The 12 Can't-Miss Towns on the Pacific Coast
Say, what are fjords, beaches, glaciers, and natural harbors combined? Well, the Pacific Coast, of course, and here are some towns that cannot be missed. Often, they carry a sense of maritime history, artistic cultivation, or reclusive serendipity, due to the unique history and mystical beauty of this large region. So take a gander and find out what makes these towns, with the undulations of the Pacific nearby, so unique and worth seeing.
Seward, Alaska
South of Anchorage, at the northern end of Resurrection Bay, there is Seward, where mountains and glaciers reach the water. You may be surprised it is accessible by sea, rail, air, and road. The Coastal Classic Train passes the Chugach Mountains and was named a top 10 train ride in North America by National Geographic. Meanwhile, the small airport is limited to charter flights, so landing in Anchorage is recommended as the Seward Highway is a recognized USDA Forest Service Scenic Byway; the harbor is ice-free for cruise ships and ferries.
Once in town, Aurora Charters has you covered on fishing expeditions for halibut and salmon, as well as tours of Kenai Fjords National Park where nearly 40 glaciers flow from the Harding Icefield. You may see whales, sea lions, and seals along the way. Animal lover but no boat fan? No problem, try the Alaska SeaLife Center. This public aquarium will give you close encounters with sea otters or an octopus. When all is said and done, Cookery has local oysters, shrimp ‘n grits, and carrot cake parfait because you earned it.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
It is no secret how Carmel-by-the-Sea has racked up the awards over the years for its beauty. Situated on the central coast of California, Carmel is stunning for its white-sand beach, whimsical cottages, and lustrous waters. Since you have found yourself in the state of wine, take the Wine Walk, a self-guided adventure through tasting rooms like Cypress Grove Winery for 100 percent locally made sauvignon blanc and chardonnay. Sip and unwind.
For accommodation, Le Petit Pali is downtown, steps away from boutiques and the beach, featuring a daily cookie delivery, house bicycles, and a continental Champagne breakfast. There are more than 40 hotels and inns to choose from, and more than 50 art galleries, as Carmel once was populated by eclectic artists drawn to the natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere. New exhibits open every first Wednesday of the month at Carmel Art Association, the oldest gallery in town, one example being “Along the River,” riffing off that theme with oil on canvas. Life does not get more aesthetically pleasing.
Hanalei, Hawaii
Many regard Hanalei as a destination of supreme beauty, but doubtless have they taken the Aloha Pledge, for aloha is more than a word; it constitutes unconditional affection, to hear what is not said. Embrace it before arriving on Hawaii’s northernmost major island, Kauaʻi. With that out of the way, grab a towel, head on down to the white sands, and along the way, try stopping at Hanalei Taro & Juice Co. They serve kālua pulled pork and fruity taro smoothies using family recipes that have been passed down for generations.
There are most certainly stunning beaches to suntan on, but remember to read the signs in case of rip currents and other hazards. It is recommended to stay where the waters are calm, especially in winter, preferably near a lifeguard, as you can find at Hanalei Pavilion Beach Park. Sitting on a beach in Hawaii, you may wonder, can living get any easier? Why yes, with a massage at Hanalei Bay Massage. Get the Lomi Lomi, an ancient local art for healing practiced by elders to relieve sore muscles and release tension. You are guaranteed to have the best sleep of all time.
Florence, Oregon
Florence is a maritime town through and through. The Siuslaw estuary was the winter home for the Siuslaw people, while French, Russian, and Spanish explorers passed by. A river port was finally established in 1909. First stop then is Historic Old Town. You will find everything you have come to expect, such as local Dungeness crab, clam chowder, and halibut fish and chips at The Waterfront Depot right there on the water. From antique shops to public art, you will be enthralled simply walking this scenic boardwalk.
If it is adventure you seek, then head on over to Sea Lion Caves, believed to be America’s largest basalt rock sea cave at 12 stories high, as wide as a football field, and home to a wild colony of sea lions. What sights and sounds will you experience? But perhaps you are the adrenaline junkie type. Well, then there is the largest expanse of coastal dunes in North America at Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. Make like Paul Atreides and ride the shifting sands on a giant dune buggy via Sandland Adventures.
Port Townsend, Washington
Port Townsend is the epitome of a historical Victorian seaport with two National Historic Landmark Districts. Learn all about it at the Jefferson Museum of Art & History within the 1892 City Hall building, showcasing local artists, rotating exhibitions, and interactive programs for all ages. Continuing the trend of English tradition, Café Tenby has high tea on Saturdays, which includes sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, fresh fruit, delectable pastries alongside your favorite cuppa from Earl Grey to local blends. Just make sure to make reservations well in advance.
“Off the path, on the edge,” Port Townsend is beautiful but also has the dark skies at times synonymous with the Pacific Northwest, conducive to getting lost in a book. Imprint Bookshop has been the go-to source for new books from local authors for 50 years. If they do not have what you may be looking for, they promise they will order it for you. After that, take a stroll along the beach, as during low tide you can get from Point Hudson to Fort Worden State Park with plenty of logs to sit, ponder, and read by the wonder of the sea.
Skagway, Alaska
Skagway may be small, but its legacy extends far beyond as a gateway to the Klondike Gold Rush of 1898. Follow in the footsteps of prospectors by taking the Chilkoot National Historic Trail, a 33-mile trail that leads all the way from nearby Dyea to Lake Bennett, British Columbia. Once a major access route from the coast to the goldfields, the route is lined with alpine lakes and century-old gold rush artifacts, effectively making it one of the largest museums on the planet. The Chilkoot Trail Outpost offers cabins next to the trailhead if you wish to stay closer to the source.
Shops on Broadway still carry that Wild West feel. For a more mature sampling of history, one might say, there is the Red Onion Saloon, a former bordello offering local brews and king crab bisque to adult clientele. For entertainment for the whole family, attend The Days of '98 Show, the so-called longest-running show of the north. With can-can dancers, riotous humor, and glitzy musical numbers, it is no wonder they have been at it for more than 100 years.
Avalon, California
Situated on Santa Catalina Island just off the coast of Southern California, Avalon is reachable by passenger ferry from San Pedro, Long Beach, Newport Beach, and Dana Point in about an hour. Once there, the three-square-mile town is dense and easily walkable. Stroll along the palm-lined streets while window-shopping for artisan jewelry, exquisite souvenirs, and sumptuous saltwater taffy. With such pristine waters, snorkeling and diving allow entry into this world below of kelp forests, garibaldi, and even sunken ships. The Casino Point Dive Park is a popular launch point and hub for diving outfitters.
However, if you prefer exploring the island itself, check out Leyva’s Electric Bikes and Jeep Eco Tours to roam in style. In the 1920s, 14 bison were introduced to the island for a film. They were given the privilege to stay and now number around 100, roaming wild in the interior along with foxes and bald eagles. Attunement to the land does not stop there. There are a variety of campgrounds in addition to boat-in-only campsites to choose from. Hermit Gulch Campground is the nearest to town with barbecue pits, picnic tables, showers, lockers, and supplies for sale at the campground office.
Astoria, Oregon
Astoria is the oldest city in Oregon and the first permanent settlement this side of the Rocky Mountains, so continuing explorers’ sentiments, visit the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park. There, the Fort Clatsop replica commemorates the 1805-06 encampment of their expedition, all contained in the dewy forests of the Coast Range with hiking trails nearby. Back in town, one is struck by the Victorian homes, reminiscent of San Francisco. The Flavel House Museum is a prime example inside and out, featuring exquisite woodwork, period furnishings, and a luscious garden.
You may marvel at the historic architecture above, but underground is equally important. Astoria Underground Tours will guide you through the tunnel network of artifacts and restored rooms, accentuated by smoke and colorful lights, for an experience like no other. From there, it is only logical to go up, then up again. The Astoria Column rises 125 feet from Coxcomb Hill, engraved with artwork depicting the development of this historical region. Take all 164 spiraling steps up for unforgettable views of the neighboring rivers, bay, and mountains.
Kailua, Hawaii
Kailua is found on the southeast of Oʻahu and was once a favored location for the Oʻahu chiefs hundreds of years ago for fish abundance and viable canoe landings. The Ulupō Heiau State Historic Site is where to find the remains of the ancient temple built of lava rock that once served the Indigenous Hawaiians. Speaking of, surfing was once the preferred sport of Hawaiian royalty, and Kailua gives easy breaks for beginners, so grab your favored style of board at Kailua Beach Adventures, then hit up Kailua Beach. They also give amazing kayak tours.
If if you don't feel like getting wet, try the Lanikai Pillbox Trail. It is short, though steep, and rewards with some of the best views of the island. Do not forget proper footwear. Afterward, who objects to chocolate? Mānoa Chocolate crafts theirs from bean to bar, offering tours of both their factory and farms along with free walk-in tastings guided by authentic chocolate sommeliers.
Friday Harbor, Washington
Friday Harbor is your entrance to the San Juan Islands. To get the full experience and see the valley roads, quiet beaches, and orca-favored waters, take Washington’s San Juan Islands Scenic Byway. You will pass lavender fields, alpaca farms, sculpture parks, and, of course, Lime Kiln Point State Park, possibly the best vantage point on the globe for spotting orcas from shore. To learn more about these ethereal beings, visit The Whale Museum, the first museum in the country devoted to one species of the wild, continuing to promote stewardship of the Salish Sea ecosystem with a mighty fine gift shop to boot.
Stroll the docks, check out the schooner, maybe mega-yachts. Marvel at marine life up close via the Spring Street Landing Aquarium, 400 gallons of sea urchins, singing scallops, and nudibranchs. Continue enjoying the waterfront by the Portals of Welcome Coast Salish house posts by artist Susan Point, a member of the Musqueam First Nation, acknowledging those who have existed here since time immemorial for the quintessential Pacific Northwest experience.
Fort Bragg, California
As far as California is concerned, Fort Bragg, founded as a military garrison in 1857, is remote while still remaining eclectic. The town is best known for its Glass Beach, a Pacific coastline gem filled with beautiful seaglass. For fun for the whole family, the C.V. Starr Recreation Center has everything from an Olympic-size swimming pool and kids’ pool to slides, an outdoor skate park, and even a dog park. There is also the Skunk Train, so-called by locals as you could “smell ‘em before you see ‘em.” This train ride will take you on the Redwood Route over bridges and through tunnels in the Noyo River Canyon. What a thrill.
You are sure to have worked up an appetite for a sweet treat, so stop at Cowlick’s Ice Cream for handmade mint chocolate chip, cookie dough, maybe even peanut butter, or a root beer float. Simply divine. Closing the day with a film is always a good time. Built in 1964, Coast Cinemas was designed to harmonize with the natural, rugged beauty of the land. It now sports four screens as a state-of-the-art movie theater displaying everything from blockbusters to independent films.
Port Hardy, British Columbia
The perfect mix of all the untamed wilderness expected of the Pacific Coast, as well as a tight-knit community, Port Hardy rests at the northern end of Vancouver Island, gazing out at the Queen Charlotte Strait. This unspoiled land still contains totem poles and big houses from the First Nations that have called it home for more than 8,000 years. For the optimal sense of tranquility, stay in one of the cabins available from Ecoscape Cabins that include a cedar deck, fire pit, and supply of wood for barbecuing, not to mention gorgeous views.
But what to catch you ask? There are halibut and cod, yes, but most would state salmon rule, whether spring, coho or chum, as they all migrate right past Port Hardy. Wicked Salmon Charter Fishing has all-inclusive packages featuring tackle, lunch, guidance, and processing so you can take your catch home with you if you so choose. To learn more about these awe-inspiring, resilient creatures, the Quatse Salmon Stewardship Centre features exhibits and displays while continuing to promote education on salmon and their natural environment.
Can’t-Miss Pacific Coast Towns
There is a mystique to the Pacific Coast. It extends from hot to cold, sun-soaked beaches to glaciers slowly sinking down into the sea. These towns will give you a taste of the full scope of what this diverse region has to offer. Some towns are easily accessible, others are as remote as they come. There is a place for every mood, every disposition. California to British Columbia, Alaska to Hawaii, these towns establish the mosaic where east meets west, rewarding explorers with experiences in communities never to be missed.
