The Grays Harbor County city sits on Washington's Point Brown peninsula. Chinook, Chehalis, and native Quinault tribes used the area for trading long before the county's namesake, explorer Captain Robert Gray, arrived in 1792. The area wasn't formally settled until the early 1860s. During its early years, Ocean Shores was used for trade and raising cattle.
Population growth was slow until the early 1960s, when the Ocean Shores Development Corp. began selling plots of land in a new Californian-style development. People were excited by the new coastal community, and they bought plots of land sight unseen off the plan. Ocean Shores offered more than coastal living. By the mid-1960s, the city had a six-hole golf course, a shopping mall, several restaurants, and 100 motel units. At the decade's close, Ocean Shores was named the “Richest Little City” in the United States, with an estimated value of $35 million.
Today, Ocean Shores continues to be a haven for travelers and sun-seeking residents. While it's not as well-known as the beach communities of California or Florida, that's the way people who love it like it.
When should you book a stay in Ocean Shores, WA?
Ocean Shores has an oceanic climate similar to the climate experienced in the Mediterranean. Summers are milder than in the coastal communities in the South, with average highs in the mid- to high 60s. The city is at its busiest during this season, so if you have your heart set on a summer getaway, expect to pay a premium for it.
You'll save money and enjoy similar weather conditions in early fall. Late spring is also pleasant and affordable for travelers. The area is also beautiful during these seasons, with flowers blooming during the spring and the leaves changing color in the fall.
Winters in Ocean Shores aren't as harsh as in many parts of the country, although they are usually wet. If you dream of visiting Ocean Shores for swimming and sun, you may want to look beyond December, January, and February.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Ocean Shores, WA:
Ocean Shores by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean rate trends by star rating class in Ocean Shores, WA. You can use these charts to evaluate the cheapest seasons to stay in Ocean Shores for any future trips.
What luxury hotels in Ocean Shores should you book?
4 Star Average Prices: $142.33
If you love to be pampered while you're away, splurge on one of the Ocean Shores luxury options. The following high-end hotels pride themselves on superior facilities and friendly service.
Built in 1969, The Grey Gull is one of the longest standing accommodations in Ocean Shores. It offers condos rather than standard hotel rooms, so guests enjoy unrivaled space and privacy. You'll discover 37 condos in all, each individually decorated with gas fireplaces and full kitchens. Balconies and porches help you take advantage of the ocean and pool views available from most condos. A spa and sauna are also available to help you unwind.
Shilo Inns Ocean Shores makes a big impression the moment you step into the lobby and spot its 3,000-gallon fish tank. The 113 deluxe suites feature calming decor inspired by the Pacific Ocean, wet bars, jetted tubs, movies on demand, and private balconies for watching the sun set over the waves. Shilo Inn has its own bar, a guest hot tub, an indoor pool, and a laundry service so that you can focus on having a good time. The airport shuttle is another great perk for air travelers.
What hotels are the most affordable in Ocean Shores, Washington?
3 Star Average Prices: $119.13
As a tourist city, Ocean Shores offers a variety of accommodations to suit all tastes and budgets. The following hotels consistently offer affordable rates to travelers visiting Ocean Shores.
MorningGlory Hotel, Resort & Suites, formerly GuestHouse Inn & Suites Ocean Shores, is a family-owned hotel that will help you feel at home. Despite its affordable prices, the hotel has great facilities, including an indoor swimming pool, fitness and business centers, and a guest laundry. The rooms and suites are simple but clean and filled with all the comforts of home such as cable TV and microwaves. Your affordable room rate also includes a free hot breakfast each morning. A walking trail at the rear of the hotel provides easy access to a public beach and sand dunes.
Quinault Sweet Grass Hotel offers modern rooms featuring plush beds, free Wi-Fi, and coffeemakers for your early morning caffeine cravings. Book a king or queen suite for a guaranteed ocean view. You can easily stick to your fitness regime here, with an on-site indoor pool and fitness center. After working up a sweat, soothe your muscles with a soak in the hot tub. You'll never be bored, with a free hotel shuttle to the Quinault Beach Resort & Casino for restaurants, gaming, and live entertainment.