There’s something unforgettable about celebrating the holidays at the edge of the Pacific Ocean. On Washington’s Evergreen Coast, winter brings more than just festive lights and cozy gatherings — it brings a season filled with coastal traditions, small-town celebrations, and the peaceful beauty of the beach in winter. Whether you’re hunting for handcrafted gifts, planning a family escape, or simply craving the sound of waves on a quiet shoreline, the Evergreen Coast offers Holidays at the Beach, an experience unlike anywhere else in the Pacific Northwest.
The Crab Pot Christmas Tree
One of the most iconic holiday traditions on Washington’s coast is the Crab Pot Christmas Tree — a towering, illuminated structure built from real crab pots and wrapped in lights. Perched near the harbor, this glowing tree honors the region’s deep fishing heritage while creating a uniquely coastal celebration. Families gather for the lighting ceremony each year, sipping hot drinks, snapping photos, and enjoying the warm, small-town spirit that defines the holidays at the beach.
Winter Markets and Holiday Bazaars
Across Long Beach, Ilwaco, Raymond, South Bend, Tokeland, and surrounding communities, winter markets and holiday bazaars light up the season. These festive pop-ups and events showcase the talents of local artisans and makers, offering everything from handmade ornaments and jewelry to coastal-inspired home goods, baked treats, and artisan soaps. Every booth offers a personal connection to the culture of the coast — making it the perfect place to shop small and give meaningful, one-of-a-kind gifts.
Local Shopping & Coastal Holiday Gifts
Holiday shopping on the Evergreen Coast moves at a more relaxed pace. Independent shops line the walkable town centers of Long Beach, Ilwaco, South Bend, and beyond, offering carefully curated selections of clothing, toys, décor, kitchen essentials, books, art, and more. Many stores feature locally made and maritime-themed items, allowing you to find gifts that reflect the spirit of the place. Whether you’re picking up a last-minute stocking stuffer or seeking something extra special, shopping local helps support the creative energy that keeps these coastal towns thriving.
Winter Razor Clam Digging
A highlight of the holiday season on the Evergreen Coast is winter razor clam digging — a time-honored tradition that brings together families, friends, and first-time visitors. On approved dates, diggers head out to the expansive sands of Long Beach, lanterns in hand, searching for the telltale signs of clams. It’s more than an outdoor activity — it’s a seasonal ritual that combines adventure, connection, and delicious rewards. Visit our website for the latest clam dig schedules, tide charts, and permit information to plan your trip.
Witness the King Tides
Winter also ushers in the awe-inspiring return of King Tides — the highest tides of the year caused by natural gravitational forces. These tides offer a dramatic view of how the Pacific shapes our coast, with powerful waves, flooded beaches, and breathtaking displays of nature’s force. While Waikiki Beach at Cape Disappointment State Park will be closing soon for long-awaited improvements, alternative viewing points like the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center, North Head Lighthouse, Cape Disappointment Lighthouse, and Beard’s Hollow Overlook offer incredible, safe vantage points. Check our social channels and website for updates on access and safety.
Celebrate the Season by the Sea
The holidays on Washington’s Evergreen Coast combine coastal tradition with winter wonder. It’s a season where stormy seas meet sparkling lights, where quiet towns glow with community pride, and where every celebration feels more meaningful against the sound of crashing waves. From watching the Crab Pot Christmas Tree light up the harbor to exploring local gift shops, digging razor clams, or standing in awe of a King Tide, winter is full of unforgettable moments on the coast.
This season, make Washington’s Evergreen Coast part of your holiday story. Discover a new tradition. Embrace the salty air. And experience the unique magic of holidays at the beach in Washington — where the spirit of the season is alive in every wave and every welcoming smile.
