​The Surfrider Foundation, in partnership with Point 97 and the state of Washington, recently completed a study on the non-consumptive recreational uses along Washington’s coast. Results show that survey respondents spent an average of $117.14 per coastal visit on things such as food, lodging, transportation, and shopping.

Each year, recreation brings $481 million dollars to Washington’s economy in trip related expenditures and Washington residents make an estimated 4.1 million trips to the coast each year. The study estimates that nearly 2.46 million trips to the coast every year are primarily for recreation.

The most popular activities include going to the beach, enjoying the scenery, viewing wildlife, taking photographs, and hiking or biking.

 
The study shows the extensive geographic use and activity of recreation along the Washington coast and demonstrates the significant economic and social benefits that tourism bring to coastal communities.

For more information:

• Visit the Surfrider Foundation’s website
• Read the full report
• Read the executive summary
• View the facts sheet
• Email Surfrider’s Washington Policy Manager, Gus Gates