Ilwaco is a unique and historic place and provides its visitors with remarkable opportunities to explore and experience for themselves the best of Southwest Washington and the Long Beach Peninsula.

Known as the 'Fishing Capital of the West,' Ilwaco is a premier center for Columbia River and ocean fishing.  It offers world-class charter and sport fishing as well as many opportunities to cast a line in more sedate fashion, along our rivers and beaches.  Black Lake just out of downtown is stocked for fishing and has a wonderful hiking trail, boat launch and park.

There are unrivalled opportunities here to get out on the water, kayaking and boating; public boat launches are plentiful.  Kayak beautiful Baker Bay or explore one of the world's great rivers on the Lower Columbia Water Trail. Take in protected Willapa Bay which offers an extraordinary natural environment and access to Long Island. In September, Ilwaco hosts the Baker Bay Kayak race.

Hundreds of miles of outstanding hiking trails are available throughout the region. There are multiple ecosystems to explore, from coastal forests, saltwater marshes and grassy dunelands, rivers, estuaries and beaches.

Our extraordinary environment offers some of the best bird watching habitat in the Northwest. As part of the Pacific Coast Flyway we receive visits by hundreds of varieties of birds each year.  Bald Eagles, Great Egrets, Peregrine Falcons, Great Blue Herons and innumerable sea birds all conspire to make this a birders paradise.  Whales migrate just off shore twice a year, more than 20,000 pass by.  Other wildlife including deer, elk and black bear make their homes from the beaches to the high ground. Bring your binoculars and your camera; discovery truly awaits!

Explore our rich and significant history. The city was founded in 1848 and named after the Native American Chief Elowahka Jim, son-in-law to the renowned Chinook Chief Concomly. 

Walk historic downtown Ilwaco, home of many properties dating from the 1880's - the heyday of salmon fishing. Discover a treasure in one of our downtown antique stores or galleries.

The Discovery Trail commences in Ilwaco. This wonderful 8.3 mile trail winds its way into the hills through coastal forest and down to the ocean following William Clark’s first walk to the Pacific Ocean in 1805.

We are home to both North Head and Cape Disappointment Lighthouses, the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, and a fine Heritage Museum

If strolling is your pace, Ilwaco Harbour Village has a waterfront promenade at the Port of Ilwaco. The Port of Ilwaco offers a full service marina and boatyard, working canneries, charter fishing, unique art galleries, stores and restaurants all framed by our beautiful harbour in sight of Cape Disappointment and the Columbia River Bar.