It’s pretty much impossible to pick a dud when visiting the Oregon Coast—after all, the entire stretch along the Pacific Ocean is pure magic. That said, you really can’t go wrong when you hit up Pacific City. This gem of a small Oregon Coast town is quaint, scenic and just begging for a visit. When you’re ready to heed that call, this post is full of the fun things to do in Pacific City, Oregon.
Before we get to all the things to do, why Pacific City? First of all, it’s little. With just over 1,000 permanent residents, it’s not a bustling, sprawling city. That means you can easily explore the little Oregon Coast town and feel at home right away.
Next up, Pacific City is home to some of the most stunning scenery on the Coast. Haystack Rock sits a mile off-shore and acts as both a landmark and beacon—so you can always answer the question of where you are. (Answer: Right where you should be!)
I wish I could bottle up how special Pacific City, Oregon is. (I’d be a bajillionaire.) Since I can’t, though, I did the next best thing… and got it tattooed on my arm. Seriously.
So if you’re wondering where to go on the Oregon Coast, may I recommend Pacific City?
Read on for the most fun things to do in Pacific City, Oregon, the best restaurants, where to stay and more!
Things to do in Pacific City, Oregon
Since Pacific City is small, you won’t find a ton of big-city activities. That’s kind of the point, right? You will find plenty of things to do in Pacific City, Oregon that revolve around the outdoors.
This beautiful Oregon Coast town is full of outdoor activities, from hiking and surfing to splashing and beach combing.
Read on for my 7 favorite things to do in Pacific City, OR.
1. Explore the sand dunes of Pacific City
Rolling dunes run alongside the ocean in Pacific City, creating a sandy wonderland! I dare you to run down the sand dunes and not giggle like a little kid.
Sure, the dunes require extra effort to walk up and down—and you’ll need to cross them to reach Pacific Beach in some parts. Worth it? Absolutely.
I recommend checking out the dunes at Bob Straub State Park. (Also, how fun is it to say that name?!) While it may be tempting to walk barefoot from the parking lot, wear your shoes. That way your feet aren’t poked by the burrs from dune grass. Ouch!
The sand dunes also make an amazing spot to post up with a lawn chair and your favorite beverage. You can people watch as well as whale watch from these great vantage points!
2. Watch the dory boats
A fleet of about 300 dory boats is based in Pacific City and launches from the beach next to Pelican Brewery. This one-of-a-kind fishing fleet is amazing to watch in action. Without a harbor or pier, the fishermen and women literally run their small boats into the water.
The traditional fleet catches salmon, tuna, rockfish and crab—some of which you can eat in local Pacific City restaurants!
3. Check out Cape Kiwanda
Cape Kiwanda juts into the Pacific Ocean, creating a calm spot for launching dories. It also provides plenty of fun things to do in Pacific City!
The sandstone headland overlooks Haystack Rock and the ocean beyond—great for whale watching. Make sure to admire the view from within the fenced-off area. The land is made of sandstone, which can easily crumble beneath your feet. People have died from venturing past the fence—just don’t do it.
Once you park in the day use area ($10/vehicle), get ready for a steep climb up the dunes. The walk is beautiful and well worth the effort! You may want to run full-tilt down the dune on the south end of the park. You’ll be shocked at how fast your body moves!
4. Hike at the Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Just a few miles south of Pacific City, you can explore the beautiful Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge. This preserve is full of wildlife—bring your binoculars to go bird watching, see elk and even spot whales.
Hike some of Nestucca Bay’s many trails. Some wind through the woods; others take you to a viewpoint overlooking the ocean. During the spring and early summer, you might be rewarded with gorgeous hillsides full of wildflowers!
5. Admire Haystack Rock, Pacific City
This is confusing, but there are actually two famous Haystack Rocks on the Oregon Coast. One lies off the coast of Cannon Beach; the other is here in Pacific City. It seems like folks could have come up with different names for these enormous sea stacks, but I don’t make the rules.
The Pacific City Haystack Rock is actually larger than the one in Cannon Beach. It only appears to be smaller because it’s farther away, about a mile offshore. Unlike its namesake farther south, the Haystack Rock in Pacific City can’t be explored up-close.
Still, it’s a gorgeous landmark—and one that makes Pacific City’s views unique!
6. Pacific City surfing
Pacific City, Oregon has become a popular surfing destination. Consistent breaks draw seasoned surfers along with beginners. You can rent boards and wetsuits in town.
Even if you don’t want to get in the water yourself, you can watch the surfers catch waves. If you’re visiting Pacific City in the fall, check out the Cape Kiwanda Longboard Classic. This surfing contest and celebration is also a fundraiser to build a local skate park.
7. Catch the sunset
One thing you can usually count on at the Oregon Coast: epic sunsets.
Pacific City, OR is no exception.
You can’t really pick a bad place to catch the sunset in Pacific City. That said, you won’t be disappointed while watching the sun go down from Cape Kiwanda, the dunes at Bob Straub or while sipping a microbrew from Pelican Brewery.
Pacific City Beach
It’s no surprise that the beach is one of the biggest draws to this Oregon Coast beach town. Pacific City Beach stretches from Cape Kiwanda down south through Bob Straub State Park. With access points throughout Pacific City, there’s literally no bad place to explore Pacific City Beach.
Recently my sister-in-law asked if the Oregon Coast was a swimsuit kind of a place. I laughed because she asked me this in January (brr!), but truthfully you can sometimes swim in the ocean here. Proof:
While Pacific City weather typically skews toward dip-your-toes-in-the-ocean, rather than full-on submersion, the beach here is beautiful.
My favorite spot to access Pacific City Beach: Bob Straub State Park. The parking lots are at the south end of town and are free, despite it being a state park. I like this beach because fewer people hang out here than the beach in front of Pelican Brewery.
The best Pacific City restaurants
Seafood is a big draw at the best Pacific City restaurants. Some of the fish and crab is incredibly fresh—as in caught that day—so it’s hard to go wrong!
You can find plenty else to eat besides seafood if that’s not your thing. Many Pacific City restaurants don’t require (or don’t accept) reservations, though the more upscale ones do during peak hours and the summer season.
Pelican Brewery
The most popular Pacific City restaurant is definitely Pelican Brewery. It’s not hard to figure out why: The food is great, and the location is perfect.
Situated directly on the beach, with impressive views of Haystack Rock and Cape Kiwanda, you get incredible landscapes alongside your meal. The outdoor seating makes you feel as if you’re eating directly on the beach.
Pelican Brewery also has a great kids’ menu and gluten-free options. (I’ve particularly enjoyed their GF pizza bread.) If your kids get antsy while they wait, they can step outside and play in the sand right next to the table!
Pelican Brewery gets really busy during peak times, especially on weekends. Prepare yourself for a wait or eat outside of the most popular hours.
If you’re using the public parking directly next to Pelican Brewery for beach access, you can stop at Pelican Brewery’s to-go window. Grab a growler or can of beer to go or to accompany your beachfront picnic. (Just brown bag it, as technically you’re not supposed to have open alcoholic beverages on the beach. To my knowledge this technicality isn’t really enforced.)
Riverhouse Nestucca
The Riverhouse Nestucca is my favorite Pacific City restaurant. Is this partly because they serve gluten-free fish and chips? Definitely. I mean, I hadn’t had this classic coastal dish since going GF—and their version is delicious!
Regardless of how you feel about gluten-free fish and chips, I absolutely recommend the Riverhouse Nestucca. It’s one of the higher-end Pacific City restaurants, serving local fish and small plates. They also whip up a mean cocktail.
Be sure to make reservations, as this little restaurant has very limited seating.
Oar House
The Oar House is a combination pub and restaurant, with more emphasis on the menu than a typical bar. Unsurprisingly, it has plenty of fresh seafood options, including crab. Its prime rib night on weekends draws plenty of locals, too.
Ben & Jeff’s Burgers
This walk-up restaurant is great for a quick to-go meal. Order your burgers and take your meal down to the beach for an easy picnic.
Not into burgers? This Pacific City restaurant also serves tacos and breakfast burritos.
Hotels: Pacific City, Oregon
Now that you can’t wait to visit, your next question may wonder about where to stay.
You’ll find short-term rentals in neighborhoods (some of which come with boogie boards and bicycles—yes please!). You may also want to stay at one of the great hotels in Pacific City.
Booking.comSince the town is small, you don’t have to choose from among dozens of Pacific City hotels. (Isn’t it nice to have fewer choices sometimes?) With hotels and lodging at different price points, you’ll be able to find a great place to stay.
Do your best to book a Pacific City hotel well in advance if you’re visiting during the summer. Off-season trips can be more easily booked at the last minute.
What are you waiting for? If you’re anything like me, you’re already hankering to hit the road. Pacific City, Oregon is ready!
