THE SHORES INSIDER

October, 2022 Round-Up

Presented by the Ocean Shores Branch of Greater Grays Harbor, Inc.

A Localized Voice for Business in Ocean Shores

Congratulations to Too Cool Sportswear for taking home the honor of Small Business of the Year at the October 28th Leader's Banquet & Business Recognition Awards!

GGHI would like to extend a special thank you to the Leader's Banquet venue host, Ocean Shores Convention Center! Rave reviews have poured in from attendees who loved the atmosphere, organization, and of course, delicious dinner and dessert!

Shores Business News

Another Record Summer and Fall for Ocean Shores

It has been another great summer and fall season for Ocean Shores. While there is a “new normal” as the City navigates life after COVID19, we have high hopes that our community and its businesses have weathered the storm. Certainly, our overall financial numbers seem to indicate another record year in the making as we head into winter. 

Our visitor traffic is higher than pre-Covid 2019 figures by about 100,000. We brought back all three city-sponsored festivals – Razor Clam, Sand & Sawdust and Hog Wild, and their attendance was up from the previous years. Celtic Music Fest – which last year was drastically smaller and truncated – was back to its original event and rivaled other year’s attendance. 

In addition, the City’s finances are looking great! Property tax revenues have increased by 4%, sales tax by 5%, utility tax by 10% and real estate excise tax by 8%. In short, this has been a great summer for Ocean Shores businesses, and we are thrilled to be seeing a healthy balance between tourist revenue and sustainable local economic development.

Ocean Shores Police & Fire Public Safety Update

Ocean Shores tsunami sirens were tested at 10:20 on October 20th for the Great Shakeout; and the City’s police, fire and public administration practiced for operations in the event of an actual tsunami or other natural disaster.

In addition to this annual event, the Ocean Shores Fire Department has been participating in the National Fire Protection Agency or (NFPA)’s National Fire Safety Week at the local Elementary School. 



The Fire Department has been visiting the school every day for a week, ending with a big assembly for Grades 3-5. This year the theme is “Fire Won’t Wait - Plan Your Escape”. Fire Department members go over multiple fire safety topics with the children; including smoke detectors, staying low in smoke, how and when to call 911, candles, cooking, and campfire safety as well as stop drop and roll survival techniques. This year the Ocean Shores Fire Department also welcomed children for a grand tour of our city’s actual Firehouse.

Finally, the Ocean Shores Fire Department is looking forward to holding an ‘Open House’ again. The date and time are yet to be determined but it’s looking like late spring or summer.

Shores Spotlight

Pirates Cove Pub & Grill

Pirates Cove Pub & Grill is located on hotel row in Ocean Shores serving breakfast, lunch and dinner menus alongside delicious drinks crafted by some of the best bartenders around. Not only is the atmosphere welcoming and comfortable, but the devoted patrons help make Pirates Cove a local favorite.

Owned and operated by veteran, Jim Edwards, this small business not only provides a relaxing place to kickback after a day at the beach, but also regularly features live musicians. The business is currently for sale, and while Jim and his wife have loved serving the community, they are excited to retire and travel in the coming years. Stop by for good company, delicious food, and great entertainment on your next visit to Ocean Shores!

Thank You to Pirates Cove Pub & Grill for Providing Fantastic Drink Service at the GGHI Leader's Banquet and for Operating a Welcoming Business in Grays Harbor!

Upcoming Events to Watch for in Ocean Shores!

All Ocean Shores events found here.

November 25th - 27th

Winter Fanta-Sea