Summer has faded and sweater weather is coming on with a vengeance. That’s when you’ll see Westport, Washington transform into one of the Pacific Northwest’s coziest fall escapes. The crowds thin, the sunsets glow gold, and a hush settles over the beaches. It’s perfect for anyone looking to slow down, bundle up, and soak in the softer side of the coast.

Here’s how to make the most of a seaside getaway in Westport this fall.

Chase the Sunset, Then Start a Fire

Fall in Westport means long golden hours and brisk evenings that are ideal for beach bonfires. Grab a blanket, a thermos of something warm, and find a quiet spot along the sand to watch the sky turn every shade of orange and pink. The beaches are less crowded in the fall, which means it’s easier to find your own stretch of shoreline.

And yes, beach bonfires are allowed in Westport (unless posted otherwise). You just have to keep them at least 100 feet away from vegetation, dunes and driftwood and keep it small—under four by four feet. After you’re all done cozying up to your bonfire, ensure that it’s completely extinguished and fill in any pits you’ve dug!

Storm Watching Season Preview

Fall marks the start of Westport’s unofficial “Storm Watching Season.” While some dramatic Pacific storms usually hit in late October through winter, September and October often bring the first dramatic waves and moody skies. Walk on one of Westport’s jetties and feel the salt spray, or take in the show from a safer (and drier) spot like the Viewing Tower or a cozy oceanfront rental..

If you’re a storm watcher, this is the ideal time to scout your favorite perch for the months ahead. King Tides are expected in Westport starting on November 15th. Here’s the current schedule and expected high tide:

Nov 15 11:33AM 11.0
Nov 16 12:16PM 11.1
Nov 17 1:00PM 10.9
Dec 14 11:09AM 11.0
Dec 15 11:56AM 11.0
Dec 16 12:43PM 10.8
Jan 12 10:55AM 10.5
Jan 13 11:46AM 10.6
Jan 14 12:34PM 10.4

Stay Warm, Stay Cozy, Stay Comfortable

Westport’s accommodations lean into the charm of the season. Whether you’re looking for a beachfront hotel with gorgeous views, a charming private cottage, a beautifully-renovated motel, or even an RV Park for a bit of glamping, you can find what you’re looking for here. Check out our recent accommodations blog for updated information about the best spots to hang your hat.

Lots of places offer off-season rates starting in the fall, so it’s a great time to sneak in a last-minute weekend away.

It doesn’t matter if you’re waking up to the sound of the surf or watching the rain roll in with a cup of coffee in hand, there’s something undeniably restorative about the coastal quiet, regardless of where you experience it.

Fall Bites

After a windswept beach walk or a quiet lighthouse visit, there’s nothing like a steaming bowl of clam chowder or a plate of piping hot, crispy fish ’n’ chips to really hit the spot. Westport’s local restaurants serve up cozy comfort foods made with fresh, local seafood—crab, salmon, razor clams, and more.

And if you’re in a DIY mood, stop by one of the seafood markets and bring a fresh catch back to your rental. (Don’t forget a crusty baguette to dip in the garlic butter!)

Lighthouse Walks, Without the Crowds

Westport’s iconic Grays Harbor Lighthouse—the tallest in Washington—stays open into the fall, and with fewer visitors around, you’ll have more space (and time) to enjoy it. Climb the 135 stairs, take in sweeping coastal views, and enjoy a bit of history with your cardio.

Fall is also a great time for walks along the paved Westport Light Trail, which runs from the lighthouse to the marina. You’ll pass windswept dunes, wild waves, and the occasional bold seagull looking for snacks.

Fall Is Cranberry Season!

Here’s a lesser-known Westport gem: this part of the Pacific Northwest is cranberry country!

Grays Harbor County is home to more than 100 cranberry farms, and the fall harvest begins in September and peaks in October. The bright red bogs make for striking autumn scenery.

You can find fresh cranberries in Grayland, Washington about 10 minutes south of Westport and home to the “Cranberry Coast.”

While not every farm is open to the public, some do offer seasonal events or allow visitors to view the harvest process—just be sure to call ahead. And if you’re visiting in October, keep an eye out for Cranberry Harvest Festival events on the 11th and 12th. Bog tours, a cranberry cook-off, a pancake breakfast and firefly parade. For festival information, call 360-268-0991.
Looking for something to do with those fresh cranberries? Try this simple Cranberry Relish Recipe from AllRecipes - a perfect fall companion and a staple at Thanksgiving!

Easy Cranberry Orange Relish from AllRecipes

Ingredients:

1 medium navel orange
1 (12 ounce) package fresh cranberries
½ cup white sugar
⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions:

Grate 2 teaspoons of zest from orange; discard remaining peel and pith from orange. Divide orange into sections.
Place orange sections, 2 teaspoons orange zest, cranberries, sugar, and cinnamon in a food processor; pulse until finely chopped.
Transfer relish to a bowl. Cover and refrigerate until flavors have blended, at least 2 hours and up to 3 days.

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Make It a Tradition

There’s something about the fall air in Westport that invites you to breathe a little deeper and linger a little longer. So bring your raincoat, all your favorite flannel, and maybe a book you’ve been meaning to read. It’s time to get cozy.

Cozy Up in Westport: Fall Getaway Ideas for a Vibrant Working Waterfront

Westport, Washington

Have a question? Contact us: (360) 268-9422