With one of the Oregon Coast's most recognizable rock formations—the Twin Rocks—towering in the background, Rockaway Beach showcases the rugged beauty that attracts visitors to the state’s shoreline. Known as a popular family-friendly destination, this beach town offers both indoor things to do, like the Garibaldi Maritime Museum and the Tillamook Cheese Factory, and outdoor activities, including whale watching and crabbing. Located just west of Portland, Rockaway Beach combines the sandy shores of the Pacific with the region’s lush landscape to create a serene seaside getaway.
For outdoor activities, plan to visit Rockaway Beach from early July to late August. This is when you’ll experience clear skies with very little rain and daily high temps in the mid- 60s℉ (16℃) and 70s℉ (21℃). Remember that it rains every month of the year here, with winter (December, January, and February) bringing storms and high winds, so always be prepared for wet weather. Also, the Rockaway Beach Kite Festival takes place in September and hosts professional and amateur kite fliers.
There are daily bus trips between Tillamook and Portland. You can grab a taxi or bus from the Tillamook Transit Center to Rockaway Beach; it’s about a 30-minute ride. Oregon is also home to one of the largest networks of electric vehicle fast-charging stations in the US, so you may want to consider renting an EV to get around. If traveling by car to Rockaway Beach, you’ll follow Highway 101. Many visitors also choose to explore the area by bike.
Oregon’s coastal region is divided into three sections—north, central, and south. Rockaway Beach lies in the north region. Because it’s not as popular as nearby Cannon Beach, which is considered the best beach in Oregon, Rockaway remains uncrowded. It also boasts a depot on Highway 101, where you can hop aboard the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad and travel along the Tillamook Coast on the historic train.