Rockaway Beach: Beach, Coastal Forest, and Unique Experiences

Rockaway Beach combines a seven-mile sandy beach with coastal forest, a lakeside landscape, and unusual stories. At the beach, you can plan some beachcombing, while Lake Lytle offers a different perspective on the area's natural surroundings: The 65-acre lake lies within the city of Rockaway Beach on Oregon's northern coast. For a trip with varied interests, the town therefore offers several distinct focal points—from time spent by the water to exploring historic points of interest.

Beach, Lake, and an Old Coastal Forest

The Old Growth Cedar Trail leads into a nature preserve whose land has never been developed. The trail passes through an old-growth coastal forest to a huge cedar tree. The hike is easy and about one mile long; this approximate distance can be taken into account when planning your day. Anyone who wants to experience nature will find a specific destination here.

Another point of reference is Manhattan Beach State Recreation Site, a day-use park at 8845 Beach Street in Rockaway Beach, Oregon 97136. Together with the beach and Lake Lytle, this place shows that Rockaway Beach is not limited to just one type of vacation. You can give your days different emphases and consider when choosing accommodation whether the focus should be on the beach, observing nature, or a combination of both.

Twin Rocks and Traces of Local History

The Twin Rocks owe their present shape to millions of years of erosion. An originally connected structure was worn down into the rocks that now define the landscape. Minnehaha Street offers the best view of the Twin Rocks and, at the same time, the closest view from solid ground. The rocks are less than half a mile away.

The town's history can also be found in surprising places. The historic natatorium stood where the Rockaway Beach Wayside is located today. The original swimming pool still lies beneath the parking lot at Rockaway Beach Wayside. Anyone interested in local history can combine these clues with a day at the beach without limiting the trip to a purely nature-focused vacation.

Family Experiences with Tradition

Taking the train to Rockaway Beach has been a family tradition since the 1920s. The Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad offers regular excursions between Garibaldi and Rockaway Beach. The route runs along a section of the former Port of Tillamook Bay railway line. This adds a historic train journey as an independent option alongside the beach and hiking.

Another longstanding tradition is the Rockaway Beach Kite Festival. During special classes, children can learn how to build kites. The Pronto Pup is also part of the town's history: It was invented in Rockaway Beach by George and Versa Boyington in the late 1930s. Alongside the landscape and activities, details like these give a stay a local story of its own.

The Right Accommodation Idea for Your Trip

When searching for a vacation apartment or vacation home in Rockaway Beach, you can first decide how you want to spend your days. Travelers who want to center their trip on the sandy beach and beachcombing will plan differently from those who want to combine the Old Growth Cedar Trail, Lake Lytle, the Twin Rocks, or a train ride. This choice is also helpful for families with different interests: One part of the trip can take place outdoors, while another can focus on history, views, or a special tradition.

You can find more destinations for planning your trip under Cloverdale, Neskowin, Cape Meares, Nehalem, Garibaldi, Manzanita, Tillamook, and Netarts.

For the higher-level travel overview: Tillamook County.