Voted by Forbes Traveler as having one of the best boardwalk beaches in the United States, Long Beach, Washington, offers a variety of attractions for the active traveler. In August, you can explore grass-covered dunes, amble the 1,000-foot boardwalk or try your hand at surfing. In addition to those beach-focused activities, visitors can enjoy martial arts classes, a 24-hour gym and a sustainable farm.
Martial Arts
On Tuesday and Thursday evenings in August, head to the Long Beach Elks Lodge for a Taekwondo-Do class. This class, based on the traditional martial arts, is designed to build stamina, strength, flexibility and discipline. Individuals of all fitness levels and experience can attend. The two-hour classes, taught by a master instructor, begin at 5:30 p.m. As of 2010, classes cost $5.
Surf Lesson
The city has a wave break that's suitable for surfing. To get a workout on the waves, rent a surfboard at one of the local shops. Even in August, the Pacific is chilly, so many people wear a 4/3 wetsuit in the water. If you are new to surfing, consider taking lessons. Experienced instructors will teach you how to paddle, catch a wave and pop up on the board. Surfing is a sport designed for individuals of all fitness levels and abilities, with the only requirement being that you can swim and do a push-up. Most lessons last about 90 minutes and include instruction on land and in the water.
Sustainable Farm
Those interested in healthy living--specifically, healthy foods--can visit the Green Angel Sustainable Living Center for an afternoon filled with yoga, organic produce and music. The center includes a certified organic farm that is family friendly, a yoga studio and gardens. You can buy organic fruits, greens and vegetables grown on the farm and take a tour of the grounds to learn about the sustainable living concept.
Work Out
If you need a place to workout when staying in Long Beach, go to the local Total Health Fitness Center, which is open round-the-clock. Located along the Pacific Highway, this center features an array of cardiovascular equipment and free weights. For the environmentally conscious traveler, this gym has a VOC-free atmosphere, uses only Seventh Generation cleaning products and provides 100 percent organic cotton towels. The daily rate to use the gym, as of 2010, is $6 per person.
Horseback Riding
Several companies offer a variety of horseback riding tours, including rides on the beach and sunset dinner rides. No experience is necessary. Rides last one to two hours and are available daily during August. If you are not interested in riding a horse, you can take a horse-drawn carriage tour.
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