One of the best things about visiting Ocean Shores is that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to have a great time. While there are plenty of attractions, shops, and restaurants worth exploring, some of the area’s most memorable experiences are completely free.
Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a weekend getaway, or just looking to make the most of your trip, here are some of the best free things to do in Ocean Shores.
Fly a kite on the beach
Ocean Shores is one of the best places in the Pacific Northwest to fly a kite. The wide, open beaches and steady ocean breeze create ideal conditions almost any time of year.
Bring your own kite or pick one up from one of the local kite shops before heading to the beach. It’s an activity that’s just as much fun for adults as it is for kids, and it’s not uncommon to see colorful kites filling the sky on a sunny afternoon.
If you happen to visit during the annual Ocean Shores Kite Festival (also known as the Gray’s Harbor Festival of Colors), you’ll see everything from giant inflatable kites to incredible professional demonstrations.
Watch the sunset at Chance A La Mer Beach Access
Every sunset is different on the Washington Coast, and Chance A La Mer Beach Access is one of the most popular places to watch the day’s final colors.
With plenty of space to spread out, it’s easy to find a spot on the sand and enjoy the view as the sun sinks into the Pacific Ocean. Depending on the evening, the sky may glow with brilliant shades of orange, pink, purple, or gold.
Bring a beach chair, a blanket, or simply take a walk along the shoreline while the colors change overhead. Best of all, admission is completely free.
Drive your car on the beach
One of the things that makes Ocean Shores unique is that you can legally drive on portions of the beach.
There’s something unforgettable about cruising along the sand with the Pacific Ocean stretching out beside you. Whether you’re heading out for a morning drive or timing it with sunset, it’s a fun experience you won’t find in many beach towns.
Be sure to use one of the designated beach access roads, stay on packed sand, obey posted speed limits, and always watch for pedestrians, wildlife, and changing tides.
Snap a photo at Sharky’s
Even if you’re not stopping in for lunch, Sharky’s is worth a quick visit.
The colorful shark-themed entrance has become one of Ocean Shores’ most recognizable photo spots and makes for a fun vacation picture. Whether you’re traveling with kids, friends, or just looking for something a little quirky, it’s a classic Ocean Shores tradition.
After you’ve grabbed your photo, you might decide to head inside to browse their gift shop—but taking the picture itself won’t cost you a thing.
Search for shells and driftwood
Half the fun of walking the beach is seeing what the tide has left behind.
Ocean Shores is known for its driftwood, seashells, colorful rocks, and occasional sand dollars. Every walk is a little different, especially after a storm or during lower tides.
Even if you don’t bring anything home, beachcombing is a relaxing way to spend an hour while taking in the fresh ocean air.
Remember to leave live creatures where you find them and check local regulations before collecting certain natural items.
Visit Damon Point
Damon Point is one of the most scenic places in Ocean Shores and is completely free to explore.
This narrow peninsula offers miles of beach, dunes, and views of both the Pacific Ocean and Grays Harbor. Depending on the season, you may spot shorebirds, seals, or even migrating whales offshore.
It’s a favorite destination for photographers, birdwatchers, and anyone looking for a quieter beach experience.
Watch for deer around town
One of the first things many visitors notice is just how many deer live in Ocean Shores.
It’s common to see them grazing in neighborhoods, walking across the road, resting near canals, or quietly wandering through town. While they’re beautiful to photograph, remember to admire them from a distance and never feed them.
Spotting deer has become an unexpected highlight for many families visiting Ocean Shores.
Explore the canals
Many first-time visitors are surprised to learn that Ocean Shores has more than 20 miles of interconnected freshwater canals.
Take a walk along one of the public areas, enjoy the peaceful scenery, or simply watch kayakers and paddleboarders pass by. The canals give Ocean Shores a unique character that sets it apart from many other coastal towns.
Stay close to Ocean Shores’ best free attractions
Many of the best things to do in Ocean Shores don’t cost a dime, and they’re all just minutes from the Polynesian Resort.
Spend the morning flying a kite, drive along the beach in the afternoon, stop for a photo at Sharky’s, and end the day watching the sunset at Chance A La Mer Beach Access. Along the way, keep an eye out for deer, explore Damon Point, or enjoy a peaceful walk through town.
With comfortable condo-style accommodations, full kitchens, and easy access to the beach, the Polynesian Resort makes it easy to experience everything Ocean Shores has to offer without stretching your vacation budget.
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