Jutting northward from the mouth of the Columbia River, the Long Beach Peninsula defines Washington's southwestern coastal geography. The picturesque blend of beach and
forest along the river, Willapa Bay, and the Pacific Ocean was home to the Chinook Indians who first settled this region. European and American trade came to this area in the 18th century, opening the way for Lewis and Clark to explore and establish a land route to the Pacific. The region prospered because of its diverse natural resources and thriving fur trade. Today, a vibrant tourist industry fuels the Peninsula's...

Serving as the link between Pacific waters and Willapa Bay on the southwestern tip of Washington state, the Long Beach Peninsula has carved its niche as protector and provider since the Chinook tribe first set foot on its shores. Though teeming with life in and around the ocean, its treachery has proven as striking as its beauty. From Lewis and Clark to the many species of birds that flock here yearly, this coastal region hosts a wide range of visitors and has become a thriving center for tourism as well as a haven for those who love the sea.