Resort Town or Retirement Community? The Unique Blend of Ocean Shores
Nestled on the Washington coast, Ocean Shores is a place that defies easy classification. It’s a town where vacationers flock for beachside fun, and yet, it’s also a haven for those seeking a peaceful retirement. So, what is Ocean Shores—a resort town or a retirement community? The truth lies somewhere in between, and that’s part of what makes it such a special place.
Ocean Shores as a Resort Town
For decades, Ocean Shores has been a beloved destination for tourists. With its wide, sandy beaches, abundance of outdoor activities, and mild climate, it’s no wonder visitors return year after year. You can find families building sandcastles, kite enthusiasts chasing the wind, and adventurers exploring Damon Point or hitting the water on kayaks and paddleboards. Summer weekends see an influx of people attending events like the Sand & Sawdust Festival and the kite competitions that dot the coastline.
Local businesses, from quaint gift shops to seafood restaurants, thrive on tourism. Hotels and vacation rentals cater to the steady stream of guests, and even the marina offers a place for boaters to dock as they explore the nearby waterways.
Ocean Shores, with its resort-town atmosphere, buzzes with activity during the peak seasons. For visitors, it’s a place to unwind and recharge. But beneath that vacation vibe lies another layer to the community—one that’s growing every year.
A Growing Retirement Community
In recent years, more and more people have chosen to call Ocean Shores their permanent home. Drawn by the natural beauty, affordable housing, and slower pace of life, retirees are flocking to the area. What started as a place to visit has now become a place to stay.
Many retirees are attracted to the relaxed coastal lifestyle. Unlike more urban areas, Ocean Shores offers a quiet, laid-back environment. There’s time to enjoy nature, walk on the beach, or simply sit on your porch and watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. The close-knit community also fosters a sense of belonging, with various clubs and activities available for seniors—from golfing to community events and local art classes.
The area’s services have adapted as well. With a growing senior population, Ocean Shores may see an expansion in medical facilities, senior living developments, and support for those looking to retire in comfort.
The Balance: What Makes Ocean Shores Special
What sets Ocean Shores apart is its ability to be both a vibrant tourist destination and a peaceful retirement community. It’s a town where vacationers can enjoy a beachside retreat, while residents bask in the small-town charm and sense of community. There’s an interesting balance between the seasonal energy brought in by visitors and the year-round tranquility appreciated by retirees.
For many, this mix is what makes Ocean Shores the perfect place to live. Residents enjoy the benefits of living in a resort town—access to great restaurants, seasonal events, and beautiful beaches—without feeling overrun by tourism. At the same time, they benefit from the amenities and services tailored to an older population.
Ocean Shores truly offers the best of both worlds. Whether you’re here to stay or just passing through, it’s easy to see why so many people fall in love with this hidden gem on the Washington coast.
Beach Driving
Note to dog owners: the beach area boarding the Taurus Ave approach (to the south) is the designated off-leash dog area.
All the rules associated with beach driving can be found in chapter 352 of the Washington Administrative Code. This includes all the rules for our area (North Beach) along with the other Washington Coast beaches you can drive on; Long Beach and South Beach.
By law, the ‘drive-able beach’ includes the area between the water and the average high tide line. Be sure to avoid the razor clam beds which means you need to stay in the upper 1/3 of the beach.
The speed limit is always 25 mph and all the rules of the road apply. You can get a ticket for failing to yield to pedestrians, speeding, and doing donuts in the sand – you know the drill! And yes, police do patrol the beaches.
Be cognizant – there are no “lines in the sand” to follow, kids will be kids, and it’s much more difficult to hear oncoming vehicles due to the roar of the Pacific Ocean.
The drier the sand, the looser it is… the looser it is the more likely you are to get stuck and once you are – you’ve got yourself the seed for an epic story! When navigating the loose sand areas your best bet is to slowdown but don’t stop moving and avoid turning too quickly.
Pro Tip: Sand is salty and corrosive. Take the time to rinse your entire vehicle including the undercarriage when you’re done for the day!
Final Thoughts
Is Ocean Shores a resort town or a retirement community? The answer depends on who you ask. To some, it’s a place to vacation and make memories with family. To others, it’s a peaceful home to enjoy their golden years. In truth, Ocean Shores is both—a unique blend of vibrant tourism and a welcoming community for retirees. And perhaps that’s what makes it such a special place to live or visit.
Whether you’re here for a week or a lifetime, Ocean Shores has something for everyone.
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