Ilwaco, WA

Tucked into the southern end of the Long Beach Peninsula, Ilwaco is a laid-back harbor town where the Columbia River meets the Pacific. Daily life centers around the working port, which is lined with charter boats, casual seafood spots, local art galleries, and a popular weekend market. You can hop right onto the Discovery Trail from the marina to explore the lighthouses and coastal forests at Cape Disappointment State Park. It is a quiet, authentic seaside community with plenty of small-town charm.