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By Wendy Thomas
Published: 01/25/24 Topics: Aberdeen Washington, Dog Friendly, Hi-Tide Resort, Interview, Moclips Beach WA, Ocean Shores WA, Vacation Comments: 2

Interview with Hi-Tide guest Michael Muller and his stay at Hi-Tide Resort on Moclips Beach Washington State

For 33 years, Michael Muller, from Edmonds, worked for the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife. So naturally, when he wants to take a weekend away, he heads out to the coast.

Visiting Moclips for the first time, he came to Hi-Tide Resort in October 2023, hoping to avoid the crowds but still have the great weather the coast can provide.

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Hi-Tide: What brought you out to the coast?

Michael: I wanted to visit with friends in the area. I saw Hi-Tide was there, and I could bring my Husky/Malamute mix, Yuka. I was debating about going to Lake Cushman or the coast, and I decided I wanted to get Yuka out to the ocean.

Hi-Tide: What did you do while you stayed with us?

Michael: We did a lot of exploring of the area. We also enjoyed the solitude and quiet of the beach. Yuka was a busybody on the dunes. At night, I loved looking up at the stars and I could see the crabbers with their lights on way out in the water. The weather was perfect, since it was the tail end of summer and it was still warm.

Hi-Tide: Were you upset there was no razor clamming during your visit?

Michael: No. It’s hard to keep track of Yuka and dig for clams at the same time. I talked to other people at the resort about it and liked that there was a cleaning station right there for people to use. Not many places have that.

Razor clams are one of my favorites, though. I stopped at Duffy’s in Aberdeen on my way out to the coast. They were some of the best razor clams I’ve had.

Hi-Tide: What was the best part about your stay?

Michael: On our first day there I discovered that Yuka would not go up the stairs. I had to carry her the few tries we went up those stairs. I called the front desk and Jerry there was able to get us moved to a ground floor unit within an hour of my phone call.

Hi-Tide: Would you come back to Hi-Tide?

Michael: Absolutely! I’d like to come back at about the same time of year later this year. I’d like to take my daughter and granddaughter, and Yuka’s littermate Kavic.

Eloise Rocks Out at Hi-Tide Resort

By Wm. May
Published: 07/10/23 Topics: Art, Fishing, Hi-Tide Resort, Photography, Vacation Comments: 0

No one knows exactly how it all got started. Maybe it is a myth.

The dreamy story goes like this. Long ago a young guest brought along a painting set to the beach.

The plan was to create a Vincent Van Gogh worthy painting of the sundown just as the mythical magical but very real great green flash that winks when the sun disappears completely. And just for a second.

Her name was not recorded at the time, but for now we have come to call her "Eloise". There is no record of whether she successfully caught and depicted the momentous moment. But it is something that can be frequently be seen year round from the condos at Hi-Tide.

After wandering the beach, exploring the Moclips River and digging a full limit of Razor Clams , Eloise decided to use her leftover paint to leave a message and art on a small round river rock.

The portrait of her dog, who had accompanied her to HI-Tide, included the dog's name "Picasso" and these lovely words, "I love it here. I will be back."

She placed the rock gently into a flower bed just outside the entrance to the resort office. What happened next started slowly but has grown to become a must-do activity for visitors from all over the world.

Travelers journey to Moclips Beach, staying at our lovely Hi-Tide Resort , and enjoying the very same peace and quiet and stunning beauty of the North Beaches of Washington State.

Some stay for just a few days. Others stay for a week or two or longer. But before they leave, they can ask for paint and a brush with directions were to find a suitable rock on which to paint their message for posterity.

Today, the gardens of HI-Tide Resort are filled with painted rocks and messages of love and life. Better yet, most visitors return year after year. To paint a new rock or to touch-up those which have graced the gardens for decades.

You are invited to make your own memory here and rock out at Hi-Tide.

Author: Wm. May – Rock Out at Hi-Tide Resort, Hi-Tide Resort
Blog #: 0940 – 07/10/23

Sponsor: Hi-Tide Resort – You can't get any closer to the beach than this. comfy, cozy, modern condos at Hi-Tide-Resort on Moclips Beach WA State. – Hi-Tide-Resort.com

Hi Tide Resort Nearby But Far From Seabrook

By Wm. May
Published: 06/11/23 Topics: Hi-Tide Resort, Moclips Beach WA, Ocean Shores WA, Pacific Beach, Seabrook Resort, Wildlife Comments: 1

We love our neighbor to the south. Seabrook Resort has brought more visibility and new visitors to Washington State's North Beaches from Ocean Shores to Moclips.

Now with 500 new homes perched on a cliff to the south of the town of Pacific Beach, it boasts stores, restaurants, a town hall for weddings, and thousands of neighbors. Newspapers have extolled its virtues and praised the developers for this "New Urbanism"

We are not sure what that means, but praise of our beaches is nothing new. Over 118 years ago, Seattleites hopped trains to "Visit The Shore" at Moclips Beach. and to stave off the city's sweltering summer heat in our warm clime moderated by the refreshing Pacific Ocean.

Since the advent of the automobile, families have zipped to the North Beaches to jump the waves, dig razor clams, collect shells, make sand castles, and watch the sun sink slowly in the west. This is where folks come to getaway, to relax and to invigorate their souls.

At Seabrook, you can pay big money to rent a vacation home for a week or weekend. Or you can rent a moderately priced oceanfront condo at Hi-Tide Resort directly on Moclips' Moonstone beach. And there is a difference here...

From Seabrook town center you will get to trudge 2,000 steps and then descend 200 steep stair steps just to reach the sand, with the ocean another several hundred feet beyond that. While at Hi-Tide you only need to stroll a pleasant 99 steps directly through the level dunes to the ocean. (No steps.)

Of course, if you want to stretch your legs further, you can walk for miles down the coast. And never need go back up any stairs.

Most homes at Seabrook don't have a view, while every one of our condos looks directly out to the rolling surf. The few Seabrook homes that do have a peek-a-boo view may provide binoculars or telescopes, in hopes guests can catch a fleeting glance at seabirds and boats on the horizon.

But you won't need binoculars at Hi-Tide. You can sit on the deck, put your feet up, smell the salty air and marvel as thousands of seabirds swoop and soar directly overhead.

In some seasons there are actually millions of acrobatic Rock Sandpipers, Wandering tattlers, Surfbirds and Black Turnstones migrating from Arctic feedings grounds far to the south. They pass directly overhead and just off the shore.

We must admit Hi-Tide has no swanky restaurants and no tony stores. But if you just can't wait to spend lots of money, take the 8 minute drive to Seabrook. Then after blowing all your cash, zip right back to Hi-Tide to spend all day and all night listening to the ocean and the birds.

Maybe you'll even see that legendary green flash as the golden sun drops below the westerly horizon each evening.

So how about this for a plan - Make a short pit stop at Seabrook to jostle with all the tourists and spend all your money. But stay directly on Moclips Beach at Hi-Tide Resort to rest, relax and recreate.

Hi-Tide Resort Majestic Neighbor - Point Grenville

By Laurie McPherson
Published: 11/12/22 Topics: Hi-Tide Resort, Moclips Beach WA, Ocean Shores WA Comments: 0

Point Grenveille on the Coast of Washington State

Every condo at HI-Tide Resort has a view to the North of majestic Point Grenville. This headland abuts the might Pacific Ocean with breathtaking cliffs soaring 120 feet above the surf.

Thee are numerous sear stack rock formations from ancient volcanic eruptions that occurred some 40 - 50 million years ago. Seabirds flock the point, seals swim just offshore often laying up on the beach below.

The Point is sacred to the Quinault native American nation and received its westernized name being named after Lord William Grenville, the United Kingdom's Secretary of State when Captain George Vancouver sailed by in April, 1792.

The U.S. Coast Guard operated a radio navigation station here from 1949-1979.

The 2013 Paddle to Quinault celebrated all native tribes with festivities lasting over a week and included a great many members making the canoe journey and landing at Haynisisoos Park.

Strolling the beach, one can immerse themselves into nature with cliffs and sea stacks surrounded by the Olympic National Park and the waves of the ocean.

The point is also a great location to try and capture the elusive "green flash" as the sun sets beyond the water.

The area is not on public land and a pass is required for access which can be purchased at the Tribal Office located just about 4 miles north on the Quinault Indian Nation.

This largely unknown, and uncrowded area is waiting for you to explore.

Author: Laurie McPherson – Contributor, Hi Tide Resort
Blog #: 0922 – 11/12/22

Sponsor: Hi-Tide Resort –

Summer Songs at Hi-Tide Resort

By Wm. May
Published: 04/01/22 Topics: Hi-Tide Resort, Moclips Beach WA, Music, Ocean Shores WA, Radio Comments: 1

https://Redstone.net/images/Blogs/866/BeachSong.jpg

Thinking of the beach brings up memories of the surf, sand, wildlife and, of course, the summer sun that bathes Moonstone Beach at Hi-Tide Resort in Moclips, Washington State. State.

Guests have been visiting our "directly on the beach" condos for many years, most returning year after year. Of course, we could tell you all about our comfy furniture, fully outfitted kitchens, private decks and views North, South and West (far west).

But maybe if we conjure up a few songs, you'll get the idea. The songs we play over and over again during all the fun times we have here.(Click on any song to listen.)

Surfin' USA - The Beach Boys

This tune was all over the radio in 1963 and ranked as the top song in Billboard rankings. It is the most recognized recording ever written by Beach Boys' Brian Wilson, although band member Mike Love says he co-wrote it.

Fifteen surfing hot spots are mentioned, most in California, with a nod to Australia's Narrabeen and, of course, to the grand daddy of them all - Hawaii's Waimea Bay.

Our Moonstone Beach at Moclips is not known for surfing, but that's OK because we get to keep the place to ourselves.

Summertime and the Livin' is Easy - George Gershwin

In 1934, Gershwin wrote this steamy song for his American opera, Porgy and Bess, with lyrics help from Dubose Heyward, the author of the novel on which the opera was based.

First recorded by Billie Holiday, who was to become an icon in musical history, Summertime has been recorded over 68,591 times, then a world record for cover tunes.

We don't suffer from the stifling 100 degree heat and 100 percent humidity that this song evokes, but we do find the living easy all summer at Hi-Tide. Warm breezes, warm sun, warm sand make it a comfortable place to hang out in the summer.

Hot Time Summer in the City - The Loving Spoonful

Written by John Sebastian, Mark Sebastian and Steve Boone, this summer at Hi-Tide you may be glad you are enjoying the pleasant hot sunshine on Moclips Beach and not the sizzling city. The waves are friendly as you sit back and watch the sun sink into the ocean directly west from our condos

You might even seen the famous, green flash, just as the last bit of the sun disappears over the horizon.

Somewhere Over the Rainbow - Israel Kamakawiwo'ole

If you have never heard this "Iz" song, you are one of the few. Where have you been? With over one BILLION views/listens on YouTube, this medley of Over the Rainbow and What a Wonderful World make Bruddah Iz the top selling artist of all times on the world music charts.

Nothing could be better as you drift off to sleep in one of our Hi-Tide condos than to listen to the gentle ukulele strum and the stunning voice of Bruddah Iz, the hero of Hawaii.

And why Hawaii, when we are here on the coast of Washington State? Every ocean brings the same enchantment, the same relaxation and the same love of the world, including here on Moonstone Beach.

When you visit this summer, you just might hear other guests humming contently one of these songs as they settle into beach life. But don't wait long or we'll be full and then you would have to sing a sad song. And, of course, we wouldn't want that.

Hi-Tide Resort One Million Visitors

By Wm. May
Published: 11/01/21 Topics: Fishing, Goldener Inns, Hi-Tide Resort, Moclips Beach WA, Ocean Shores WA Comments: 1

Photo credit: Dan Ayres/WDFW

For decades, tens of thousands of people have enjoyed staying at Hi-Tide Resort on Moclips Beach on the Coast of Washington State.

They come from everywhere around the Northwest, from across the United States, and even from foreign countries.

Visitors love the clean, crisp air, the natural dunes, the river that wraps around the property, and walking the beach for mile after mile.

Families return year after year, settling into their favorite condo where they can watch the sunset, cook on the resort grills, play horseshoes, jump in the surf, and even cast a line to catch perch and other delicacies.

Little do people know that millions of other visitors seem to find the destination just as intriguing. They are native to the area and seem to be flourishing because, well, they are frisky, shall we say.

If you have never eaten one, know this - Razor clams are an eating delicacy that grows only in certain places in the world, and they are especially prolific there.

Razors live in intertidal and subtidal zones and are filter feeders with short siphons, so they live just beneath the surface to feed, like right here, just below the surface of Moclips Beach.

When low tides expose the bottom, the clams dig and burrow deeper into the sand with their strong muscular feet.

The clams are plentiful because females have 6-10 million eggs, of which less than 5% will survive. When ocean temperature reaches 55+ degrees, the clams release their sperm and eggs into the water.

Larvae that develop from the eggs are free-floating and called "veligers," carried by the current.

Over the course of 5-16 weeks (depending on water temperature), they develop a shell and settle to the seafloor as juveniles, but of those, 95% die of natural causes.

Razor Clams that survive burrow deeper and become harvestable when they reach 3.5 inches in one year and 4.5 inches in two. They can then begin to reproduce.

Dan Ayres, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife coastal shellfish manager, says reports on Monday show more than 9,256 differs in the Moclips area took 160,896 clams, with 10,193 Copalis area diggers taking 193,327 clams.

On Long Beach alone, diggers went home with 428,861 clams. That means that together, over one million of our favorite bi-vales went home with visitors to be fried, canned, dumped into chowder, or made into sushi.

But don’t worry about diminishing the population. Razor clams propagate at an astonishing rate.

Shellfish harvest licenses are required in order to dig clams. These are available at any sporting goods store.

Law requires that clammers keep the first clams they dig (no putting back small clams). In most years, the limit is 15 clams, but through the end of 2021, it was increased to 20 when recent surveys who healthy populations.

Razor clams are very fragile and easily broken: each year thousands of clams are wasted when diggers return small or damaged clams to the sand.

The next time you are sitting on our condo deck at Hi-Tide Resort gazing out over the sand and sea, think of those millions of razor clams enjoying the ocean just as much as you are.

Hi-Tide Guests Say the Nicest Things

By Chris Butcher
Published: 08/31/21 Topics: Goldener Inns, Hi-Tide Resort, Moclips Beach WA, Ocean Shores WA Comments: 0

Whether they're a first-timer or a repeat guest, those who decide to book a stay at the Hi-Tide resort while visiting Moclips leave feeling like they've found a home-away-from-home.

Don't believe us? Here are a few of the verdicts from guests who had a wonderful stay.

New guests

"Thank you so much - We absolutely enjoyed our stay (This will be a yearly trip now!!!) Thank you, the room was very clean!" - Stayed in unit #9

"We had a Wonderful Stay. It FELT LIKE HOME." - Stayed in unit #12

"The room, BBQ grill, patio, parking, all home-like features! Thank You for making our Honeymoon enjoyable!" - Stayed in unit #21

Had a comfortable bed, a clean shower and a wonderful fireplace with complimentary logs, great!!! All the comforts of home!! - Stayed in unit #36

Author: Chris Butcher – Web Content Admin, Hi Tide Resort
Blog #: 0827 – 08/31/21

Sponsor: Hi-Tide Resort – You can't get any closer to the beach than this. comfy, cozy, modern condos at Hi-Tide-Resort on Moclips Beach WA State. – Hi-Tide-Resort.com

Walking from Moclips Beach to Ocean Shores

By Jerry Tuerk
Published: 07/25/21 Topics: Goldener Inns, Hi-Tide Resort, Moclips Beach WA, Ocean Shores WA, Things To Do Comments: 0

Walking the beach is an age-old way to disconnect from the world. To walk and think and marvel at the power of the waves. But where to walk is the question.

Everyone who visits Moclips Beach on the coast of Washington State wants to know how far they can walk down the beach. The answer is all the way.

That means all the way to the Jetty in Ocean Shores and, believe it or not, that is a whopping 24 miles. But more realistically, a walk from Hi-Tide Resort South to Pacific Beach is a tidy 2.7 miles.

Along the way, you'll see the wide-open expanse sand, and surf and hopefully the sun too, especially in summer. Stay close to the water and the sand is firm and an easy stroll.

Gander at the marvelous beach houses and listen to the never-ending waves and seabirds. There won't be any crowds or hubbub. But there will be beauty, clean air, peace, and quiet.

Naturally, you can walk the whole round trip or just double back.

Author: Jerry Tuerk – General Manager, Hi Tide Resort
Blog #: 0821 – 07/25/21

Sponsor: Hi-Tide Resort – You can't get any closer to the beach than this. comfy, cozy, modern condos at Hi-Tide-Resort on Moclips Beach WA State. – Hi-Tide-Resort.com

T'was he Night Before 4th of July

By Wm. May
Published: 07/03/21 Topics: Fishing, Goldener Inns, Hi-Tide Resort, Holidays, Moclips Beach WA, Ocean Shores WA Comments: 0

It is late night July 3rd and all through the area, not a creature is stirring. Every pillow at Hi-Tide Resort has a head on it.

Children do not have visions of sugar plums dancing in their heads. They are dreaming of the shells they collected, the waves they jumped and the games they played today.

At dinner, every picnic table was filled with families devouring hamburgers and hot dogs hot from the barbecue, dollops of potato salad, and later followed by ‘s'mores stuffed with chocolate and mashed melted marsh mellows.

For moms and dads, grandparents and friends, beer was preferred. For some, it was fine wine. Cocktails for others. Children gulped fresh-squeezed lemonade as their libation of choice.

Kids and adults alike stayed up late ‘round the campfire spinning yarns and trying jokes. Campfire songs were sung, although no one knew all the words laughter erupted for no good reason. Smiles were everywhere.

Now it is late and every person here is dreaming of another dreamy day on Moclips Beach, or wading through the Moclips River, or playing horseshoes or just strolling through the dunes.

We can’t claim that jolly old Saint Nicholas will soon be here, but maybe Robert Gray, the namesake for our area, will appear for just a moment to proclaim "And to all a good night."

Author: Wm. May, Hi Tide Resort
Blog #: 0819 – 07/03/21

Sponsor: Hi-Tide Resort – You can't get any closer to the beach than this. comfy, cozy, modern condos at Hi-Tide-Resort on Moclips Beach WA State. – Hi-Tide-Resort.com

104 Degrees at Moclips Beach

By Jerry Tuerk
Published: 06/26/21 Topics: Comments: 0

Hi Tide Resort Moclilps Washington USA 104 Degrees

Summer weather on the North Beaches of Washington State is always great, but the TV news tonight says it will be 104 degrees tomorrow Sunday. Yikes.

A little more sleuthing shows they mean 105 in Aberdeen, which is just 25 miles away and about 10 miles from the ocean. So we will probably see a nice tidy 84 degrees at Hi-Tide Resort on Moclips Beach.

Even if that is a bit too toasty for you, never fear, the cool crisp Pacific Ocean is just a hop, skip, and a jump away. Or cool off where the Moclips river merges with the ocean just feet from our north building. You can't get any closer to nature than right here.

With luck, we'll have a little onshore breeze and the most stunning sunset ever. With luck, we'll even glimpse that last-minute green flash when the blazing sun slips right into the seas.

We wish you were here. But better yet, come soon.

P.S. It is midnight as I write and still 81 degrees. Lovely.

Author: Jerry Tuerk – General Manager, Hi Tide Resort
Blog #: 0818 – 06/26/21

How Dare They Go To Work

By William May
Published: 04/20/20 Topics: Covid-19 Virus, Family, Gratitude, Health Comments: 0

Really, who the hell do they think they are?

Awakening early every morning, or even in the middle of the night. After too little sleep and too much stress, trudging to a job they love, although they admit it is difficult to love right now. How dare they go to work?

They will often spend 12-hours shifts or much longer and for days on end. Not one day off, not a moment to spend on personal things. No time with family or friends. How do they dare do that to themselves?

Some are paid very well, some paid adequately and others earn far too little. Most will receive nothing extra for the insurmountable obstacles they confront. How do they dare to work at all when others would not?

And yet, they persevere and get up and go to a job they know will be very frustrating. They know it is also rewarding, but that it will not feel that way every day. They do not dare to think about relief, at least not yet.

At the job, they will toil hour after hour, often with no time to eat or take a break. Squeezing in a bathroom break is necessary, but even that feels like wasting time. They will be confronted with thing after thing to do. Work upon work. No rest for the weary.

There will be a non-stop demand to do the difficult, the impossible and even the frightening. They won't feel up to the task all the time, but they will step up to the tasks every time. How dare they do that to themselves?

They see weeks of challenge ahead, maybe months, maybe years. They refuse to look for the finish line, because every champion runner puts one foot ahead of the other knowing it’s the only way to finish. They think about quitting, but only rarely, because quitting would make it more difficult for others. They dare not let anyone down.

As the world begins to show its gratitude for these wonderful human beings, they will still feel inadequate, because the mission is so huge and for now seemingly impossible. How dare they believe they can make it better?

These people are not necessarily glib with their words. They have no time for pontificating. They have no time to complain. They do not seek glory or even recognition. They would not dare direct any attention to themselves.

Every one of them knows the risk of physical illness, mental duress, financial hardships and family stress. They know these things, so how do they continue on? Would anyone else dare?

They dare because the task is at hand. The challenge is now. They dare not wait. They dare not fail. They will not let that happen, no matter how long it takes and no matter the personal cost. How dare they believe they are life givers?

Doctors, nurses, caregivers, counselors, therapists, pharmacists, ambulance drivers, EMTs, first-responders, administrators, janitors and every employee at every hospital, all dare to come to work - and we must all be so grateful that they do.

These people dare because they are different than most of us. Very different. Most dreamt of their career as a calling. They have always known it would be difficult, but they never dared to think it would be like this. But they did know that they could and would act in ways the rest of us cannot promise. They dare to go to work because they saves lives.

Whether you believe in God or you do not, whether you can donate to their cause or not, whether you have suffered from illness or not, it is now time to give thanks that somehow there are people like them in the world.

It is time thank them for dedication that is immense, commitment that is astounding, and for courage that is unending. How dare they?

Author: William May, Plumbob Publishing
Blog #: 0743 – 04/20/20

Clean, Wipe, Soak, Scrub, Brush, Scour, Polish

By Ron Lee
Published: 04/18/20 Topics: Covid-19 Virus, Housekeeping, Lodging Management Comments: 0

How to Clean and Sanitize Vacation Rental Homes

Since our first office opened in 1964, we have been rigorously cleaning and sanitizing properties for decades. This is nothing new to us. In fact, our homes are cleaned to a degree higher than most people have at home. It has always been our commitment to have every home safe and ready for guest arrival.

Get a Real Getaway

If you need a vacation, holiday escape, spring break, fresh air and time alone, vacation rentals are the best option. Bring kids or not. Bring the family or just your spouse. Most homes are free-standing, so you can avoid crowds. Even in our condos, the homes are open corridor, so there is no need to pass through common areas, like lobbies and dark hallways.

When Guests Depart

After guests depart, housekeepers arrive at every home to clean, wipe, soak, scrub, brush, scour, mop and polish bathrooms, kitchens, bedrooms, common spaces and even decks and patios, linens, towels and surfaces. Hot tubs are disinfected. This entire process - called "out Clean" - takes many hours. Then homes are spot checked by managers to ensure good work. When departing, all staff members use bleach rags, so that even the door knob and key-safe are sanitized. Wow!

Sanitation Cleaning Products

We use a variety of products to clean, disinfect and sanitize. All are approved for high health standards. We still use bleach for some areas because it is still the gold standard for killing every kind of bug. In fact, if you enter a home immediately after housekeepers depart, for a few minutes you may detect a slight cleaning smell. That is your assurance of sanitization.

Bathroom Super Scrub

Cleaning bathrooms is not a fun task, but we carefully clean all sinks, mirrors, toilets, drawers, bathtubs and shower enclosures until they sparkle. But they have also been sprayed and later wiped with disinfectant. Soiled and unsoiled towels are removed before cleaning starts to avoid cross contamination. This is a hands-and-knees job, but housekeepers pride themselves on meticulous cleaning.

Proper Wipe Downs

You might think that spraying and wiping surfaces with disinfectant is sufficient, but it is not. Instead, disinfectant must be left on surfaces for a period of time before it is wiped away. This gives time for the liquid to kill all the germs.

- Door knobs inside and outside.

- Window switches.

- Light switches and sockets.

- Lamp switches.

- Cupboard doors and surfaces.

- Table tops including night stands.

- Appliances - top and sides.

- Counter tops.

- Reachable walls.

- Outdoor furniture.

- Stairs and deck handrails.

- Toasters and coffee makers.

- TV and other remote controls.

- Stereos and computers.

- Door bells and key safes.

- Toys and board games.

- Pet toys and blankets.

- And more.

Vacuuming, Mopping, Sweeping

Are you ever tempted to do floors fast? By slowing down the process and covering every floor surface carefully, dirt, grime and germs are removed. We keep equipment new and well maintained to get the best results. Housekeepers are never limited to cleaning hours. Instead, they are encouraged to take all the time they need to do the job right.

Kitchens and Dining Rooms

Kitchens get splattered on, baked in and used heavily. It is a big job, but to get kitchens spic-and-span is essential, from the stove to oven to refrigerator, but also microwaves, cupboards, fans and light fixtures. Cleaned inside and out. You will notice we remove condiments, such as ketchup and mustard left from prior guests, because leaving open containers violates health standards. You'll have to bring your own, but you'll know they are new and fresh.

Hot Tubs and Spas

Every hot tub is completely disinfected after each booking by trained staff members. Sand or debris is removed, filters are inspected, and chemicals are adjusted. In addition, the hot tub cove, top and side surfaces are disinfected. If you arrive to a tub that is not yet fully heated, please wait because we had to empty and refill it. Takes time to reheat.

Towels and Linens

Washing and drying linens and towels is an obvious step, be we wall all of them, even if a bed does not appear to have been slept in. They are transported to the washer-dryer using rubber gloves and laundry bags, and they are returned to beds in baskets to avoid cross contamination. Along with quality detergent, additional disinfectant is added to all washing to ensure germs are eradicated.

Deep Cleans

In addition to our rigorous out-clean, homes receive deep cleans regularly to cover hard to access areas, including heating ducts, cupboard sides and ceilings, high surfaces, fans, carpets and more. This takes many hours, and ensures the cleanest possible property.

When Guests Depart

You may notice that we do NOT as guests to do laundry or to remove linens and towels to the laundry area. We do it all to ensure that every textile has been washed and cleaned properly without dragging it through the house.

Call Us Quick: 206-504-2744

If at any time during your stay, if you find any issue, call our 24-7-365 day phone number for assistance. If necessary, our staff will happily come to the property to ensure all is right. And if you want daily cleaning, we can arrange that too, for a small additional fee.

Avoid Crowds, Stay in a Private, Vacation Home!

Year round, in every season, and no matter what is happening in the rest of the world, vacation rentals offer a respite from the rate race, a chance to get away and to enjoy a sparkling clean, sanitized home.

Author: Ron Lee, Vortex Managers
Blog #: 0742 – 04/18/20

All Travel is a Local Beehive

By William May
Published: 03/01/20 Topics: Fishing, Marketing, Restaurants Comments: 0

Beehive Restaurant Montesano, Washington State USA

My memory is vivid even though it was decades ago. At age 10, I began playing little league baseball in the small town of Montesano, Washington State.

It is an idyllic place even today. The county seat and classically designed courthouse give the town the feel of financial stability. Homes and lawns are well kept and right in the middle of the town is the Nelson Baseball Field.

I dropped by yesterday during a time warp to find that nothing hand changed. The grass was green and well manicured. Local merchants had signs on the outfield fence. In the early morning, the only things missing were players, coaches and parents. I was all alone.

Winding up the road, I came to Lake Sylvia State Park and the time warp opened again. Nothing had changed in all that time. It wasn't fishing season, but I could imagine children on the bridge pulling in freshly planted trout. The beach and swimming area matched my memory precisely.

When we won little league games, the coach - my father, treated us to milk shakes at Gene's Stop and Go. They had dozens of flavors, but I never waivered. Chocolate was my one and only love. Still is.

At season end, Dad treated the family to dinner at the the Beehive Restaurant, that sat squarely in the middle of town. I remember the bright yellow sign with bees on it, the lunch counter, the waitresses so nice to small children, and the chicken-fried steak that my father ordered every time.

There are many stupendous things to see and places to go in the world. But those most loved are those that stay true to themselves. They find a good thing and tend it lovingly.

To my delight, the Beehive still sits at the same corner. Still has a lunch counter and still has smiling women who are nice to every customer. And the chicken-fried steak? Well, it was just as good as all those years ago. Fresh corn on the cob. Hand made smashed garlic potatoes.

After seeing all those big sites, visit Montesano some day to remember that local travel is always the best way to learn and share.

Author: William May – Publisher, Plumbob Publishing
Blog #: 0740 – 03/01/20

Ocean Shores Publishing launches Hidden Coast Scenic Byway website

By Simon Berman
Published: 11/18/19 Topics: Comments: 0

Ocean Shores Publishing, publishers of OceanShores.com, is pleased to announce the launch of hiddencoastscenicbyway.com, a website celebrating the beauty of Washington State’s coastal byway, State Route 109.

The 41 miles of the Hidden Coast Byway traverses the coastal hills and long, sometimes foggy, beaches of the Pacific coast at the western edge of the Olympic Peninsula. Access to state and national parks abound, as do opportunities to observe pristine wilderness and the unique wildlife of the maritime Pacific Northwest.

Ocean Shores Publishing saw a need to better promote this beautiful region to potential visitors and took up the challenge to build and launch a website in celebration. From the newly launched hiddencoastsscenicbyway.com visitors can learn more about the byway’s route, the towns through which it passes, and opportunities for leisure and lodging.

A robust events calendar and blog supplement this information, helping inform the public of local happenings, festivals, and more. Whether visitors are looking for a quiet beach weekend, or a place from which to explore the stunning wilderness of the Copalis Ghost Forest, Olympic National Park, and Grays Harbor National Wildlife refuge, this new site will keep them well informed.

Ocean Shores Publishing is a leading advocate for tourism on Washington’s Pacific Coast. They are the creators and operators of OceanShores.com, the premiere website for information about this popular tourist town and it’s surrounding environs.

Author: Simon Berman
Blog #: 0711 – 11/18/19

History Melds Coastline Into Military Resort

By Cindy Stearns
Published: 11/11/19 Topics: Comments: 0

It began as an area inhabited by the Quinault Indian Nation. These people populated the North Beach area including what is now Pacific Beach. Their families hunted sea otters and whales via canoe.

Settlers began to arrive in the 1870s and sea otters were expended because of their prized furs. Clams soon overtook otters as the local primary food supply. Clam digging became so vital and a part of North Beach life, classes at the first school opened in 1900 on the nearby Copalis River, were scheduled according to the tides.

Pacific Beach was known as a cannery and sawmill town. And in 1902, another evolution brought a change to the coast. The Northern Pacific Railway linked this dot on the North Beach to the twin harbor towns of Hoquiam and Aberdeen. Pacific Beach was now a resort destination. With an ocean beach almost two miles long, the Pacific Beach Hotel opened in 1906.

After a fire in 1915, the hotel was rebuilt with 50 rooms and added 25 cabins by 1930. During its peak, there were well-known guests including the actor, Frederick Marsh. It became known as one of the Pacific Northwest's idyllic honeymoon destinations.

By 1942, hotel business had declined, due to wartime travel and fuel limitations. The hotel was identified as underused facility that could be quickly transformed to barracks. The Navy purchased the hotel and grounds for use as an anti-aircraft-gunnery training school. The

Navy and Air Force converted the rooms into regional headquarters for training anti-aircraft recruits.

After World War II, the facility was offered to the local community for $1. With Pacific Beach being unincorporated, the sale could not be completed. The base sat idle until 1950 when the Air Force moved in and used it as a radar station for five years.

Following years of inactivity, Naval Facility engineers redeveloped the base between 1957-1958. It was disestablished in October of 1987, transferred to Naval Station Puget Sound. It then was under the direction of Naval Station Everett. Under Commander Naval Station guidance, the facility is now an active part of Fleet & Family Readiness (MWR).

During 2000-2001, the hotel building underwent a complete renovation. The restaurant is open to the public. In 2010 a multi-million dollar renovation project was completed on the 30 cottages.

And when you drive Main Street, following the curve along the beach, you'll find the Pacific Beach Resort & Conference Center. You'll find the hotel, cottages, RV park/camping area, all with an expansive view of the Pacific Ocean.

Author: Cindy Stearns – Editor
Blog #: 0710 – 11/11/19

Dining along the Hidden Coast Scenic Byway

By Cindy Stearns
Published: 11/04/19 Topics: Comments: 0

You've decided to take a trip along the scenic Hidden Coast Scenic Byway. And you're going to dine as you go. Where and what are some of the selections you'll find?

As you head toward the beach, it's a stop at The Grizzly Den. Just before you reach the Bowerman Basin, it's this spot in Hoquiam. Order a hand-spanked burger with fresh, homemade fries. And plan on a milk shake or ice cream cone before you head on your way. You'll be able to eat inside, carry out or grab a picnic table. It's be known to spot a heron at the edge of the shorebird viewing area on your Hidden Coast trek.

Maybe you'd like to pick up something and fix yourself while you visit the beach. Lytle's Seafood is situated with a view of Grays Harbor. Lytle Seafoods Oyster Shack is a retail and wholesale seafood business. Specializing in their own fresh oysters grown in the cold waters of the North Bay of Grays Harbor, you're able to purchase and take with you on your journey. Other selections include a variety of seafood and more for you to enjoy.

Local markets dot your way along the Hidden Coast Scenic Byway. Sunrise Market is in Ocean City. New owner, Paula Parker continues to add new lines and products. Lonetree Espresso is a recent addition in the parking area. Grab an espresso on the go.

Copalis Beach Grocery is becoming a local and visitor favorite. This building was totally redone and is open every day of the year. Fresh produce and a bit of the gourmet selection is here for you.

Green Lantern Pub has been a traditional stop for bikers and the rest of us for years in Copalis Beach. During clam dig season, you'll find your clam guns available for sale on this corner. And it's now dining for all ages along with the bar.

Frontager's Pizza is a year-round treat in Seabrook. This concept company elevates the classic Italian brick-oven pizza by infusing Northwest artisanal ingredients. Next door is Sweet Life Ice Cream & Candy Shop featuring Olympic Mountain Ice Cream and tons of candy selections for you. New to Seabrook is a Food truck park and watch more additions and changes. (Watch for an announcement on Red Velvet Bakery.)

Speaking of pizza, there are a couple of more choices for you. Seagate Restaurant & Lounge on State Route 109 in Pacific Beach is known for their pizza. You may find homemade soup on the menu in winter and pan-fried oysters in season. There's a fully stocked bar and Karaoke on the weekends.

Take and bake (or let them do it) is at Moclips Country Deli and store right on SR 109. Also known for their burgers and you may find freshly made bake goods to purchase.

You & I Market in Pacific Beach has teriyaki fixed as you wait (or call ahead) six days a week. You may choose sweet & sour chicken or broccoli beef and other choices from the menu. It's ready for you in minutes.

Looking for a more formal, elegant experience? Ocean Crest Resort in Moclips is a four-generation run restaurant. Open breakfast through dinner, order Grandma's Clam Chowder, Salmon au Poivre with Maple-Balsamic Glazed Strawberries. Save room for dessert! And you may wish to start your day with Dungeness Crab Benedict.

Taholah Mercantile/Chitwin Cafe has Cooper Chicken, Skipper's and locally made soups and more for your lunch. Quinault Pride Seafood (just down the street) offers a retail stop. You're able to pick up individual or a gift-box of salmon and tuna to take with or ship. And fresh seafood (depends on the day and time of year) where you'll find halibut, sturgeon, tuna, seafood and more. Have them package it to take with you or ship it to yourself or as a gift.

Pick up s'mores supplies from any of the markets. Get that clamming license. It's all up to you with culinary choices to fit your style along the Hidden Coast Scenic Byway.

Author: Cindy Stearns
Blog #: 0707 – 11/04/19

Float your way eerily down the way to the Copalis Ghost Forest

By Cindy Stearns
Published: 10/28/19 Topics: Comments: 0

Eerie and hidden from view is the Copalis Ghost Forest. Travel the Hidden Coast Scenic Byway. When an earthquake hit in January 26, 1700, the ocean flooded the forest and thus, the Copalis Ghost Forest was created.

Known among researches as "the best example of a ghost forest in the world" this 9.0+ earthquake along the Cascadia subduction zone lowered the level of the land. Today, 300-foot high dead spruce trees still stand along the river banks.

Native Americans and First Nations people carried the story of this storm through oral tradition. This expansive grove of ghostly red cedars, geologists Brian Atwater and David Yamaguchi discovered, was killed by a deluge of salt water.

Kwakwaka’wakw indigenous group of British Columbia along with the Japanese have been able to determine the date this ghost forest formed. The date of the tsunami is calculated via tree ring data and records in Japan where they have tracked every tsunami wave for centuries.

In Japan, a six foot wave shortly after this earthquake was recorded.

The ghost forest may only be reached by boat. It's about two miles inland from Copalis Beach.

Local expert, Buck Giles of Buck's Bikes is able to provide you with more detail and access to this ghost forest. "The Copalis River Ghost Forest is a treasure trove of natural and local history. It tells a detailed story of the power of mother nature, and shows the signs of early industry and mans attempt to gain from her resources," he said.

Copalis Ghost Forest is accessible by kayak, canoe and even paddle board, according to Giles. He conducts guided tours. Buck's Bikes is in Seabrook on the Hidden Coast Scenic Byway.

Take time for this "ghostly" visit.

Author: Cindy Stearns
Blog #: 0706 – 10/28/19

Hunting for haunted spots along the Hidden Coast Scenic Byway

By Cindy Stearns
Published: 10/21/19 Topics: Comments: 0

October is a scary month. The weather is changing, evening comes quicker and ghosts and goblins roam the streets looking for treats. You're heading to the coast and would like to go with the theme.

Here are some "haunted spots" along the Hidden Coast Scenic Byway:

Billy's Bar and Grill-Billy Gohl may be the most ominous Aberdeen history. An infamous serial killer from the early 1900s, he was a sailor and laborer. As a representative of the Sailor's Union of the Pacific, sailors would stop in his office to collect mail, connect with fellow sailors and deposit their valuables. Initially, Gohl began to steal from his fellow sailors. He graduated to poisoning, shooting, strangling or bludgeoning and dumping their bodies down a trap door that led to the Wishkah River. Estimates are between 40 to over 100 met their faith by Gohl's hand. The restaurant names for him has employees and guests reportedly seeing shot glasses flying across the bar, experiencing cold spots throughout the restaurant, and hearing disembodies voices. And watch for apparitions, possible Gohl himself.

Cooney Mansion-This former bed & breakfast, built in 1908, was the home to lumber baron Neil Cooney. Known as "Spruce Cottage" with its finish of Sitka Spruce, Cooney was the manager of the Grays Harbor Commercial Company. Never married, his home included nine bedrooms, seven bathrooms with 8500 square feet. It has been operated as a bed & breakfast. Psychics have visited the manions. One owner brought in Advanced Ghost Hunters of Seattle-Tacoma (A.G.H.O.S.T.). They've reported doors shutting on their own, reading on their electromagnetic fields (EMFs) device detecting naturally occurring electric fields around electronic devices, indicating paranormal activity. And a personal account of seeming to have hair touched and watched in a mirror in one room, another with a cool breeze. Both of the rooms after having he experiences, being told these are two haunted spots. One was the room of the housekeeper or the companion of Cooney.

Lady Washington-Grays Harbor is home to the states tall ship. It's a replica of the first United States ship to visit the Pacific Northwest in 1788. It was the tall ship of Captain Robert Gray, thus the name Grays Harbor. "A Haunted Tour Guide to the Pacific Northwest" by Jefferson Davis, indicates spirits are attracted to the tall ship when it visits older ports. "Historic Ghosts that remain on the docs seem to gravitate toward the tall ship."

Lake Quinault Lodge-Rain drizzles and you're surrounded by old=growth forest at this historic lodge. Employees and guests have reported encounters with a ghost who allegedly haunts this hotel. "Weird Washington" Your Travel Guide to Washington's Local Legends and Best Kept Secrets" indicates Beverly (the ghost) was an employee of the lodge. When a fire burned the lodge down in 1924 (a larger resort was rebuilt in its place two years later), she was scheduled to work. Feeling sick, she still decided to work. Falling asleep at her post, she died in the fire. A two-room suite filling the entire top floor of the resort's boat hose is named after Beverly and is a site of paranormal encounters.

Museum of the North Beach-Paranormal Investigators of Historic America visited the Museum of the North Beach in Moclips. Reports of hauntings drew the Monroe, WA-based team of investigators to the museum in 2010. They indicated to turning up activity on their EMF readers. With a parabolic listening device, some faint voices were picked up during their investigation. Although the identity of these spirits is uncertain, Moclips' history may prove some possibilities. A mill employee hit by a passing train, a blind woman succumbing in a house fire, a fireman and engineer crushed by a falling tree and numerous casualties with passing shipwrecks. The investigators presented the museum with a "certifiably haunted" certificate.

Polson Museum-Home for the Polson Logging Company and the Polson family, this colonial-style mansion was built in 1924 with a riverfront view. Now the Polson Museum, exhibits include displays of the area sawmills and logging camps. Find a working kitchen, dressing rooms and period clothing. "The Shadowlands" website has listed the museum as being home to spirits including a lady in white and a child in the nursery. The current curator indicates there have been no experiences.

7th Street Theatre-Ranked #2 in Best Haunted Place with pacificnw.cityvoter.com, this is the last remaining atmospheric theatre in the Pacific Northwest. Restored this theatre was built in 1928. Within 7th Street, with the experience of an outdoor Spanish garden, you may experience something more than the production. Volunteers have personal stories of something other-world-y with them in the theatre.

Set out on your spooky tour of Grays Harbor. Report in those ghostly finds!

Author: Cindy Stearns – Editor, Ocean Shores Publishing
Blog #: 0693 – 10/21/19

Glide along the Ocean Shores canals

By Cindy Stearns
Published: 10/14/19 Topics: Comments: 0

You're heading to the beach and would like to try something new. You love the pounding surf and waves washing up and over your car...

Wait!

First, be sure to pull your vehicle out of the sand and to dry pavement. Now, get in said vehicle and drive down Point Brown Avenue to OS Boathouse.

Did you know there are nearly 25 miles of inter-connected, created fresh waterways with digging beginning in 1960. As Ocean Shores began, so did the canals. A monstrous electric hydraulic dredge, nicknamed the "Razor Clam" by locals, it would dig through and spit out water. The first canal was actually a water feature along the Ocean Shores Golf Course.

Year-round you have access to get out and enjoy these canals. OS Boathouse has several options including hydrobikes, stand-up paddleboards and kayaks.

Duffy Boats are the ideal answer for all ages, mobility levels and for most weather. Even if it's inclement, these boats are covered and give you a front-row seat to viewing wildlife, residential areas and parks along these rather hidden canals.

According to OS Boathouse, "more than a boat, a Duffy electric boat puts you at the helm of a lifestyle powered by quiet, reliable, sophisticated fun."

Powered by 100% electric, zero emissions, you're able to hire a captain or captain yourself (after a brief safety check). How about taking out a group from work, your family and friends for a birthday party or just to enjoy while you visit Ocean Shores?

Oh, you're not Captain Ahab or The Little Mermaid? These waters are calm. So, it's an easy ride along these canals. You'll even be able to take food aboard and not end up with hot chocolate on you or potato chips strewn throughout the boat. Easy gliding.

Read more about OS Boathouse on oceanshores.com. And tell Steve and Maria, you're ready to step aboard your Duffy Boat!

Author: Cindy Stearns
Blog #: 0692 – 10/14/19

Hoquiam's Historic 7th Street Theatre

By Cindy Stearns
Published: 09/30/19 Topics: Comments: 0

It really is like a step back in time. You walk into the lobby and smell the freshly popping popcorn. Friendly faces greet you and load you up Raisinets and your tub of popcorn. Then, off you go to find a seat among the almost 1,000 choices. Get ready to settle into an experience that takes you back in time. Instead of looking at computer screen, you're in front of the big screen at Hoquiam's 7th Street Theatre.

Built in 1928, this movie house is one of the few remaining atmospheric-style theatres on the West Coast. Adopted from the works of John Eberson, the theatre's unique interior transforms into a simulated open-air playhouse with a painted “sky” ceiling. You'll experience clouds overhead with twinkling stars.

The 7th Street Theatre was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987. In 2008, the theatre was the first building in the city of Hoquiam to be placed on the newly formed Hoquiam Register of Historic Places.

Currently, the 7th Street Theatre is undergoing constant work under the guidance of the 7th Street Theatre Association, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization which owns and operates the theatre. (Remember those friendly faces who scooped up your popcorn? They're volunteers from the association.)

The venue hosts events all year long, and regularly features classic movies on certain weekends each year. Additionally, it's home to 7th Street Kids. This is a six-week summer program for kids seven through 16. You may also rent the theatre for private events.

The theatre is at 313 7th Street in Hoquiam. Telephone is 360.537.7400.

October-December Film Schedule

Oct 5 & 6 Abbott & Costello Meet the Invisible Man
Oct 25 & 26 Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure
Nov 2 & 3 Twelve O’Clock High
Nov 29 & 30 Deck the Halls
Dec 7 Elf
Dec 21 & 22 White Christmas

Author: Cindy Stearns
Blog #: 0689 – 09/30/19

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