Rockaway Beach, Oregon
The Ocean’s Edge on the North Coast
Rockaway Beach is still considered a “best-kept-secret” by locals and visitors alike, even though vacationers have been visiting this beloved beach town since 1909. Located just off Highway 101 and tucked in between Manzanita and Pacific City, Rockaway is an easy and beautiful 90-minute drive from Portland. A weekend or midweek getaway to a Rockaway Beach vacation rental is a classic Oregon Coast road-trip your whole family (including your pups!) will love.
Once you arrive in Rockaway, and check in to your Meredith Lodging Rockaway vacation rental, you will be charmed by this eclectic and easy-going community. Great food and drink, local shops with lots of personality, endless outdoor recreation opportunities, and miles of pristine beach will have you at hello.
We have captured our “Best of Rockaway” list to make planning your Rockaway getaway even easier. You will “Fall” in love with Rockaway in no time!
Best places to Eat and Drink in Rockaway
A Rockaway Beach vacation is not complete without sampling the local cuisine. The city is full of family-owned and specialty restaurants that are wallet-friendly, too!
Beach Bakeshop – Start your day the locals’ way at Beach Bakeshop. Their delicious, made-from-scratch pastries and seasonally inspired offerings will have you at hello.
Old Oregon Smokehouse serves up superb seafood in a no-frills atmosphere. Grab a seat at one of the outdoor wooden benches and be sure to order the crab melt or a bowl of clam chowder which has been voted one of the top five on the Coast!
Pronto Pup – Did you know the corndog was invented in Rockaway Beach, by husband-and-wife team George and Versa Boyington in the late 1930s? Grab a corndog and read about its history at Pronto Pup. They also have vegan dogs and a variety of batters to choose from.
Pronto Pup – Did you know the corndog was invented in Rockaway Beach, by husband-and-wife team George and Versa Boyington in the late 1930s? Grab a corndog and read about its history at Pronto Pup. They also have vegan dogs and a variety of batters to choose from.
Rockaway Family Friendly Activities
Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad – Riding the train to Rockaway Beach has been a tradition for families since the 1920s, when the train used to be the only way to get here from the mountains. Now, you can experience this tradition and enjoy a relaxing and scenic 1.5 hours ride on one of our historic steam or diesel locomotives. You can board at either Rockaway Beach or Garibaldi. All aboard!
Go Fly a Kite! It is no accident that the largest kite flying contest in the Northwest happens at Rockaway Beach every August. Grab a kite at Seabreeze Gifts or Flamingo Jim’s Gifts and Clothing and discover why this is a kite flyer’s dream location.
Exploring Tide Pools Near Rockaway – Kids love Tidepools! Avoid the crowds you will find at Haystack Rock by exploring some lesser-known gems nearby. Nearby Silver Point, Indian Beach and Ecola Point are beautiful places to explore as the tide recedes. You can catch a glimpse of starfish, sea urchins, muscles, and other crustaceans.
Rockaway Outdoor Recreation Activities
Catch Famous Oregon Dungeness Crab! Crabbing is a way of life in Rockaway Beach. With Nehalem Bay to the North, Tillamook Bay to the South, and Netarts Bay all serving as excellent crab-catching spots throughout the year. We suggest heading to Kelly’s Brighton Marina on Nehalem Bay for a guided crabbing experience. Kelly himself leads this family-fun adventure guaranteeing results!
Explore Cape Meares State Park Scenic Viewpoint – There is something for everyone at this nearby outing – including beautiful ocean views, an easy hike to the famous Octopus Tree and a stroll to the famous Cape Meares Lighthouse! This stop is part of the picturesque Three Capes Scenic Loop, a gorgeous coastal drive that makes for the perfect half-day getaway!
Discover Local Flora and Fauna by Kayak – Enjoy the sights and sounds of Oregon Coast native wildlife up-close. Lake Lytle and Spring Lake are two favorite kayaking spots in and around Rockaway, suitable for all skill levels. You will never forget the tranquil experience of viewing native birds and other animals from your waterfront seat! Contact Kayak Tillamook for a guided experience.
Ready to Plan your getaway to Rockaway?
We are here to help! You can view our entire Rockaway Collection online or call our Reservations Team at 877.778.9055 to book your stay. We hope to see you soon! In the meantime, follow us on Social and post those vacay pics with #STAYWITHMEREDITH