Long Beach Peninsula residents love Waikiki Beach and you probably will too. Don’t confuse this northern beach with the warmer Hawaiian beach with the same name. Visit Washington’s Waikiki, in Cape Disappointment State Park, for its gentle break, perfect for beginning surfers and swimmers.
The beach is believed to be the spot where Captain William Clark reached the Pacific Ocean in November 1805. It was later given its name in memory of a Hawaiian sailor whose life was lost at sea and body subsequently found onshore here. His ship had capsized while attempting to cross the Columbia River bar in 1811.
Today, learn about the Lewis and Clark journey during a walk along the Waikiki Beach boardwalk, where you’ll find passages from the explorers’ journals. Walk less than 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) from the beach to the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center for exceptional clifftop views. Continue on to the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse.
Despite its rocky terrain, the beach is a beautiful swimming spot and one of very few safe swimming locations on the Long Beach Peninsula. Come for a daytrip to hike the nearby trails through coastal forests and rugged headlands. The area is also excellent for watching storms during the winter. Driftwood is plentiful here, leading to the building of driftwood forts, a fun activity for kids and adults. Construct your own or enjoy exploring those already built and adding to them.
While you’re in Cape Disappointment State Park, consider visiting Benson Beach, a favorite spot for beachcombing, digging clams and flying kites, extending 2 miles (3 kilometers) between North Head and the North Jetty. Look for sea stacks and caves at the north end. North Head is also a good spot for spotting gray whales during late December and early January and again between March and May. Pick an overcast day when you won’t have glare from the sun. Visit early in the morning before waves turn to whitecaps.
Find Waikiki Beach 2.6 miles (4.2 kilometers) south of Ilwaco. The park is open daily year round. Purchase a state park Discover Pass for vehicle access day use.
