Pacific County Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

British trader John Meares named it “Cape Disappointment” in 1788, due to his mistaken belief that the mouth of the Columbia River was only a bay. The United States deemed Cape Disappointment strategically significant enough to base military fortifications there during the Civil War and World War II. Construction of a lighthouse was complet­ed in 1856. (June 2019)

#History

#Trovember
The North Head Lighthouse sits on a bluff high above the Pacific Ocean. Once a key navigational aid for mariners approaching the Columbia River from the North, it is now a part of Cape Disappointment State Park. (June 2019)

#Trovember
Beautiful evening down by the lighthouse
Cape Disappointment State Park at the southwestern tip of Washing is anything but disappointing. A beautiful campground, lots of hiking, beautiful beaches, and even a couple of lighthouses all add to the charm. This is the North Head Lighthouse, and for $2.50 you can get a tour and climb to the top. #washington #capedisappointment #lighthouse
On your hike to the Cape Disappointment Light House look for Dead Mans Cove. Aptly named for the number of seamen that drowned trying to cross the Columbia River Bar and their bodies washed up into this cove. Mother nature placed a tombstone in the center of the cove in their memory.

Popular cities in Pacific County

Long Beach featuring signage and flowers
Long Beach
Known for Beaches, Dining and Sea
Long Beach awaits: its beaches, oceanfront, festivals and more!

Reasons to visit

  • Long Beach Boardwalk
  • Long Beach Carnival Park
  • Gray Whale Skeleton
Cape Disappointment State Park which includes a beach, a sunset and a lighthouse
Ilwaco
Known for Beaches, Fishing and Sea
Explore trendy Ilwaco: its beaches, oceanfront, cafes and more!

Reasons to visit

  • Cape Disappointment State Park
  • Cape Disappointment Lighthouse
  • Waikiki Beach
Ruby Beach landscape with some silhouetted conifers in the foreground on a sunny day, Olympic National Park, Washington state, USA.
Ocean Park
Known for Beaches, Sea and Family-friendly
Escape to upscale Ocean Park! Enjoy its beaches, oceanfront and parks.

Reasons to visit

  • Pacific Pines State Park
  • Leadbetter Point State Park
  • Oysterville Church
Sanderling Shorebird Forages Along Washington Beach at Sunrise
Grayland
Known for Beaches, Sea and Entertainment
Come to relaxing Grayland and enjoy its beaches, oceanfront and sunsets.
Beach between North Head Lighthouse and Seaview beach approach - 2
Seaview
Known for Beaches, Dining and Bars
Relaxing Seaview awaits: its beaches, camping, bars and more!
South Bend which includes signage
South Bend
Known for Historical
Trip time! Discover the history in South Bend.

The Annual Holiday Sale

Members save up to 40% on hotels and homes. Plan this year’s big trip and save.