Our Community -
The South Beach community encompasses the city of Westport and the surrounding areas including the towns of Grayland, Tokeland, and Ocosta. 
Westport was originally known as Chehalis Point and was inhabited by the Chehalis Tribe.  At one time Westport boasted a population of five thousand.  However, in 1893, the tribe was decimated when 90% of its members were lost during an epidemic.
The Peterson family were the first Euro-Americans to settle here permanently in 1857 and were able to live in peace with the Chehalis Tribe. 
Westport's potential as a recreational area was recognized in 1870 when land was platted, hotels were built and the harbor side was named Westport Beach.  Chehalis Point then became Peterson's Point but in 1890 was renamed Westport.
The US Corp of Engineers began construction on the South Jetty in 1896 but it was not completed until 1902.  A lifesaving station was opened in 1897 and the Grays Harbor Lighthouse (the tallest lighthouse in Washington and the second tallest on the Pacific coast) was erected in 1898. 
In the 1920's, commercial fishing started and the Westport dock was dedicated in 1929.  Between 1935 and the 1950's, additional work was done on the jetty, the cove was dredged and the marina was improved.  The charter fishing boom began in 1955 and did exceptionally well until 1972 when it started to decline due to the passage of the Boldt decision which resulted in the imposition of several fishing restrictions.
Both the commercial and charter fishing industries had to diversify in order to keep up with changing legislation.  Commercial fishers have added shrimp, Dungeness crab, tuna and other fish and shellfish to their catches.  And charter boat operators have added bottom fishing and whale watching to their selection of offerings.
Tourism has been an integral part of Westport's economy for quite some time and several events, sponsored by the Westport-Grayland Chamber of Commerce, are geared around the fishing industry and the town's nautical surroundings.  Annual events include a Crab Race, Feed and Derby; a Seafood Festival; Oyster Feeds; and a pirate extravaganza called Rusty Scupper's Pirate Daze.  In addition, there are several old fashioned community events held throughout the year to peak tourist's interest.  Grayland's cranberry industry is celebrated in the fall with a Cranberry Harvest Festival sponsored by the Cranberry Coast Chamber of Commerce.  Clever artisans show off their skills at making something out of beach treasures at the annual Driftwood Festival.    
Another important contributor to Westport's economy and a major employer for the area is the Westport Shipyard which builds luxury yachts.  These beautiful water craft are rapidly gaining in popularity among the elite who can afford the best. 
While fishing is still an important aspect of this area, many are just now realizing what a wonderful seaside gem this slice of the Washington coast really is - and it's just a few hours drive from Seattle or Portland or any of the neighborhoods in-between.  If you've never been to the South Beach or  haven't visited for a while, come on over and check-out the new Westport.