The cape was a notable maritime landmark of the Pacific Northwest, with the first known documentation in 1775 by Spanish explorer Bruno Heceta, who named it “Bahia de La Asuncion.” British trader John Meares named it “Cape Disappointment” in 1788, due to his mistaken belief that the mouth of the Columbia River was only!

​
Cape Disappointment Washington Strippers WE Bring the Strip Club to YOU!

Cape Disappointment is one of Washington's favorite state parks. With two functioning lighthouses, the remains of Fort Canby, old growth forests, and rugged stretches of beach, it is a northwest adventure for the memory books.

The cape was formerly known as Fort Canby State Park. It sits along the Long Beach Peninsula and, despite its name, is far from disappointing. There are two miles worth of beaches, lots of lush hiking trails, and two old lighthouses waiting to be explored.


Cape Disappointment is near the towns of Ilwaco and Long Beach you can drive there easily from either one. If you fancy staying overnight and stretching out your time on the beaches of Cape Disappointment, bring your tent and stay at one of the campsites.