At the Helm Boutique Luxury Hotel & Pub

Looking for a boutique luxury hotel experience after months of pandemic sheltering in place? Consider a coastal getaway to At the Helm Hotel & Pub on the Long Beach Peninsula in southwest Washington.

Location

Views of Marina and Working Waterfront

The hotel’s serene, scenic setting on the Port of Ilwaco’s marina and working waterfront provides just the right respite for reflection and relaxation. Stroll the waterfront or the Long Beach Boardwalk, walk barefoot on the beach, or go beachcombing for seaside treasures. Enjoy leisurely excursions to Cape Disappointment (which is anything but), hike nearby nature trails, or explore the diverse ecosystems of Willapa National Wildlife Refuge.

Cape Disappointment

Highlights

At the Helm Hotel Features Reclaimed Old-Growth Lumber

Once the site of ShoreBank Pacific, At the Helm Hotel & Pub opened for business in its current incarnation in June 2019. Owner/operator, Marcene Miller not only spearheaded the building’s renovation as the general contractor; she also “designed, scraped, and painted” the hotel interior to manifest her vision of an upscale guest experience in the tranquil fishing village.

Fish Art Installation Underneath Staircase

With its use of reclaimed old-growth lumber and fir beams from neighboring Astoria, Oregon, the colorful three-story building features plenty of eye-catching, eco-friendly touches. The hotel’s nautical theme woven throughout the premises is a nod to the Miller family’s 39-year-history in commercial fishing.

Owner/Operator Marcene Miller

Any tension from a long road trip disappears the moment you walk through the door to At the Helm Hotel & Pub. It’s always nice to be warmly welcomed upon arrival at a beautiful destination. When that welcome is followed by your choice of a glass of wine or beer as it is at this boutique luxury hotel, even better!

Rooms

Deluxe King Room 

Deluxe King Room with Suite

Settle in at the Waterline Pub to enjoy your drink or head for the comfort of your own room. No elevator is available, but no worries. Just ask for assistance if you need help getting luggage to your room.

At the Helm Hotel Room

Each of the nine beautifully-appointed rooms is named after fishing vessels like “Blazer,” “Elena N” and “Tri-umph” that the family has owned over those 39 years. Rooms range in size from 300 – 550 square feet with non-views, port views, and partial port views available on one of two floors. An ADA Accessible room is available on the first floor.

Heated floors, eco-friendly fireplaces, complimentary snacks, and cozy robes are among the room amenities. Nest bath products and an Englunder mattress with premium linens add to the luxurious accommodations.

Breakfast At the Helm Hotel

For breakfast, guests can select locally-sourced items like a croissant with Brie, bagel and salmon spread, or plain Greek yogurt with granola and raw honey drizzle, each served with fresh fruit. Ask for room delivery or enjoy your morning meal in the cozy, light-filled pub. For an additional fee, spring for a mimosa or beer to quench your thirst.

Dining

Dining At the Waterline Pub

What’s better than fine dining in an intimate setting with a laid-back ambiance? At the Helm Hotel & Pub delivers on all three counts. As you might expect and hope with a coastal dining experience, the focus here is on fresh seasonal seafood. With small plates selections such as lemon garlic prawns or calamari, together with main meals of pan-friend Willapa Bay oysters, 8-oz. rib-eye, or a Helm Burger, guests have plenty of options for a weekend or weeklong hotel stay.

Room Rates

Like most hotels, room rates vary with the season and day or week. Check the website for details.

Why Go Now

Recently re-opened after the last few months of lockdown due to Covid-19, At the Helm Hotel & Pub is offering two special packages: a weekend getaway package, book one night and get the second night half-off, and a mid-week getaway package, Monday – Thursday, book two nights and get the third night free.

To ensure guest safety and peace of mind, At the Helm Hotel & Pub offers spacious accommodations with dining in the privacy of your room, in the pub or outside.

Getting There

The hotel is about a three-hour drive from Seattle and a two-hour drive from Portland.

Guidelines on Responsible Visiting

Thanks to my hosts, At the Helm Hotel & Pub and Visit Long Beach Peninsula, for the chance to experience the beauty and hospitality of the Long Beach Peninsula!