LONG BEACH PENINSULA At 28-miles long, it is perfect for social distancing
Story & Photos By Marguerite Cleveland
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ith the COVID-19 pandemic dragging on much longer than anyone expected, it can be challenging to find a safe place for a getaway. The Long Beach Peninsula in Washington state, with its many wide-open spaces, is perfect for a less risky vacation. The 28-mile-long beach is an ideal destination for social distancing. You can drive on the beach and remain in your car or just stroll for miles. Shops and restaurants are open and following state rules regarding safe distancing and wearing masks. The main drag has lines painted 6-feet apart on the sidewalk to aid keeping the recommended distance. During these chaotic times you may not want to leave your pooch behind. The Long Beach Peninsula is super dog friendly, so bring him along. Safe Distancing Activities Go fly a kite. This is a perfect activity for social distancing. Head out to the beach for miles of accessible space to fly your kite. The wind is always kicking, making it easy for your kite to find its way up into the sky. The World Kite Museum is worth a stop—if it is open. The gift shop has a great selection of kites for sale in all shapes and sizes. Make sure to check out the Bald Eagle flag. It is very impressive. Pack a picnic and head to either end of the peninsula to explore a Washington state park. Cape Disappointment State Park is at the southern end and has a variety of activities as well as two lighthouses to hike to. It is also part of the Lewis and Clark National and State Historical Parks and highlights the westernmost terminus for the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Make sure to check out Beards Hollow at both the scenic overlook and down below on the trail. The area was once a cove and is now marshy land. At the northern tip of the peninsula is the Leadbetter Point State Park, which has 7 miles of hiking trails. The park has beach frontage on both the Pacific Ocean and Willapa Bay. This park is not well known, so chances are you will find a place all to yourself. The paved 8.5-mile Discovery Trail is well maintained and perfect for bike riding or pushing a stroller. It starts in Downtown Ilwaco and ends on Long Beach at an 18-foot bronze tree. There are displays and sculptures along the way, as well as great beach views. It is relatively flat except for the portion going through Cape Disappointment State Park, which is hilly. The half-mile Long Beach Boardwalk is not what
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