The best places to ride waves on the Washington Coast

written by Jen Sotolongo

Washington’s coastline, often overshadowed by its California counterpart, offers a unique and uncrowded surfing experience. While it may not boast the warm waters of southern destinations, its rugged beauty and diverse breaks make it a haven for surfers seeking adventure off the beaten path.

Venturing into Washington’s surf scene rewards surfers with uncrowded lineups, stunning coastal vistas and the thrill of discovering hidden gems along the Pacific Coast. From secluded breaks to expansive beaches, Washington offers a surfing experience that is as exhilarating as it is authentic, making it a destination worth exploring for any avid wave rider, from beginner to expert.

Westport

With its consistent waves and vibrant surf culture, Westport welcomes surfers of all levels. The town offers three main surf breaks and is known to be one of the most popular surfing destinations in the Pacific Northwest.

The Jetty at Westhaven State Park has the most consistent surfable waves in Washington State, suitable for all levels, ranging from beginner to world-class riders. The sandy bottom makes the spot an ideal place for newbies to try the sport for the first time.

For intermediate and advanced riders, the Groins is the spot to go. In optimal conditions, the Groins offers a left-hand point break, suitable for experienced surfers who know how to read tide conditions. The area is known for 20-foot tidal changes in a matter of minutes during certain times of year, so it’s essential to be aware of the currents and know your strengths.

Rentals and lessons are available at one of several surf shops in town, including BigFoot Surf School, Steepwater Surf Shop and The Surf Shop. LOGE Westport offers accommodations for all budgets and provides all the necessary surfing essentials.

Ocean Shores

This popular West Coast vacation spot offers two sweet surf spots: North Jetty and Damon Point. The North Jetty is a favorite spot among the surf crowd. Known as “seal heaven” due to the number of seals that hang out in the water, the North Jetty has a relatively consistent break and sandy bottom that appeals to surfers. Want to get out to the break fast? Hitch a ride on the current that flows back to the ocean along the jetty. The rideable waves’ length ranges between 50 to 150 meters, sometimes going as long as 300 meters in the right conditions.

Beginners will love Damon Point, thanks to the steady, reliable waves with breaks relatively close to the shore. Situated on a peninsula at the tip of Protection Island, the fifteen-minute walk keeps the spot a bit less busy than the North Jetty.

For those in need of rentals or lessons, North Coast Surf Shop has everything you need, including up-to-date conditions reports. Consider Surfcrest Resort as your home base, a vacation complex located fifteen minutes from Ocean Shores with 26 acres of accessible oceanfront property.

Port Angeles

The Olympic Peninsula features several surf spots all along the shoreline. Crescent Beach, a privately owned and operated surf camp located thirty minutes from Port Angeles, is perfect for beginners, thanks to the sandy bottom and minimal paddling to hit the breaks. Camping and cabin rentals are available in Crescent Beach, and nearby Northwest Board Room offers rentals.

Also near Port Angeles, Twin Rivers is an ideal spot for beginners, thanks to the forgivable waves. The best time of year to visit is during the winter months. The west side of the river offers longer waves, while the east side may appeal to more experienced riders looking for faster breaks. Evergreen Surf Shop in town can outfit you with all of your needs.

Port Angeles offers plenty of lodging options, including the Red Lion Port Angeles Harbor and the elegant Olympic Lodge by Ayres.