Imagine trading the kitchen chaos for crashing waves, cozy fireplaces, and the soothing rhythm of the Pacific this Thanksgiving. The Oregon Coast offers exactly that – a chance to celebrate with family or friends over a festive meal without lifting a finger. Early November brings a quieter, more intimate feel to towns like Cannon Beach, Lincoln City, Newport, and Seaside. Holiday lights twinkle along Main Streets, stormy skies create dramatic backdrops, and the smell of saltwater mingles with the aroma of roasted turkey and freshly baked pies.
November weather can be brisk, with cool winds and occasional rain – a perfect excuse to bundle up in flannel, sip a warm cider or local craft beer, and watch winter storms roll in from the comfort of a fireside. Many coastal restaurants open for special Thanksgiving meals or buffets, giving travelers the chance to enjoy a feast with none of the cleanup. But keep in mind: reservations fill fast, so plan early to secure your table.
Thanksgiving Dinner on the Oregon Coast
Top Thanksgiving Dining Spots on the Oregon Coast
Imagine celebrating Thanksgiving without the hassle of cooking, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Oregon Coast. From Lincoln City to Yachats, coastal towns offer a mix of traditional holiday fare and fresh Northwest flavors, often paired with stunning ocean views.
Many restaurants create special menus for Thanksgiving, blending classic turkey and sides with seasonal local ingredients like Dungeness crab, wild mushrooms, and Pacific salmon. Whether you prefer a lavish buffet, a cozy family-style meal, or a gourmet takeout option, the coast has something to suit every taste and group size. This guide highlights the top dining spots and seasonal favorites for an unforgettable Thanksgiving weekend by the sea
Lincoln City (Buffets & Seafood)
Lincoln City is a haven for Thanksgiving feasts, particularly for those who love variety. The Inn at Spanish Head’s Fathoms Restaurant is famous for its all-you-can-eat holiday spread, featuring traditional turkey, savory sides, and fresh local seafood. The restaurant overlooks the ocean, giving diners a front-row seat to crashing waves as they savor their meal.
Nearby, Salishan Coastal Lodge’s Longhouse offers a family-style harvest buffet with seasonal flavors, perfect for multi-generational celebrations. Meanwhile, the Chinook Winds Casino Resort hosts multiple dining options: the Siletz Bay Buffet serves classic holiday fare, the Rogue River Steakhouse offers gourmet meats and desserts, and Chinook’s Seafood Grill highlights fresh coastal catches.
After your meal, enjoy a stroll along Lincoln City’s beaches or explore local art galleries and shops. For a seamless stay, Meredith Lodging’s vacation rentals in Lincoln City and Lincoln Beach offer cozy accommodations with full kitchens, fireplaces, and spacious living areas, perfect for unwinding after a day of dining and coastal exploration.
Cannon Beach (Coastal Classics)
Cannon Beach is a quintessential Northwest coastal town, ideal for Thanksgiving celebrations. Pelican Brewing Company combines ale-brined turkey with local flavors, all while diners enjoy sweeping views of Haystack Rock. The historic Wayfarer Restaurant, with its roaring fireplace and cozy interior, often serves seasonal Thanksgiving specials, perfect for a more intimate experience.
Afterward, take a scenic walk along the shoreline or browse local art galleries. Returning to a Cannon Beach vacation rental ensures you have cozy accommodations with full kitchens, fireplaces, and ocean views, perfect for relaxing with family after a festive dinner.
Newport (Seaside Feasts)
Newport’s Harbor area is a hotspot for holiday dining. Georgie’s Beachside Grill offers a lavish Thanksgiving buffet at the Hallmark Resort, blending traditional turkey with fresh seafood staples like clam chowder and Oregon oysters. Nearby, Clearwater Restaurant and Local Ocean Dockside serve seasonal specials, while Local Ocean offers gourmet “Dockbox” meal kits for take-home enjoyment.
After dining, wander along the Newport Historic Bayfront or stroll along Agate Beach. Staying in a Newport vacation rental or a nearby South Beach vacation rental ensures easy access to restaurants, local shops, and scenic walks, while providing comfort and privacy for the family.
Seaside (Family Traditions)
Seaside blends charming coastal vibes with family-friendly Thanksgiving traditions. Twisted Fish Steakhouse welcomes guests with surf-and-turf and traditional holiday fare, while Camp 18, a rustic log-cabin eatery, serves a homestyle buffet complete with wood-fired pies and hearty Northwest sides. Camp 18’s cozy, forested setting makes it a memorable experience for families and groups alike.
Afterward, take a walk along the Seaside Promenade to enjoy fresh ocean air or unwind in a Seaside vacation rental, perfect for post-dinner storytelling or cozying up by the fireplace.
Yachats & Beyond (Quiet Coastal Nooks)
For a quieter, more intimate Thanksgiving, head south to Yachats. The Drift Inn offers a generous buffet featuring turkey, ham, and vegan options, along with seasonal sides. The oceanfront Adobe Resort presents panoramic views with a festive dinner experience.
Nearby towns like Waldport and Florence provide smaller eateries and markets that offer prepared Thanksgiving meals or casual dining. After exploring tidepools or walking coastal trails, unwind in a Yachats vacation rental or a Waldport vacation rental to enjoy the evening with family.
Other Coastal Towns: Dining & Activities
Yachats & Waldport: Yachats is a cozy seaside town perfect for a quiet Thanksgiving getaway. Enjoy ocean views while dining at the Drift Inn’s holiday buffet, or pick up prepared meals from local cafes to enjoy at your vacation rental. Just south, Waldport offers charming eateries and beach walks along Alsea Bay, making it ideal for a leisurely holiday with family or pets.
Tierra Del Mar & South Beach: In Tierra Del Mar, small boutique restaurants and local cafés offer seasonal specials with ocean views. South Beach, near Newport, features harbor-side dining, perfect for a Thanksgiving meal with fresh seafood. Both towns are quiet in November, giving you a peaceful coastal retreat while staying at Tierra Del Mar or South Beach.
Seaside & Cannon Beach: Seaside offers family-friendly restaurants like Twisted Fish and Camp 18, with traditional Thanksgiving menus and cozy fireplaces. Cannon Beach combines coastal classics with ocean views – Pelican Brewing and Wayfarer provide hearty meals with a festive ambiance. Both towns are ideal for a post-dinner stroll along the shoreline. Book early at Seaside vacation rentals or Cannon Beach vacation rentals to secure the perfect ocean-view stay.
Lincoln City & Lincoln Beach: Lincoln City is known for its grand buffets at Spanish Head’s Fathoms Restaurant, Salishan Coastal Lodge, and Chinook Winds Casino Resort. Lincoln Beach offers a quieter alternative, with scenic tidepools and shoreline walks after a Thanksgiving meal. Both towns provide options for every family size and dining preference; consider Lincoln City vacation rentals or Lincoln Beach vacation rentals for a comfortable home base.
Newport & Seal Rock: In Newport, the Harbor area boasts seafood-focused holiday specials at Georgie’s Beachside Grill, Clearwater, and Local Ocean Dockside. Seal Rock, just north, offers intimate oceanfront dining and quiet beaches for post-meal walks. Stay close to the action with Newport vacation rentals or Seal Rock vacation rentals.
Depoe Bay & Neskowin: Depoe Bay’s small-town charm includes harbor-view restaurants and easy access to whale-watching tours, perfect for family-friendly outings after Thanksgiving dinner. Neskowin features quiet coastal trails and boutique eateries for a peaceful holiday escape. Check out Depoe Bay vacation rentals or Neskowin vacation rentals for cozy accommodations.
Beverly Beach & Gleneden Beach: Beverly Beach State Park offers scenic walks and picnic spots perfect for post-dinner outings. Gleneden Beach features ocean-view dining and casual cafés for small-group Thanksgiving meals. Both towns are ideal for families and pets, with Beverly Beach vacation rentals and Gleneden Beach vacation rentals providing convenient access to the shore.
Gearhart & Manzanita: Gearhart has charming local restaurants and a relaxed village atmosphere ideal for holiday getaways. Manzanita features family-friendly cafés and scenic beachfront walks, perfect for working off a Thanksgiving feast. Reserve early at Gearhart vacation rentals or Manzanita vacation rentals for easy access to dining and beaches.
Oceanside & Pacific City: Oceanside offers quiet beaches and small seafood shacks for cozy, post-dinner strolls. Pacific City combines iconic Cape Kiwanda views with local eateries offering seasonal menus. Both towns are perfect for a slower-paced holiday weekend. Stay nearby at Oceanside Oregon Coast or Pacific City.
Rockaway Beach: Rockaway Beach has classic coastal diners and oceanfront strolls for families, while Tierra Del Mar remains a quiet, tucked-away spot with boutique cafés and ocean views. Both provide peaceful escapes from the holiday bustle. Consider Rockaway Beach for convenient accommodations.
Bay City & Arch Cape: Bay City offers cozy local eateries and scenic waterfront walks, ideal for a relaxed Thanksgiving weekend. Arch Cape provides intimate dining experiences and rugged coastal scenery, perfect for a quiet holiday retreat. Browse Bay City or Arch Cape to enjoy easy access to these coastal gems.
FAQs – Thanksgiving
Q: Are restaurants open on Thanksgiving Day? A: Yes, many coastal restaurants open their doors for special holiday meals. Favorites like Seaside’s Twisted Fish, Camp 18, Lincoln City’s Fathoms, and the Chinook Winds Casino buffet are local go-tos. Just be sure to confirm hours, as they can vary each year.
Q: Should I make dinner reservations for Thanksgiving? A: Definitely. Thanksgiving weekend is one of the busiest times on the Oregon Coast, and popular spots fill up quickly. Reserve both your dinner and lodging early so you can relax and enjoy the holiday stress-free.
Q: What’s the weather like in November? A: November brings cool coastal charm, expect misty mornings, gentle rain, and highs around 48–55°F (8–15°C). It’s perfect for cozy walks on the beach and evenings by the fire. Pack warm layers and a waterproof jacket for outdoor adventures.
Q: Can I order Thanksgiving dinner to-go? A: Yes! Many local restaurants and grocery stores offer complete takeout meals or pre-made holiday kits. Some spots, like Newport’s Local Ocean, even provide gourmet “DockBox” dinners you can heat and serve in your vacation rental.
Q: Where’s the best place to stay for Thanksgiving on the Oregon Coast? A: You can’t go wrong anywhere along the coast. Meredith Lodging offers beautiful vacation rentals—from oceanfront condos in Cannon Beach to forest cabins near Newport—complete with full kitchens and plenty of room for family gatherings.
Q: What is there to do on Thanksgiving weekend? A: Beyond great food and scenic views, you’ll find plenty to enjoy, beach walks, storm watching, boutique shopping, or visiting local art galleries. Many towns also host tree lightings, craft fairs, and small-town parades.
Q: Are hiking trails open in November? A: Yes, most coastal trails are open year-round. Bundle up, wear waterproof shoes, and enjoy quiet forests, misty viewpoints, and less-crowded paths this time of year.
Q: Can I have a beach bonfire over Thanksgiving weekend? A: In many areas, yes – just check local fire regulations first. Beach bonfires are a wonderful way to end the day with s’mores, hot cocoa, and the sound of waves under the stars.
Book Your Cozy Coastal Feast
Thanksgiving on the Oregon Coast is magical. Salt air, hearty seafood, cozy firesides, and fewer crowds combine for an unforgettable holiday. Popular restaurants and rentals fill fast, so plan ahead. Meredith Lodging offers vacation rentals across the coast, ensuring comfort, convenience, and stunning ocean views.
Whether you choose a beachfront condo, a cozy forest cabin, or a luxurious, oceanfront resort, book early, pack your sweaters, and savor a stress-free Thanksgiving feast by the sea. The Oregon Coast awaits with warmth, flavor, and holiday cheer.
