Grayland sits on one of the most unspoiled stretches of the Washington coast, where wide sandy beaches, coastal dunes, and the open Pacific create a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re here for a long weekend or a full week, the sheer variety of outdoor activities in Grayland WA means you’ll never run out of things to do. From adrenaline-pumping surf sessions to peaceful birding walks and everything in between, this guide covers all the best ways to get outside and enjoy our beautiful corner of the Pacific Northwest.
We’ve lived and breathed this coastline for years, and we’re always amazed at how much there is to do here. So grab your sunscreen, lace up your shoes, and let’s dive into the top outdoor activities in Grayland and the surrounding area.
Beachcombing
Beachcombing is the quintessential Grayland activity, and it costs nothing but time and curiosity. Our beaches stretch for miles in both directions, offering a seemingly endless treasure hunt along the wrack line. You’ll find shells, sand dollars, polished agates, driftwood in sculptural shapes, and — if you’re lucky — sea glass or Japanese glass fishing floats that have traveled thousands of miles across the Pacific.
The best beachcombing happens within 3 to 5 days after a storm, when churning waves deposit fresh finds along the shore. Low tide is your friend — the receding water exposes tidal flats and pools that are normally hidden. For a deeper look at what our beaches have to offer, check out our complete guide to beach activities in Grayland.
Kite Flying
If there’s one thing Grayland Beach has in abundance, it’s wind. That steady coastal breeze makes our stretch of shoreline one of the best kite flying destinations on the West Coast. You’ll see everything from simple diamond kites to massive multi-line stunt kites carving patterns against the sky on any given afternoon.
The highlight of the kite calendar is the Windrider’s Kite Festival, held annually in July (this year’s dates are July 10–12). This free event draws kite enthusiasts from across the Pacific Northwest and features demonstrations, competitions, and an incredible display of artistic and sport kites. Even if you’ve never flown a kite before, the festival is a joy to watch and a great introduction to the hobby. The wide, flat beach provides perfect conditions — no trees, no power lines, just open sky.
The annual Windrider’s Kite Festival transforms Grayland Beach into a kaleidoscope of color every July.
Surfing at Westhaven State Park
The Westport and Westhaven area is widely recognized as one of Washington’s best surfing destinations, and the break at Westhaven State Park — known locally as “The Cove” or “Half Moon Bay” — is where most of the action happens. The jetty creates a protected area that produces consistent, manageable waves ideal for both beginners and intermediate surfers.
Water temperatures hover in the low 50s year-round, so a good wetsuit is essential (4/3mm minimum, 5/4mm in winter). Several shops in Westport rent boards and wetsuits if you didn’t bring your own. If you’ve never surfed before, we highly recommend taking a lesson — the local instructors know these waters inside and out and will have you standing up in no time. For more details, see our beginner’s guide to surfing in Westport.
Razor Clam Digging
Razor clam digging is a beloved Washington coast tradition, and Grayland Beach is one of the state’s premier digging beaches. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife schedules public digs throughout the year, typically from October through May, with dates announced based on population surveys and marine toxin testing.
You’ll need a shellfish license (available online or at local shops), a clam gun or shovel, and a mesh bag. The action happens during low tide, often in the early morning or evening hours. It’s a thrilling experience — spotting the telltale “show” (a small dimple in the sand), plunging your gun, and pulling up a fat razor clam. We’ve written a complete razor clam digging guide for Grayland with everything you need to know.
Crabbing
Dungeness crab is king on the Washington coast, and catching your own is one of the most satisfying outdoor experiences you can have here. The docks and piers around Westport offer easy access for recreational crabbers. All you need is a crab pot or ring, bait (chicken or fish carcasses work great), and a shellfish license.
Drop your pot off a public dock, wait 15 to 20 minutes, and pull it up to see what you’ve caught. Keep only males measuring 6.25 inches or wider across the shell, and return everything else. Peak season runs from early winter through spring, though summer crabbing can also be productive. Our crabbing guide for Westport has all the details on regulations, gear, and the best spots.
Fishing Charters
Westport is known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” and for good reason. The charter fleet based at the Westport Marina offers trips targeting salmon, halibut, lingcod, rockfish, albacore tuna, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a complete novice, a charter trip provides an unforgettable day on the water with experienced captains who know exactly where the fish are.
Half-day and full-day options are available, and most charters provide all the gear you’ll need. Just bring your fishing license, warm layers, and some seasickness precautions if you’re prone. Read our Westport fishing charters guide for recommendations and booking tips.
Whale Watching
Gray whales migrate along the Washington coast twice a year — southbound from December through February and northbound from March through May. Some whales, known as the “resident grays,” hang around all summer to feed in the shallow waters near Westport. The Westport Light State Park boardwalk and viewing platforms are excellent spots for shore-based whale watching, and several charter companies offer dedicated whale watching cruises from the marina.
Bring binoculars and look for the telltale spout — a heart-shaped mist that rises 10 to 15 feet above the water’s surface. For timing, conditions, and the best vantage points, see our whale watching guide for Westport.
Miles of pristine coastline make Grayland and Westport an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.
Birding & Wildlife Watching
The Grayland and Westport area sits along the Pacific Flyway, one of the major migratory bird routes in North America. This makes our region a haven for birdwatchers, with species ranging from bald eagles and ospreys to shorebirds like sanderlings, plovers, and dunlins. The tidal flats, salt marshes, and coastal forests create diverse habitats that support an impressive variety of bird life year-round.
The Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge, about 30 minutes north, is a must-visit during the spring shorebird migration (late April through early May), when hundreds of thousands of birds stop to refuel on their journey north. Closer to home, the dunes and beaches around Grayland Beach State Park are excellent for casual birding any time of year.
Hiking & Trail Walking
The greater Grayland area offers more than 11 trails covering roughly 88 miles of hiking terrain. From the five marked dune trails at Grayland Beach State Park to the ADA-accessible boardwalk at Westport Light State Park, the Shifting Sands Trail at Twin Harbors, and the forested Willapa Hills corridor, there’s a trail for every ability and interest.
We’ve put together a detailed guide to every trail in the area — read our hiking trails near Grayland guide for distances, difficulty levels, and tips for each one.
Horseback Riding
Few experiences match the magic of riding a horse along a wide, empty Pacific beach. Horseback riding is permitted on many of the local beaches, and there’s something deeply peaceful about the rhythm of hooves on wet sand with the ocean stretching out beside you. Local outfitters offer guided beach rides for all experience levels, typically lasting one to two hours.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
While the open ocean is best left to experienced paddlers, the calmer waters of Grays Harbor and nearby rivers and estuaries provide excellent conditions for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Paddle through quiet sloughs where herons wade in the shallows, or explore the harbor’s edge for views of the fishing fleet and marine wildlife. Rental gear is available in Westport during the summer months.
Stargazing
One of the most underrated outdoor activities in Grayland is simply looking up. Our stretch of coast has exceptionally low light pollution, which means the night sky here is nothing short of spectacular. On clear nights, the Milky Way arches overhead in vivid detail, and shooting stars are common. Bring a blanket, lie on the beach, and let the sound of the waves provide the soundtrack to your personal planetarium show.
The best stargazing happens on moonless nights between September and March, when skies tend to be clearest. If you’re visiting during summer, step outside after 10 PM and you’ll still be rewarded with impressive views. It’s one of those things to do outside in Grayland that costs nothing but delivers an unforgettable experience.
On-Site Activities at Ocean Spray Beach Resort
You don’t even have to leave the resort to enjoy Grayland beach recreation. We’ve designed our property with outdoor fun in mind, and our guests have access to several amenities that keep the good times rolling between beach adventures:
Horseshoe Pits: Challenge your travel companions to a friendly match on our dedicated horseshoe courts. It’s a classic beach resort activity that pairs perfectly with a lazy afternoon.
Bocce Ball Courts: Our bocce courts are a guest favorite. Easy to learn and endlessly entertaining, bocce is the perfect game for groups of all ages. We provide the balls — just show up and play.
Ping Pong: Our common area features a ping pong table that sees plenty of action, especially on rainy days. It’s a great way to burn off some energy when the weather drives you indoors.
Fitness Room: For those who like to maintain their workout routine on vacation, our on-site gym has the equipment you need for a solid session.
Our horseshoe pits and bocce courts give guests a fun way to enjoy the outdoors without leaving the resort.
Events & Festivals
Throughout the year, the Grayland and Westport area hosts a variety of outdoor events and festivals that add even more to the experience. Beyond the Windrider’s Kite Festival in July, there are seasonal events and festivals including crab feeds, fishing derbies, and community celebrations that give visitors a taste of local culture and coastal life.
Make the Most of Your Outdoor Adventure
With so many things to do outside in Grayland, our best advice is to plan your days around the tides and the weather. Check the tide charts for razor clam digs and beachcombing, watch the forecast for surfing and kayaking conditions, and keep an eye on WDFW announcements for clam and crab seasons. Then fill in the gaps with hiking, kite flying, birding, and stargazing — activities that work in almost any conditions.
For help planning the perfect itinerary, take a look at our Grayland weekend itinerary or browse all the top things to do in Grayland. And when you’re ready to refuel after a day of adventure, our guide to seafood restaurants near Westport and Grayland will point you to the freshest catch in town.
Planning a trip to Grayland or Westport? Ocean Spray Beach Resort offers cozy beach cottages and tiny homes just steps from the Pacific Ocean. Check availability and book your stay today.
