Surfing in Washington: Seabrook
If you don’t mind a little chill and a wetsuit, surfing in Washington can be pretty dang epic with choice waves for surfers of all levels. Just 25 minutes north of Ocean Shores on the Washington coast is a brand new village with charming Seabrook, WA, rentals, delicious restaurants, and surf to write home about. Suit up and paddle out is the quaint and costal town of Seabrook for an awesome day on the waves.
Here’s everything you need to know to go surfing at Seabrook.
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Table of Contents
FAQ
Is Seabrook worth visiting?
Yes! I’d say it’s one of Washington’s most visually appealing towns with plenty to do, see, and eat, and the surf is great.
That said, it does take some getting used to. It’s like nothing you’ve ever seen before in Washington. It’s as if an East Coast country club was air lifted and plopped on our Washington Coast–it’s 100% walkable, there’s basketball, tennis, badminton, and pickleball, an indoor swimming pool, a playground, a fitness center, bike rentals, concierge service, and the Dugout that lets you check out complimentary equipment. There are outdoor concerts and community activities happening on the reg.
Is Seabrook by Ocean Shores?
Yes! Ocean Shores is just a short 25-minute drive south. If you’re looking for groceries or shopping beyond what Seabrook has to offer, take a quick trip to Ocean Shores!
Who Owns Seabrook?
Casey and Laura Roloff built their first Seaside, Florida-inspired beach town in Bella Beach, Oregon, it was a huge success. So, they decided to head up north and do it again. Casey and Laura, along with their design team, created Seabrook in 2004.
Surf Lingo
No idea what the heck surfer’s are talking about? Did you get pro tips from a local but have no idea what they mean? Here’s a quick guide to some common surf terms and what they mean!
Swell: A succession of waves that don’t crest (or break)
Sets: Ocean waves that typically come in a series of seven
Beach break: Waves that break because of a gradual sandy slope
Reef break: Waves that break over areas of reef. Because we’re in Washington, we’ll experience some rocky reef breaks
Point break: A wave that breaks off of a point, peninsula, or headland
Left-hand break (or left break): A wave that breaks to the surfer’s left
Right-hand break (or right break): A wave that breaks to the surfer’s right
Soft top or foam top: Boards that have foam on the top side, so if it hits you in the head it doesn’t hurt!
Hard top: Boards that are what you’d imagine a typical surfboard to be: usually made of wood, polyurethane, or epoxy
Outside: Refers to the waves farthest out. They’re the first catchable waves.
Inside: Refers to the white water, or the second wave breaks, closer to the beach.
We’re paddling out into the Pacific Ocean today, and a little surf safety can go a long way!! Practice these safety tips every time you go surfing!
Surf Safety
8 Checks for Safe Surfing:
Surf with a buddy
Going in pairs allows you to keep an eye on each other and call for the other in case of an emergency.
Tell someone you’re going surfing
Let someone know when and where you’re going out and when you expect to be back.
Check weather and tides
Before you set out, check the local forecast for wind, swell, and tide.
Know your limits
It’s easy to be caught out. Don’t challenge yourself too early and know your limits.
Be aware of rip currents
Look for areas where you think there should be waves, but there aren't. This could be a sign that it's a rip current. If caught in a rip current, don't panic! They're not going to drag you under, just take you for a little joy ride. Swim with it and slowly out to the side to conserve energy. You'll eventually escape the current and swim back to shore.
Always wear a leash
You don’t want to get separated from your board.
Wear the right wetsuit
As well as keeping you warm, wetsuits give some added protection from scrapes on rocks or impacts from other surfboards. Evo has a great guide for choosing the best wetsuit for you.
Understand surf etiquette and rights of way
Consider other surfers and water users. Running into another surfer or swimmer could result in serious injury. Make sure to give them some space.
One vital way to stay safe when you’re surfing in Washington is being prepared. Knowing how to read a surf report can make all the difference. Here’s what to know:
How to Read a Surf Report
Don't forget to check the surf report before you go! Waves range from flat to 12',–beginner to expert–depending on the day and season. Don't put yourself in a sketchy situation just because you want to paddle out. Only surf what you're comfortable with.
I like to use Magicseaweed to check surf reports before I head out–I’m no expert surfer, and I’ve found that its user interface and stats are all I need to decipher if it’s going to be a decent surf day! I don’t get super technical and I’m not chasing mavericks, so knowing how big the swell is and the wind direction is enough for me.
Seabrook
The coastal beach town of Seabrook was founded in 2004–it’s brand spankin’ new–with sustainability at its core. There are 475+ homes (250 of which are rentals), 18+ parks, 12 restaurants, and plenty of shops to keep you full, stocked, and stoked!
Seabrook
Surfing at Seabrook
Seabrook’s featureless beach break combined with a long sand spit creates great surf at nearly any tide interval–perfect for beginners.
When to Go
Early mornings typically bring calmer conditions. Check the surf report to preview wave size, direction, and wind to ensure an epic time!
Seabrook Surf Shops
Need gear rentals? A coach? A surf buddy? Advice? Or just want to talk to a knowledgeable local? Swing by Buck’s NW in Seabrook’s town center! He has everything you need for a solid surf adventure (and many other adventures too!).
Seabrook Restaurants
The Belfry Cafe
Beecher’s mac and cheese? Yes, please! This cafe serves hot breakfast, breakfast sandwiches, and seasonal lunch items.
Rising Tide Tavern
Blue | Juice & Salad Bar
Smoothies and bowls are always a great post-surf snack!
Frontager’s Pizza Co. & Social
Traditional cooking methods bring every Italian dish to life at Frontager’s Pizza Co. & Social. The space is gorgeous, and food top notch. Snag yourself a pie and indulge.
Growler’s Alley Beer Garden
Beer and the outdoors go hand in hand, and this beer garden definitely brings the hops and good vibes. It’s open seasonally, so check the website for current hours before planning your visit!
Koko’s Restaurant and Tequila Bar
Homemade, modern Latin small bites, amazing cocktails, and entrees for the win.
Vista Bakeshop
I love a fresh baked pastry in the morning, and Vista doesn’t disappoint. I’ll take a cruffin and lavender latte to go, please!
Frontager’s Pizza Co. & Social
Rising Tide & Tavern
Your gourmet pub with all the goods: fish n chips, beer (ofc) craft cocktails and more.
Cookie’s Country Chicken
Seasoned fried chicken, savory side dishes, and sauces make this spot a must-try, especially after a surf day! Open seasonally. Check the website for current hours.
The Evergreen Cottage in Seabrook
Where to Stay at Seabrook
There are over 250 Seabrook vacation rentals in this community alone! Each has their own unique features. My rec? Choose a seabrook house with a hot tub to thaw out after a chilly day on the waves. I stayed at the Beach Camp, which has a handful of one-bedroom cottages with a loft (3 beds total) and a full kitchen.
I’d recommend the Evergreen Cabin–nothing like a long hot tub sesh after a day in our chilly coastal waters!
Sunset at Seabrook
Leave No Trace
Always remember to leave no trace–pack out what you pack in, leave what you find, prepare for every adventure, and respect the outdoors and each other every step of the way. Learn more about how to leave no trace here.
And if you do decide to venture out, drop a comment below or shoot me an email to tell me how it went!
Happy adventuring!
