Most people visit the Washington coast for summer sun. The locals know better: some of the best days at the beach happen in the middle of winter, when Pacific storms roll in and the surf turns wild. Seabrook sits on a bluff above Mocrocks Beach, which makes it one of the easiest places on the coast to watch the show and then retreat somewhere warm. Here's how to plan a storm-watching getaway.
When Is Storm-Watching Season?
Storm season on the Washington coast generally runs from December through March. Weather systems build over thousands of miles of open Pacific before they reach the shore, so when a big one arrives, you get towering surf, sideways rain, and wind that makes the dune grass bend flat.
Storms don't follow a schedule, so the best strategy is to book a few nights and watch the forecast. The National Weather Service office in Seattle issues High Surf Advisories and Wind Advisories for the coast. When you see one for your dates, that's your cue to grab a rain jacket.
- Peak season: December through March
- Watch for High Surf and Wind Advisories from the National Weather Service
- Midweek winter stays are quieter and often easier to book
- Even calm winter days bring moody skies and empty beaches
Where to Watch in Seabrook
Seabrook's bluff gives you elevated views of the surf without going down to the sand. Seabrook recommends the Pacific Glen promenade, Overlook Park in the Elk Creek neighborhood, the Northwest Glen archway, and West Hill Park.
Pacific Glen is a favorite: a wide path winds through windswept trees past benches and a wooden gazebo that looks straight out over the Pacific. On a stormy afternoon, it's the best seat in town. Overlook Park, at the top of Seabrook's only stair-free beach trail, has ocean views of its own.
- Pacific Glen promenade and gazebo
- Overlook Park (Elk Creek)
- Northwest Glen log archway, at the top of the 90-step beach staircase
- West Hill Park
💡 Tip
Cake by the Ocean is tucked into the forest at Fernwood Station rather than on the bluff, so the wind is gentler at home. Walk to the overlooks for the drama, then head back to the quiet.
Storm-Watching Safety
Winter surf on the Washington coast is powerful and unpredictable. Sneaker waves can run far up the beach without warning, and waves can lift and roll heavy driftwood logs. Seabrook posts a Beach Warning Flag at each of its three beach accesses, so check it before heading down. Red means stay off the beach.
The safest storm watching happens from the bluff. If conditions allow you onto the sand, stay well back from the water and keep your eyes on the ocean.
- Check the Beach Warning Flag at the beach access before going down
- Never turn your back on the ocean
- Stay off driftwood logs, which waves can roll
- Keep kids and dogs close and well away from the surf line
- Wear an insulated rain jacket with zip pockets and waterproof boots
- Storms can knock out power, so charge your phone and pack a flashlight
Warm Up Afterward
The best part of storm watching is coming in from it. Grab a window seat for dinner at Koko's Restaurant & Tequila Bar, whose new Pacific Landing home has sweeping ocean views. Or settle into The Stowaway Wine Bar on Market Street for a flight and a charcuterie board while the rain hammers the windows.
Back at the cottage, the electric fireplace and private hot tub make the ideal storm-day finish. Few things feel better than a hot soak while cool rain falls around you.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time for storm watching on the Washington coast?
December through March is peak storm season on the Washington coast. Check the National Weather Service Seattle office for High Surf and Wind Advisories, which signal the most dramatic conditions.
Where can you watch storms in Seabrook, WA?
Seabrook's bluff-top viewpoints are the best spots: the Pacific Glen promenade and gazebo, Overlook Park in Elk Creek, the Northwest Glen archway, and West Hill Park. All of them let you watch the surf from above the beach.
Is it safe to go on the beach during a storm?
Often it isn't. Check the Beach Warning Flag posted at each Seabrook beach access, and stay off the beach when it's red. If you do go down, stay far back from the water, never turn your back on the ocean, and keep off driftwood logs, which large waves can move.
What should I pack for a storm-watching trip?
Pack an insulated, waterproof rain jacket with zip pockets, waterproof boots, warm layers, a hat, and a flashlight or headlamp in case of a power outage. Bring a swimsuit for the hot tub, too.
