Long Beach Washington Historical Sights and Attractions

Take a short visit to Middle Village – Station Camp

The Corps of Discovery spent ten days here, and Clark used it as a primary survey station as he mapped the mouth of the Columbia River. The Chinook people, who have lived along the Columbia for thousands of years, used this site as a trade village. This park is between the tunnel under Fort Columbia and the Astoria-Megler Bridge. 

Stroll through Lovely Seaview, WA

Read about  Seaview's History Here

Originally a summer community for the Portland gentry, Seaview WA’s quiet tree-lined streets invite strollers to enjoy turn-of-the-century Victorian homes, which are survivors of a developer’s plans from the 1880s. Stay in one of our historic vacation rentals in Seaview, WA, which are all within walking distance of incredible restaurants and shopping.

Try a Walking Tour of Oysterville, WA

Oysterville

You may feel that time forgot this tiny, historic village that sits on Willapa Bay, but its residents lovingly maintain the homes and buildings here. The historic homes, church, schoolhouse, and oyster farms were once part of a booming community fueled by the California Gold Rush. Resident “Sydney of Oysterville” keeps an incredible blog detailing the stories and history of the village. So come up to the top of the peninsula and try our fresh Willapa Bay oysters out of the water. 

Learn about Military History at Fort Columbia and Fort Canby

Construction began on three forts to protect the mouth of the Columbia River in the late nineteenth century. Now, these coastal defense sites can be explored by visitors. Fort Columbia Historical State Park is considered the most intact, historic coastal defense unit in the United States. In addition, the remains of Fort Canby can be found throughout Cape Disappointment State Park.

Seekers of history and abandoned vibes will enjoy exploring both. Pick up maps at the Visitors Bureau or parks.

Visit Historic North Head Lighthouse

Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission and Keepers of the North Head Lighthouse host the anniversary of the North Head Lighthouse at Cape Disappointment State Park in Ilwaco each June.

Take a short hike to Cape Disappointment Lighthouse

The Cape Disappointment Lighthouse is white with black stripes. It overlooks the mouth of the Columbia River, also known as the Graveyard of the Pacific.

Did you know that in  1853, the first shipment of lighthouse materials sank two miles offshore! Most of the shipment was lost, and this was just the beginning of

the difficulties this lighthouse faced.

Visit our local museums

Long Beach and Astoria have some amazing museums.  Kids of all ages love the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center and the Maritime Museum.  Many of the Forts provide hours of entertainment and exploration of the various barracks and defensive outposts that dot the West Coast. 

Stay at the Historical Bloomer Mansion

Seaview, Washington

This 1932 fully restored mansion sits on six acres of private oceanfront land. Within walking distance to the market, fine dining, antiques, and less than a mile to Long Beach, WA. A 5,000 square foot, three-story home with 18 rooms. Sleep 12 to 14 very comfortably. Pet-friendly, well-behaved dogs and their owners are welcome. Prize-winning 1904 Grand Baldwin Piano in an expansive living room. Hot tub, 8' slate pool table, foosball, and ping pong. Xbox 360, WII, racing games, sports games, and more. The child's play closet is stocked with toys for toddlers, fully stocked for babies: cribs, high chairs, booster seats, stroller, even a baby bathtub. Fully stocked kitchen with stainless steel cutlery, stainless steel pots and pans, and new appliances. Porch with barbecue, and large yard with fire pit and picnic tables. Whatever your reason for lodging in Long Beach, Washington, be sure to find out why the Bloomer Mansion is one of our most popular vacation rental.