Your Perfect Westport Day from Sunrise to Sunset

If you’re thinking of planning a weekend beach getaway, Westport, WA should definitely be on your list. One of the West Coast’s most active working ports, this quaint beach town offers more than enough activities to ensure you and your family will have plenty to keep you busy!

We’ve put together some activities that just might add up to the perfect day. 

Catching Lingcod on the Sudsy

(Early) morning: Charter Fishing

People come from around the world to experience the world-class charter fishing that Westport offers. Our charter captains are the experts you need to walk you through the experience with ease and ensure it’s a morning full of fun, excitement, and reeling in a monster or a few.

If you’re booking a charter, plan on your day starting early. Like, EARLY early. Some charters need to travel up to 80 miles offshore, so most will leave anywhere from 5-6:30 a.m. 

On the way out past the bar, plan on getting a quick education from the deckhands on technique and what to do when you’ve got a fish on the line. Don’t worry—you’ll be guided through every step once you’re reeling in the big one! 

If you’re on a half-day trip (4-5 hours), plan to spend about 2.5 hours anchoring and catching. And yes, the best part of the experience is when you’ve got one on the line, but even when you’ve just got your line out, there’s nothing like the time spent just watching the sun glint off the water with the anticipation of your next big catch. 

The charter provides all the gear you need—rods, reels, tackle, and bait, and your deckhands will typically clean and fillet your catch on the ride back. Ideally, your Westport accommodations have a kitchenette with a freezer for your vacuum-packed fillets, but a cooler can do the same job

Midday: Sustenance! 

One of the biggest perks of visiting a working port is the abundance of fresh seafood options. Restaurants that feature Westport’s Fresh Catch when possible are Aloha Alabama BBQ, Blue Buoy, and Merino’s Seafood Market and Cannery, though you can get a scrumptious meal at any of Westport’s restaurants, listed on our dining page.

We know keeping the little ones happy is a priority for most families, so many of Westport’s restaurants have a kids’ menu to ensure peace and happiness across the full expanse of the dinner table. 

Early afternoon: Shopping! 

There’s nothing like a stroll down Westhaven Drive to remind you of the things you never knew you desperately needed. Westport’s gift shops are filled with treasures you can buy for your friends who weren’t lucky enough to join you on your beach getaway—everything from fabulous wearable merch, hilarious coasters and magnets, to beautiful antiques and homemade sauces. 

If you’re a surfer or angler, you can find everything you need at Westport’s surf and marine supply stores. If you’re planning on charter fishing, you’ll want to pay special attention to the outerwear that helps you prepare for any weather, including boots that will protect your feet from large flopping fish. 

While you’re shopping, don’t forget that you might need some more sustenance in the form of homemade fudge, doughnuts, or ice cream. Westport has you covered all along Westhaven Avenue. 

Late Afternoon: Beach and Lighthouse

A trip to Westport isn’t complete without some beach frolicking. This is where Westport’s Light State Park comes in. It’s a 560-acre day-use park with 1,215 feet of shoreline and an accessible paved path that’s perfect for strolling. 

Once on the beach, the possibilities are endless: fly kites, throw frisbees, explore the beach for treasures, or bring your folding chairs and do absolutely nothing but sit and watch the waves.

For more adventurous types, Westport is also an amazing PNW destination for surfing. Check out our Westport Shops page to find multiple surf shops where you can find the gear you need and insider tips on all the best spots for your next epic session. 

Right next to Light State Park, you’ll find the Grays Harbor Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in the state of Washingon. Built in 1897, the lighthouse still houses its original (and huge!) third order clamshell-shaped fresnel lens. You can see the lens if you’re willing to climb the 135 steps to the top of the lighthouse, where you’ll have a 360° view of the ocean and the surrounding landscapes. On a clear day, you might even catch the top of Mount Rainier! 

Evening: More fantastic Northwest fare for the whole family! 

No better way to end a long and satisfying day at the beach than a delicious meal made with fresh PNW ingredients at another one of Westport’s fabulous restaurants. You’ve played hard, so why not indulge in a Northwest IPA or a glass of Pinot with your meal? You’ve earned it. 

This is just one of the myriad ways you and your family can spend a day making lifelong memories in Westport. For more ideas, visit our website and build your perfect Westport Day.