The Birding Hub
The Birding Hub

Ocean Shores

Washington · Pacific Northwest

ModerateView on eBird
Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
SpringFall
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

MallardRing-necked DuckGreater ScaupBuffleheadPied-billed Grebe

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Barrow's Goldeneye

Bucephala islandica

3/1/2026Westport pelagic--inshore1 observed

Parakeet Auklet

Aethia psittacula

3/1/2026Westport pelagic--Offshore waters7 observed

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.

Amenities

Parking
Trails

More in Washington

Olympic National Park

Rainforest-to-coast park with Marbled Murrelets, seabirds, and alpine species.

Skagit Valley

Northwest Washington valley with exceptional wintering raptors, swans, and Snow Geese.

Discovery Park

Seattle's largest park with old-growth forest, Puget Sound shoreline, and 270+ bird species.

Birding Guides

The Ultimate Guide to Fall Bird Migration: Hawks, Sparrows, and Confusing Plumages

10 min read

Understanding Bird Migration: When, Where, and Why Birds Migrate

12 min read

Spring Birding in New York City: The Complete Urban Migration Guide

12 min read

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.