A broad, sandy coastline, Rockaway Beach stretches north of Tillamook Bay for about six miles toward Nehalem Bay. With easy access, wide-open skies, simple scenery, and plenty of space, the beach is one of the most relaxing spots on the Oregon Coast. Its open shoreline makes every visit feel peaceful.

The beach is perfect for slow walks, fat‑tire biking, kite flying, and surf fishing. Along the coast, you’ll enjoy views of the famous Twin Rocks sea stacks—two massive volcanic formations rising from the waves.

One of the rocks features a natural arch carved over centuries by wind and water, making it one of the most photographed spots in the area and giving the coastline its iconic character.

Manhattan Beach State Recreation Site, part of this stretch, is just north of Rockaway Beach town and provides access to the beach with parking and picnic facilities.

Even though the shoreline is sandy—so agate hunting is limited—beachcombing is rewarding year-round. After winter storms or king tides, the beach often reveals treasures like sea glass, shells, driftwood, and other ocean finds.

Parking is convenient and spread along the shoreline, so the beach rarely feels crowded, even during summer.

Rockaway Beach – Things to Do

Beachcombing & Biking

The beach runs for nearly 6 miles, making it perfect for longer walks or easy fat‑tire biking. I love biking here at low tide. The sand packs down nicely, and you get long straight runs with the sound of the ocean right beside you.

Fishing

Surf fishing is popular along this stretch. Anglers often target redtail surfperch in spring and summer. Early morning is usually best. If you like quiet spots where you can cast without many people around, Rockaway Beach has plenty of space.

Photography & Nature Viewing

Twin Rocks is the highlight for photography. Sunrise and sunset hit the sea stacks with warm colors, and cloud layers make great backdrops. I also see lots of shorebirds running along the waterline, especially in the fall.

Access Points & Nearby Spots

Manhattan Beach State Recreation Site: A simple access point with direct sand entry and space to settle in for the day.

Rockaway Beach City Center and Park: Right off Highway 101, behind the red caboose (Rockaway Beach Chamber of Commerce). This area has benches, picnic tables, a playground, and a clear access path marked by the Veterans of Foreign Wars monument. It’s a great family‑friendly starting point.

Twin Rocks Turnaround: A tiny park with only 4 parking spaces, but the paved, accessible trail leads to a raised viewpoint about 3 feet above the sand. This is one of the best spots for Twin Rocks photos.