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Coastal Interpretive Center, Ocean Shores

Natural History Museum · Museum
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Coastal Interpretive Center provides a hands-on learning experience about the area's cultural and natural history. Established in the 1970s, the center aims to educate the public and preserve the state's coastal environments. You can take a self-guided tour of the exhibits, which cover coastal wildlife and birds, sea life, native cultures, history of the ocean shores, and shipwrecks. Many displays are touchable, which makes this attraction particularly interesting and appealing to families with curious kids. If you're interested in getting involved during your vacation, consider making a financial contribution to the center, or join the volunteer program. Check the website for additional info, opening hours, and upcoming events. To visit Coastal Interpretive Center and other attractions in Ocean Shores, use our Ocean Shores trip itinerary maker.
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Coastal Interpretive Center reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
276 reviews
Google
4.8
TripAdvisor
  • This museum is bigger than it looks on the outside, and I'm not quite sure how. There are pieces of shipwrecks outside, detailing what happened to each ship, and there are lots of exhibits inside... 
    This museum is bigger than it looks on the outside, and I'm not quite sure how. There are pieces of shipwrecks outside, detailing what happened to each ship, and there are lots of exhibits inside...  more »
  • The center was in remodel mode so we could not go inside but there’s plenty to see and learn from outside exhibits and a nature trail If you like coastal history it’s a must stop 
    The center was in remodel mode so we could not go inside but there’s plenty to see and learn from outside exhibits and a nature trail If you like coastal history it’s a must stop  more »
  • This is a great museum that offers so much information about the history and nature of the area. We ended up spending much more time here than anticipated. This is a great rainy day top but... 
    This is a great museum that offers so much information about the history and nature of the area. We ended up spending much more time here than anticipated. This is a great rainy day top but...  more »
Google
  • Very fun museum and great to visit the less busy edge of Ocean Shores area. The kids had the best time in the science exploration area and our 4 year old said before bed later that night "I can't wait to be a scientist". They had fun leading us through the whole museum afterwards and there's so much to see. Shipwreck items, local history, dioramas, taxidermist preserved local natural creatures, and a cute little gift shop. All for very reasonable price and with friendly staff.
  • We loved spending time learning about native history and peoples, and admiring their technology, methods and tools. It was awesome to see comprehensive exhibits covering a variety of topics including history of the forests, animals, and grey’s harbor communities and beyond. We learned many new interesting things about the Pacific Northwest because of this museum, and even brought home special souvenirs, including an interesting book by a local author. Definitely worth a visit for lovers of nature and curious minds.
  • Cool little museum with a lot of interesting things and information. The children's area was really well done with lots of things to touch and play with. Fairly inexpensive at $10 per family. We stayed for about an hour with 4 adults, a 15 year old, 12 year old, and 2 year old.
  • Wonderful community museum. Great for kids exploring shells, rocks, local history, animal life (particularly local birds), Indian history. Nice bookstore. Friendly staff.
  • Great informative center. Kids will enjoy as well. 10 dollars for a family is a good cause.

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