Rockaway Beach OregonATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Rockaway Beach, Oregon.
1. Kelly's Brighton Marina
CRABBING AND FISHING PARADISE
Kelly's Brighton Marina is a popular destination for crabbing and fishing activities in Rockaway Beach. Visitors can enjoy catching succulent crab that tastes of ocean water, making it a must-visit spot for seafood enthusiasts. The marina offers equipment rentals and helpful staff who can assist first-time visitors in getting set up for a day of crabbing.
2. Cedar Wetlands Preserve
SERENE HIKING TRAILS
Cedar Wetlands Preserve offers beautiful hiking trails through preserved wetland ecosystems. Visitors can explore both boardwalk sections and natural paths while enjoying the lush coastal environment. The preserve is known for its tranquility and opportunities to spot local wildlife in their natural habitat.
3. Rockaway Beach Wayside
ICONIC BEACH ACCESS POINT
Rockaway Beach Wayside is the primary public beach access point offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The wayside provides ample parking and amenities for beachgoers looking to enjoy the seven-mile stretch of sandy shoreline. It's also a prime location for watching special events like the Fourth of July fireworks display over the ocean.
4. Twin Rocks
DRAMATIC COASTAL FORMATION
Twin Rocks is an iconic landmark consisting of two towering sea stacks visible from Rockaway Beach's shoreline. These dramatic rock formations create a stunning backdrop for photographs, especially during sunset when the lighting creates a magical coastal scene. Nature enthusiasts can often spot seabirds nesting on the rocks throughout the year.
5. Rockaway Big Tree Trailhead
ANCIENT CEDAR FOREST WALK
Rockaway Big Tree Trailhead leads visitors to some of the largest western red cedars on the Oregon coast. The trail features a wooden boardwalk making it accessible for most visitors seeking a light, enjoyable hike. Nature lovers are rewarded with views of impressive old-growth trees in a peaceful forest setting.
6. Jetty Marina
FISHING AND BOATING HUB
Jetty Marina is a well-equipped facility catering to fishing enthusiasts and boaters visiting the Rockaway Beach area. The marina offers helpful staff who assist even unprepared visitors in setting up crabbing and fishing activities for the day. Its strategic location provides convenient access to prime fishing spots in the area.
7. International Police Museum
UNIQUE LAW ENFORCEMENT EXHIBITS
The International Police Museum showcases an impressive collection of police memorabilia and artifacts from around the world. Visitors can view displays of police uniforms, including a notable collection of policewoman's uniforms throughout history. The interactive museum allows guests to try on police items for photos, creating memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.
8. Oregon Du Drops
LOCAL ART GALLERY
Oregon Du Drops is a charming art gallery featuring works from local artists in the Rockaway Beach area. The gallery showcases a variety of artistic styles and mediums, providing cultural enrichment for visitors to the coastal town. Art enthusiasts can find unique pieces that capture the essence and beauty of the Oregon coast.
9. Old Oregon Smokehouse
FRESH SEAFOOD DESTINATION
Old Oregon Smokehouse is a beloved seafood establishment located on Rockaway Beach's Main Street known for its exceptional fresh catches. Visitors rave about their fresh seafood offerings, making it a memorable dining experience for those visiting the area. The restaurant specializes in locally-sourced seafood prepared with traditional smoking techniques that highlight the natural flavors of the Pacific Northwest.
10. Sand Dollar Restaurant
COZY COASTAL DINING
Sand Dollar Restaurant offers a comfortable dining experience just a block from the beach in Rockaway Beach. The menu features local specialties including pan-roasted rockfish, giving diners the opportunity to taste seafood unique to the region. This convenient eatery provides both dine-in and takeout options for visitors looking to enjoy a satisfying meal after a day at the beach.
11. The Picnic Basket
SWEET TREATS AND DELIGHTS
The Picnic Basket is a charming candy and ice cream shop located along the main street of Rockaway Beach. This delightful store features dozens of different flavors of toffee displayed throughout the shop, with citrus flavors being particularly noteworthy for their sweet, chewy deliciousness. Visitors with a sweet tooth will find this shop to be an essential stop during their Rockaway Beach vacation.
12. Nehalem Bay State Park
COASTAL WILDLIFE HAVEN
Nehalem Bay State Park is located just a short drive north of Rockaway Beach, offering scenic trails and a peaceful bay setting. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the Oregon coast while spotting diverse wildlife including seals and sea lions near the shore. The park provides a tranquil retreat for nature lovers seeking outdoor recreation opportunities away from the more crowded beach areas.
13. Port of Garibaldi
HISTORIC FISHING VILLAGE
The Port of Garibaldi is a historic fishing village just a short drive from Rockaway Beach that serves as a hotspot for fishing and crabbing activities. Visitors can rent spots on fishing tours, fish off the docks, or try their hand at catching crab in this authentic coastal working port. After the catch, travelers can visit local seafood stands offering the freshest seafood harvested from the surrounding waters.
14. The Three Graces
UNIQUE LOCAL BOUTIQUE
The Three Graces is a distinctive local boutique offering unique items for shoppers visiting Rockaway Beach. Visitors can browse through carefully curated merchandise that often reflects the coastal aesthetic and culture of the Pacific Northwest. The shop provides a personalized shopping experience away from typical tourist souvenirs, making it a hidden gem for those seeking authentic local goods.
15. Tillamook Cheese Factory
ICONIC DAIRY DESTINATION
The Tillamook Cheese Factory is a renowned attraction located a short drive from Rockaway Beach, offering visitors insight into the cheese-making process. Guests can take self-guided tours through the production facility, watch cheese being made, and sample various dairy products made on site. The factory also features a marketplace where visitors can purchase Tillamook products and enjoy ice cream, cheese, and other dairy treats in their restaurant.