Picture this a sprawling beach stretching 28 miles. This is Long Beach in Washington state. Long Beach wasn’t always called Long Beach. It began as Tinkerville thanks to Henry Harrison Tinker. He bought land in 1880 and platted the town. Long Beach officially incorporated on January 18 1922.
Imagine the early days of Long Beach. A narrow-gauge railroad the Ilwaco Railway and Navigation Company snaked its way through town. The Long Beach depot stood between First and Second Streets. Two hotels catered to tourists near the depot. One tragically burned down in 1914. The Driftwood Hotel was another popular spot.
The boardwalk area was called Rubberneck Row. Businesses thrived there. A postcard from 1911 shows a “Baths” establishment possibly the Crystal Baths an indoor swimming pool. Milton York Candies a Postal Shop and a soda fountain were also present. A livery stable a barber shop Vincent’s Souvenirs and The Candy Man catered to visitors.
Long Beach’s climate is mild. Summers are long and dry winters are short and mild. The record high is 99 degrees Fahrenheit. The record low is 0 degrees Fahrenheit. The city sees nearly 80 inches of rainfall annually. Snow is rare.
Long Beach faces the risk of tsunamis. A magnitude 9.0 earthquake could send waves crashing in 20 to 25 minutes. The city initially planned a 32-foot berm for protection. But it was later deemed too short.
Long Beach’s population is small. The 2020 census recorded 1688 people. The city’s history is intertwined with tourism. The Long Beach Razor Clam Festival started in 1940. They even used a giant frying pan to make a massive clam fritter.
Long Beach has seen many changes over time. From its railroad days to its car-centric present. The town has adapted to the times. The beach remains a central feature.
Long Beach is more than just sand and sea. It’s a town with a rich history. A history of entrepreneurship. Of natural disasters. And the resilience of its people. So soak it all in. Enjoy the sights and sounds of Long Beach.