The untamed Pacific Northwest coastline is mesmerizing during storm season. With towering whitecaps, roaring surf, and mist swirling off the Pacific, wave-watching along the Evergreen Coast is a showstopper. At the Lighthouse Oceanfront Resort, we have the perfect perch for nature’s awe-inspiring display. Our spacious ocean-facing suites and backyard beach will put you in the front row. Join us for storm season and uncover Washington’s stunning wave-watching spots. We’ll share how to plan your visit around peak wave conditions and prepare you for a photo-worthy, bucket-list experience.

The Majesty of Storm Season: Why Wave-Watching Along Washington’s Coast is Unforgettable

Storm season transforms Washington’s coastline into a majestic display of churning waves and thundering surf. The fierce beauty of the Pacific in winter is thrilling, drawing photographers, storm chasers, and ocean lovers from far and wide. Waves passionately throw themselves against the beach and rocky cliffs that hug our coast. Each thunderous crash is like a crescendo, sending sea spray and silver mist high into the air. Even the dark clouds can’t help but gather to watch nature’s tango.  

The storms that bring these waves roll in from the open ocean, hitting the rugged shores with breathtaking power and intensity. It’s the type of scene that’s written about and photographed, which is why you’ll see so many shutterbugs in the audience of viewers. Visiting during Washington’s storm season offers a chance to see the waves’ raw energy from the sheltered comfort of the Lighthouse Oceanfront Resort.

The Best Spots for Wave-Watching Around Lighthouse Oceanfront Resort

As long-time locals (our coastal charm resort has roots on the peninsula since 1953), we know a thing or two about some of the best spots to go wave-watching on our shoreline. 

Watch the Waves Right from Your Room or Balcony

Lighthouse Oceanfront Resort boasts renovated oceanfront suites that place you close to the action. You can watch the waves curl and crash against the shore from your suite or private balcony without even stepping outside. Wrap yourself in a blanket, sip a cup of coffee, and listen to the rhythmic roar of the ocean from the casual luxury of your private living room. Each suite’s design brings the beauty of the outdoors in, with floor-to-ceiling windows that make wave-watching feel intimate, powerful, and unforgettable. Light a fire in your fireplace to add more ambiance!

Stroll to the Shore via the Resort’s Private Beach Access

For an up-close-and-personal experience, step outside and take advantage of the resort’s private beach access. Step through the gentle sea pines that hug our resort, and you’ll be directly on our beach. Here, wave-watching becomes more sensory. Each break brings a briny breeze and a reverberating roar. The sight of massive waves crashing onto the sand will leave you speechless. The salty air will kiss your lips, and your hair will dance with the cloud’s laughter. Storm season is fully encompassing and one of those moments that will imprint in your heart. 

Waikiki Beach at Cape Disappointment: A Wave-Watcher’s Paradise

If you decide to leave our resort, it will be a short jaunt to your next prime wave spying location. Our property is 15 minutes from almost every major attraction on the Long Beach Peninsula. Waikiki Beach at Cape Disappointment is less than 10 miles from the Lighthouse Oceanfront Resort and is one of the most thrilling spots for wave-watching. 

Set against the towering Cape Disappointment Lighthouse backdrop, the waves here are a marvel as they crash along rocky outcrops, sending massive sprays into the air. If you’ve seen photos of our coastline, you’ve seen those powerful images. The arrival of winter storms enhances the dramatic Pacific and her untamed glory. Be sure to get there early when wave-watching from Waikiki Beach. Shutterbugs are eager for these breathtaking images, and spots fill up quickly. 

Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center: Wave-Watching with a Bird’s Eye View

The Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center provides an excellent viewpoint for wave-watching and weaves history into the experience. Perched on a cliff 200 feet above the ocean, the center overlooks the endless sea. It is the bird’s eye view of the undulating waves rolling in. In the center, exhibits tell stories of the explorers who braved these same tumultuous waters. Watching the unrelenting ocean makes it easy to see why we’re known as The Graveyard of the Pacific. 

Timing is Everything: When to Plan Your Wave-Watching Adventure

For the most impressive wave-watching, visit Washington’s coast from November through February, when storm season is in full swing. These months bring stronger winds and larger swells, creating a dramatic ocean landscape. If you’re looking for peak wave-watching conditions, consider visiting during King Tides. King Tides are the highest tides of the year, creating enormous waves that surge higher on the beach and make for a striking show. 

Preparing for Your Wild Wave-Watching Experience: What to Wear and Pack

To fully enjoy wave-watching along the Washington coast, it’s essential to dress warmly and prepare for coastal weather. Dress in layers, including a waterproof jacket, rain boots, and a warm hat to keep the wind chill at bay. Bring your camera and cell phone for jaw-dropping photos. You may want to add a thermos of something warm to sip on during your outing. Lighthouse Oceanfront Resort kitchens have a full fridge, microwave, and oven, so you can pack your wave-watching picnic before heading out into the great wide open. 

Safety Tips for Wave-Watching on the Evergreen Coast

Wave-watching is thrilling, but safety is critical. Here are some tips to ensure a safe experience:

Stay aware of “sneaker waves.” These larger waves can catch you by surprise. Keep a safe distance from the water’s edge, and never turn your back on the ocean.

Stay on safe ground. Avoid slippery rocks, cliffs, jetties, and shoreline driftwood logs. Wet rocks can be slick, and it’s easy to lose footing. Wild waves can throw heavy logs in an instant. Stick to designated viewpoints or stable ground.

Keep pets on a leash. Our resort is dog-friendly, so if you bring your furry friend along, make sure they’re leashed and kept at a safe distance from the water.

Watch the weather. Storm conditions can change rapidly, so check the forecast and follow any advisories.

Where the Waves Lead You: Why the Lighthouse Oceanfront Resort is Your Perfect Wave-Watching Host

We’ve been serving the beachfront community for more than seventy years. We’re the tide-kissed shelter with unbeatable views of the best wild wave-watching in Washington. Experience storm season in our traveler-approved resort along one of the world’s longest beaches. Meet us where the waves meet the shore. 

There’s something truly magical about a beach escape. Something about the briny breeze, cushioning sand between your toes, and an endless sky painted with nature’s paintbrush that quiets the clock we always seem to run against. When you need to recharge, there’s nothing better than an escape to the shore. Here, the sands in the hourglass seem to slip a little slower. Crafting a seaside getaway may seem impossible, especially with a full schedule. Thankfully, your ideal salt-kissed solution is closer than you think. Time is non-refundable, so follow along as we plan your perfect beach retreat to help slow your roll and create priceless memories. 

Step One: Find the Perfect Beach for Your Retreat

Every perfect beach retreat starts with finding a destination serving up natural beauty, tranquility, and just the right amount of adventure. Look no further than the Long Beach Peninsula, a stretch of 28 miles of sand just around the corner. 

Conveniently located less than a few hours from Seattle or Portland, Long Beach Peninsula is an easy drive from either major city. This hidden gem along Washington’s wild Evergreen Coast is one of the ten best coastal small towns in the nation. Our charming small town has one of the longest beaches in the world, tons of local culture, five state parks, and some of the best seafood you’ve ever tasted. You can create golden memories without spending all day traveling, which means you’ll be beachside by sunset. 

Step Two: Find the Perfect Home Away from Home

Now that you’ve found the ideal shore, the next step to your perfect beach retreat is settling into your cozy home away from home – the Lighthouse Oceanfront Resort. Unlike crowded hotels or anonymous rentals, our hideaway is your personal sanctuary by the sea. From extra-large townhouse-style suites to complete kitchens and plenty of resort amenities, you’ll enjoy a stay better than any VRBO or Airbnb. 

Perfectly positioned, our luxury haven is poised minutes from downtown Long Beach. While close enough to skip to town, our 28 acres offer the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle. You’ll find our tranquility nestled in a blanket of sea pines, snuggled directly against the coastline. Our property boasts private access directly onto one of the world’s longest beaches, so you can dig your toes into the sand steps from your front door. Watch the sunset from your private balcony and fall asleep to the soothing lullaby of Poseidon. When taking a break from your seaside strolling, you can languish in our onsite barrel sauna, float in our indoor saline pool, or play a round in our tennis and pickleball facility. Our resort is rich with coastal charm and conveniences while being gentle on the pocketbook. 

Step Three: Bring the Whole Crew (Including the Furry Ones)

Our oceanfront oasis is fun for the whole family. After all, what’s a perfect beach retreat without your loved ones and loyal four-legged friends by your side? Our expansive suites provide plenty of room to bring the crew. Our oceanside condos come in various configurations, allowing the perfect design for your travel needs. Snuggle up in our one-bedroom options if you need a cozy single. Upgrade to the two or three-bedroom designs if you bring family and friends. Our oversized layouts provide breathing room and the benefits of a luxury vacation rental. Enjoy excellent onsite amenities with none of the hassle of pesky VRBO owners. As a bonus, each room is dog-friendly, so your faithful pooches can enjoy the coast too. 

Step Four: Stock Up and Settle In

One of the many perks of staying at Lighthouse Oceanfront Resort is our well-stocked kitchens. Each expansive townhouse-style suite includes a full kitchen brimming with pots, pans, dishes, and cutlery. A standard fridge and dishwasher mean you have the comforts of home while on vacation. Skip the busy restaurants and make your perfect beach retreat personal by cooking a feast with local ingredients. Head to one of the nearby grocery suppliers to stock up on fresh seafood, local produce, and all the fixings for your meals. From whipping up a quick breakfast before a morning beach walk to preparing a seafood feast for dinner, you’ll feel right at home in your beachfront oasis.

Step Five: Beach a Retreat to the Great Outdoors

Your perfect beach retreat wouldn’t be complete without immersing yourself in the natural beauty surrounding you. Step out of your door and onto the sands of our backyard beach. Enjoy your sandy saunter against a chorus of seagulls and the perfume of salty air. For those craving more adventure, nearby state parks like Cape Disappointment and Fort Columbia offer incredible hiking opportunities. Take in the sweeping ocean views, explore the lush forests, and let the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest remind you why spending time in nature is always time well spent.

Step Six: Cozy Up and Relax by the Fire

After a day of beach adventures, few things are as priceless as cozying up by your own private fireplace. At Lighthouse Oceanfront Resort, you can wind down your evening with the warmth of crackling logs. Take the family onto the beach and enjoy s’more-making with our custom s’more kits, featuring local chocolates laced with sea salt and cranberries. Or lounge around your gas fireplace in your personal living room. You’ll feel the tension of the day-to-day grind slipping away as the fire dances against a backdrop of crashing waves. 

Step Seven: Time is Non-Refundable, So Spend It on a Perfect Beach Retreat 

When time is non-refundable, memory-making is invaluable. So, gather your loved ones, pack your bags, and take an enriching trip to our oceanfront oasis. Your perfect beach retreat is a heartbeat away and worth its weight in gold.