Grays Harbor Lighthouse


At 107ft it's the tallest lighthouse in the state, although its setting in a clump of trees makes it less scenic than a classic promontory lighthouse. (Originally 400ft from the high-tide line, it's now 3000ft inland.) Still, the view from the top is impressive. The original Fresnel lens has been retired (on-site), and the current light runs on a 35-watt bulb. To get here, head west on Ocean Ave from Hwy 105 through town.

You can also bike or hike to the lighthouse along the Westport Maritime History Trail, a 6.5-mile pedestrian pathway that passes the marina and follows a dune trail into Westhaven State Park. Tours of the lighthouse are available through the maritime museum. Just beyond the lighthouse, Westport Light State Park has wind-screened picnic sites and access to a stretch of beach that's closed to motor vehicles in summer.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Westport Maritime Museum

1.4 MILES

This former Coast Guard station was built in 1939 and boasts some great period photos and artifacts of seafaring days gone by. A separate building houses…

2. Coastal Interpretive Center

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This small but thorough museum draws kids and adults alike into hands-on displays about local animals and ecosystems, industries, cultures and treasures…

3. Arnold Polson Museum

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Built in 1924 by one of the timber barons of Hoquiam, this 26-room riverside mansion is filled with period furniture, clothing, regional artifacts, a doll…

4. Lady Washington

16.18 MILES

For some interesting local history, check out this full-scale replica of one of the ships piloted by Captain Robert Gray when he first sailed into Grays…

6. Willapa Seaport Museum

23.02 MILES

This humble little museum holds a surprisingly compelling, well-arranged collection of memorabilia from the area's maritime history. Small vignettes…

7. Big Red House

23.8 MILES

This beautiful red house (built 1871) was the original home of Oysterville cofounder RH Espy. It's now a private residence.

8. Oysterville Church

23.97 MILES

Picture-perfect old church dating from 1892. Pick up a walking-tour brochure here during the summer months.