Leadbetter Point, Washington
The exceptionally wide swath of sand that lines the west coast of Washington’s Long Beach Peninsula extends for more than 25 miles, making it one of the longest uninterrupted stretches of beachfront in the country.
Much of the area has been developed for tourism, with vacation homes and pleasant beach towns dotting the oceanside for miles. But drive up to Leadbetter Point at the northern end of the peninsula and you'll find a marvelously untouched natural area.
Stewardship of this coastal wilderness is shared between the Washington State Parks system and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Access to the beach comes via a 1.3-mile trail leading from the parking lot at the end of Stackpole Road (Rt. 103). A longer trail heads north along the bay for a mile or so before veering west across the peninsula to the beach. No services are available, so bring your own supply of food and water, and pack binoculars for the best view of the native and migratory bird species you'll encounter along the way.
From March through September, parts of Leadbetter Point are closed to protect nesting grounds of the snowy plover, a small endangered shore bird.
Information
Long Beach Peninsula Visitors Bureau, 800-451-2542
Willapa National Wildlife Refuge, 360-484-3482
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