Ocean Shores is a small coastal community in the state of Washington, which sits on Point Brown Peninsula, bordered by the Pacific Ocean and Grays Harbor. The community is home to 5,622 residents (2012 census), with over 30% age 65 years and older. Ocean Shores’ six miles of beach and wildlife has made it a popular tourist destination for decades, with close to 4,000,000 visitors each year.
In the late 1920’s the area was a sprawling cattle ranch but was sold to Ocean Shores Development Corporation in 1961, which had planned to build a large California- style resort. Although the resort idea never materialized, plots were sold, roads were laid and Ocean Shores began to grow with a construction boom that included marinas, shops, hotels and a golf course. Pat Boone, a popular singer and movie star in the 1950’s, bought into Ocean Shore Estates, from which he hosted his famous Celebrity Golf Tournaments. In 1969, Ocean Shores was declared “The Richest Little City” and had 900 permanent residents. Today, visitors flock here to enjoy the beach, bird watch, fish, and attend the many outdoor activities and festivals that Ocean Shores has to offer. Picture of Digging for Razor Clams courtesy of Wikipedia and Distressa. |