North Beach Attractions
By Eileen F. Gieser
For The Vidette
This article first appeared in 2002
OCEAN SHORES
Check out the website at http://www.oceanshores.com/
The beach town of Ocean Shores not only provides a weekend
getaway for visitors from Seattle, but also annual events for
the entertainment of those who live here year around.
Driving down Point Brown Avenue, you will see the go-karts and
moped rentals, ice cream parlors and seafood restaurants, antique
stores and gift shops. Drive on the beach past the horse rentals,
or indulge in an aerial flight with Whidbey Scenic Flights from
the Ocean Shores Airport. Behind it all is a well-organized schedule
of activities for locals and visitors to look forward to each
year. Opening this summer is the new Waves restaurant at the
Best Western Lighthouse Inn. This is on the third floor of a
new wing and has ocean views. Also new on the beach this summer
is the Judith Ann Inn, built on Ocean Shores Blvd. by the owners
of the Caroline Inn and evoking the mood of a southern plantation.
The Ocean Shores Cinema, with its four screens, has afternoon
matinees and evening shows and is doing well since opening in
November of 2000. The Cinema is located on Point Brown just south
of Chance a la Mer. Mac's Pizza has buffet lunches that include
pizza and pasta on Saturday and Sunday, priced under $7. They
provide indoor seating at the corner of Ocean Shores Blvd. and
Chance a la Mer streets. They also deliver pizza, sandwiches,
salads and pasta. Leilani's coffeehouse across the street is
family owned and serves a hot cup of tea, coffee or cappucino,
along with dipping cookies. They sell a wide variety of whole
bean or ground coffees, along with gourmet spices, teas and chai
mixes. Just inside the front door is a gleaming brass and copper
peanut roasting machine. The owners restored this old machine
and the aroma of roasting peanuts tempts every shopper that passes
by.
At 821 Point Brown is the new delicatessen opening this summer
with the accomplished cook, Wendy Sullivan, as manager.
Ocean Shores Convention
Center Events:
SAND & SAWDUST FESTIVAL
June 28, 29, 30, 2002
The admission is free for this annual event at the Ocean Shores
Convention Center and the nearby beach. Masters in the art of
sand sculptures as well as amateurs compete in creating the most
impressive displays for prizes and ribbons. Inside the convention
center is an arts and crafts bazaar. Bring the sunblock and wear
comfortable clothes for an event that every member of the family
will enjoy.
SUN AND SURF RUN H.O.G.S
July 25, 26, 27, 28
The thunder of more than 1,000 motorcycles will fill the air
during this weekend.
Many Harley Davidson motorcycle clubs are represented at this
annual event and most of the members register for unique activities,
such as the salmon bake, that are only offered to those with
tickets. Put on as a charity event, the weekends' big climax
is the raffle of a new Harley Davidson, with proceeds to a major
charity like Muscular Dystrophy. Last year's raffle included
a trailer for the winner of the motorcycle. Vendors will sell
services like leather braiding of the handlebar leather strips,
and windshield etching. Many riders appreciate the chance to
have their riding leathers repaired at one of the booths. Canteens
and clothing sporting well-known logos are hot sellers, with
plenty of food and beverage vendors, all with free admission.
T-shirts and many other items are part of the raffle, so your
ticket might even pay for itself.
RAMMAGE FUN RUN
August 10
A show that focuses on vintage 1903-1961 Ford trucks. Bring your
camera to the convention center parking lot and snap photos of
beautifully restored vehicles. Plenty of custom paint jobs and
polished chrome.
WASHINGTON TOW TRUCKS ASSOCIATION
August 16, 17, 18, 19
If you've never seen a nighttime parade of fully lighted tow
trucks, then head out to Point Brown Avenue the Friday that hundreds
of tow trucks arrive in Ocean Shores.
On Saturday and Sunday the drivers will compete in skill competitions
in the Ocean Shores Convention Center parking lot, and the beauty
contest will produce more gleam than you've seen in a long time.
Last year some of the oldest tow trucks were on display, and
even a tow truck catering to the handicapped. The Big Pink Toe
from Seattle always shows up to add a little humor. The tow truck
business can produce some unique experiences and it's easy to
eavesdrop on some pretty wild story swapping. Or just ask a driver
for some of his most interesting "vehicle recovery"
trips. Admission is free.
ARTS AND CRAFTS SHOW
September 6, 7, 8
Organized by the Ocean Shores Associated Arts, this is the largest
arts and crafts festival in Southwest Washington and is fun for
the entire family.
From woodcraft to pottery, hand blown glass to hand painted signs,
this is where you get a head start on Christmas shopping. Many
of the artists attend year after year, and if you saw it last
year and lived with regret at passing up that coveted garden
ornament or set of placemats, this is your second chance to make
them yours. Refreshments available and free admission.
FIREFIGHTERS BEACH PARTY CAR SHOW
September 14
Just when you thought it was time to put away the driving gloves,
along comes the Beach Party car show.
Feel free to enter your own car in this show. The car can be
any year, any model. An entry fee is charged for each car entered.
Sponsored as a fundraiser by the Ocean Shores Fire Department
and Paramedics.
WHALE OF A QUILT SHOW
October 11, 12, 13
From baby crib quilts to king-sized bed creations, this is the
competition show for quilters.
Some of the quilts hanging in competition are for sale, and many
are inspirational to both aspiring and dedicated quilters. Attend
seminars and stock up on quilting supplies for that next project.
DIXIELAND JAZZ FESTIVAL
November 1, 2, 3
Gathered from all over the USA, jazz bands perform at other Ocean
Shores locations as well as the Convention Center. Admission
is charged for the entire weekend or for each day. If it's Dixie,
you'll hear itfrom banjo to trombone, sax to piano.
WINTER FANTA-SEA
November 22, 23, 24
With Christmas around the corner, this is the place to buy handcrafted
gifts.
Many unique items like hand made books and hand-blown glass can
be found at the booths both upstairs and in the main hall of
the convention center. Refreshments available at a nominal charge.
Kids can visit Santa and Christmas music puts everyone in the
holiday mood.
ONGOING ACTIVITIES-
OCEAN SHORES: PASSENGER FERRY TO/FROM WESTPORT
Weekends only: May 4 to June 16 and September 15 through
September 29, 2002.
Daily: June 17 through Labor Day
Pocket schedules are available at the Ocean Shores Chamber of
Commerce next to the Convention Center on Chance a la Mer Street.
Schedules are also found in many hotels and businesses in Ocean
Shores. Low tides cause changes in the schedule. Call 360-268-0047
to confirm trips. Fares are $10 round trip or $6 one way. Leaves
from the Ocean Shores Marina starting 11 a.m. most days with
the last ferry to Westport at 6:30 p.m.. Take note that the last
ferry back to Ocean Shores leaves Westport at 5:45 p.m. Bicycles
and pets are allowed. Dress warmly and apply sunblock, as most
of the seating is open to the elements and the trip can be quite
rainy, windy and cool, even when shore temperatures are balmy.
Wheelchair accessible.
OCEAN SHORES INTERPRETIVE CENTER
Hours: Memorial Day to Labor Day: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Newly remodeled, this is a treasure house of information that
will appeal to the beachcomber or the wildlife lover. Located
at 1013 Catala Avenue, off the south end of Point Brown Road,
the collections of preserved birds, beaver, bear and deer are
presented with written material and helpful local "interpreters".
The front entrance displays a wild goose and great blue heron
through the window, and inside is a display of endangered species
of turtle. Take two steps inside the door, and you are greeted
by eager staff members who explain every exhibit. You'll learn
to identify common shells and find the details about the shipwrecks
photographed off the local coast. You can see houses built for
butterflies and for bats. Children can have all their questions
answered and view the wildlife scenes that include full-sized
bear and deer. A video room and gift items give visitors plenty
to remember. Wheelchair accessible and free parking. Call 360-289-4617.
QUINAULT BEACH
RESORT & CASINO
Check out the website at http://www.quinaultbeachresort.com/
You don't have to be a gambler to enjoy this new casino and
hotel right on the beach. Just off SR 115 on the way to Ocean
Shores, it's advertised as a "destination resort".
Concerts by performers such as Jefferson Starship and Billy Ray
Cyrus are drawing both locals and tourists to this 157-room hotel
to do more than play the slots. Fine dining in Emilys Restaurant
or a casual meal in the Sidewalk Bistro can be followed by an
after dinner drink listening to the lobby pianist. The lobby
bar has Jazz and Irish music on weekends and the Ocean Lounge
features live entertainment as well. Enjoy ocean views from Emily's
or from the comfy sofas in the lobby. Patrons under the age of
21 are not allowed in the casino or bar area, smoking is allowed.
Call 360-289-9466 for information.
OCEAN CITY
Ocean City is on Highway 109, two miles north of the Ocean
Shores turnoff, and offers a more relaxed visit. At the junction
of SR 109 and the State Park Beach access road, it has moped
rental, RV space rental, Debbie Doos Hair salon, the Sunrise
Market, North Beach and West Winds motels, gift shops and woodcarvings
on sale with occasional carving demonstrations.
DOROTHY ANDERSON CABIN
Featured in the book "Lady on the Beach" by late
author Nora Berg, this small two-room cabin was built by Dorothy
Anderson, one of the first residents of Ocean City. It was donated
by Chuck and Michael Ann Gigstead, owners of the North Beach
Motel, for public display. Dorothy passed away in 1976 at the
age of 85, but in 1923 she built this and eight other cabins
for the tourist trade. She cleared her land of brush and stumps
with only the aid of a part-time handyman, and built the cabins
with wood found on the beach. A Norwegian immigrant, she filled
the house with antiques from the old country and trimmed the
woodwork with her yak knife to remind her of home. It served
at one time as the post office. Tours are available by contacting
the Washington Coast Chamber of Commerce next door, 2272 SR 109,
Ocean City, telephone 360-289-4552.
FIRE O'ER THE WATER
July 4
A fireworks extravaganza, this is totally funded by donation.
Spearheaded by Carol Davis, the owner of the Sunrise Market in
Ocean City, this annual fireworks display starts shortly after
dark at the beach approach, AKA Second Street, that heads out
to the ocean from Highway 109. Hundreds of people enjoy the show
while having a campfire dinner, or just relaxing in their cars.
COPALIS BEACH and IRON SPRINGS
As you head north along SR 109, you'll see the Green Lantern
tavern and Vendors Village in Copalis Beach. They are both operated
by Patty Seaman. The Vendors Village is a group of small log
cabins hand built by local contractor Gary Hulet of Humptulips.
In the summer, these unique cabins have vendors selling jewelry,
craft items and carvings. During the winter, Patty uses the cabins
for special events for the local kids at Halloween and Christmas.
You can find Prime Rib dinner specials at the adjoining Green
Lantern, shoot some pool or just relax and watch the baseball
game on TV.
THE COVE GALLERY
Local artist, David Waller sells his original oil paintings,
water colors, charcoal sketches and lithographs at this private
gallery just north of Park Lane in Iron Springs. Lovely jewelry
and rugs, handmade pillows and gifts created by fellow artists
are also for sale. No regular hours, so telephone 360-276-4360
or visit 3688 Highway #109 and ring the bell.
PACIFIC BEACH and MOCLIPS
Eleven miles north of Ocean City and past Iron Springs, Pacific
Beach has its own small town atmosphere. The little town was
once the site of a U.S.Naval Base, and many groups still hold
activities in its buildings.
KELPERS PARADE
August 31, September 1, 2 (Labor Day)
Saturday is the Kiddie parade at 12 noon. Bring your wackiest
getup for the Kelpers parade on Sunday. Beginning at noon on
Sunday at Moclips and entering Pacific Beach about 1:20 p.m.,
the parade travels SR 109 past the former navy base. No registration
is needed and almost anything goes, resulting in everything from
Elvis impersonators to "Shake Rat" characters. The
Shake Rats will be demonstrating their skills all day Sunday
except during the parade. You can watch them "block"
chopping, making cedar shingles and competing in the chain-untangling
contest. The Wacky Warehouse in Pacific Beach has more info at
telephone number 360-276-4200 or visit their website at www.pacificbeachwa.com
.
UP YOUR WIND KITE FESTIVAL
September 6, 7, 8
Bring a kite, the kids and some picnic supplies. Don't forget
the camera and extra film. On the beach in Pacific Beach. Not
a bad idea to dress warm and bring rain gear.
SANDCASTLE WEEKEND
September 14, noon to 4pm
Professional and amateur sand sculpture artists are lured to
this location by the proximity of great sculpting sand and nearby
water from Joes Creek. This year, expect spectacular creations
on Pacific Beach. Children and adults compete for cash prizes.
Online contact is sandlrin@techline.com. There is also an events
link from www.pacificbeachwa.com, that lists rules and prize
amounts. For tips on building your sand dreamhouse and winning
those cash prizes, go online at www.sandcastlecentral.com .
PLACES TO EAT IN PACIFIC BEACH
AND MOCLIPS:
PACIFIC BEACH RESORT AND CONFERENCE CENTER
Originally built in 1906 as the Pacific Beach Hotel, it was taken
over by the U.S. Navy and Air Force at the outbreak of World
War II and became their regional headquarters. In the late 1950s,
it reverted back to a resort. The newly remodeled Windjammer
restaurant is open 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. for breakfast, lunch
and dinner at reasonable prices. On Friday and Saturday mornings,
enjoy a breakfast buffet for only $4.50 per person. A Hawaiian
Luau buffet with Hawaiian dancers is scheduled for 6 p.m. July
27. This event will be held in their convention facilities. Friday
and Saturday evenings they usually offer live entertainment in
the lounge with local bands. Rooms and beach cabins are for rent,
some with ocean views. Call 360-276-4414 or 276-8199 for further
information.
PADDIES PERCH
Located at 41 Main Street in Pacific Beach, the sign on the door
says, "No Hamburgers". A small coffee shop that offers
soups, sandwiches and other good food at reasonable prices. Open
Wednesday through Sunday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Call 360-276-8144 for further information.
ZANY ZEBRA
Across the street from Paddies Perch, this classic hamburger
stand is open for burgers, fish sandwiches, etc. Eat inside or
at picnic tables outdoors Wednesday through Saturday 11 a.m.
to 7 p.m., and on Sunday 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
SANDPIPER INN
Further south on Highway 109 and away from the downtown area
of Pacific Beach, the coffeehouse is a good place to stop for
cappuccino, lattes, biscotti and muffins. Open from 8 a.m. to
8 p.m., its adjoining gift shop sells unique cooking accessories.
Ocean view lodging is available. Call 360-276-4580 for more information.
OCEAN CREST RESORT
One of the most deluxe restaurants in the North Beach area perches
one hundred feet above the beach. Part of a hotel complex, the
fine dining and stunning views makes this a good choice for the
special occasion. A not-to-be-missed attraction is the walk down
the long staircase to the beach, where patrons can view lovely
native plants, a trickling waterfall and towering trees. Drinks
and appetizers can be enjoyed at the top level above the restaurant.
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this is located in Moclips,
call 360-276-4465 for hours and reservations.
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