Chinook, WA

Chinook sits along Baker Bay on the southwestern tip of Washington, right where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean. It grew up as a thriving fishing and cannery town in the late 1800s, and its maritime roots still shape daily life. Today, it is a quiet, scenic community surrounded by tidal waters and coastal forest, ideal for anyone drawn to an unhurried lifestyle by the water.

ATTRSteven Pavlov / CC BY-SA 4.0

The local marina at the Port of Chinook remains the hub of the area, serving commercial fishermen, crabbers, and weekend boaters heading out on the bay. Historic Fort Columbia State Park sits right next door, and the nearby Astoria-Megler Bridge puts the restaurants, shops, and services of Astoria only fifteen minutes away. For prospective residents, Chinook provides a peaceful coastal retreat with easy access to neighboring towns, state parks, and ocean beaches.