The Makah Tribe has called the spectacular Neah Bay, Washington area home since time immemorial. The name Makah was attributed to the Tribe by the neighboring Tribes, meaning “people generous with food” in the Salish language. The meaning still applies today, as the Makah Indian Nation invites you to visit the community to enjoy the natural beauty and learn about the culture and history.
Bordered by the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Pacific Ocean, pre-contact Makah Tribe held a vast area of inland and coastal territory. These richly forested lands and the seas which teemed with life offered early Makah a wealth of natural resources. The Makah skillfully utilized the bounty of the sea. From seals to salmon to whales, the sea was – and still is – a large part of the livelihood of the Makah. Makah lands also encompassed the islands of Waadah, Tatoosh, Ozette, Cannon Ball, the Bodeltas and the islands on Lake Ozette.
The Makah Cultural and Research Center houses and interprets artifacts from the Ozette Archaeological Site, a Makah village partly buried by a mudslide 300-500 years ago and discovered in 1970. The museum also provides a glimpse of pre-contact Makah life and features 500 artifacts including whaling and fishing gear, basketry and replicas of a full size long house and canoes. The Education Department responds to requests for information from the Makah community and the general public and develops Makah Tribal education programs for community members and visitors.
Special arrangements can be made for tours, demonstrations, lectures and workshops; all events are provided by Makah Tribal members. Guided Tour Cost: $70.00 unless otherwise noted - Group size: 15-24 people. (More than 24 people will require special arrangements). The permanent gallery exhibits 300-500 year old artifacts recovered from a Makah village at Ozette, Washington. There are 18 showcases, 3 dioramas and full-sized replicas of canoes and a longhouse. These showcases interpret Makah culture and history through artifacts, text and photographs. The museum opened in 1979 and is open to the public 7 days a week from 10 am to 5 pm.
Guided Tours Available include:
- Ethnobotanical Garden - $35.00 per hour
- Ozette Archaeological Site - $125.00 per day
- Cape Flattery Trail - 1.5-2 hours - $75.00
- Local Village Sites - Time varies - $80 and up
- Local Beaches - Time varies - $40 per hour
