The 7 Best Day Trips from Pacific City

The morning fog is lifting over Cape Kiwanda as you sip your coffee on the deck of your vacation rental. While Pacific City’s golden beaches and iconic dunes might be calling your name, there’s something magical about using this laid-back coastal haven as your launchpad for adventure. As a local, I’ve watched countless visitors discover that some of Oregon’s most breathtaking experiences lie just a short drive from our doorstep—places where waterfalls tumble through ancient forests, lighthouses stand sentinel against crashing waves, and small coastal towns reveal their quirky treasures to those willing to explore.

Ready to discover what lies beyond our sandy shores? Gas up the car, grab your camera, and let’s hit the road—these day trips from Pacific City promise memories that will have you extending your stay before you’ve even returned home.

1. Three Capes Scenic Loop: Nature’s Greatest Hits

The Three Capes Scenic Loop offers one of Oregon’s most spectacular coastal drives, connecting Pacific City with Cape Lookout and Cape Meares in a breathtaking 40-mile journey. Unlike the often-congested Highway 101, this less-traveled route delivers constant ocean views and countless opportunities to pull over and feel the coastal magic.

Starting Point: Head north from Pacific City on Sandlake Road

Must-See Stops:

• Cape Lookout State Park – Hike the 2.4-mile Cape Trail through old-growth forest to a dramatic cliff-edge viewpoint where migrating whales are often spotted (March-June and December-January). Pack binoculars!. See  Cape Lookout State Park Map
• Anderson’s Viewpoint – This roadside pullout between Cape Lookout and Oceanside offers sweeping views of Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge. The perfect spot for that panoramic photo that’ll make your Instagram followers swoon.
• Oceanside Beach – Slip through the tunnel at the north end of this small beach to discover a hidden cove with incredible tidepools and driftwood treasures. Local tip: This beach is significantly less crowded than Cape Kiwanda, even in peak summer months.

Driving Time: Allow 3-4 hours minimum with stops (25 minutes of pure driving from Pacific City to Cape Meares)

Northbound Gems: Cheese, Lighthouses & Coastal Icons

2. Tillamook Creamery: A Cheese Lover’s Paradise

Hours: Daily 8 am-6 pm (Summer); 8 am-5 pm (Fall/Winter)

Just 30 minutes north of Pacific City sits the mecca of Oregon dairy—the Tillamook Creamery. This isn’t just any factory tour; it’s an immersive journey into the art and science of cheesemaking that delights all ages. Watch massive blocks of the famous Tillamook cheddar being cut and packaged, then head to the sampling counter where tiny cubes of dairy perfection await your verdict.

Don’t miss the ice cream counter, where over 30 flavors of creamy goodness might require some serious decision-making skills. My insider tip? The Marionberry Pie ice cream perfectly captures Oregon’s unique berry bounty. Time your visit for weekday mornings (before 11 am) to avoid the summer crowds that can make parking challenging.

3. Cape Meares Lighthouse & Octopus Tree

Continue north past Tillamook to discover Cape Meares, home to Oregon’s shortest lighthouse and one of its most mystifying natural wonders. The Cape Meares Lighthouse might be small in stature at just 38 feet tall, but its location perched 217 feet above the ocean delivers heart-stopping views of the coastline.

A short walk through wind-sculpted spruce trees leads to the famous Octopus Tree—a Sitka spruce whose bizarre form features multiple trunks radiating from its base like tentacles reaching for the sky. Local Indigenous legends and scientific theories both attempt to explain its unusual shape, but standing beneath its massive canopy leaves most visitors simply awestruck.

Keep your eyes peeled for the resident peregrine falcons that nest on the cliffs from April through July. The viewing platform offers powerful spotting scopes that bring these incredible birds of prey into focus as they soar along the headland.

4. Cannon Beach: Where Art Meets Nature

For those willing to venture a bit farther (about 75 minutes from Pacific City), Cannon Beach rewards with a perfect blend of natural wonder and coastal sophistication. The iconic Haystack Rock rises 235 feet from the shoreline, creating one of Oregon’s most photographed landscapes, especially magical at low tide when colorful starfish and anemones populate its base.

After beach exploration, wander through the town’s charming streets lined with art galleries, boutique shops, and eateries. The Cannon Beach Gallery Group has created a vibrant arts community that rivals much larger cities.

Local’s Secret: Skip the main parking areas and head to the Tolovana Beach State Recreation Site at the south end of town. You’ll find easier parking and can walk north along the beach to Haystack Rock with stunning views the entire way.

Best Time to Visit: Weekdays or before 10 am on weekends to avoid the crowds that flock to this popular destination.

Southbound Gems: Glass Floats, Lighthouses & Marine Wonders

5. Lincoln City’s Glass Float Treasure Hunt

Just 30 minutes south of Pacific City, Lincoln City continues a tradition inspired by vintage Japanese fishing floats that once washed ashore along the Oregon coast. Throughout the year, local glassblowers create colorful glass floats that “Float Fairies” hide along the 7.5 miles of public beach for lucky visitors to discover and keep.

The official Finders Keepers program places nearly 3,000 floats annually, with special drops during holidays and events. Each handcrafted orb is individually numbered and signed by the artist, making them cherished souvenirs of your Oregon Coast adventure.

Insider Tips:

• Check the Lincoln City Visitor’s Bureau for scheduled “special drops” during your visit
• Search at dawn for the best chance of finding a float
• Focus on driftwood piles and near beach access points
• Register your found float at the Visitor Center to receive a certificate of authenticity

After treasure hunting, treat yourself to fresh seafood at Kyllo’s Seafood & Grill overlooking Siletz Bay, where the Wild Blackberry Cobbler makes the perfect sweet finale to your Lincoln City adventure.

6. Yaquina Head Tide Pools & Lighthouse

Hours: Interpretive Center 10 am-4 pm; Grounds 8 am-sunset

 Cost: $7 per vehicle (passes valid for 3 days) 

Drive a bit farther south (about 70 minutes from Pacific City) to discover  Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area—home to Oregon’s tallest lighthouse and some of the coast’s most accessible tidepools. The 93-foot Yaquina Head Lighthouse has guided ships safely along this treacherous coastline since 1873, and today it offers fascinating tours that take you up the 114 spiral steps to the lantern room.

The real magic happens at low tide when Cobble Beach reveals a vibrant underwater ecosystem. Follow the paved path down to this unique black pebble beach where perfectly rounded stones create a symphony of clicks and clacks with each retreating wave. Peer into the shallow pools to discover purple sea urchins, giant green anemones, and colorful starfish living their mysterious lives between sea and shore.

Pro Tip: Check tide tables before your visit (aim for minus tides for the best tidepool viewing) and wear shoes with good traction—those cobbles get slippery when wet!

7. Oregon Coast Aquarium, Newport

Complete your southbound journey in Newport (80 minutes from Pacific City) at the world-class Oregon Coast Aquarium. Unlike larger aquariums in major cities, this intimate facility focuses specifically on Pacific Northwest marine ecosystems, creating a deeply informative experience about the very waters you’ve been admiring.

Walk through the 360-degree underwater tunnel where sharks and rays glide silently overhead, or watch the playful antics of sea otters and harbor seals in naturalistic habitats. The daily animal feeding presentations turn learning into entertainment as knowledgeable staff share insights about these fascinating creatures.

Don’t miss the newly renovated “Passages of the Deep” exhibit, where floor-to-ceiling windows put you eye-to-eye with wolf eels, giant Pacific octopus, and swirling schools of anchovies that move like living silver clouds.

After Your Visit: Head to the Historic Bayfront district for fresh seafood at Local Ocean Seafoods, where the fish was likely unloaded at the docks you can see from your table.

Insider Tips from Oregon Coast Redditors

We scoured recent Reddit threads from Oregon Coast enthusiasts to bring you these authentic insights:

• Traffic Tip: “Highway 101 basically turns into a parking lot between Lincoln City and Newport on summer weekends after 11 am. Either leave Pacific City by 9 am or take the inland routes through the Coast Range when possible.” – u/CoastExplorer2025
• Hidden Gem: “Skip the crowded main entrance to Oswald West State Park and instead park at the small lot for Short Sand Beach (locals call it ‘Shorty’s’). The trail through old-growth forest to the secluded surfing beach is magical, especially in morning mist.” – u/PNWsurf4life
• Food Worth the Drive: “Bennett’s Fish Shack in Wheeler looks totally unassuming, but their fish & chips blow away anything in the more touristy towns. Cash only but worth hitting the ATM for.” – u/FishFanatic83
• Photography Spot: “Everyone photographs Thor’s Well at high tide, but an hour before low tide at Devils Churn gives you incredible water patterns without the dangerous sneaker waves.” – u/OregonLightChaser
• Weather Reality Check: “The Oregon Coast is not California—even in August, always pack a warm layer. The temperature can drop 20 degrees when fog rolls in, which happens almost daily.” – u/CoastalWanderer22

Vacation Rental Highlight: “Coastal Haven” in Pacific City

After a day of coastal exploration, you’ll appreciate returning to a comfortable home base. Our Drift Inn property offers the perfect launching pad for your day trip adventures. This three-bedroom craftsman-style home sits right by the ocean front with direct beach access with unobstructed views of Haystack Rock from its expansive deck.

View Details & Availability

Make Pacific City Your Adventure Headquarters

As the golden light of sunset bathes Cape Kiwanda on your return drive, you’ll understand why Pacific City makes the perfect base camp for coastal exploration. Our central location puts you within easy reach of the Oregon Coast’s most magnificent experiences while offering a peaceful retreat from the more crowded tourist destinations.

When you book directly through Kiwanda Coastal Properties, you’re not just getting a vacation rental—you’re gaining access to our team’s local knowledge about tide tables, lesser-known viewpoints, and which beach access points have the fewest stairs. We love helping guests discover both Pacific City’s treasures and the day-trip gems that make the Oregon Coast truly special.

Common Questions People Ask About Day Trips from Pacific City, OR:

How long is the drive from Pacific City to Cannon Beach?

The drive from Pacific City to Cannon Beach takes approximately 75 minutes (about 55 miles) via Highway 101 North. This scenic route takes you through Tillamook and several charming coastal towns. For the most enjoyable experience, leave before 10 am to avoid summer traffic congestion, especially on weekends when Highway 101 can become quite busy.

What’s the best day trip from Pacific City for families with young children?

For families with young children, the Tillamook Creamery (30 minutes north) offers the perfect day trip from Pacific City. Kids love watching cheese being made, sampling dairy products, and enjoying ice cream treats. Nearby Cape Meares lighthouse features short, manageable trails and remarkable ocean views. The Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport is also excellent, but requires a bit more driving (80 minutes) and a full day to enjoy properly.

Is the Three Capes Scenic Loop worth driving?

Absolutely! The Three Capes Scenic Loop is considered one of Oregon’s most spectacular coastal drives and is definitely worth the time. This 40-mile route connects Pacific City with Cape Lookout and Cape Meares, offering consistent ocean views, multiple state parks, hidden beaches, and fewer crowds than Highway 101. Many visitors consider it the highlight of their Oregon Coast vacation for its concentrated natural beauty.

When is the best time to hunt for glass floats in Lincoln City?

The best time to hunt for glass floats in Lincoln City is early morning (before 9 am) when fewer people are searching and new floats may have been placed overnight. While the Finders Keepers program runs year-round, special drops occur during fall and winter festivals and holidays when hundreds of additional floats are hidden. October through May generally offers better odds of finding a float due to fewer beach visitors compared to the busy summer months.

Can you see whales on a day trip from Pacific City?

Yes, whale watching is possible on several day trips from Pacific City. The elevated viewpoints at Cape Lookout, Cape Meares, and Yaquina Head are excellent whale-watching spots during migration seasons (mid-December through January and March through June). Resident “summer whales” can often be spotted feeding near shore from June through October, especially early morning when ocean conditions are typically calmer.

What should I pack for a day trip to Oregon Coast beaches and lighthouses?

For day trips to Oregon Coast destinations, pack layers regardless of season as coastal weather can change quickly. Essential items include a windproof/waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes with good traction for slippery lighthouse paths and beaches, binoculars for wildlife spotting, sunscreen even on cloudy days, water bottles, and a small cooler for picnic supplies. Don’t forget your camera and a beach blanket for impromptu stops at scenic viewpoints.

How crowded are these day trip destinations during the summer months?

Popular destinations like Cannon Beach and the Tillamook Creamery become quite crowded between 11 am-4 pm during summer months (June-August), especially on weekends. For a more enjoyable experience, visit these locations on weekdays or before 10 am. Lesser-known treasures like Cape Lookout State Park, Oceanside Beach, and Neskowin remain relatively peaceful even during peak season, particularly if you’re willing to hike a short distance from main parking areas.

Are there good dining options on these day trips from Pacific City?

Yes, each day trip route features excellent dining options worth building into your itinerary. Northbound highlights include The Schooner in Netarts for fresh seafood, and Bread and Ocean Bakery in Manzanita for artisan sandwiches. Southbound, try Local Ocean Seafoods in Newport’s Historic Bayfront for dock-to-table dining or Kyllo’s Seafood & Grill in Lincoln City for ocean views with your meal. Check operating hours during off-season, as many coastal restaurants adjust their schedules.

What’s the most scenic drive near Pacific City?

While the Three Capes Scenic Loop is consistently rated as the most scenic drive directly from Pacific City, the Cascade Head drive (heading south on Highway 101, then west on Three Rocks Road) offers equally stunning but often overlooked views. This route takes you through the Cascade Head Preserve with spectacular viewpoints overlooking the Salmon River Estuary, followed by access to secluded beaches. It’s especially beautiful during morning hours when fog often creates mystical landscapes.

Can I complete multiple destinations in a single day trip from Pacific City?

Yes, with strategic planning, you can combine multiple destinations in a single day trip. The Three Capes Scenic Loop naturally combines Cape Lookout and Cape Meares. A northbound day trip could include both the Tillamook Creamery and Cape Meares Lighthouse. Southbound, you could pair Lincoln City’s glass float hunting with a visit to Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area. For maximum enjoyment, limit yourself to 2-3 major attractions per day trip to allow for relaxed exploration and unexpected discoveries.