Oceanside is a tiny little town along the Oregon Coast; and by tiny, we mean a population of just over 500 full-time residents! But don't let its diminutive size fool you - this coastal community is one of the most delightful and unique places in America. With its rugged coastal vibes, charming downtown, an abundance of natural beauty, and close proximity to some of the PNW's most iconic attractions, Oceanside is absolutely perfect for a day trip in Oregon. If you're looking for things to do in Oceanside, Oregon - read on!
Measuring just one square mile in size, Oceanside is one of the most unique and delightful small towns in America. In our experience, when you visit this charming town, you'll never want to leave.
In classic PNW form, Oceanside's beach is full of sea stacks and unique basalt rock formations. If you're wondering what things there are to do in Oceanside, Oregon, going to the beach is number one!
Oceanside Beach in Oregon is absolutely gorgeous. Some of our favorite things to do at the Oceanside Beach State Recreation Site include catching a sunrise or sunset or listening to the waves with our toes in the sand.
A treasure trove for beachcombers, you'll find lots of beautiful shells at Oceanside Beach including...
... big, beautiful gemstones and agate!
Oceanside is located within minutes of one of Oregon's most iconic places: Cape Meares Lighthouse.
Editor's note: As of April 2023, the road between Oceanside and Cape Meares is closed between milepost 1 and 2.5 due to landslide activity and is expected to reopen fall 2023. Alternative routes are available.
While exploring Cape Meares, you'll definitely want to check out the infamous Oregon Octopus Tree.
This gnarly, old-growth Sitka spruce is truly unlike any other tree in the Beaver State. Nicknamed the "Octopus Tree" because of its tentacle-shaped branches, this massive tree has been described as one of the modern Wonders of the World.
Just five minutes south of Oceanside, you'll find one of the coolest hidden gems in Oregon: Lex's Cool Stuff.
This aptly named thrift and consignment store has some truly one-of-a-kind treasures: unique art, odd sculptures and wares, vintage furniture, and more!
Oceanside's downtown area is uniquely situated right on a coastal hillside, and it's about as postcard-perfect as it gets.
One of the best restaurants on the Oregon Coast, Blue Agate Cafe is a casual restaurant offering incredible seafood and diner fare. The clam chowder here is a must-try and this is one restaurant we can't recommend enough!
Another must-visit restaurant in Oceanside is Roseanna's Cafe, where you'll have the best seafood pasta of your life!
Save room for dessert, however, as this Oceanside eatery makes an amazing homemade marionberry crumble.
At the end of the day, you're not going to want to leave Oceanside. That's totally understandable. Happily, there are some amazing waterfront accommodations in town.
The Oceanside Inn captivates with breathtaking views of the water, as its name suggests.
Turtlejanes Bed and Breakfast is another cozy option when in Oceanside. This beguiling beachfront B&B is peak rustic luxury!
Oceanside's unique proximity to the Pacific Ocean is just one of the many things that makes this charming town so delightful.
Come and experience a perfect piece of the Oregon Coast in winsome little Oceanside. When it comes to small towns in Oregon, we believe that this is one destination that is hard to beat.
Doesn't Oceanside make for a lovely Oregon vacation? Have you visited Oceanside, Oregon before? What are some of your favorite Oceanside, Oregon things to do? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
And while you're in the area, be sure to check out the Three Capes Scenic Loop to experience some of the most wonderful attractions on the Oregon Coast! Don't forget to check out this article from our Only In Your State writer who took her family to this charming town. And make sure to check out one of the many charming vacation rentals in Oceanside. There are several options and we have found this is one of the best ways to stay in this Oregon town.
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