Netarts & Oceanside Oregon Road Trip

Highlights of Netarts and Oceanside, Oregon

July 2025

My kids and I road trip every year, usually we try and do a National Park, but this year my mom had time off to go with us, so we decided to head to the Oregon coast, in search of tide pools, seals, wind for flying a kite and some quality time. 

We live in Boise, Idaho so it's around 8 hours to Netarts. Because there were four of us, we found an Airbnb right in Netarts so it was easy to come and go for meal times, this worked out perfectly. 

We left Boise around 9am and got to Netarts about 5:30pm. We did stop in Tillamook to grocery shop since there are no decent stores in Netarts, so stock up. However, it's only about 12 mins from town, so you can come and go throughout your trip. 

The Airbnb we booked had a game room in the bottom and laundry, which is important with the endless sand, and not much to do at night, so fun for the kids. It was also walking distance to Netarts Bay and across from a tasty and fun coffee shop. 

Netarts Bay: A 7-mile-long, shallow tidal bay perfect for clamming, crabbing, kayaking, and fishing. The bay is known for its serene beauty, with opportunities to spot harbor seals and enjoy stunning sunsets. Visitors can rent boats or crab pots at Netarts Bay Landing or Kelly’s Marina, where fresh seafood like crab, clams, and oysters is available.
There are local places that will even cook what you catch for you. 

We are not great seafood eaters, so we did not crab or clam. We did watch people doing both and enjoyed that, also my kids caught some little crabs and a fun hermit crab. 

We did see seals a couple of times while playing in the sand on the beach. 

It was a high of 70 degrees and windy, basically the whole time we were there, so it was chilly for swimming but my kids did venture into the waves here and there. I stayed warm in a sweatshirt and pants as the breeze was quite chilly. 
Layers and dry clothes are definitely recommended.

Oceanside, Oregon

Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge: Just offshore, these massive sea stacks are home to thousands of seabirds (tufted puffins, common murres) and harbor seals. The dramatic views, especially at sunset, are a highlight. 
It was fun to watch the birds come and go. Very pretty at sunset.
Tunnel Beach: Accessible at low tide through a 90-year-old tunnel at Maxwell Point, this secluded beach offers a unique adventure with tidepools teeming with marine life like anemones, sea stars, and crabs.

The kids loved the tunnel, and looking around the tide pools, this is where they caught the hermit crab and we got several glimpses of whales in the ocean, mostly them blowing their water out and few rolls, and waves from the whales. 
Short Beach

This was just a pull off the to park on the side of the road and some serious stairs going down to the beach, but worth it. This beach was fun, with a variety of rocks and things to look at. 

Do be careful on the stairs, unfortunately my mom fell at the bottom of these stairs and broke her wrist! This changed the course of our day, but we still had a successful overall trip. 

We did hike the trails at nearby Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, which features Oregon’s shortest lighthouse and the famous Octopus Tree.

Newport, Oregon
We also chose to do a day trip to Newport since we had the time and I had been there before and enjoyed the aquarium and docks in Newport. 

Overview: The drive from Netarts or Oceanside to Newport is approximately 70 miles and takes about 1.5–2 hours via Highway 101 and the Three Capes Scenic Route. This day trip combines scenic drives, coastal attractions, and Newport’s vibrant offerings. Below is a suggested itinerary for a full day.

Morning: Departure and Scenic Stops 
We left around 11am from Tillamook, as my mom had an appointment at the urgent care in regards to her broken wrist that morning. She felt well enough to go with us, so we packed a picnic lunch and ate on the road. 

 Start your day as early as you can to make the most of the scenic Three Capes Scenic Route. Take OR-131 east to Tillamook, then head south on Highway 101. Alternatively, take the longer but stunning Bayocean Road around Cape Meares for views of the lighthouse and wildlife refuge.

An optional stop – Devils Punchbowl State Natural Area (1 hour from Cape Meares): On Highway 101 near Otter Rock, this natural rock formation features a dramatic bowl where waves crash in. Take a short walk to viewpoints or explore tidepools if the tide is low. Spend about 45 minutes here.

We arrived around 1pmat the – Oregon Coast Aquarium: One of the best aquariums on the West Coast, featuring sea otters, a giant Pacific octopus, and a seabird aviary. The interactive exhibits are great for all ages. Spend about 1.5–2 hours here.
My kids specifically loved the shark tank tunnels that you can walk through and completely surround you while you observe. The sea 🦦 otters were massive and fun to watch and I love seeing the seals. 
Afternoon: Newport Highlights (3:00 PM–5:00 PM)
 Yaquina Head Lighthouse: Just north of Newport, this iconic lighthouse offers stunning views of Yaquina Bay. Walk to Cobble Beach or Quarry Cove for tidepooling or beachcombing.

Go to the docks in Newport! If you're there at the right time, as soon as you get out of your car you can hear the sea lions making their racket. They are everywhere piled on the docks barking at each other and rolling around. Unfortunately, July is not the time that you can experience this due to the fact they are all down south for mating season. 

We did see some seals 🦭 and had a great time with the old folks crabbing from the docks, they taught the kids how to hold the giant 🦀 to not get pinched and which ones are male and female and what ones you have to toss back. They especially enjoyed tossing them back into the water and making a splash! 

There are also lots of options for dining right near the docks, including all kinds of local seafood. We chose Moe's restaurant because it had a mix of surf and turf options. The food was delicious and the staff was really friendly. 

Evening: Return to Netarts/Oceanside 

We did stop at otter rock beach for a windy experience to attempt flying our kite. 

Optional Stop – Depoe Bay (30 min from Newport): If time allows, make a quick stop at Depoe Bay to visit the Whale Watching Center (open 10 AM–4 PM, free) or grab a sweet treat at Depoe Baykery, known for donuts and pastries. Spend 30 minutes if you stop.

7:30 PM – Arrive Back in Netarts/Oceanside: End your day with a relaxing evening, perhaps enjoying a sunset at Oceanside Beach or dinner at The Schooner in Netarts.

Tips for the Day Trip:
Timing: Check tide schedules for tidepooling at Devils Punchbowl, Tunnel Beach, or Yaquina Head, as low tide is ideal.
Transportation: Public transit (NW Connector) is available from Tillamook to Newport, but a car offers more flexibility.
Packing: Bring layers for variable coastal weather, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for hiking or beachcombing.
Reservations: Book aquarium tickets in advance during peak seasons (summer or holidays).

If you're into a bit of hiking and chasing waterfalls... A short 25 minute drive gets you to Munson Creek Falls Trail, a short half-mile trek to the tallest waterfall in the Coast Range at 319 feet. 
The trail was accessible, surrounded by lush greenery, and the falls were absolutely mesmerizing. It’s a great spot for a peaceful moment, though there are no restrooms, so plan accordingly.
This itinerary balances outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, and local cuisine, showcasing the best of the Oregon Coast from Netarts/Oceanside to Newport. 

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