Attractions and Places To See around Rockaway Beach - Top 14

Beyond the seven miles of sandy shoreline at Rockaway Beach, you can discover iconic natural features like Twin Rocks, two massive sea stacks just offshore. The Cedar Wetlands Preserve offers a boardwalk through ancient forests, home to the "Ascending Giant" cedar. You can also visit Lake Lytle for freshwater activities or the South Jetty of the Nehalem Bay for crabbing and birding.

Yes, the area offers diverse outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore trails like the Nehalem Bay Trail Loop or the Nehalem Spit Trail. Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy routes such as the Rockaway loop via Oregon Coast Scenic Bikeway or the Nehalem River loop. You can find more details and routes in the Hiking around Rockaway Beach and Cycling around Rockaway Beach guides.

Rockaway Beach has a rich history. You can take a ride on the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad for a unique historical experience along the coast. The International Police Museum showcases law enforcement artifacts, and the nearby Tillamook County Pioneer Museum offers insights into the region's past. The Rockaway Beach Historic Walking Tour also allows you to explore the town's heritage through photo murals and plaques.

Absolutely! Many attractions cater to families. Nehalem Bay State Park is excellent for camping and beach access. The Cedar Wetlands Preserve features an accessible boardwalk, suitable for all ages. Jetty Fishery Marina & RV Park offers crabbing, fishing, and boat rentals, while the Rockaway Beach City Center and Park has a playground for younger visitors. The Nehalem River is also known for its diverse wildlife, which can be exciting for children to spot.

The region is rich in wildlife. The Nehalem River supports elk, otters, beavers, salmon, and various bird species like osprey and golden eagles. The South Jetty of the Nehalem Bay is a great spot for birding and observing harbor seals. Nearby, Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge is a sanctuary for seabirds and marine mammals, which can be viewed from the coastline with binoculars.

Rockaway Beach boasts numerous unique local shops selling souvenirs, art, and antiques. For dining, you can savor fresh seafood and clam chowder from places like Old Oregon Smokehouse. The town is also known as the birthplace of the Pronto Pup. In Garibaldi, you can enjoy fresh catches like Dungeness crab and ling cod at local restaurants.

Yes, crabbing and fishing are popular activities. The South Jetty of the Nehalem Bay is a prime location for both. Jetty Fishery Marina & RV Park also provides access and resources for fishing in Nehalem Bay, offering boat and cabin rentals, and even a ferry service to Nehalem Bay State Park.

The Cedar Wetlands Preserve features an accessible boardwalk, allowing visitors of all mobility levels to experience the ancient forests. The South Jetty of the Nehalem Bay also offers accessible parking, restrooms, and picnic areas, making it convenient for everyone to enjoy the coastal environment.

Rockaway Beach offers different experiences throughout the year. Summer months are popular for events like the Rockaway Beach Kite and Art Festival in August and the July 4th celebration with fireworks. For hiking, spring and fall often provide pleasant weather. Winter offers a quieter, more peaceful beach experience, ideal for storm watching and beachcombing.

A short drive from Rockaway Beach, you can discover Munson Creek Falls, the tallest waterfall in the Coast Range. A short, accessible trail leads through an old-growth forest to a viewpoint where you can admire the 319-foot cascade.

The area is home to remarkable arboreal wonders. The Cedar Wetlands Preserve features old-growth cedar and Sitka spruce trees, including the impressive "Ascending Giant," a 154-foot tall cedar. Another natural wonder is the Octopus Tree, an ancient and uniquely shaped Sitka spruce with a central base nearly 50 feet around, splitting into several smaller trunks.

For breathtaking vistas, consider hiking Neah-Kah-Nie Mountain, which offers incredible views of Nehalem Bay and the Pacific Ocean. The iconic Twin Rocks also provide a picturesque backdrop for photography from the beach. Additionally, Rockaway Beach itself offers expansive coastal views.