• Manhattan Beach is a broad sandy beach with multiple access along the highway
Manhattan Beach, also known as Rockaway Beach, is a broad sandy shore north of the mouth of Tillamook Bay in the city of Rockaway Beach.
The beach stretches uninterruptedly along the city and beyond to the mouth of the Nehalem Bay on the north for about 6 miles. Come here and enjoy a relaxing stroll, fat tire bike ride, kite flying, surf fishing, or beachcombing adventure with Twin Rocks sea stacks in the background.
Twin Rocks are two volcanic formations visible from the shore. These monoliths are standing right next to each other, thus inspiring the name. One of the rocks got a huge arc created by water and wind erosion during centuries.
Since the beach is sandy, there is little agate hunting opportunities. But beachcombing is a productive pastime with sea shells, sea glass, driftwood, and other ocean gifts lying around. After winter storms, you have the highest chance of finding something interesting for your collection.
Manhattan Beach has a lot of access points such as Manhattan Beach State Recreation Site, Rockaway Beach City Center and Park, and Twin Rocks Turnaround.
Rockaway Beach City Center and Park is easily recognizable for U.S Highway 101. A large parking area is located beyond of Rockaway Beach Chamber of Commerce office in the Little Red Caboose next to the railroad tracks. The beach access is marked by the Veterans of Foreign Wars monument erected in 1995. There are a playground, benches, and picnic tables, and other amenities available in the city.
Twin Rocks Turnaround is a small park with four parking spaces. The short paved trail is handicapped accessible. The trail leads to the spot rising 3-foot above the beach and offering the scenic view of the ocean and Twin Rocks.
Rockaway Beach | General Description
Open: Year-round
Managed by: Rockaway Beach Chamber of Commerce
Amenities: Restrooms, picnic tables
Activities: Beachcombing, fishing, & nature viewing
Day-use fees: No
Usage: Moderate
Accommodations: Lodging in Rockaway Beach
Rockaway Beach is located:
- 26 miles south of Cannon Beach
- 87 miles west of Portland.
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Rockaway Beach City Center and Park
From Highway US-101 in Rockaway Beach City,
- Turn west onto S 1st Avenue (milepost 50.8) at the red caboose.
The parking area and beach access is behind the caboose.