Seaplane Group Seeks Return To Port Angeles Waterfront

A new proposal aims to bring seaplane operations back to Port Angeles with a waterfront dock project now under review.

[Credit: City of Port Angeles]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The Hollywood Beach Seaplane Association has applied for a permit to build a new dock and ramp to restore dedicated seaplane operations to Port Angeles, Washington, after decades of absence.
  • The proposal includes environmental mitigation efforts, notably the removal of the deteriorating Historic Causeway, aiming to improve shoreline conditions and minimize impact on marine habitats.
  • Supporters anticipate that the return of seaplane access will boost the local economy by attracting visiting pilots and passengers who will spend on lodging, dining, and fuel.
  • The privately funded project is currently under city review as a shoreline development proposal, with a decision pending regulatory requirements and public input.
See a mistake? Contact us.

The Hollywood Beach Seaplane Association is working to restore seaplane operations to Port Angeles, Washington, filing a permit application to build a dock and access ramp along the city’s waterfront.

According to local reports, the proposal calls for a floating dock and aluminum ramp within an already charted seaplane landing area near Hollywood Beach. If approved, it would mark the return of dedicated seaplane facilities to the harbor for the first time in decades, after earlier infrastructure was lost and never replaced.

Plans include environmental mitigation measures, most notably the removal of a deteriorating structure known as the Historic Causeway. Supporters say eliminating aging pilings and decking would improve shoreline conditions and help offset the impact of new construction.

The project will be reviewed under Washington’s environmental regulations, with particular attention to marine habitat, including eelgrass beds. The association says the design is intended to minimize ecological disruption while enhancing overall waterfront conditions.

Backers argue the return of seaplane access could boost local economic activity by attracting visiting pilots and passengers who spend on lodging, dining, and fuel. The group describes the effort as privately funded but beneficial to the broader community.

The application is now under city review as a shoreline development proposal. Depending on regulatory requirements and public input, it could move forward through either an administrative decision or a public hearing.

Amelia Walsh

Amelia Walsh is a private pilot who enjoys flying her family’s Columbia 350. She is based in Colorado and loves all things outdoors including skiing, hiking, and camping.

Continue discussion - Visit the forum

Replies: 1

  1. Sounds like a great idea - seaplanes are an excellent way to travel along with the high level of interest for folks to take a sight-seeing tour of the beautiful area.

Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox

SUBSCRIBE

Please support AVweb.

It looks like you’re using an ad blocker. Ads keep AVweb free and fund our reporting.
Please whitelist AVweb or continue with ads enabled.