With lots of lodging options, restaurants, and activities in town and nearby, Rockaway Beach is a favorite base camp for exploring the coast. Outdoors or in, here’s a list of things to do in and near Rockaway Beach.

Putt-Putt with the Wizard of Oz

The quirky and fun mini golf course in the middle of town is a destination in itself. Built by Victor and Jen Troxel, and located next to their gem and jewelry store, it’s a colorful rock landscape designed with a Wizard of Oz theme. A machine sends bubbles into the air while you’re putting, and if you’re a rockhound, too, this is the place to be. The Troxels offer an “honor” rock garden where you can pick a favorite to purchase and take home.

Old Growth Cedar Wetlands Trail

The oldest resident in Rockaway Beach is a mammoth Western Red Cedar, at an estimate of 900 years. At 49 feet in circumference, it is also among Oregon’s largest trees. Visit this grande dame, which has survived earthquakes, fires, tsunamis, and development, by walking the raised boardwalk through the wetlands preserve. Informative signage posted along the ADA-friendly walk shares stories of trees, wildlife, and stewardship. Located at the south end of Rockaway Beach at Highway 101 and Washington Street.

Rockhounding

See all the people on the beach with their eyes locked on the sand as they walk? Chances are they are hunting for agates and shells, which Rockaway Beach has in bounty. The surf brings treasures ashore – you’ll find them at low tides. If you’re a novice rockhound, here’s a guide to get you started: visitrockawaybeach.org/how-to-spot-rocks-when-rockhounding

Want to know how to polish the rocks you gather? Here’s a blog that takes you step-by-step: tillamookcoast.com/blog/5-easy-steps-for-polishing-beach-rocks-at-home

Crabbing, Clamming, and Fishing

Oregon’s north coast is a seafood destination, whether you want to order it in a restaurant, or dig and fish for your dinner. Just a few miles north of Rockaway Beach is Kelly’s Marina, where you can learn to catch and cook Dungeness crab. Or go just south of town to Garibaldi, where you can dig for clams at low tide in Tillamook Bay. If fishing is on your wish list, the Oregon coast is your oyster. Cast a line from the fishing dock at Lake Lytle or the beach, or hire a guide. We have a list of the best guides for river, bay, or ocean: tillamookcoast.com/what-to-do/charter-fishing

Birds, Wildlife, Whales

Oregon Coast skies and trees are filled with hundreds of types of birds. While we’re all familiar with the gulls (and they are fascinating), you’ll find blue herons, egrets, ospreys, red-winged blackbirds, Stellar’s Jays, eagles, pelicans, and much more. Bring your binoculars. Refer to this handy guide: tillamookcoast.com/what-to-do/bird-watching

As you walk trails and the beaches, don’t be surprised if you encounter a herd of elk. There are several herds up and down the coast, and they like the forests and open meadows as much as they like the beach. Don’t approach the elk, but do stand back at a safe distance and admire these magnificent creatures.

Whales can be seen at different times of the year during migration. Go to Cape Meares Lighthouse for the best viewing: tillamookcoast.com/where-to-go/cape-meares-lighthouse

Eclectic Shopping

A walk around the village of Rockaway Beach is always fun. It’s filled with shops full of treasures – for you or those on your holiday gift list. From collectibles at Flamingo Jim’s and Trash and Treasures to home décor and one-of-a-kind finds at Warehouse 10, Simply Charming, Little Crow, and Troxel’s Gem and Jewelry, shopping is an adventure. For a list of all stores, go to: visitrockawaybeach.org/rockaway-beach-shopping

In town for Thanksgiving weekend? Santa will be, too.

The Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad welcomes Santa and Mrs. Claus to the train starting Friday after Thanksgiving Day. Hot cocoa treats and a chance to give Santa your Christmas list. Get tickets at https://oregoncoastscenic.org/

We’ll see you soon! Plan your trip at visitrockawaybeach.org