The Oregon coast is always a stunning place to visit, whether it’s in the moody winter season or the chilly days of early spring—but for a real treat, visit Pacific City this Memorial Day! Memorial Day is the unofficial heralding of summer, as there’s a chance of clearer skies, and the daytime temperatures warm up a bit, making this a great season for beach walks, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. This weekend has long been a favored time to escape to the coast, and you’re likely to find a lively atmosphere of fellow vacationers hopefully chasing a bit of pre-summer sunshine. With lots of things to do and plenty of delicious restaurants to dine at, all against the backdrop of Cape Kiwanda and the mighty Pacific Ocean, Pacific City is the perfect destination for a bit of Memorial Day relaxation!
Soak Up the Beauty of the Beach
While May temperatures tend to be in the 60s and might not exactly be lounging out in your swimwear weather, it’s still a terrific time for a beachy adventure—especially as more sunny days start to occur! Rent a wetsuit and go surfing on the easy waves of Pacific City Beach or take lessons with a local shop like Moment Surf Company. Beaches here tend to provide long and epic views, as well as unique formations such as Haystack Rock off Pacific City Beach, or the petrified wood forest at nearby Neskowin Beach. Winema Beach you’ll find just south of town, which offers a long walk that will take you to the mouth of the Nestucca River, where you might spot wildlife such as seals and predatory birds.
Take a Kayak Adventure on the Nestucca River
This is a fantastic Memorial Day activity perfect for the entire family. The Nestucca River offers a different side of Pacific City’s scenery, with views of hilly terrain covered in thick forest and pristine water that hosts a variety of wildlife. Bring your own kayaks, or you can always rent some from Nestucca Adventures, which also offers paddleboards and pedal kayaks, as well as a quick educational course so you will feel comfortable adventuring on your own.
Explore the Famed Three Capes Scenic Loop
Pacific City is home to Cape Kiwanda, a giant sandstone cape that juts majestically into the Pacific Ocean and provides breathtaking views of Haystack Rock, the city, and the area beyond. Nature lovers will be thrilled to find out that there are two more capes, and that Pacific City can be the start of an unforgettable adventure on the Three Capes Scenic Loop. Head north to Cape Lookout, where you’ll be treated to sweeping panoramas of the Pacific Ocean and the coast from cliffs 400 feet high. The park also includes a beach and many trails—perfect for a Memorial Day picnic! The final stop is Cape Meares, which offers a historic lighthouse and lots of birdwatching. On the loop back to Pacific City, you can stop by the Tillamook Creamery!
Visit the Local Bob Straub State Park
This is another fine place to get on a beach walk, with miles of sand and easy beach access points with parking and restrooms. Get a local license and go fishing or embark on a horseback ride with a local tour company like Green Acres Beach and Trail Rides. If the weather is favorable, it’s another place to get in some Memorial Day picnicking and hiking. Our local state park offers great wildlife watching and views of Cape Kiwanda and Haystack Rock.
Grab a Pacific City Brew at Pelican Brewing
Pelican Brewing has long been a Pacific City icon, with an amazing location right on the beach with unbeatable sunset views—and Memorial Day weekend is the perfect time to sit out on the patio with covered seating! Offering a varied menu of high-quality brews, you’ll find everything from lighter styles to biting IPAs, as well as a food menu with a variety of appetizers, gourmet flatbreads, soups, salads, and entrees. Both dog friendly and family-friendly, this spot is sure to have a lively atmosphere for Memorial Day weekend! Other waterfront restaurants include Meridian, which has a more upscale vibe, and The Riverhouse Nestucca, set in a rustic setting right on the river.
Reserve Your Memorial Day Vacation Home with Us Today!
When you’re getting away to the beach for Memorial Day, you’ll want an amazing rental for an unforgettable vacation—and at Open Nest, we have just that! We’re proud to offer a wide variety of vacation rentals throughout the Pacific City area, from strikingly modern beachfront homes right on the sand, to quiet forest hideaways where you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. To learn more about spending Memorial Day in Pacific City, give us a call today!
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