Evergreen Coast
Oysterville

Things to do in Oysterville

Walking Tour of Historic Oysterville

Wandering through the quiet, tree-lined streets of Oysterville feels like stepping back in time. With its well-preserved 19th-century homes, picket fences, and charming country church, the town offers a rare glimpse into Washington’s early coastal life. Take a self-guided walking tour to uncover the rich history of this once-thriving oyster boomtown and soak in the timeless beauty of the bayfront setting. It’s a peaceful, picturesque experience that history lovers and curious explorers alike won’t want to miss.

Leadbetter Point State Park

Leadbetter Point State Park is a hidden gem at the northern tip of the Long Beach Peninsula, where Willapa Bay meets the Pacific Ocean. This peaceful, undeveloped park offers miles of beaches, forested trails, and birdwatching opportunities in one of the most ecologically diverse areas on the coast. Whether you’re hiking through coastal dunes, spotting migratory birds, or simply enjoying the solitude of nature, Leadbetter Point is a perfect escape for outdoor lovers seeking quiet beauty and wild, untouched landscapes.

Places to Stay in Oysterville

Tucked away at the northern tip of the Long Beach Peninsula, the Oysterville Guesthouse offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the historic 1854 village of Oysterville, Washington. Surrounded by timeless charm and stunning natural beauty, this cozy guesthouse is just steps from Willapa Bay and within walking distance of iconic landmarks and old-school, picket-fenced homes. It’s the perfect home base for exploring the area’s history, savoring fresh oysters, and enjoying a quiet getaway steeped in coastal heritage.

For more lodging options, visit our places to stay page.

Restaurants & Seafood in Oysterville

When in Oysterville, buying oysters isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a must. Stop by Oysterville Sea Farms and treat yourself to their popular oyster shooters, rich clam chowder, smoked salmon spread, and other coastal favorites, all served with a stunning bayfront view. With picnic tables on-site and a casual, laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect place to savor local flavors right at the source.

Hungry for more? Explore our restaurants guide for additional dining gems along the coast.

History of Oysterville

In the mid 1800s, the village of Oysterville began to prosper after Chief Nahcati introduced the town’s founders, R.H. Espy and I.A. Clark, to oysters. The rich oyster beds of Willapa Bay were soon responsible for Oysterville’s growing riches, as the town became a major competitor with other oyster companies.

Once the county seat, with a college, two hotels and a weekly newspaper, the town began to decline when, in 1880, the long-awaited Clamshell Railroad ended at Nahcotta and native oysters began to become scarce. In 1893, the county seat was stolen by raiders in the middle of the night and taken to South Bend.

Today, the entire community is on the National Historic Register and the original one-room schoolhouse and church are still in use for community events. The church hosts summer vespers and the school is alive during the August Jazz & Oysters in Oysterville. The Oysterville Post Office is oldest continuously operating Post Office in Washington.