The Ultimate Family Guide to Long Beach Beaches

The best family beaches around Long Beach, Washington are the main Long Beach beach, Seaview Beach, Waikiki Beach and the beach at Cape Disappointment State Park, and the main beach is the easiest with kids. It is a huge stretch of hard-packed sand. Restrooms, showers and picnic tables sit near the approaches. Seaview is the quieter stretch for flying kites, and Waikiki and Cape Disappointment are the dramatic coves and tide pools at the mouth of the Columbia River. Plan the day around digging and kites on this open stretch of Pacific.

Beach NameKey AmenityBooking Options
Long Beach MainRestrooms & ParkingView Details →
Cape DisappointmentPicnic TablesView Details →
Waikiki BeachViewpointsView Details →
Seaview BeachParkingView Details →

Long Beach Main Beach

The main beach is a wide stretch with space to spread out, and its hard-packed sand is unusual and fun to play on.

  • The Beach: Firm sand for big sandcastles.
  • Key Amenities: Restrooms, showers and plenty of picnic tables.
  • Tip: Cars are banned on this stretch from April 15 to the day after Labor Day, so in those months bring a beach cart for the chairs and cooler.

Good to know: The car-free stretch runs from the Bolstad Avenue approach in Long Beach to the 38th Avenue approach in Seaview.

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Cape Disappointment State Park Beach

Cape Disappointment sits near the mouth of the Columbia River, and its rugged scenery makes a beach day feel like an expedition.

  • The Beach: Tide pools to explore and plenty of driftwood.
  • Key Amenities: Restrooms and drinking water.
  • Tip: Pack lunch and use the picnic tables.

Good to know: Parking requires a Discover Pass, which you can buy at the entrance.

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Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach is a small cove inside the state park, with cliffs and lighthouse views around it.

  • The Beach: A small, scenic cove for exploring. It is next to the river mouth, so stay right beside kids at the water.
  • Key Amenities: Viewpoints and access to hiking trails.
  • Tip: Come early in the morning for one of the few parking spaces.

Good to know: Parking is very limited and the cove is popular.

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Seaview Beach

Seaview Beach is the quieter alternative to the main beach, a good place to fly a kite.

  • The Beach: Soft sand for a picnic and plenty of wind for kites.
  • Key Amenities: Simple access points with trash cans nearby.
  • Tip: Free street parking is usually easy to find.

Good to know: It is more remote, so bring all your snacks and supplies.

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FAQs About Family Beaches in Long Beach

Which beach is best for toddlers?

The main Long Beach beach, because you are never far from the restrooms and picnic tables. Keep a hand on toddlers anywhere near the water. It is the open Pacific.

Do I need a pass to park at these beaches?

Cape Disappointment State Park requires a Discover Pass for parking. Most other public access points offer free street parking or designated lots, but always check local signage.

Can you drive on the beach at Long Beach?

Not on the main beach from April 15 to the day after Labor Day. State rules keep cars off that stretch, so plan to carry your gear in from a beach approach.


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