such as Austin Keen and Blair Conklin for inspiration.

How Is Skimboarding Like Surfing?

Skimboarding and surfing have a lot of similarities. Both sports involve riding on the water, and both sports involve balancing on a board. But that doesn’t mean they’re the same sport.

Surfing is more about being in the water and requires a high level of paddling endurance. Surfers have to paddle out beyond the breaking waves to catch them at their strongest point. In fact, catching a wave is one of the hardest parts of surfing—and it’s also one of the most exciting.

Surfers put up with a lot of waiting around for a big wave to come that’s just right for them and depend on wave forecasts constantly. Skimboarders don’t have that strict of a requirement and can go just about anytime (barring high winds at least).

For some people, skimboarding is harder than surfing because it requires a sprinting effort for speed plus you have to jump on this moving object and make sure your feet are set just right! But for others, surfing is harder because it takes so much paddling endurance to catch and ride that wave plus a substantial amount of core strength to pop.

Is Skimboarding Harder Than Surfing?

The short answer: It depends. And here’s why.

When you’re surfing, you’re in the water riding a wave that’s constantly moving. When you’re skimboarding, you’re trying to run fast enough so that you can jump onto the board and ride it for enough time or distance to do tricks or go the distance. This means that skimboarders have a different workload than surfers between running fast with your legs and paddling hard with your arms.

Timing plays a huge role in how much work you need to do. When on the beach skimboarding you have to wait for the water to roll up the beach to provide the proper depth to skim on. It’s also important for the wave to be moving at exactly the right speed and direction so you don’t run out of wave and hit the sand. That’s why skimboarders have to practice so much!

Which Should I Try First?

Honestly, try them both!

Skimboarding and surfing complement each other immensely while working your body differently. Foot placement, timing, balance, and situational awareness all place critical roles in both. Skimboarding can be a much less intimidating sport over surfing as it does not require swimming abilities and is very minimal for equipment requirements. Most days all you need is a swimsuit and a skimboard!

If you are trying to find out where to skimboard, look no further than Seabrook, Washington. This location is the perfect adventure hub on the Olympic Peninsula. What is great about skimboarding in Pacific Beach at Seabrook is that it’s just one of the many things you can do during your seaside vacation.

There is an adventure shop in town called Buck’s Northwest (permanently closed). They have supplies and staff experts who can teach you how to skimboard. The team at Buck’s even operates a seasonal skimboard pool to learn and practice in without needing to wait for the waves (or be discouraged by the wind). Not only will you learn how to skimboard, you will also learn many tips and tricks that make skimboarding fun for beginners, adults, and kids of all levels.

No matter where your adventure takes you, one thing is clear – Seabrook is the perfect hub for all of your skimboarding needs. With a wide selection of expertly appointed homes, activities for the whole family, shops, and restaurants with indoor and outdoor seating, you can experience the Pacific Northwest in ways you could only dream of. Because here in Seabrook, your only limit is your imagination.

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Now is the perfect time for a quick coastal getaway to Seabrook! Whether it is your first time in Seabrook or your twentieth, enjoy walks on the beach, shopping, dining, and so much more in Washington’s Beach Town.

DAY 1

Plan ahead

We know that grocery shopping isn’t your idea of a fun vacation activity. That’s why we’ve made it easy for you to get everything you need for the week without having to make a trip to the store.

Front Street Market offers a complete grocery service so that your kitchen is stocked with whatever you want before you even arrive. Simply call their number or Seabrook Concierge, and they’ll arrange for everything to be in your rental by the time you get there. And if you’d rather dine out during your vacation, there are plenty of restaurants within walking distance from every rental!

Coffee and Pastries from Vista Bakeshop

Cruffin anyone?

This delicious, freshly-baked treat is a crowd favorite! In fact, all Vista Bakeshop‘s pastries are baked from scratch in-house, and complement their delectable lattes well.

What is your favorite pastry to pair with coffee?

Visit Buck’s Northwest (permanently closed) for some Adventure

Are you the adventure-seeker looking to get into all the action here at Seabrook? Nothing beats the inside scoop from local enthusiasts. Buck’s Northwest (permanently closed) offers guided tours and equipment rentals you need to hit the trails and hidden treasures within Seabrook and beyond!

Whether it’s kayaking, mountain biking, razor clam digging, surfing, or SUPing, the team at Buck’s Northwest (permanently closed) have everything you need to make this adventure memorable.

Lunch at Rising Tide

Rising Tide specializes in seasonal and local pub food, with a passion for serving only the best. They also offer up some of the most unique and delicious craft cocktails you’ve ever tasted!

Spa Elizabeth Day Spa and Boutique

If you’re in the market for a little R&R (and who isn’t?), we’ve got just the spot for you! Spa Elizabeth in Seabrook has everything you need to feel your most relaxed. Choose from a collection of massage oils, lotions, creams, candles, and more. They have something for everyone, and their formulas are tested by the best in the business—their masseurs!

Spa Elizabeth Day Spa and Boutique doesn’t just offer products and treatments that’ll make you feel great. Seriously, their masseurs have magic hands!

Dinner at Koko’s

Go out for tapas and music at Koko’s restaurant and tequila bar, where the beats are so good you’ll definitely end up dancing. Whether you dine indoors or outdoors, you’ll have an unforgettable experience. Do you prefer people-watching over the heated outdoor patio? Or would you rather jam to the hottest salsa music indoors? Whichever you prefer, Koko’s is the place to be!

Sunset on the Beach

Nothing quite says “vacation” like a sunset on the beach.

This is especially true in Seabrook, where we have some of the best sunsets in the Pacific Northwest, and all kinds of ways to enjoy them.

Whether you’re out for a post-massage stroll by the water, lounging on one of our signature gazebos, or sipping wine at the new Stowaway Wine Bar, you can’t go wrong with an evening spent basking in Seabrook’s famous sunsets!

Winding Down for the Night

As you blissfully stroll back to your accommodation, you might choose to head in for the night, but if not, roast marshmallows at one of Seabrook’s many community fireplaces. You don’t need a vehicle because everything is within walking distance. What a great way to connect with others in the community!

DAY 2

Getting up and going to the gym before breakfast?

Now that’s dedication.

But you don’t have to sacrifice your routine on vacation. Seabrook’s Gym, Rusty Anchor Fitness, is fully equipped for your exercise needs. With cardio equipment, free weights, and a variety of workout machines, you’ll never get bored!

Breakfast at Front Street Market

If you’re looking for a place to kick off your day with a delicious, healthy breakfast, Front Street Market is the answer! Located in the heart of downtown Seabrook, Front Street Market has an popular menu of breakfast items, smoothies, and you can order in store, or call ahead so that your food will be ready once you arrive. Now for the hard part – do you want to take it back to your rental? Or eat at one of the many scenic community spaces that are available throughout Seabrook?  Decisions, decisions…

Guided Fishing Tour

There’s something so meditative about being out on the water, isn’t there?

The sound of the ocean, the smell of the salt air, and best of all—the opportunity to soak up some peace and quiet. But you don’t have to be a loner to enjoy a day at sea, either! A guided fishing trip is a great way to connect with your group and other travelers, while enjoying a bit of healthy competition.

As with everything in Seabrook, you don’t need to bring any equipment for this adventure—just a little enthusiasm, and let our concierge handle the details. Local anglers take you to the best hidden spots and guide you as you cast into the waves. When it’s time for a break from fishing, head to one of our local eateries or cafes for some fresh seafood. You can even use your catch as inspiration!

Fishing is fun for all ages, so grab your family or friends and head out on an adventure! We’ll be waiting for you.

In-Home Painting Kits

So, you get seasick? We get it—we’ve definitely been there. And while the ocean is a pretty magical place, we know that some of our guests just aren’t into it. That’s why we’re offering the Corks and Canvas experience right in the cozyness of your Seabrook home!

Pick up one of our painting kits at Guest Services, and you’ll get everything you need to paint a masterpiece. All materials are included—you can let yourself drift off into creativity and let your imagination run wild. You can even make it an intimate sip-and-paint with your favorite person! Or, if you’re traveling with kids, this is a fun way to keep them occupied while you take a breather from all the hustle and bustle of vacation.

You can pick up a kit daily any time before 2:00 PM, and there’s no need to return it—you can keep the materials for later or use them as a souvenir. Drop off your finished painting at Guest Services or hang on to it as a reminder of what an amazing time you had on this trip!

Make a splash at the heated, indoor pool

The kids are getting restless? The South Crescent indoor pool is a great place to get some exercise, splash around, and have an absolute blast.

The pool is a favorite among young families, who appreciate the pool’s warm temperature and shallow end. Many children have learned how to swim for the first time in this very pool! They love the water, and you will too!

Morning excitement? We know it well.

It’s that feeling you get when you wake up and realize you’re on vacation—the sun is shining, the ocean is calling, and nothing can go wrong.

After all that thrilling anticipation, what do you do next? Eat!

That’s where Frontager’s Pizza comes in. Gourmet pizza for every taste bud—with gluten-free and vegan options too! You can dine in or order delivery to your vacation rental, so you never have to worry about a ‘hangry’ afternoon.

But wait, there’s more! Tonight, you can choose to dine in at your vacation rental instead of going out to eat. Order wine to your room, relax in the hot tub, play games with your crew, or watch a movie… it’s up to you! Our fully equipped rentals mean our beach home is your beach home.

This is only a snippet of what Seabrook has to offer.  We have many shops, merchants, and boutiques for you to peruse, as well.  Contact Seabrook’s concierge — Jeff Wilson —and he’ll help you craft a custom itinerary for your entire trip. Because in Seabrook, you’re only limited by your imagination!

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Coastal WA is teeming with luscious foliage and wildlife, blossoming with new and resurfacing growth. Embrace the new season with a relaxing yet exciting WA spring break this year. We know just the place for you and yours to escape to!

Tucked away on the Washington coast, you’ll find the ravishing beach town of Seabrook, WA, one of the best-kept secrets of the Seattle Metropolitan Area. The new town was consciously founded on the new urbanism design, featuring beautiful vacation rentals, stunning ocean views, and countless amenities woven together in scenic harmony. This spring break, we welcome you to simply live during your spring break. 

The guest services team at Seabrook Hospitality is excited to usher in a new season of spring break excitement! As stated above, Seabrook was thoughtfully-designed with the overall enjoyment of residents and guests in mind. Our founders intentionally created all homes, roads, trails, retail spaces, and amenities to optimize ease of access. During your upcoming spring break, head to Seabrook to get out and about and enjoy the following spring activities. 

SpringFest | Seabrook, WA Spring Break Fun 

This year, we’re excited to announce that SpringFest will be making a grand return! If you are a returning guest or long-term resident of Seabrook, WA, you’re probably already familiar with SpringFest. For those of you who are new, here’s a brief introduction to the fun to be had all week long during SpringFest!

SpringFest 2022 will kick off on March 19 and continue through April 24. Every weekday, Sunday through Saturday, there will be entertaining activities for the entire family, with many fan-favorites making a reappearance. See the daily schedule below: 

Scavenger Sundays

Every Sunday, head to the Guest Services lobby on 301 Front Street – just look for the blue and white striped awning! There will be a self-service basket of cards for our Sunday Scavenger Hunts. This event will occur rain or shine, so come prepared! 

Magic Mondays

Crescent Park will be draped in a veil of magic each Monday! Magician Jeff Evans will be hosting afternoon magic shows at 2 p.m., with participation from all ages. You may learn a few tricks of your own. 

Tag Tuesday

Get ready to yell out, “Tag, you’re it!” on Tuesdays during everyone’s favorite game: laser tag! We are still scheduling tag times and admission prices, so check the event page for updated information closer to SpringFest. 

Wind Boat Wednesdays

Every Wednesday, set sail with your very own wind boat. Boat kits will be available for purchase each event day. Race times, locations, and kit prices are coming soon! 

Theater Thursdays

Traveling with a couple of thespians? They will love our interactive Theater Thursdays workshops, where their imaginations will certainly run wild. Stay tuned for more information! 

Field Day Fridays

Field days were always a welcomed highlight during our school years. We’ll spark some nostalgia every Friday in Crescent Park! Various games will be set up throughout the day. 

Sidewalk Saturdays

Take to the sidewalks each Saturday for “Sidewalk Saturdays,” where you and yours can create fantastic works of chalk art. A Seabrook goodie bag will be awarded to our favorite artwork! Entry submission instructions can be found online. 

Start planning your marvelous spring break in Seabrook, WA, today—book your comfortable vacation rental online! We cannot wait to see your smiling faces this spring.

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Washington State is the ultimate playground when it comes to outdoor adventures and fishing ranks high on the list of things that Washington is great for. You can fish in lakes, rivers, or off the coast for the freshest catches. River fishing opportunities are abundant throughout the state and with dozens of rivers to traverse it helps to have a guide.

No one knows the rivers better than the guides with Washington State Fishing Guides (WSFG) that offer fishing excursions throughout Washington.

What is guided fishing?

Picture going fishing with a friendly, knowledgeable guide who knows the best spots. With the guided fishing trip, you’ll get a charter boat, captain and guide all in one package.

The boat allows you to go farther out and fish in flat or deep-sea conditions. A captain and experienced crew navigate, set up the gear and run down to get a bite.

All you do is reel it in – a guaranteed great time for all!

Get away from it all and indulge in a day of pure relaxation on a guided fishing trip.

Fishing With A Private Guide Is An Educational Experience

We took a guided river fishing trip with Scott Crawford – owner and operator of Washington State Fishing Guides. We visited the Satsop River in search of coho salmon. It was an enjoyable experience – everyone was able to catch their limit of coho. In process, we learned a lot about river fishing, the local area, and each other.

“I have been a passionate angler since I learned to fish as a child with my mom. I remember the smile that was on my face every time I landed my fish. My passion led me to be a guide and my favorite part of guiding is the smiles and excitement that clients produce when they land their fish,” says Scott Crawford of Washington State Fishing Guides.

A fishing guide is always ready to share a wealth of practical knowledge. Do you know how to tell the difference between male and female salmon? Or the difference between freshwater and saltwater salmon? How about the best rig for catching steelhead? Your guide can answer these questions and more!

It’s All About The Experience

The goal of any type of fishing with the WSFG is to have a good and memorable experience. You will yearn to return – even if the fish don’t bite. The guides offered fishing advice and general knowledge, along with all-around good conversation.

“Everything about the trip was very relaxing, it was a great distraction-free way to connect with my team,” says Nikki B. “It was pretty nice having the guides handle everything for me being that I have never fished before!”

This outdoor, laid back social setting is ideal for getting to know the people that you bring along.

What To Wear

Dressing for the occasion is important when it comes to river fishing – especially during the colder months of the year. This is, after all, the Pacific Northwest, so you should also be mindful of wind or rain in the forecast. Fishing trips typically begin early. Early morning temperatures on the coast tend to be brisk. This combined with the wind-chill from being on the water means that you need to dress warm. Your guide will be able to recommend what to wear for the time of year that you are fishing.

For our outing in November, we layered up. Thick, warm underlayers, combined with a waterproof outer layer made the excursion comfortable. Your guide will be able to recommend what clothing to wear, depending on what time of year you are fishing.

Early morning fishing in the Pacific Northwest landscape is quite the treat! There is something soothing about the predawn air and foggy chill of nature. The stillness is peaceful, a welcome escape – In it, exists both clarity and glee. Your usual responsibilities are exchanged for an idyllic adventure on open waters.  A thrilling day trip in Grays Harbor awaits!

Grays Harbor is one of many fishing towns in the Pacific Northwest. Opportunities to catch a variety of local saltwater and freshwater fish abound! The county is famous for its ocean fishing experiences.  It also contains diverse ecosystems that are filled with marine life.  Grays Harbor is home to hundreds of miles of winding rivers, and many streams. These waterways flourish with world-class Coho salmon, kokanee, steelhead, and trout.

Grays Harbor also boasts over 100 lakes, stocked with trout, bass and crappie.

You may wonder, how do I find a fishing guide? Seabrook’s got you covered! Seabrook’s concierge is here to help you craft a memorable and fulfilling fishing experience – right here on the Washington coast! Thanks to Seabrook’s concierge services, your guided fishing will prove to be as exciting as it is meditative.

Punctuate your idyllic vacation experience by adding on a guided fishing tour! Experience beautiful Washington state with the knowledge of a local, longtime fisherman. A knowledgeable guide can take you around and show you where and when to cast.

No experience? Not to worry! Your guide can walk you through everything that you need to do – they are there for you every step of the way.  Our river fishing guide today is a Coast Guard Veteran who has been guiding in the local area for over 8 years. His skill and expertise are evident from the first time you enter his well-kept vessel.

His passion for fishing will take you on an unforgettable experience. His assistant is always standing by and at the ready should you ever need a helping hand. They have special fishing knots and fishing tackle cultivated for your trip so you needn’t bring a thing! He is proof that the right guide makes all the difference.

This experience is great for team bonding, couples, families with older children, or anyone who has a love for fishing. Your guide will show you how to reel in your catch, and will even do the work of netting and bagging the fish.   Your fishing guide will bring you to the best fishing spots in the Pacific Northwest.

Your guided fishing experience can be as interactive as you would like.  It is fun for all ages and skill levels. The captain and his assistant can help you set up your rods and tackle, or you can opt to DIY your own rigs.

Your Fishing Guide Takes Care Of Everything

No gear?  No problem! They bring top of the line, well maintained equipment that they curate for your trip and the type of fish you are trying to catch.  Many of their rigs are homemade and cannot be purchased in stores. This is because their years of local expertise enables the guides to always stay ahead of the curve. Looking to catch your first fish? Or are you a seasoned angler? Regardless of skill, your fishing guide will make sure your day of angling is a successful one.  By providing helpful hints and tips, gear and guidance, your guide is there every step of the way.

Some anglers choose to sit back and take in the scenery while keeping a watchful eye on their rods for bites. The peaceful sway of the river is melodic and an experience within itself. A guided river fishing adventure is one of the best fishing experiences in the Pacific Northwest.

When a bite comes in, everyone bolts into action. The excitement is contagious. The captain and his assistant are always on the ready.  They offer their wealth of knowledge throughout the day.  The hours fly by, they know exactly where to go to catch the action.  Even the least likely angler enjoys the festivities of the day. The captain provides snacks – which are both helpful and tasty.  He also provides a propane heater for warmth as needed. The day is jovial, and free – you are transported into a simpler more leisurely time.

When you take a guided fishing trip with us, you won’t be spending your vacation searching for fish. We’ll take care of the boat and gear while you’re free to relax and try your hand at this wonderful sport. Our captain is one of the most experienced guides in our region, so he’ll know exactly where to go to find the most fish.

If you, like many, are wondering how long do fishing trips last, the answer is simple – not long enough!  By the end of the day a mild sadness begins to form. You will miss the scenery, comradery and calm. But don’t fret! There are many more Pacific Northwest charters than can be had.  From the Humptulips River, to the Chehalis River and so much more – your next adventure awaits!   To continue the fun, Seabrook’s concierge can even charter a guided ocean fishing trip.

As the day ends, you disembark. It’s time to fillet your bounty! The Captain shares with you their secret recipe for cooking your Pacific Northwest salmon.

“It’s just really refreshing to be on the water and so much fun to go fishing,” says Amy P. “I had never been before and they made picking it up easy. Wrestling and catching an especially giant Coho was really exciting, too. A fourth of that one fish fed my whole family at dinner!”

A day on the river is always memorable. And salmon fishing in the Pacific Northwest is the pièce de résistance. Our guides know each river and where the fish are biting, so your trip will be a huge success. Are you ready to set out on the most epic fishing adventure of your life? Contact us today to learn about all the available Washington fishing trips we have to offer. Our professional guides will tailor a fishing trip that exceeds all expectations. They will also get you a catch you’ll remember for years!

Seabrook Is The Best Pacific Northwest Adventure Hub

Seabrook’s central location is perfect for exploring the Olympic National Rainforest. Seabrook vacation rentals have the makings of your home away from home. A perfect home-base for exploring  famous and hidden fishing gems throughout the region. You may want to rent a larger home and host a fishing retreat with a group of friends. Or, perhaps you’d prefer to book an intimate fishing trip with a friend. Whatever your desire, Seabrook’s well-appointed dog friendly homes are the perfect place to host your getaway. And Seabrook’s concierge can take care of the details required to make it happen!

Do you need a recreational fishing license to fish in Washington state?

Yes you do! The process for getting one is very simple and Seabrook’s concierge can help you through it. You can purchase one through the WDFW Wild System or in town at Bucks Northwest (permanently closed).

Upcoming River Fishing Expeditions in Washington State

Below are some of the guided fishing adventures available to you this season. Be sure to call Seabrook’s Concierge at (360)-276-4108 and schedule your adventure today!

January – March: Duck Lake for oversized rainbow trout

February – April:  Winter Steelhead on the Cowlitz

May – Sturgeon on the Columbia River

Harvest season has arrived and for mushroom-picking enthusiasts, there is no better time to head into the Pacific Northwestern forests for all kinds of fungi finds. From spotting the perfect mushroom to spending peaceful time in nature, there’s a lot to love about mushroom hunting.

No one knows this better than foragers, Michael Abramson and Dan Parhaniemi, who have partnered with Seabrook to bring a fun and educational guided mushroom hunting experience to Seabrook this Fall.

THE SEASONED FORAGING GUIDES

Michael Abramson

Michael, founder of Wild Spores & More, a commercial mushroom picking business, was first introduced to the world of mushrooms working in the restaurant industry.

“I’ve worked in restaurants most of my life and grew up in the restaurant industry with my parents,” Michael says, adding that his father was a chef and his mother worked front-of-house.

He himself worked in a fine dining restaurant followed by a private golf course restaurant where he was introduced to different gourmet foods.

“There were foragers that were bringing wild gourmet products into the restaurant,” Michael says. “So I started working with the products, cooking with them, and learning about them from there.”

Michael landed in the Pacific Northwest after he and his wife, Nolynn, were expecting their first child. They moved from Las Vegas to the Seattle area to be closer to Nolynn’s family. After they moved, Michael was faced with a decision of whether to reenter the highly-demanding restaurant industry.

“It’s a grueling, very time consuming job and you spend a lot of time away from your family,” Michael says. “It just happened to be spring mushroom time when we got there and my wife said, ‘Well, why don’t you try the foraging thing and see what the universe has in store for you, just give it a shot? You’ve always wanted to do it.’”

The decision was made and Michael went to his first farmer’s market in Duvall, Washington five years ago and has been expanding the business from there. He, his wife, and two daughters, Falynn May and Ember Ryan, have settled the business in Hoquiam where they have enjoyed living the last few years.

Michael was also a first-time vendor in Seabrook’s own Saturday Market in the summer of 2021 and he is excited to be back in Seabrook to debut this Fall’s foraging class.

“I think people will have a really good experience,” Michael says. “There’s a nice variety in that area and we won’t have to travel far.”

Dan Parhaniemi

Dan, the owner of Conscious Collectors Cooperative, a guiding business based in Kent, was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest and has always spent a lot of time outdoors.

He first got into foraging nearly 10 years ago after transitioning from his hobby of skateboarding to mushroom hunting, and forest ecosystems in general.

“I found edible mushrooms one of my first times out and it was really, really enjoyable,” Dan says. “I think it really just turned into going down the rabbit hole from there.”

As Dan started learning more about mushroom hunting through books, forums, and other resources, it also inspired him to focus on growing his talents in the kitchen.

“With the culinary plants and mushrooms that I was bringing home, it really pushed me to up my cooking skills a lot, too,” Dan says, noting he has many favorite recipes to share.

Over the years, Dan’s passion has grown into an all-encompassing mycology (scientific study of fungi) journey where he continues to learn and share his knowledge with others.

“I’m going out and looking at mushrooms that aren’t even necessarily edible,” Dan says. “And I’m learning how to identify the trees and the plants and trying to get a holistic view of how the forest ecosystem works.”

Dan adds that this knowledge makes him even more efficient in finding the edible mushrooms. He looks forward to spending more time on the coast and teaching others, from mushroom species to habitat spotting, during the guided classes.

“It’s great because it’s so wet out there on the coast, there’s so much tree diversity,” Dan says. “There’s a lot of stuff to be found.”

FORAGE IN SEABROOK’S BACK YARD

The guided classes are about two and a half hours long where participants meet in the guest services lobby and then head to the expansive trail network throughout Seabrook.

Dan and Michael first go over safety musts and helpful resources available when it comes to hunting for mushrooms.

Their first and foremost goal for the foraging trips is for everyone to gain confidence in their foraging skills while enjoying nature.

“I’m really looking to empower people to feel confident in the fact that they can go out and find these things on their own,” Dan says. “Knowing that there are resources available that can give you the information if you have something of value, culinarily.”

Michael looks forward to offering the guides with Dan since they both come from different backgrounds in the mushroom industry. Michael coming from the informative commercial side, and Dan from the educational side. This will give participants a great peek into the mushroom hunting world.

MUSHROOMS APLENTY IN COASTAL FORESTS

The Pacific Northwest, and around Seabrook specifically, offers an abundance of sought-after mushrooms like golden chanterelles, matsutake, chicken of the woods, porcini, king boletes, hedgehog, and lobster mushrooms, shares Michael and Dan.

Whether it is a first outing or hundredth, there is something special and rewarding about harvesting these wild grown, edible mushrooms, steps away from your Seabrook home.

“I think my favorite mushroom, besides a morel, which I feel is like a lot of people’s favorite, is the lobster mushroom,” Michael says. “When you get it at the right age it has a subtle shellfish flavor but I really like the texture of the mushroom… I think it’s one of the most delicious gourmet edibles there are.”

While scouting in Seabrook, Michael and Dan have already found a variety of mushrooms, including porcini mushrooms, Dan’s favorite.

“They’re extremely tasty, great texture and they’re a lot of fun to hunt, they’re a little bit tougher to find than other mushrooms,” Dan says. “They’re one of the most sought after in the world, all over. They’re so delicious, there’s no other mushroom that beats that for me.”

EAT UP THE BENEFITS OF MUSHROOMS

Mushroom hunting is not only a fun form of mental and physical exercise, but also offers a wide range of health benefits when the mushrooms are consumed.

“One thing is that they’re chock full of vitamins and minerals,” Michael says. “Especially Vitamin D, which is something a lot of us lack in this area because of the climate we live in.”

Mushrooms are also high in Vitamin E, fiber, protein, antioxidants, and low in calories.

In addition to the health benefits, there are a lot of ways to prepare mushrooms from using simple recipes to pickling them that will benefit taste buds with every mushroom-oriented meal.

“Each mushroom is a little bit different, but really just sauteing them in butter and garlic with some shallots and a little bit of thyme is really the best way,” Michael says. “Especially for a chanterelle, and they do really well with a cream addition.”

One of the great parts about foraging near Seabrook is that the vacation rental homes come with fully equipped kitchens so foragers can whip up a forest to table dinner or snack afterwards.

The guided mushroom foraging classes are every Saturday through the end of November, visit our Mushroom Foraging In Seabrook page for more details or to reserve your spot!

Fall in Seabrook. When the leaves turn from green to yellow to deep burnt orange and there’s nothing more enticing than curling up with a blanket and watching the waves crash on the shore. There is a reason that autumn is one of our favorite seasons here.

But there is more to love than crunchy leaves, hot coffee, and scarves in Washington’s Beach Town. Seabrook’s merchants and retailers bring the essence of fall into their stores with fun seasonal goodies and products that you’ll love year-round.

Check out what’s new with Seabrook merchants this fall!

The Salty Dog | ICE CREAM FOR DOGS

It simply isn’t fair that we get to enjoy the delicious hand-scooped ice cream from The Sweet Life while our four-legged friends miss out. Well, now your furry best friend can enjoy some especially made ice cream right alongside you.

Shop owner, Ann, doesn’t care what time of year it is. Ice cream is always a good idea and with tasty flavors, your dog will think so, too. Take home delectable banana, tart and smooth blueberry, or their most popular flavor, peanut butter.

SeaWorthy Home | HOME MATS

SeaWorthy Home’s new vinyl mats are the perfect way to add stress-free style to any room. Easy to clean, durable, and chic, you’ll want these versatile mats throughout your home. Add a splash of color to your laundry room. Protect your hardwood floors from pets. Complete your dining room look.

Mats come in a wide variety of colors and designs so you can find a unique statement piece to elevate your home or a subtle accent piece to tie a room together.

Red Cedar Surf | LONGBOARDS

A quintessential part of beach culture, longboards are one of the best ways to get around Seabrook. Made specifically for cruising, the longer boards are easier to maneuver than skateboards and provide added stability. When you’re not on dawn patrol in the ocean, or shredding it up in Buck’s Skimpool (permanently closed), longboarding around Seabrook is the best way to practice your moves.

Tides by Seabrook | GLASS FLOATS

Known as the ultimate logo wear and souvenir shop of Seabrook, Tides is full of must-have clothing items, fun enamel pins, and Seabrook accessories that will become a wardrobe staple. But, if you want a truly distinctive souvenir, bring home one of their whimsical glass floats. The same ones used in the popular Winter Glass Float Find, you can pick out a locally made, one-of-a-kind float.

 Seabrook Kids | GNOME CONTEST T-SHIRTS

Gnomes. So quintessentially Seabrook that you tend to see them everywhere, including Seabrook Kids! New to the collection of logo wear specifically designed for Seabrook’s littlest guests, are gnome T-shirts, designed by competition winners Gwen and Gracelyn. These one-of-a-kind shirts are the perfect souvenir for your Seabrook kids.

Joie Des Livres | S’MORES GALORE

It’s a Seabrook tradition. Huddling around a campfire, telling stories, and roasting s’mores. If your go-to s’mores recipe is graham cracker, chocolate, and marshmallow, be prepared to have your mind blown.

Up your s’mores game with melt-in-your-mouth recipes that you can make over a campfire or even in your home. You can also pick up extendable roasting sticks, a s’mores caddy tray, and oven mitts to have s’more fun whenever you want.

Magnolia’s Clothing Boutique | JEWELRY

Seabrook’s beloved boutique has an ever changing selection of inventory, but you can always count on finding something special in the store. It is almost a weekly tradition to stop by and see what new jewelry you can find in the store.

Colors and shapes are constantly rotating in pattern with the season’s trending colors and styles. You might go in for a pair of earrings and leave with much, much more with the irresistible clothing items at Magnolias.

Brooklets Toys | POP ITS

Pop Its are the latest fidget gadget that is taking over the world. Think bubble wrap that you can pop time and time again. The plastic moulding is filled with divots that pop endlessly.

The satisfying act of popping the divot is enough to help focus and de-stress children (and adults too). Brooklets has an impressively wide variety of Pop Its, with unicorns, popular emojis, under-the-sea themed Pop Its, and more.

Buck’s Northwest (permanently closed) | NANTUCKET BASKETS (AND NEW EMPLOYEE, SIOSI!)

There is so much to do and see in Seabrook and cruising around town on a bike is always a good time. Buck’s Northwest (previously Buck’s Bikes) has always been a hub for bikes with rentals, helmets, gear, and a repair shop.

New to the shop are Nantucket Bike Baskets. These delightful wicker baskets are perfect for transporting picnics around town, grabbing groceries from Front Street Market, or bringing your beach gear down to the water.

Pictured is Buck’s newest employee Siosi showcasing how to use your basket… in style.

Spa Elizabeth and Boutique | SUNSCREEN AND SKINCARE

We’ve all forgotten the sunscreen back home or stayed outside a little longer than we should. The only remedy you need is a trip to Spa Elizabeth for a little R&R.

Among their incredible in-store selections are healthy suncare products from COOLA. Soak up those lovely, sunny fall days with no stress. Your skin will love your trip to the beach just as much as you will.

 Our Pod by the Sea | EVERYTHING!

The newest merchant to join Seabrook’s Town Center is Our Pod By The Sea, a child-centric space right in the heart of Market Street. If the under-the-sea theme of the store doesn’t immediately capture your attention, the yellow submarine will.

You can drop your kids off for an hour or two for a date night, stay and play all day long, or attend one of their fun weekly events. With talent shows, parades, game nights, and more, Our Pod is bringing big fun to Seabrook’s littlest guests.

Make a trip to Seabrook this fall and enjoy everything that Washington’s Beach Town has to offer. Check out some of our favorite fall activities, enjoy our latest dining additions, and see what’s new at our incredible town merchants.

Browse Vacation Rentals

Our Pod By The Sea had their last day on September 30th, 2021. Thank you for a summer full of fun and memories for homeowners, guests, and visitors, Our Pod By The Sea team! 

Seabrook has always had a family-friendly focus as a core value. With kid-centric shops like Brooklets Toys and Seabrook Kids, plus a myriad of fun outdoor activities, a family vacation on the Washington Coast should be on every family’s bucket list. Our Pod by the Sea brought the final piece to the puzzle with high-quality childcare right in Seabrook’s Town Center.

A New Pod on the Washington Coast

Kid-focused spaces have always been in the master plan for Seabrook and the Our Pod Family was a perfect match.

“This summer we came out to the coast for a little vacation during teacher appreciation week and Mother’s Day,” elaborated Kayla Schroader, co-owner of Our Pod By The Sea. “We were dreaming about the idea of having a space right on the ocean with a retreat for our families and having a space where your kids can find their community as well.”

It wasn’t long before their dream was realized in Seabrook.

“We walked into Brooklets and started talking to Lindsi about our favorite toy stores in Tacoma and The Pod Works and she mentioned how wonderful it would be to have a branch here in Seabrook. She pointed us towards the sales office where we met Rhonda and everything snowballed from there,” laughed Kayla. “It was actually 8 weeks from the time that we took our vacation to our opening date on July 3rd.”

Our Pod by the Sea was an instant hit on Market Street during the 4th of July weekend opening. While homeowners and guests strolled through the Seabrook Saturday Market, the open doors and kid-friendly activities offered a peek at the new space. 

Interactive Space Brings Seabrook Inside

Walking down Market Street, it’s almost impossible not to be drawn to the storefront. Chalk drawings cover the sidewalks while a bubble machine attracts the attention of children and adults alike. The windows are illustrated with Orcas, Salmon, and a large whale tail imploring you to explore the colorful space inside. 

“Our space is the gallery storefront so it is very bright and open with high ceilings and big windows with great lighting. We’ve gotten creative with the space,” described Kayla. 

Towards the front of the windows you’ll find activities and decor reflecting the beach. Seashells and rocks from the beach with a fishing game recreate the beach experience. As you venture further back you’ll find tinker toys like montessori-inspired wood pieces and ocean creatures. They also worked to bring pieces of Seabrook into the space. A small barn with horses was inspired by the Farm District while a pizza oven and cash register open up the imagination so children can pretend to work in Frontager’s Pizza. 

The space is a growing, evolving space filled with creativity. Each trip you may find new art pieces or immersive learning tools inside. Coming soon is a large submarine reading nook that will be the centerpiece of the space. One wall is filled with colorful pieces of art that create a sense of wonder.

“We have a really fun collection that includes many Tacoma artists on our gallery wall. One of my favorite pieces is a native necklace piece that was given to us by one of our moms who is a member of the Quinault Tribe,” noted Kayla. 

Behind the Pod

You’ll notice the orca on their logo and several inside the store. Not only a symbol for the Pacific Northwest, their mascot has a deeper meaning.

“Orca Pods function as a family, as a community,” Kayla said. “They lift each other up and offer support. It’s exactly what we try to do at Our Pod.”

Tacoma based families might be familiar with the Our Pod Family of Businesses and co-owners Natasha Howell and Kayla Schroader. The core idea was to create a community that focused on creating a flexible family life for parents and children. Our Pod includes The Pod Works, Tacoma Children’s School, The Co-Lab, and most recently, Our Pod By The Sea here in Seabrook. 

“It is a collaboration that brings together families and creates communities,” noted Kayla.

While the other Pod businesses have a strong focus on coworking and curriculum classes for children, Our Pod by the Sea has rotated it’s model to focus on family vacationers and homeowners.

“Opening Our Pod By The Sea was very congruent with our other stores so it wasn’t like we were reinventing the wheel when we opened this space,” Kayla said. “We had a lot of systems in place and we just had to shift our model to the families here in Seabrook.”

Day Camps, Drop-ins, and So Much More

Day camps are 4-hour blocks or you can book an hour or two of drop-in childcare.

“You can drop your kids off for a couple hours in the morning and take a surf lesson one day and come back during the evening to go out for a romantic dinner,” smiled Kayla. 

Our Pod has a revolving curriculum that focuses on different themes. Kids can learn about ocean life during Under the Sea week or build their own gnome home during Gnomes and Fairy week. Each camp includes a field trip to somewhere in the town.

“Some days we might head over to the playground for some fun and enjoy our lunch out there, other times we may travel down the gnome trail,” she continued. “We aren’t planning any beach excursions because we want that special experience to be saved for time with parents.”

Stay and play passes are perfect for families with younger kids who want to do some creative activities together or to familiarize their children with the space.

“You can come play as a family and orient yourself with the space,” Kayla said. “It makes later day camps and drop-off sessions more comfortable.”

A Sneak Peek At The Fun Weekly Events

Small Classes for Big Impact

The model plans to have one teacher for every six children. Each child gets the attention that they deserve.

“Sometimes we may be full with our condensed space but with the come-and-go nature of drop-in, there will likely be open spaces later that day,” she said.

A few common themes in the Our Pod family are comfort and growth. New experiences are sometimes scary for children but the team of caregivers focuses on building a relationship with the children and parents so that the space can be a familiar and exciting experience.

“We really work with helping the kids grow to be comfortable in the space,” Kayla continued. “One disclaimer that we tell parents is that a lot of the kids do cry when it’s time to go. And that’s funny because those might have been the same kids that cried when mom and dad left.” 

During your next trip to Wasington’s Beach Town, book a spa day, a surf lesson, a romantic dinner, or just some alone time to sit back and relax. With flexible childcare from Our Pod by the Sea you can unwind while knowing that your kids are in good hands. Their time at Our Pod might just be the highlight of the entire trip. 

Our Pod by the Sea is now offering drop-in childcare for ages three and older for up to four hours and family playspace for families living in or vacationing in Seabrook.

Follow them on Facebook or Instagram for updates on fun events and happenings and learn more about their community on their website.

It’s a classic photo that you’ll find proudly displayed on a mantle, in a study, or on a bedside table. A family with smiles stretched ear to ear, sunkissed cheeks, and a fish caught just minutes before.

There’s a good chance that there’s a photo of you as a lil’ angler in your parent’s house that brings back memories every time you glance at it. Head out for a day of fishing and come back with your very own catch, a tale of adventure, and a photograph that you’ll cherish for life. 

One of the Most Successful Fishing Destinations

It is no secret that Washington has its fair share of water. From the Puget Sound to the glacial fed rivers of the Cascades and the seemingly endless lakes dotted across the state, there’s no shortage of fishing spots. However, once you come to the Washington Coast, your options open up to the expansive Pacific Ocean where you can fish for halibut, tuna, and rockfish and even go crabbing.

You’ll also find secluded rivers and streams overflowing with salmon and lakes stocked year round. If shellfish suits your fancy, you can dig for clams on the beach or visit an oyster shack and enjoy as many fresh shucked oysters as you can eat. With all the possibilities, it’s no wonder that Grays Harbor is one of the most successful fishing places in the entire state. 

We went on a guided fishing trip with Mike Shank from Washington State Fishing Guides to get the lowdown on local trout fishing. A bit over 10 years ago, Mike came to the coast on a fishing trip and had one of the best fishing days of his life.

“I’ve been fishing my whole life and during my best fishing season in Idaho, I retained 17 fish. On my first float down the Humptulips River I caught 17 fish in one afternoon,” said Mike.

It didn’t take long for Mike and his wife to pack up and move out to the coast. Today, he resides in a home on the Humptulips, the very same river he floated on his first trip out. 

Four Seasons of Fishing

On the coast, you can drop a line every day of the year and spring is a popular time for trout fishing. There are lakes that stock trout year round, but if you want a hefty haul, you’ll want to visit after the lowland lakes open for the season.

Summer is open season for pretty much any catch that you can think of with all of the local fishing options on the Washington Coast. With warm and sunny days, hearty catches, there’s nowhere better than on a lake. 

Fall is prime for salmon fishing on the rivers. You’ll find coho, kokanee, chinook, and even king salmon in the rivers. “The largest catch I’ve ever had was a 42-pounder king salmon out of the Humptulips River a couple years back.” 

In the winter, razor clamming is the largest attraction, pulling many to the beaches to dig for clams. For those who love a peaceful morning fishing with nothing but the birds as your companions, winter is the season to visit. Winter steelhead runs and trout-stocked lakes are more than enough to keep you busy.

Lakes, Lakes, and More Lakes

From urban manmade lakes with easy access to reservoirs isolated by mountains and miles of trees, and everything in between, you can find that perfect fishing hole. 

Duck Lake

Woven in between the neighborhoods of Ocean Shores, Duck Lake is a local favorite. With 197 acres to fish from and seemingly endless canals to explore, you could fish this lake every day of the year and find something new each time.

“I had a guy fish with me one time who has been fishing all over the country,” recalled Mike, “He spent a lot of time and money fishing rivers throughout Oregon looking for a steelhead salmon but kept coming back empty handed. We dropped a line over by the docks and out comes this crazy huge steelhead.”

Failor Lake

Tucked away, deep in the woods, Failor Lake is an unforgettable experience. Failor is Seabrook Concierge, Jeff Wilson’s favorite place to fish with his son. The 60-acre lake is stocked frequently with rainbow and steelhead trout. You can cast a line from the shoreline, but the best fishing is in the heart of the lake. 

Wynoochee Lake

Situated in the Olympic National Forest, Wynoochee Lake is surrounded by old growth forests, gushing waterfalls, and miles of hiking trails. It also just so happens to be an excellent place to drop a line. Fish here tend to be elusive, but are larger than other lakes making for a rewarding catch. 

Jeff Wilson spends most of his free time with a line in the water.

“I usually alternate between Duck Lake and Failor Lake depending on when they are stocked,” said Jeff. 

Take a Guided Trip with NW Anglers

Each river, lake, stream, and pond is a little different and the nature of the wild Washington Coast changes the nature of these bodies of water constantly. Bountiful fishing holes disappear and pop up in new areas as rivers change course and temperatures change in the lakes. If you want a successful fishing day, book a trip with Washington State Fishing Guides that is run by Scott and Karen Crawford.

Their friendly and knowledgeable guides offer trips spanning the Kalama and Cowlitz Rivers of Southern Washington to the Queets and Hoh Rivers of the northern Olympic Peninsula, but are based out of Grays Harbor. 

Seabrook’s Concierge booked us a trip to both Duck Lake (30 minutes from Seabrook) and Failor Lake (45 minutes from Seabrook). As we boated around Duck Lake, Mike laughed and talked with the fishermen on the docks.

“You definitely see the same groups out here,” said Mike. “We talk about the day’s catch, what’s working and what isn’t. Trout fishing is just for fun so nobody minds sharing their secrets.” 

It was this laid-back inclusive community that introduced Mike to Seabrook’s Concierge, Jeff Wilson.

“I first met Mike on the river. That day, the fish just didn’t seem to be biting,” Jeff recalls, “Mike asked if he could cast five lines and see if he could catch anything. Of course, he pulled out fish after fish. I got to talking to him and he gave me some of his home cured bait to use. After he left I gave it a try and sure enough I caught my first fish of the day. I’ve been fishing with him ever since.”

On the lake, Mike pointed out different variations on the electronic fish finder and explained what they meant. We could see a thermocline in the lake, which meant water at the bottom of the lake is cooler than the top. Mike talked us through how to change out the weights and bait to accommodate for the fluctuations.

“When I first came to the coast, I worked at the fish hatchery. It gave me the inside scoop on all the best fishing holes around,” noted Mike. 

Enjoy Your Catch in Your Seabrook Home

Taking a guided trip takes the hassle out of fishing. No poles, bait, or insider knowledge needed. The guides can even gut, scale, and clean for you so all you have to do is bring your catch home to enjoy.

All of Seabrook Vacation Rental’s homes come with their own fully equipped kitchen that makes cooking just as comfortable as your home. Mike’s favorite way to prepare his daily catch is grilled in a skillet with a little butter and garlic and a side of asparagus. The flavor of the fish comes out in each bite. You can also grill it on the BBQ or bake it in the oven. 

Browse Rentals

Make fishing a part of your Seabrook tradition. Set out for a day of adventure and come home with a catch worth bragging about. You can bring your own gear and fish from one of the coast’s bountiful lakes or let Seabrook’s Concierge book you a guided tour with Washington State Fishing Guides. Either way, you’re sure to enjoy the day. 

Washington State is no stranger to wildlife sightings. This little slice of paradise is home to over 500 species of birds, healthy herds of deer and elk, and thriving aquatic ecosystems. And during certain times of the year, we host some of the largest and most elusive creatures in the world.

Whale watching on the Olympic Peninsula should be an activity that everyone does at least once in a lifetime. During your next getaway to the Olympic Peninsula, take a detour to the coast and see how many whales you can spot. 

The Best Time of Year to Spot Whales

Whales are a migratory species that follow the pacific coast during the spring and fall. While sightings have occurred anywhere from October through July, your best bet is to plan a trip in spring, specifically the month May. 

Whales feast on anchovies and smelt who stay in the warmer waters by the coast for spawning during the spring. This draws the whales closer to shore and makes for some incredible sightings. 

The Best Places to Watch on the Washington Coast

Damon Point

Damon Point is a popular destination for anything nature-related. This 61-acre spit is known for Bald Eagle and Snowy Owl sightings, unmatched views of the Olympic Mountains, and plenty of whale sightings. A relaxing hike around the spit  is the perfect way to watch whales come in and out of the bay. 

Olympic National Park

Kalaloch and Ruby Beach both offer easy access to Washington’s shoreline. A short hike to Ruby Beach rewards you with stunning sea stacks and perfectly smooth pebbles. Kalaloch is most well-known for the Tree of Life which rests exposed above a cave, perfect for explorations. Take a daytrip to these Olympic National Park beaches and have some fun while you watch for whales. 

Westport

On the southern shores of Grays Harbor, Westport is a small fishing town that offers some of the best whale watching excursions on the coast. Westport is home to many fishing charters that provide guided tours for salmon, tuna, rockfish, dungeness crab, and even halibut. Ocean Sportfishing is one of the deep sea fishing charters that offers shorter sightseeing tours out into the waters of the Pacific Ocean.

Seabrook

Resting atop the rugged cliffs of the coast, Seabrook is one of the best places to watch for whales. Take in panoramic views of the ocean from elevated vistas in the heart of town. Head down to Seabrook’s sandy beach, relax on a bench overlooking a shady glen, or rent an oceanfront home and spot whales from the comfort of your balcony. 

Where to Spot Whales in Seabrook

Overlook Park

A hidden gem in the Elk Creek Neighborhood, Overlook Park is a great place to spend an afternoon. With a picnic table and several secluded benches, you can find somewhere peaceful to sit and watch the ocean. 

Pacific Glen 

On the ocean’s edge of the Pacific Glen Neighborhood lies a small park. This spot peers north onto the coast and you can see as far north as Point Grenville on a clear day. 

Northwest Glen  

Seabrook’s iconic arbor welcomes beach goers to the sandy shores of the coast. Before you descend down, take a while to enjoy the views from this birds-eye location. 

Mike-o-Rama  

One of Seabrook’s most popular mountain biking trails takes you through dense forests to a secluded clifftop with perfectly unobstructed views of the ocean and the town. This trail is also friendly to hikers looking for a peaceful space to watch for whales. 

An Oceanfront Home  

Take in the views from your couch! Or walk outside onto your private balcony with your morning cup of coffee or a glass of wine. Many of our oceanfront homes have fire pits or hot tubs so you can relax and unwind while gazing at the ocean. Check out Seabrook’s oceanfront retreats today!

Fun Activities to do While Whale Watching 

Beachcombing

More of a fun pastime than an official sport, beachcombing is the art of searching for treasures on the beach. From dainty shells, agate rocks, and sand dollars that come from the sea to rare collectibles that wash ashore, there’s lots to uncover. A highly desirable treasure is hand-blown glass floats that have traveled across the ocean. You’ll have the best luck at finding something after a storm or at low tide. 

Birding

Whale watching season just so happens to coincide with the spring shorebirds migration. Washington’s coast is positioned right in the heart of the Pacific Flyway which hundreds of thousands of birds follow each year. Birdwatching in Seabrook is as easy as a stroll on the beach.  Keep an eye out for sandpipers and dunlin who are often spotted on the beach, and Golden Eagles that can be seen flying through the glen.

Kite Flying

Stop by Brooklets Toys here in town for a wide selection of kites. From kites depicting your favorite animals to funky geometric shapes and everything in between, you can pick out the perfect shape to fill the sky with color.

Tide Pool Exploration

When the tide goes down, the sea creatures come out! On the rugged shorelines of the coast, you’ll find pockets of life tucked between the rocks. Purple, red and yellow starfish, spiny sea urchins, hard shelled limpets, anemones and crabs scuttling in the seaweed are just some of the delights that await you. Some of the best tide pools are located at Kalaloch and Ruby Beach. 

Sand Castle Building

Seabrook’s sandy beaches are perfect for building sand castles. Small and soft sand grains allow you to shape, carve, and create anything you wish.

And more…

You’ll never run out of things to do here in Seabrook. 

Whale Watching Tips & Tricks

1. Overcast days are ideal for spotting whales. While sunny days are always appreciated, the reflection of the sun on the ocean may make it difficult to spot whales coming up for air. Get up early before the sun cooks off the ocean mist or head out on an overcast day for better viewing conditions. 

2. Seals, otters, and dolphins enjoy playing in the waves and shallow coastal waters. Sometimes seals even sunbathe on the beach!

3. Whale watching encounters are quick, so you may not have time to take pictures. Even if you can snap a photo, make sure you sit back and enjoy this mesmerizing experience.

Watch Whales From The Comfort Of Your Vacation Home

Whale watching can be as simple as gazing outside your vacation home. Seabrook Hospitality offers several oceanfront and oceanview homes with unbeatable views of the Pacific Ocean. Choose from colorful and cozy homes to sleek and modern retreats. Find the perfect vacation home for your getaway here. 

A Local’s Guide to Razor Clamming on the Washington Coast

For the most up-to-date clam digging dates, locations, and tides head to our events page.

For those who love a hot cup of coffee on a brisk morning, catching the sunrise, and soaking in the misty sea air, razor clam digging on the Washington coast is an absolute must. When the tides are just right and the season opens, folks from all over flock to sandy Washington beaches bucket and shovel in hand.

We sat down with Buck, long-time local and owner of Buck’s Northwest (now closed) here in Seabrook and asked him what makes clamming so special.

“Everyone enjoys digging clams whether you eat them or not,” said Buck, “and Seabrook is my favorite place to dig.”

Buck has been clam digging on the Washington coast since he was 8 years old. He remembers his very first expedition. His neighbor brought him and some friends out early in the morning for a dig. The next day, they enjoyed fresh clam chowder made with their harvest. To this day, clam chowder with bacon is still his favorite way to eat razor clams.

 WHERE AND WHEN TO GO

During the peak of clamming season you’ll see a parade of lights starting as early as 4:30 in the morning. Donning headlamps and rubber boots, clammers take over the beach and start the dig. When evening digs opening up it isn’t uncommon to see a clammer or two out until 12:30 at night.

The exact time for clamming changes depending on the tides. Your best bet is to head out to the beaches about an hour before low tide. As for where to go, you have miles of coastline to choose from. There are five distinct razor clam beaches that you can visit. Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis Beach, Mocrocks Beach (the beach in front of Seabrook), and Kalaloch all permit clamming. Get the latest status of Washington’s razor clamming beaches here.

Each season, thousands of couples and families come to Seabrook, which is part of Mocrocks Beach, to dig for clams. Buck offers guided tours for those looking for a successful first dig or learn more about the process. The tour takes guests down to the sandy beaches directly below Seabrook. This is Buck’s favorite place on the entire coast to go clamming. “Seabrook’s beach is too far from Roosevelt to have the driving crowds and it is isolated by Joe Creek to the north. Together it creates a peaceful setting that you won’t find elsewhere,” noted Buck.

Permitting and Daily Limits

Similar to hunting and fishing in the state of Washington, you need to purchase a permit before you hit the sand. The permit process ensures that the clams are not overharvested and that each year brings a healthy population back to the beaches.

The permits also signify that the clams are safe to eat and do not contain high toxin levels. When tested clams present a high toxin level, permits are halted until the levels drop back down. Each person needs a permit to dig and can only harvest a certain number of clams per day.

You can buy permits, check toxin levels, and plan your trip online at the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Gear Up

Sturdy boots and a good rain coat are necessary for any outdoor adventure here in the Pacific Northwest, but you’ll need a little more than that to start collecting your clams. On the beach you’ll see two main types of tools used to pull up the clams. A shovel can be used by more experienced diggers but you’ll find a lot of people using a special clam gun.

To use the gun, shove the tube into the ground, cover the straw with your finger to create suction, and pull out. Inside the tube you’ll have all of the sand (and hopefully clams) that were in the ground. Sometimes you’ll pull up a gorgeous looking razor clam, but other times you’ll just remove the surface sand and find the clam at the bottom of your hole.

You’ll also want to carry a bucket or bag with you to hold your findings. If you’re getting an early-bird start or heading out after dark you’ll need a light. Buck prefers an old fashioned propane lantern. “You need a low angle soft light to illuminate the imperfections in the sand which mark the clam’s location,” explained Buck, “I hold my light down by my feet which helps me see every little divot.”

Diggin’ Time

While you could test your luck and start digging anywhere along the beach, there are subtle signs in the sand where clams have burrowed underground. Keep an eye out for these three deviations in the sand and you’ll be a clamming expert in no time.

Dimples are the most common but are extremely small and subtle. When agitated, the dimples can collapse and form the more noticeable keyholes which look like a small dot in the sand. Doughnuts are dimples or keyholes but with a raised mound of sand around them resembling a doughnut. Sometimes, the tide can wash over any deviations in the sand, so just because there’s no signs doesn’t mean there isn’t a juicy clam underneath.

“The best digger I’ve seen yet was a vegan grandmother who adamantly refused to eat or clean the clams. But almost like a magician she could wave her hand over the sand and sure enough there was always a clam underneath,” recalled Buck. “It just goes to show you that anyone can have a blast clamming.”

Cleaning Your Clams

Digging for clams is just the beginning of the fun. Cleaning the clams and separating the meat takes a little bit of knowledge and handwork, but after a couple of clams you’ll surely get the hang of it.

Blanching is the best way to open and remove the sharp razor clam shell. A quick dunk in boiling water followed by an ice bath reveal the clam while halting any cooking of the meat.

Buck recommends a good pair of kitchen scissors and a paring knife to clean your meat.

Did you know that Seabrook has a clam cleaning station outside of The Arcade? Bring your harvest and clean away!

Cooking

A question we hear often is ‘What’s the best way to eat these?’ but that’s all up to personal preference. We’ve seen them served up every way imaginable. Battered and deep fried until crispy, sliced up and slow simmered in chowder, atop a pizza, baked into a fritter, grilled with butter and garlic, or raw with salt and lemon. There’s no wrong way to eat them.

Buck’s favorite way to enjoy clams is a classic chowder with bacon. It takes him back to his very first dig. On a rainy day, nothing sounds better. But if you’re looking for something a little out of the ordinary, try making a clamburger.

“It’s a spin on the classic crab cake,” explains Buck, “You roughly chop your razor clams, mix with some aromatics and breadcrumbs, and form a patty. After a quick fry in butter you serve it on a toasted bun with mayo, lettuce, and a slice of tomato. It’s quite dank.”

Enjoy!

No matter how you serve it, you’ll surely end up with clean-licked plates and more than a few stories to share. Snuggle up on a misty afternoon with a bowl of chowder, grill up a few at your next BBQ, or make a clamburger part of your Seabrook tradition.

Clamming is a family-friendly, dog-friendly activity that just about anyone can do. If you can build a sand castle, you can dig for clams. Come to Seabrook and set out for a day of adventure.

Skimboarding is a sport few people have heard about, and even fewer have tried. But this niche sport is growing, and it’s easy to see why. It’s an activity that you can do just about anywhere and requires minimal gear to get started.

With a skimboard, some water, and a little bit of practice, you can be soaking up the sun and having a blast in no time. With cozy beach towns like Seabrook offering lessons and gear, skimboarding can easily become your new favorite activity.

WHAT IS SKIMBOARDING?

When it comes to water sports, there is no shortage of unique ways that people have found to have fun. Think about skimboarding as surfing’s cousin. Both offer the freeing feeling of gliding on water, but skimboarding is a great leeway to catching waves on a surfboard.

The premise is simple. Grab a board, throw it down on the water, run towards it, and jump on. The momentum of your body paired with the smooth surface of the board on the water will carry you forward.

Once you master the basics, it’s a sport that you can do just about anywhere. A shallow shore of a lake, the mouth of a creek, the breaking waves of the ocean, or even a puddle in your backyard can turn into a skimboarding playground.

THE HISTORY OF SKIMBOARDING

Skimboarding originated alongside surfing in California’s beach towns. The distinctly short and wide skimboard was a combination of skateboarding and surfing and allowed surfers to glide both on sand and waves.

After surfing hit the masses, it took off and redefined California while skimboarding became more popular in niche communities across the west coast, Canada, and Europe. Unlike surfing, you don’t need the perfect wave or wind conditions to enjoy the sport.

The skimboarding communities utilized bodies of water that were overlooked by surfers. Skimboarding has always been a part of the Pacfic Northwest culture and has flourished in Seabrook.

SO, HOW DO I START?

One of the most appealing aspects of skimboarding is that it’s easy to start your journey. All you need is a skimboard, a little bit of water, and a can-do attitude. Many skimboarders go barefoot. You can wear anything from your regular swimwear to a wetsuit.

Here in Seabrook, you can rent a skimboard for an hour or an entire day from Buck’s Northwest (permanently closed) located in the heart of town on Front Street. Skimboards have a hardwood core and are flat and smooth on the bottom while featuring grippy texture on top. Sometimes they are waxed and other times they have textured foam to help your feet stick to the board.

Popular brands include Victoria Skimboards out of Southern California and DB Skimboards that are made locally in Tacoma.

The team over at Buck’s Northwest (permanently closed) can be described as avid outdoorsmen, to say the least. They live for the thrill of catching the perfect wave, landing a bike jump, mastering a 360 shuv-it on their skimboard, and sharing their love of nature.

The welcoming crew is ready to graciously guide you into any sport you’re willing to try.  If you are interested in learning how to skimboard, a lesson can take you from a novice to a gnarly skimmer in about 90 minutes.

Learning how to skimboard is all about familiarity and understanding that the board isn’t something to be afraid of. For new learners, the instructors start with practicing on grass turf outside of the shop. By wetting the turf, you can practice running, throwing, and stepping on the board. It’s described as running and sliding on hardwood floors in your socks, Risky Business style. In the summer, you can test your footing in the skimpool before heading to the beach.

Their 50 foot long pool is filled with an inch or so of water so you can practice in a controlled environment with better footing. The skimpool is open late spring-early fall and is weather dependent.

Once you understand the basic techniques, you can head down to the beach and play around. At this point, the guides are pretty hands off and only need to give you slight adjustments and encouragements: Bend your knees. Keep butt low. Spread your feet. Lean forward. It’s all about self-confidence.

WHERE TO GO IN SEABROOK

Seabrook’s beach is the obvious place to go skimboarding. You can skim the lines of the waves all day long. If you want some variability, head to the Elk Creek outlet on the south side of town or the smaller creek by the Northern staircase. Seabrook’s beach is unique due to the geological remoteness.

You’ll rarely see a car driving along the beach making it safer and more peaceful. For families with kids who are interested in water sports, skimboarding is great because it is easy to supervise. You can also reserve time in the skimpool to get back to basics or try out a new trick.

TAKE YOUR TRICKS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

For those of you who are already familiar with the rush of gliding over water and want to skimboard on Washington’s wild coast, Seabrook is the place to be. The beach is your playground. Skim the wave breaks or head to one of the creek outlets to build your own park. With long curved pieces of driftwood, high walls, and varying depths of water, the possibilities are endless.

You can also hone in your skills with Buck’s skimpool  featuring a box, kicker, and quarter pipe, plus an awesome community to help you master your tricks.

The team over at Buck’s are helpful capable individuals who take pride in enabling others to enjoy the same things that they do. They are there to laugh about the slips and cheer you on when you finally land that trick. A family committed to showing people everything that they love about the outdoors.

SEABROOK AS YOUR SKIMBOARDING DESTINATION

With soft sandy beaches, shallow meandering streams, and all the toys that you could imagine at Buck’s Northwest (permanently closed), there’s no shortage of excitement. In just a quick 5-minute walk to the beach from the shop. It’s easy to carry your gear down for a day, play, and meander back to the shop. Whether you want to try a new sport or refine your skills, Seabrook is the place to do it.

There’s no better place to stay and play than Seabrook, Washington. Browse all of the cozy cottages, coastal homes, and farmhouse retreats that Seabrook Vacation Rentals has to offer.

During your visit to Seabrook, Washington this March and April, take part in the Seabrook Glass Float Find! Every day of your stay, hunt for beautiful, hand-blown glass globes hidden throughout the town.

This scavenger hunt is a favorite event for locals and visitors alike! Test your clue-deciphering skills and embark on the Glass Float Find this spring.

What Are Glass Floats and Where Did They Come From?

To solve this mystery, learn about glass float history.

The history of glass floats dates back to the mid-1800s when fishermen began using them to help support large nets. Though these devices originated in Norway, many of the glass floats that remain at sea hail from Japan because of the country’s integral fishing industry, which made use of many glass floats.

A major collector’s item, most original floating orbs are still in the northern Pacific Ocean drifting on ocean currents. It’s estimated that most float on the water for 7-10 years before washing ashore.

It is possible, but rare, to find an original. People are so transfixed by their beauty that many glassblowers now recreate the shape with different and interesting colors to use as decorations.

What do I Need to Know About the Float Find?

If your goal is to find a float, we recommend taking note.

We will hide two of these unique, limited-edition decorations throughout the town every day from March 1, 2021 through April 30, 2021! We encourage residents and visitors to search all public areas to locate one of these hidden ornaments.

Many are tucked away near entrances to the beach or on local hiking trails. Once you’ve discovered a glass float, check for the Seabrook, Washington stamp on the bottom to be sure that it’s part of the glass float find.

If you find it, you get to keep it! Spend the day exploring the town while looking for a beautiful new ornament to commemorate your trip to Seabrook.

Are there clues to help me find the floats?

Follow the clues to find orbs of variable hues.

Our team of extraordinary float-hiding masters carefully place each float around the town. At 9:30 AM, we post a clue outside of the rentals check-in office on Front Street, as well as the official Facebook event pages (March and April) and the @seabrookwa Instagram Story.

Sometimes the clues will be simple, other times, real head scratchers. Only the first of the two daily floats will have a clue attached.

If you find that someone has already found the float, you can elect for the expert’s version and try to find the second float. The second float will not have a hint and can be found by anyone.

There are days that these floats are not collected, so be sure to check under shrubs, inside stumps, and even under your nose.

How many floats can I keep?

Play fair that way we can all share.

If you already found a float, you are welcome to continue to hunt for new ones! We do kindly ask that you leave any additional finds for someone else to discover. You can help other searchers by giving them clues.

Do you have any tips for helping me find a float?

Listen here, these tips may help floats appear.

• Seabrook is always growing and evolving. Parks are springing up everywhere, hiking trails are criss-crossing through the forests, and new neighborhoods create their own secret hiding spots. Venture out to places you may not have visited before.
• Some days the expert floats aren’t found. They aren’t retrieved by Seabrook staff either, meaning there may be more than one expert float to find on your hunt.
• We will never hide a float on someone’s porch, deck, or yard. So if you see a colorful gleam coming from a private space, please be respectful and leave those be.
• It’s all about fun. Floats seem to catch your attention when you’re busy building a sandcastle at the beach, roasting marshmallows, or playing a game of hide and seek.

Where can I stay during the float find?

When it is time to rest, Seabrook rentals are undeniably the best.

After you’ve spent the day exploring during the Seabrook Glass Float Find, head back to one of our spacious, modern rentals to kick back and relax. With luxurious beachfront properties, quaint cottages, and expansive houses large enough for 20+ guests, Seabrook Hospitality will make any type of trip special.

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To learn more about festivals, events, and celebrations, check out our Events page for an updated list.

While planning your trip to Seabrook, browse our Things Do page for ideas on places to eat and types of outdoor activities that the entire family can enjoy!