Top 10 Oregon Coast Family Trip Destinations
Planning a family trip to the Oregon Coast? Here are the Vacay staff’s ten must-visit spots in Tillamook and Clatsop counties that promise fun and memories for all ages:
1. Tillamook Cheese Factory: We witnessed the cheese-making process, enjoyed free samples, and indulged in delicious ice cream. It’s a treat for the taste buds and a learning experience. Check out the cheese and ice cream tastings, but come hungry.
2. Lazy Susan’s Restaurant (Cannon Beach): A cozy, family-friendly restaurant known for its delicious comfort food and welcoming atmosphere. Great brunch options – and if you like dungeness crab, try the crab eggs benedict, they’re my favorite!
3. Seaside Bumper Cars (Seaside): Personally, this is a hilarious look into how my 14-year-old will drive, but for most, this is a classic Seaside attraction that’s sure to bring out the kid in everyone. Make sure you get a corndog at Pronto Pup, which is inside the same location.
4. Bruce’s Candy Kitchen (Cannon Beach): We love watching the salt water taffy being made, and their homemade confections are amazing. A must-visit for any family with a sweet tooth. If you come to the beach with a furry friend, there are benches outside where you can wait and still watch the candy making in progress.
5. Tunnel Beach (Oswald West State Park): This is my go-to beach for agates and tidepools. Keep track of the tide tables, and you’ll be generously rewarded for how much life there is in the Pacific Ocean.
6. Cannon Beach: Known for its iconic Haystack Rock, this beach offers great family photo opportunities, ample space for kite flying, and beautiful sunsets. It’s a picturesque spot and I love how the rock gets wrapped in mist when the light is low.
7. Ecola State Park: Offers breathtaking views of the coastline, hiking trails, and picnic areas. It’s a great place for a family day trip filled with outdoor activities.
8. Three Capes Scenic Route: If you’re looking for incredible views of the ocean (and love a good lighthouse), check out Cape Kiwanda, Cape Lookout, and Cape Meares. Don’t miss the historic Cape Meares Lighthouse – I was prepared to fly my drone here to get amazing shots, but the wind made me think twice.
9. Ft. Stevens State Park (Astoria): This decommissioned fort was the site of one of the only attacks on the US mainland during WWII, commemorated by a peace monument written in both Japanese and English. My kids wanted me to translate, but I got hung up on some of the kanji.
There are a number of public beaches in the area, and the museum on the site offers tours during the summer months.
10. Manzanita Beach: This was our beach of choice on our most recent trip. Quaint shops, a slower pace, and a great beach for long walks. It’s ideal for walking, building sandcastles, and enjoying a peaceful family getaway.
