Oregon Coast With Kids: A Family Travel Guide
The Oregon Coast is seriously underrated. It has some of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen, so many charming towns dotting the coastline, great shopping, and lots of yummy food. It’s also super family-friendly, as evidenced by the many times strangers asked, “Are these kids all yours?” followed by our confirmation and their big smiles. We visit the Oregon Coast with kids each year, and it never gets old. So I figured it was time to share some of our favorite things to do in one of our favorite places (plus some essentials for visiting Oregon)!
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Idea #1: Pacific City Tide Pools
The tide pools at Pacific City are always a fan favorite! Kids will love splashing around and discovering little creatures like small crabs, sea anemones, and starfish. It’s also a great spot to hunt for seashells and sand dollars.
Pro tip: go at low or negative tide for the best views. Apps like Tides Near Me make it easy to plan the perfect time to visit!
Oregon Coast with Kids Idea #2: Cape Kiwanda Sand Mountain
The giant sand dune at Cape Kiwanda is one of our favorite free activities on the coast. Kids love running up, sliding down, and repeating.
There’s a driftwood beach at the base of the dune that’s also fun to explore, so plan to spend some time there too.
Idea #3: Crabbing
There are lots of great spots to go crabbing along the coast, and Waldport is one of our favorites. If you’re new to it, a rental or guided experience is a great way to learn the ropes. Just note that if you’re crabbing on your own, you’ll likely need a shellfish license. Something to look into beforehand so you’re not caught off guard!
Oregon Coast with Kids Idea #4: Hikes
Hiking is one of the best ways to take in Oregon’s gorgeous landscapes. The good news for families is that plenty of the trails are short, easy, and still stunning. I haven’t personally done all of these, but based on my research, these are a few kid-friendly ones worth looking into:
- Hobbit Trail
- Captain Cook Trail
- Giant Spruce Trail
- Bayocean Spit Loop
Oregon Coast with Kids Idea #5: Farmer’s Markets
I absolutely love how many farmers’ markets there are along the Oregon Coast, especially in the summer (which is when we visit!). Just Google the town you’re staying in plus “farmer’s market.” You’re sure to find something nearby! Expect fresh produce, flowers, local honey, jam, bread, and fun little finds you didn’t know you needed.
Oregon Coast with Kids Idea #6: Lincoln City Antique Shops
Lincoln City is a goldmine if you love antiques, and it even has its own antique mall. Browsing the shops is so fun, and you never know what treasures you’ll walk out with.
I will say, antique shops have plenty of opportunities for little hands to grab and break fragile items. But it’s a fun option for older kids, who will probably get a kick out of some of the unique items you can find in there.
Oregon Coast with Kids Idea #7: Beach Campfire
I grew up in Oregon, and beach campfires always make me feel nostalgic. Just make sure to check whether fires are allowed at the beach you’re visiting before you plan around it.
If they are, plan to bring your own wood since driftwood is often too wet to burn well. Then settle in for a cool evening by a cozy fire. And obviously, s’mores are non-negotiable!
Oregon Coast with Kids Idea #8: Cloverdale
This tiny town is full of charm. From independent shops like Curious Mercantile to local creameries with great cheese and ice cream (maybe not together 😂), it’s worth a stop!
It sits right between Lincoln City and Pacific City, so if you’re making that drive, build in some time to wander. It’s the perfect place to spend a drizzly afternoon. And on the Oregon Coast, a drizzly afternoon is basically guaranteed at some point.
Have I convinced you to visit?
There’s something that everyone will enjoy on the Oregon Coast, and that’s what we love about it. It’s the perfect place to unplug, spend time with your loved ones, and enjoy the outdoors. It definitely deserves to be your next trip! And if you’re driving there, be sure to check out this blog post for road trip hacks with kids!
