About CIC
Shaped by Land and Time
What begin as a small museum in 1977 has since expanded into a vibrant community organization. Our mission is to educate the community about the natural and cultural resources of Washington’s Pacific Coast and inspire the joy and wonder of nature.
Trusted Community Partner
As a non-partisan, non-advocacy community organization, the CIC serves as a trusted partner and honest broker between government agencies and individuals and community groups. We are dedicated to serving all the residents and visitors of Grays Harbor County, Washington.
Our Mission
To educate the public about the natural and cultural history of Washington’s Pacific Coast and inspire the joy and wonder of nature.
Our vision
The Coastal Interpretive Center will be a world-class interpretive center with high-quality programs, exhibits, and facilities where both the general public and the scientific community will feel equally engaged and empowered.
Charting Changing Tides
Trace the evolution of Coastal Interpretive Center. This timeline highlights commitment to education, stewardship and community ties across decades..
Launch
The Coastal Interpretive Center began as a Washington Sea Grant program called Ocean Adventures.
New Tides Turn
Washington State Parks and state federal agencies took over Ocean Adventures. It reopened as Ocean Shores Environmental Interpretive Center.
Foundation Built
The Coastal Interpretive Center is established, setting the stage for coastal education and preservation.
Community Waves
Ocean Shores Interpretive Center Association created. This 501(c)(3) nonprofit supported city operations and launched Damon’s Outpost bookstore.
Broadening Channels
Ocean Shores Interpretive Center Association assumed governance and operations and renaming it to “Coastal Interpretive Center”. Improvements included facility upgrades, program extensions and stewardship of the 121-acre Weatherwax property and trail system.
Rooted in Land and Learning
CIC's mission stands on core beliefs. These principles guide every action, shaping our region's future.
Enthusiasm
We show an interest in others, an interest in things outside ourselves, and are motivated to help others.
Willingness to try, and then try again differently
We are persistent and we adapt to meet the evolving needs of our community.
Situational Humility
We know what we know, know what we don’t know, and are always curious to learn more; We trust our community and assume best intentions.
Compassion
We work with and for our community, we’re created by our community, and in turn, create community.
Transparency, Collaboration, Accountability
We grow together with our community by creating dialogue that is founded in mutual respect and honesty; We work to create opportunities for all abilities, ages, and backgrounds to engage in our programming.
Engagement
We engage directly in an active manner to provide the highest quality program outcomes for our community.
4,000
Dedication in Action
The true spirit of CIC manifests through incredible community dedication. Our volunteer’s dedication powers museum operations and fuels vital educational programs, making vibrant community events possible and reflecting a shared commitment to our vision.
Plan Your Visit to the Coastal Interpretive Center
Discover the natural and cultural treasures of Grays Harbor. Join us for an enriching experience for visitors of all ages.
Join Our
Community
Support our mission, get involved in educational programs, or contribute through donations and volunteering.
Our Sponsors
