Westhaven State Park
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Westhaven State Park is a scenic coastal destination located in the state of Washington.
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Summary
It is a popular spot for visitors due to its stunning natural beauty and various recreational activities. Here is a summary of the park, including reasons to visit, specific points of interest, interesting facts, and the best time of year to plan your visit.
Reasons to Visit:
1. Natural Beauty: Westhaven State Park offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, sandy beaches, and picturesque cliffs. Its untouched and serene environment makes it a perfect escape from the bustling city life.
2. Recreation: The park provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as picnicking, beachcombing, birdwatching, hiking, and fishing. It is also a great location for wildlife photography, with the chance to spot seals, sea lions, and various seabirds.
3. Peaceful Atmosphere: Westhaven State Park's peaceful ambiance and secluded beaches make it an ideal place to unwind, relax, and enjoy the sound of crashing waves or a stunning sunset.
4. Nearby Attractions: The park is located near other popular coastal destinations in Washington, including the town of Westport, which offers shopping, dining, and a marina.
Points of Interest:
1. Half Moon Bay: This picturesque beach within Westhaven State Park is known for its crescent shape and stunning views of the ocean. It provides a great spot for beachcombing, picnicking, and enjoying a peaceful walk along the shoreline.
2. Westport Light State Park: Adjacent to Westhaven State Park, this park features a historic lighthouse that can be explored, offering panoramic views of the coast and surrounding area.
3. Cranberry Road Winery: Just a short drive from the park, visitors have the opportunity to indulge in wine tastings and tours at this charming winery.
Interesting Facts:
1. Westhaven State Park is known for its strong winds, making it a popular destination for kite flying and windsurfing enthusiasts.
2. The park is home to various species of seabirds, including the snowy plover, which is listed as a threatened species.
3. Westhaven State Park was developed in the 1970s and has since become a beloved coastal destination for both locals and tourists.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Westhaven State Park is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is generally pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (15-25°C). This time of year allows for comfortable beach activities and outdoor exploration. However, it is essential to note that the weather can be changeable near the coast, so it is advisable to bring layers and check local forecasts before your visit.
Sources:
1. Washington State Parks - Westhaven State Park: https://parks.state.wa.us/297/Westhaven
2. Outdoor Project - Westhaven State Park: https://www.outdoorproject.com/united-states/washington/westhaven-state-park
3. Only In Your State - Westhaven State Park: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/washington/westhaven-state-park-wa/
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
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Westport Recreation Park - Military
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Twin Harbors State Park
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Grayland Beach State Park
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Ocean City State Park
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Westport Light State Park
Twin Harbors Beach State Park
Grayland Beach State Park
Ocean City State Park
North Bay Natural Area Preserve