Step into living history at Washington’s oldest continuously operating hotel and feel the charm of 1896 meet modern comfort.
Nestled on the Long Beach Peninsula, The Shelburne Hotel blends Victorian elegance with coastal adventure just minutes from the surf.
From cozy rooms and claw-foot tubs to a beloved pub and lush gardens, it’s a destination unto itself. Read on for eight compelling reasons this Seaview icon deserves a top spot on your travel list.
1. Historic Character Since 1896
The Shelburne Hotel radiates authentic Pacific Northwest history in every polished banister, stained-glass panel, and creaking floorboard that whispers stories from 1896.
This Victorian-era gem has been lovingly maintained, preserving its soul while updating essentials for today’s traveler. Each hallway reveals vintage artwork and curated antiques, crafting a time-capsule ambiance that still feels fresh.
Guests frequently mention how the restoration balances nostalgia with comfort, giving you the rare thrill of sleeping inside a living museum. It’s not just lodging; it’s a tangible chapter of coastal heritage you can experience firsthand.
2. Cozy, Victorian-Style Rooms
Retreat to intimate rooms brimming with character; think canopy beds, antique artwork, and original architectural details.
Many rooms offer private decks for fresh sea air, while select suites feature claw-foot tubs and stained-glass accents. Despite the historical charm, modern conveniences like free Wi-Fi and updated bathrooms come standard.
Guests rave about comfy beds and thoughtful touches that elevate rest and relaxation. Whether you’re on a romantic escape or a quiet solo getaway, each room feels uniquely personal, inviting long conversations, deep sleep, and slow mornings with coffee by the window.
3. The Shelburne Pub & Elevated Coastal Fare
Downstairs, the Shelburne Pub pairs a cozy, heritage-rich setting with satisfying Pacific Northwest comfort food.
Seasonal menus highlight fresh seafood, hearty classics, and craft beverages, making it a go-to for hotel guests and locals alike.
Reviewers praise dishes like fish-of-the-day and boxty, not to mention friendly, attentive service. Live music nights and a welcoming bar scene add convivial energy without losing the intimate feel. It’s the perfect end to a beach day; grab a pint, settle into a snug booth, and let the historic ambiance set the tone.
4. Garden Spaces and Quiet Nooks
Beyond the front door, you’ll find tranquil gardens and intimate corners perfect for reading, sipping wine, or simply breathing in coastal air.
Landscaping frames the hotel’s stately facade, while seasonal blooms and twinkling evening lights create romance without pretension. It’s a natural extension of the building’s Victorian personality; thoughtful, calming, and human-scaled.
Guests often remark how these outdoor spaces make the hotel feel like a private retreat. Whether you’re planning a small celebration or sneaking off with a book, the gardens offer restorative pauses between adventures.
5. Hot Breakfast and Thoughtful Amenities
Wake up to a hot breakfast that feels crafted rather than hurried, then ease into your day with complimentary Wi-Fi and welcoming common spaces like a quiet library.
Free parking simplifies arrivals, while pet-friendly options help the whole family join. Guests note the seamless balance between boutique charm and practical perks. From air conditioning to well-kept private bathrooms, everything’s designed for comfortable, low-stress stays.
Whether working remotely or unplugging completely, the amenities add convenience without sacrificing the hotel’s distinctly personal, old-world character.
6. Access to Pool and Saunas Nearby
As a guest, you can access the saline pool and saunas at a nearby sister property; an unexpected wellness bonus after a day of beachcombing or lighthouse hikes.
Many reviewers call out the soothing sauna sessions as a highlight, adding spa-like relaxation to a historic escape. It’s the best of both worlds: classic inn ambiance with modern wellness perks.
Unwind your shoulders, reset your breathing, and return to your room blissfully mellow. This thoughtful partnership elevates the overall experience without leaving the neighborhood.
7. Steps from Long Beach Adventures
Located on the Long Beach Peninsula, the hotel sits minutes from sandy shores, boardwalk strolls, and scenic bike trails. Day trips to Cape Disappointment, lighthouses, and nearby Astoria add layers of exploration.
Guests love the convenience: a grocery across the street, local eateries within walking distance, and the beach an easy jaunt.
You’ll spend less time driving and more time discovering tidepools, kite festivals, and coastal sunsets. It’s a hub that makes the region’s best experiences effortless, especially for weekend warriors.
8. Warm, Attentive Hospitality
From check-in smiles to thoughtful local tips, the Shelburne team delivers the kind of hospitality that turns a good stay into a memorable one.
Reviews consistently praise friendly, accommodating staff who go above and beyond for celebrations and special requests. Need EV charging guidance, a dinner recommendation, or the best beach walk?
They’ve got you covered. It’s genuine care, not scripted service, grounded in pride for their historic property and coastal community. You’ll leave feeling known, not just processed.
9. Rotating Art, Music, and Creative Happenings
Immerse yourself in the hotel’s dynamic arts culture, where rotating exhibits, live music, and creative workshops transform every visit into a fresh experience. Weeknights may bring intimate acoustic sets, while weekends can showcase pop-up galleries and maker markets featuring regional artisans.
You’ll find whimsical installations tucked into corridors and conversation-sparking pieces in cozy common areas. The curatorial spirit invites discovery: sip something delicious as you browse local works, or chat with artists-in-residence about their process.
Whether you’re a collector or a curious newcomer, the Shelburne’s creative pulse ensures you’ll leave inspired; and maybe carrying home a one-of-a-kind treasure.
10. Gateway to Oyster Trails and Coastal Culinary Makers
Set out from the Shelburne to explore the peninsula’s renowned oyster beds, smokehouses, and small-batch producers that define the region’s flavor.
Guided tastings introduce you to briny, buttery nuances across oyster varieties, while roadside shacks and harborside stands serve ultra-fresh catches. Meet makers who craft sea salt, kelp seasonings, and artisanal preserves, then bring back edible souvenirs for later.
Seasonal tours highlight foraging and tide-to-table stories that deepen your connection to the coast. It’s a delicious journey that pairs perfectly with evenings by the fire, sharing slurp-worthy tales from a day of culinary discovery.
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