Coastal charmer: With plenty to explore, Ilwaco a worthy destination for a day trip – or better yet, an overnight stay

Ilwaco has a Saturday market on the waterfront from May through September. (Monika Spykerman/The Columbian)

This postcard at Time Enough Books is a clever reminder of Ilwaco’s local ocean bounty. (Monika Spykerman/The Columbian)

The crowded Salt Pub offers marina views and fish and chips, among other pub fare. (Monika Spykerman/The Columbian)

The Salt Hotel and Pub offers seaside travelers a place for rest and refreshment. (Monika Spykerman/The Columbian)

Time Enough Books offers readers a cozy spot to sit and read on rainy days. (Monika Spykerman/The Columbian)

Find all kinds of yarn in Purly Shell Fiber Arts — and you just might find a couple fuzzy dogs, too. (Monika Spykerman/The Columbian)

This handpainted seahorse sign welcomes guests into the Don Nesbitt Art Gallery. Shoppers will find an array of original art, coasters, mugs and painted glassware. (Monika Spykerman/The Columbian)

Artist Marie Powell stands next to one of her newest paintings inside the Marie Powell Gallery, which also features paintings by Vancouver artist Gregory Gorham. (Photos by Monika Spykerman/The Columbian)

3 Otters Coffee is a bright, breezy coffee shop that doubles as a gallery featuring jewelry, ceramics and other handmade goods from local artists. (Monika Spykerman/The Columbian)

On sunny days, these bright yellow chairs invite guests to linger over lattes at 3 Otters Coffee. Inside, visitors will find art and products by local artisans. (Monika Spykerman/The Columbian)

Drop Anchor Bistro, which just opened in December, is a sunny spot to enjoy scratch-made baked goods, espresso drinks, smoothies and sandwiches. (Monika Spykerman/The Columbian)

The coffee counter at Drop Anchor Bistro is flanked by spring blooms. Co-owner Cindy Hillard bakes big, chewy oatmeal cookies with local cranberries and coconut.

Drop Anchor Bistro is owned by Ilwaco’s youngest-ever mayor, Eddie Hillard, 25. He co-owns the bakery with his mother, Cindy Hillard. (Monika Spykerman/The Columbian)

Don’t miss Ilwaco’s Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum. The current exhibit, “From Tin to Table,” features mint condition salmon and oyster label art.

At the Helm Hotel and Waterline Pub is a high-end boutique hotel on Ilwaco’s waterfront. Stay overnight in the sumptuously appointed rooms, dine on local seafood in the pub, or take advantage of the private jacuzzi, sauna and massage rooms. (Monika Spykerman/The Columbian)