Review of Ocean Shores, Washington


Affordable Gem of a City
Star Rating - 5/31/2015
Wonderful beach town.... we're going into our second year and I disagree with the grocery store comments and the weather. Yes, it rains or drizzles on occasion, but the weather passes in OS rather quickly and there are very few days you can't go to the beach in Spring, Summer & Autumn. It's the wind that determines how the weather actually feels outside in OS. A 60 degree day with no wind is wonderful! For those retirees looking for a slower pace of life that includes beautiful wildlife to look at (deer, rabbits, so so many birds), a place to fish (ocean, and lakes producing trout every time we go & the clamming OH MY), and entertainment (movie theater, walking trails, community centers w/gym/pools) this is the place for you. You get the clean air, the greenery, the beach, the parks, wine bars, restaurants/coffee houses, and a beach front casino 5 minutes away.... c'mon what more do you need? There is a lot of building going on if you're looking for something new or if you want a fixer upper you can take on an older beach front place... or buy a lot and build your own. The police and fire personnel are lovely and the small town is really a treasure. The grandkids will love to visit with all there is to do downtown not to mention the kite flying at the beach. I don't know what more you need if you're a beach lover looking for something affordable. And, if you're itching for more get that RV and travel during the winter months when it does rain. We came from CA, where the weather is "ideal", but you cannot get a beachfront property for under $2 million. I cannot believe OS is not completely jam packed, sold out and more expensive for the amenities it does have. I almost don't want to write such a glowing review and keep this place to myself, but I know there must be some beach loving retirees scouring for a place like this. Good folks who respect the oceans, streams, and wildlife should move in.
Rose | Ocean Shores, WA
Reply to this Comment

4 Replies


Thank you for the encouragement; we're thinking about it!
Christine | Menifee, CA | Report Abuse

Thanks for the review. I am living in Aptos, CA (Santa Cruz County) and love it, however, the taxes are over the roof as well as housing prices. I can't even afford a decent mobile home (they range from 300K-700k)(not kidding). I am retired military and have nearly 3K taken out of my pension annually in taxes, also my pet sitting biz is taxed pretty high too. Neither of these would be taxed in WA. I am thinking of Ocean Shores because I must be near the ocean...HOWEVER...there look to be cute towns on the way to Olympia (which I have considered, too). I will be taking a trip in September to look around. I am not planning on moving soon...but am seriously looking into this as I get older. I am 60 now...and want to find a place that is moderate temperature, low taxes and small townish...and affordable.
Marthann | | Report Abuse

Hi Rose, I would love to know if you still love living in OS now that you have been there a little over a year. My husband and I are looking to retire in the next few years and would love to find something in Washington now. We too will be coming from California where I have lived all my life. We're ready to get away from this horrible drought and heat (Central Cal) and OS sounds perfect! Anything more you can share would be much appreciated.
Alusa | Visalia, CA | Report Abuse

Hi Rose, I have been researching OS and surrounding areas looking for the perfect place to live and it seems on paper OS is wonderful. Can you give me a little insight as to job prospects in the area?
susie | Waxahachie, TX | Report Abuse
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