Make Memories Razor Clam Digging on the Washington Coast

Once the days start getting shorter and the rain returns, outdoor enthusiasts start celebrating a fantastic time to be a Washingtonian. While common sense would assume that the Pacific Northwest slips into a collective feeling of melancholy once the gray skies return, those who have lived in the region for awhile know better. They know it’s razor clam season.

The fall months bring some of the more unique activities for those living in the upper left corner of the country and nowhere is this more evident than the Washington coast. Out on the wild stretches of beach along the Pacific Ocean where the heavy rains, strong winds and crashing surf usually send the weekend recreationist back inside, thousands of people drive toward the breaking waves in search of this regional delicacy. Clad in rain gear and hip waders, carrying clam guns and shovels, diggers descend to the sandy shores in hopes of quickly obtaining their limit of delicious razor clams.

This fall, spend a gorgeous day along the coast digging razor clams.
Photo credit: Aaron Hulst.

Razor clam digging is an important part of life in the Pacific Northwest. For millennia, clams were one of the dependable food sources for those living along the coast. As settlers moved west and located along the coast, clamming became less of a survival food and more of a local favorite. Whether they are fried or in your chowder, razor clams are delicious and taste even better when you dig them yourself. This year, instead of wondering if you and your family will enjoy a clam dig out on the coast, why not try it yourself and create a memorable time along the Washington coast? Read more here: http://www.graysharbortalk.com/2016/12/07/razor-clam-dig-washington-coast/

Grays Harbor County’s Lady Washington Makes Expedia List

Grays Harbor County’s Lady Washington Makes Expedia List

Judged the ‘best thing to do in Washington’ in 2017

ELMA, WA – Jan. 19, 2017– Grays Harbor County’s Lady Washington was named The Best Thing to Do in Washington State in 2017, according to the travel experts at Expedia. The ship is featured in the Expedia Viewfinder travel blog, which just released its top picks throughout the U.S.

According to Expedia, the blog is intended to encourage people to celebrate each state’s signature culture and characters by showcasing the brand new shops, ancient landmarks, and beloved events happening in 2017. All of the results can be found at viewfinder.expedia.com.

The Washington entry reads: Set sail on the Lady Washington in Grays Harbor. Featured on “Pirates of the Caribbean,” “Star Trek: Generations,” and more, the Lady Washington is a replica of the original Pan-Pacific trade ship of the same name. Today you can learn to sail or enjoy a little jaunt into the harbor on these vintage decks.

Launched on March 7, 1989, the Lady Washington was built in Aberdeen, Wash., by Grays Harbor Historical Seaport Authority, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit public development authority. The new Lady Washington is a full-scale replica of the original Lady Washington.

In 1787, after the Revolutionary War, she was given a major refit to prepare her for an unprecedented trading voyage around Cape Horn. In 1788, she became the first American vessel to make landfall on the west coast of North America.

A pioneer in Pan-Pacific trade, she was the first American ship to visit Honolulu, Hong Kong and Japan. Lady Washington opened the black pearl and sandalwood trade between Hawaii and Asia when King Kamehameha became a partner in the ship.

The modern Lady Washington, constructed as a brig, was thoroughly researched by historians and constructed by skilled shipwrights. She was launched as part of the 1989 Washington State Centennial celebration. The new Lady Washington is a U.S. Coast Guard inspected and certified passenger sailing vessel. More information on sailings can be found at historicalseaport.org.

“We’re honored they chose one of our treasures in Grays Harbor County,” said Mike Bruner,director of the Grays Harbor County Tourism Office. “We encourage visitors to check out Lady Washington’s sailing schedule this summer to experience this amazing vessel.”

For more information on additional fun attractions in Grays Harbor County, go to visitgraysharbor.com.

17 Things to Do Around Grays Harbor in 2017

Lake Aberdeen is a prime spot for peaceful moments.

It’s a new year, a time for fresh starts, new pursuits and ambitions, and maybe some resolutions. And, in addition to those personal goals, add some community exploration and celebration to your 2017 bucket list. Here are some of the highlights of Grays Harbor County to explore this year.

Visit one of Grays Harbor’s Museums

From the Lady Washington to the Polson Museum, the Westport Maritime Museum to the Aberdeen Museum of History, there are numerous opportunities to take in a bit of local history and learn something new about where we live. If you haven’t experienced one of Grays Harbor’s museums, make 2017 the year to do it.

Catch a Movie at Hoquiam’s 7^th Street Theatre

The 7^th Street Theatre is a wonderful 1920’s era building, full of historic features and charm. They’re gearing up for their movie season, which starts with a showing of Rocky on January 20th and 21st. Keep an eye on their events calendar as they are often the venue for various performances throughout the year.

Get Fit with a Class at the YMCA

If you’re looking for snow, Wynoochee Dam is the place to go.

If a healthier lifestyle is on your list of New Year’s resolutions, consider signing up for a group class at the YMCA. There’s something for everyone and every budget, whether you’re into swimming, yoga or strength training. Working out on your own is great, but having a group to help motivate you is one of the many benefits of our local YMCA. Check their website for scheduling and more information.

Read more here: http://www.graysharbortalk.com/2017/01/11/grays-harbor-activities-2017/