Coastal birding habitat

Ocean Shores

Washington · Pacific Northwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Ocean Shores is a productive birding destination in Washington, with 275 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Mallard, Ring-necked Duck, and Greater Scaup among many others. Coastal and forest habitats support impressive year-round resident species and seasonal migrants.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Glaucous Gull

Larus hyperboreus

4/15/2026Ocean Shores--SR 115 Beach Access1 observed

Lapland Longspur

Calcarius lapponicus

4/15/2026Ocean Shores STP2 observed

Heermann's Gull

Larus heermanni

4/15/2026Midway Beach1 observed

Wilson's Warbler

Cardellina pusilla

4/13/2026Burrows Road1 observed

White-tailed Kite

Elanus leucurus

4/12/2026Johns River Wildlife Area1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Brant

704/15/2026

Canada Goose

64/15/2026

Surf Scoter

84/15/2026

Rock Pigeon

244/15/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

14/15/2026

Pigeon Guillemot

74/15/2026

American Herring Gull

14/15/2026

Glaucous-winged Gull

304/15/2026

Western x Glaucous-winged Gull (hybrid)

54/15/2026

Red-necked Grebe

14/15/2026

Western Grebe

34/15/2026

Pacific Loon

14/15/2026

Common Loon

24/15/2026

Brandt's Cormorant

74/15/2026

Pelagic Cormorant

204/15/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

24/15/2026

American White Pelican

24/15/2026

Brown Pelican

404/15/2026

Bald Eagle

14/15/2026

Northern Flicker

14/15/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  3. 3

    Pack rain gear — the best birding often coincides with drizzly conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Ocean Shores for birding?
The best months to visit Ocean Shores for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Ocean Shores?
Notable species at Ocean Shores include Mallard, Ring-necked Duck, Greater Scaup, Bufflehead, Pied-billed Grebe. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Ocean Shores?
Birding at Ocean Shores is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Ocean Shores?
Ocean Shores offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.