Rockaway Beach is an amazing city in Tillamook County, Oregon, United States. This city had about 1,467 residents as of the 2021 census. The city was named after Rockaway Beach in Queens, New York.
Rockaway Beach is one of the perfect places for a tourist visit with its impeccable water view and beach experience. This place is known for its remarkable seaside attractions, quaint art, and local restaurants with a fantastic seafood menu.
Suppose you are looking for a place to relax from a busy life schedule or want a getaway time with family and loved ones. In that case, Rockaway Beach, Oregon, is the perfect place for you.
Are you wondering what to do in Rockaway Beach? Let’s explore the best and fun things to do in Rockaway Beach, Oregon.
Things to Do in Rockaway Beach, OR
1. See the Twin Rocks
Twin Rocks
One of the eye-catching views on a trip to Rockaway Beach is the Twin Rock, located amid this large sea. The view of this beautiful rock formation always leaves visitors in awe. Minnehaha Street gives the best view of this rock formation.
Pressure, time, and wave pounding have played a vital role in the structure of this great rock formation. This spot is great for travel photographers, geology enthusiasts, or those that care about natural creation.
This site is definitely a must-see on your visit to this coastal city. It should be added to your list of the best places to visit in Rockaway Beach, Oregon.
Address: Twin Rocks, Rockaway Beach, OR 97136, United States.
2. Lake Lytle
Barry Savage
Lake Lytle is a fun place to visit in Rockaway Beach, Oregon. This Lake is perfect for fishing and paddling. It is bounded by lovely valley vistas, making it very attractive.
Lake Lytle is approximately 65 acres. If you are a fan of fishing, this small coastal lake should be fancied. The paddling experience offered here is second to none due to the calmness of the river, making it almost obstacle free.
This Lake is one of the best places to relax with loved ones. Don’t forget to carry a snack while waiting for your big catch.
Address: Lake Lytle, Rockaway Beach, OR 97136, United States.
3. Kelly’s Brighton Marina
Kelly’s Brighton Marina
Going on an adventure with Kelly’s Brighton Marina is among the fun things to do in Rockaway Beach, Oregon. The place offers a lot of adventures while taking a trip to the coast.
One of the adventures Kelly’s Brighton Marina offers is a crabbing experience, which involves crab catching and boating at the same time; these crabs are used for a feast.
Also, they offer boat rental, which lasts for two hours, with crab rings already baited. Their skilled personnel teaches how to navigate the sea tides and helps catch and fill your bucket with fresh seafood.
The Kelly’s Brighton Marina also has a beautiful picnic area where several tasty kinds of seafood, such as oysters and crabs, are served. This place is more than a Marina.
Address: 29200 N Hwy 101, Rockaway Beach, OR 97136, United States.
4. Rockaway Beach’s Miles of Sand
Rockaway Beach has an explorable sandy beach stretched up to seven miles. This sandy Beach serves a good purpose for relaxing and enjoying the breath of the sea wind.
Do you like paddling the water? If yes, this is a perfect avenue to enjoy water sporting activities like windsurfing, scuba diving, jet skiing, kayaking, etc.
The view of the sun rising and falling at this Beach is a must-see because of how astonishing this view can be. And at every spot on this Beach, you can experience the incredible sight.
When heading out there, don’t forget your beach essentials, especially sun protection cream. This sandy Beach is one of the best places to visit in Rockaway Beach, Oregon.
Address: Rockaway Beach, OR 97136, United States.
5. Phyllis Baker City Park
Phyllis Baker City Park is a perfect location to enjoy a sunny afternoon. This park has a large, grassy space, including a spot great for picnics and enjoyable for family and friends.
This Park also houses a place for the younger ones to have fun. This prestigious park is also a perfect venue for local events, which brings new people together.
This destination is a must-visit to enjoy great family time.
Address: 341 N Falcon St, Rockaway Beach, OR 97136, United States.
6. Washed Ashore Art, Craft, And More
If you love art and craft, Washed Ashore Art, Craft, and More is a perfect place to enjoy your day. A visit to this destination should be on your checklist of the top things to do in Rockaway Beach, Oregon.
Washed Ashore Art, Craft, and More is an old-fashioned and attractive art gallery. This place hosts a variety of artistic items.
You will find craft and artistic work done by local artists, amazing treasures, and rare artisan items. Local artists around this place use this art gallery to showcase their work pieces to the world.
The Washed Ashore Arts, Crafts, and More is also a place to shop for items such as large craft pieces, small decorations, or a piece of occasional furniture.
Your trip to Rockaway Beach can not be complete without visiting this art gallery. Do not forget to get a gift for your home.
Address: 320 US-101, Rockaway Beach, OR 97136, United States.
7. Cedar Wetlands Preserves
Cedar Wetlands Preserves has a lot to offer by introducing you to Rockaway’s Beach natural wonders. This wonderful preserve travels along East Washington Street and South Island Street.
It has a nature walk of about a quarter mile and hosts many big ancient trees. However, the path of this preserve is mostly wooden and leads right to the city’s old cedar bog.
The Cedar Wetlands Preserves is a place for nature trips and hiking. This place helps offer relief from the stress of the ever-busy life of the city.
Address: 47 Hwy 101 So, Rockaway Beach, OR 97136, United States.
8. Manhattan Beach State Recreation Site
Manhattan Beach State Recreation Site
This state recreation center doesn’t get as many visitors as other hotspots in the city. This spot is one of the best sites to have a windy picnic. You will have access to picnic tables made from shore pine around the parking lot.
Manhattan Beach State Recreation Site can get you on the Beach within 500 feet. Also, Barview jetty is miles southward of the beach extension. This big Beach is also a suitable spot for beachcombing and long hikes.
Address: Manhattan Beach State Recreation Site, Beach St, Rockaway Beach, OR 97136, United States.
For a fun time in Oregon, take to exploring Oregon, don’t miss our list of things to do in Lincoln City for a fun vacation time.
9. Troxel’s Rock Garden
Troxel’s Rock Garden is a place for young and youthful people to have fun and engage in something unique. A trip to this Garden always makes visitors want to return because of its unique experience.
This funky park creates an avenue to rent and ride a bike to explore the vicinity. It also has a mini golf area to play golf and also an opportunity to go rockhounding to find rocks of interest.
Troxel’s Rock Garden has unique and unpredictable attractions to help you enjoy your day.
Address: 146 N Hwy 101 S, Rockaway Beach, OR 97136, United States.
10. Oregon Du Drops
Oregon Du Drops
Oregon Du Drops is an art gallery that holds and displays the charm of Rockaway Beach. This art gallery houses James Stephens Du Bois’s works.
The artist is known for combining brass temple bells, recycled light bulbs, and Oregon rain to create a sentimental and rare piece of art.
You can shop for unique artwork from the Oregon community at this place. If you are searching for something wonderful as a souvenir or need items to be customized, Oregon Du Drops is just right for you.
Address: 450 Oregon Coast Hwy, Rockaway Beach, OR 97136, United States.
11. Valley Art Gallery
Valley Art Gallery is a unique place featuring various artworks. Volunteers run this non-profit organization.
Artworks of more than 200 talented local artists can be found at Valley Art Gallery. Various items are on display at this gallery. So you will surely find one art piece that you will like.
The exhibits at this gallery include glass artwork, metal artwork, and textile sculpture. Every piece at this gallery is for sale.
Valley Art Gallery also features classrooms and a pottery studio. Classes and workshops are held for all ages.
Address: 2022 Main St, Forest Grove, OR 97116, United States.
12. The Picnic Basket
The Picnic Basket is a nice place to satisfy your sweet craving, especially when you are on a road trip with your kids. This place offers goods worthy of consideration and attention.
Only premium products are sold here, making the basket unmatched in Rockaway Beach. They offer friendly service and deliver delicious delights like fudge, funnel cakes, taffy, and ice cream.
The shop has so many souvenir and giftware options. Satisfying your cravings at The Picnic Basket should be on your list of what to do in Rockaway Beach, Oregon, if you have a sweet tooth.
Address: 102 N Hwy 101, Rockaway Beach, OR 97136, United States.
13. Seaside Resort
Seaside Resort Rockaway
Visiting the Seaside Resort is one of the top things to do in Rockaway Beach, Oregon. This hotel is charming and accommodating and has an overview of the Beach.
At this Resort, all amenities needed for a vacation are available, including Wi-Fi, a fireplace, comfortable beds, well-furnished rooms, cabled TVs, and more. Accessibility to the Beach and other parts of the town is easy from the Resort.
Seaside Resort also has a heated pool indoors for relaxation. There are pet-friendly accommodations for your pets, allowing you to enjoy your visit without bothering about your pets.
Address: 615 N Pacific St, Rockaway Beach, OR 97136, United States.
14. The Three Graces
The Three Graces
The Three Graces is one of the most intriguing sights to behold in Rockaway Beach. It is a beautiful rock formation near the shore with directions from Garibaldi to the Pacific Ocean and North Jetty.
The coastal mountains formed as a result of the crashing of the earth’s crust due to pressure over time.
This is an excellent destination for every travel photographer because of the amazing view this natural wonder showcases.
These natural rocks are surrounded by sparking waters and have shallow tides, serving as a pool great for swimming.
Exploring The Three Graces is one of the best things to do in Rockaway Beach, Oregon.
Address: 14474 Oregon Coast Hwy, Rockaway Beach, OR 97136, United States.
15. Sakeone
Sakeone is a unique establishment near the intriguing Rockaway Beach. This place is a famous brewery known for its exceptional products.
Sakeone has been operational since 1992; when this establishment started, they imported high-quality sake but began brewing their own sake in 1997.
The pure waters inspired them in Willamette Valley. They currently produce sake in four different categories. Visitors can learn more on a visit to the brewery.
Tours are held thrice daily during the weekends. This place is a remarkable and educative place to visit.
Address: 820 Elm St, Forest Grove, OR 97116, United States.
Planning an Oregon road trip? do not miss our guide on Beaverton and Corvallis for a fun trip in Oregon.
16. Annual Rockaway Beach Kite Festival
Attending the Annual Rockaway Beach Kite Festival is one of the fun things to do in Rockaway Beach, Oregon. This event is hosted on the Beach during the summer festivities.
Rockaway Beach has held this kite flying event as a tradition for more than 40 years to bring life and color to the city.
This event has always been sponsored by the American Kite Fliers Association, where lovers of kite flying, both professionals and beginners, showcase their passion. This event allows art enthusiasts and artists to showcase their artistic skills.
The various activities you can participate in during this event include shopping for artisan items, enjoying great foods and live music, getting to know how to make a kite, and being amused by the lovely kite exhibition.
The annual Rockaway Beach Kite Festival is a must-attend event for visitors during the summer.
Address: Rockaway Beach, Oregon 97136, United States.
17. Tualatin Estate Vineyards
The Tualatin Estate Vineyard is a historical establishment in the area. It has been producing loved and quality wines since 1973. This vineyard is one of the oldest breweries in the Willamette Valley.
Most of the wines produced by the Tualatin Estate Vineyards were made from grapes picked from their vineyards.
Tualatin Estate Vineyards offers daily tours, which usually start at 2 pm.
Address: 10850 NW Seavey Rd, Forest Grove, OR 97116, United States.
18. Spring Lake
Spring Lake, which is approximately 13 acres, offers a great avenue to fish and paddle your kayaks. It provides a beautiful view encompassed with lush trees.
Spring Lake is a place to have a quiet and relaxing time because of its peaceful environment. It is also a lovely spot to enjoy kayaking and fishing.
Spring Lake provides an escape from the bustle and hustle of the city. Come and enjoy the serenity of nature in style.
Address: Spring Lake, Rockaway Beach, OR 97136, United States.
19. Oregon Coast Scenic Railway
Oregon Coast Scenic Railway
The Oregon Coast Scenic Railway is an ancient route leading to the south from Rockaway Beach to Garibaldi. This rail line is adjacent to US Highway 101 and moves 10 miles per hour.
However, due to the slowed pace of the train, the journey on the coast is more enjoyable, complemented by the open-air boxcar seating. During summer, the place is operational every day of the week due to its popular attraction among tourists.
It could take approximately 180 minutes to travel on this rail to and fro, including a layover for about 30 minutes at the fishing town.
This Railway also offers special trips beginning with the February special themed “valentine’s brunch train” and concluding with the December special themed “candy cane express.”
Address: 402 American Ave, Garibaldi, OR 97118, United States.
20. David Hill Winery
David Hill Winery is popular destination for wine lovers in the region. It is situated atop a breathtaking farm estate.
David Hill Winery is known for its high-quality wine and gorgeous packaging. This Winery’s tasting room is also situated within the farmhouse.
Two tasting options are available at the tasting room; a tasting of seven high-quality wines produced from their old vines or a tasting of five tasty estate wines.
Visitors can tour the beautiful grounds of David Hill Winery. A fun time awaits you!
Address: 46350 NW David Hill Rd, Forest Grove, OR 97116, United States.
21. Trash & Treasures
Trash & Treasures is another exciting place to visit in Rockaway Beach. This place is a thrift and gift store that offers various in-between, used, and new items. Trash & Treasures became operational in 1982.
Since its inception, till now this store has been through different alterations, making it a hub for collectibles and antique items in Rockaway Beach.
Some items are currently on sale at the store, such as greeting cards, jewelry, carnival glass and depression, toys, memorabilia, presents, antiques, and games.
Trash & Treasures is a must-visit for gifts due to its ever-changing collections; you can never be out of choice.
Address: 180 US-101, Rockaway Beach, OR 97136, United States.
22. Rockaway Beach’s South Jetty
Rockaway Beach’s South Jetty is among the most popular spots in Nehalem Bay. This route is difficult to navigate due to several dips on the road; hence you would need to take extra precautions while traveling.
However, it has a large parking space for your vehicle. There is a memorial marker along the stretched, broad walkway directing to the Beach marked “Nehalem Bay South Jetty, US Army Corps of Engineers, structured 1910-1916”.
The route will be divided into two at the journey’s beginning; continue moving straight. After a significant distance, the ground would be covered with varying sizes of driftwood, leaving an impression about the level of concentration of driftwood ever seen.
Admire the wonders of nature at Rockaway Beach’s South Jetty. It offers a lovely experience.
Address: South Jetty Nehalem Bay, Rockaway Beach, OR 97136, United States.
23. Main Street
Main Street
In addition, stores for shopping are on Main Street if you want to get personalized items, souvenirs, unique crafts, etc.
After shopping, there are tons of local cuisine waiting for you to have a bite of their delicious food. You can also get your confectioneries along Rockaway Beach’s Main Street.
A shopping spree at Rockaway Beach’s Main Street is a memorable experience.
Address: Main Street, Rockaway Beach, OR 97136, United States.
24. International Police Museum.
International Police Museum
The International Police Museum hosts some exceptional exhibit displays on Rockaway Beach. This place allows Rockaway Beach residents and its neighboring communities to enjoy indoor entertainment of a wide variety due to the recent unpleasant cold weather.
The International Police Museum had new exhibits, which were temporarily moved to Wheeler in 2021. In February 2022, it was brought back to Rockaway Beach.
This place also talks about the beginning of law enforcement from a voluntary group called “watchmen” to the present moment, enduring several government agencies over time.
The International Police Museum is one of the best places to learn and gather historical knowledge.
Address: 395 Nehalem Blvd, Wheeler, OR 97147, United States.
25. Fernhill Wetlands Park
A remarkable place near Rockaway beach, Oregon, is the Fernhill Wetlands Park. This Park is over 240 acres and is a fun place to spend time.
Fernhill Wetlands Park is a stunning preserve of wildlife and nature. It is also a part of the water treatment system in the region.
This place is known for its wetlands and ponds; various adventurous hiking trails can also be found here. The trails are paved for easy accessibility. Numerous unique bird species can also be found at this park.
The Fernhill Wetlands Park offers a beautiful view from its picnic area. The major trail is over 1.1 miles long and loops around the infamous Fernwood Lake.
Address: 97117, 1399 SW Fern Hill Rd, Forest Grove, OR 97116, United States.
Take to exploring other cities of Oregon, check out our list of things to do in Klamath Falls, things to do in Medford, and things to do in Ashland.
Plan Your Trip to Rockaway Beach
Rockaway Beach is a delightful place in Oregon, known for its lakes and vineyards. Various unique shops, parks, and restaurants can also be found in this city.
Above are some nice places in Rockaway Beach; add them to your itinerary and check them out on your visit. You are sure to have a fantastic time in Rockaway Beach, Oregon.