Dreaming of the perfect coastal escape? Lincoln City, Oregon, is calling; with wild waves, traditions, and soul-soothing nature. You’re the hero here; whether you’re a restless traveler, a sunset seeker, or a curious soul craving the sea.
Let this guide be your compass. I’ve explored glass-blown magic, tidepool wonders, and whale-watching thrills; and now, we are sharing the ultimate plan:
- Discover iconic landmarks
- Uncover local experiences
- Make unforgettable memories
Ready to chase the wind and meet the Pacific? Keep reading; your unforgettable Oregon travel begins now.
Best Things to Do in Lincoln City, Oregon
Lincoln City, Oregon, is a hidden treasure on the Oregon Coast, blending coastal charm with outdoor adventure. During my visit, I was amazed by the range of activities packed into this small town. The hike to Cascade Head was a standout; challenging but incredibly rewarding with its sweeping ocean views and curious elk nearby.
Drift Creek Falls, with its roaring waterfall and epic suspension bridge, gave me serious rainforest vibes, even in the rain. And let’s not forget the Devil’s Punchbowl; an unforgettable spot especially magical at low tide and sunset. Everywhere I turned, there was something photo-worthy or peaceful to enjoy.
When I wasn’t hiking or exploring the coast, I found joy in the little details of the town. Siletz Bay offered peaceful strolls and surprising wildlife sightings. I stayed right by the beach at Starfish Manor, waking up to the sound of waves; pure bliss.
I also made a glass ornament at the Jennifer Sears Glass Art Studio and checked out local shops at the Lincoln City Outlets. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, walking with elk, or enjoying a round of golf, Lincoln City delivers a laid-back, scenic experience that’s easy to fall in love with.
Top Lincoln City Attractions
Lincoln City is best known for its stunning 7½ miles of sandy beaches, stretching between the Salmon River and Cascade Head to the north and Siletz Bay to the south. This charming Oregon coastal town is also home to six historic districts, reflecting its unique formation in 1965 when several small towns merged.
With its breathtaking natural beauty and rich history, Lincoln City offers a relaxing getaway for beach lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, Lincoln City has something for everyone. From nature reserves and scenic tours to food festivals and cozy seaside stays, the city is filled with exciting attractions and hidden gems.
With helpful travel guides and planning support from services like Expedia, visitors can easily discover the best of Lincoln City and make the most of every moment in this coastal treasure.
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1. Chinook Winds Casino Resort
Chinook Winds Casino Resort in Lincoln City, Oregon, is a lively entertainment destination owned and operated by the Confederated Tribes of Siletz. This Native American resort features a massive 157,000-square-foot gaming floor, two restaurants with round-the-clock dining options, and a 35,000-square-foot convention center.
The resort also includes a 227-room oceanfront hotel, a golf course, an arcade, daycare services, and regular live entertainment, offering fun and relaxation for guests of all ages.
Open 24/7 year-round, Chinook Winds is more than just a casino; it’s a full coastal retreat. Whether you’re coming to try your luck, attend an event, enjoy a weekend getaway, or watch the waves from your hotel window, the resort blends comfort with excitement.
With its prime location by the ocean and a variety of attractions, Chinook Winds Casino Resort is a top destination on the Oregon Coast.
2. The Breeze at the D River State Recreation Site
D River State Recreation Site, located in the heart of Lincoln City, Oregon, is a coastal treasure known for its lively atmosphere and natural charm. Despite being home to the world’s shortest river; only 120 feet long, this site offers grand experiences, from scenic beach walks to some of the world’s biggest kite festivals held in June and October.
With consistent breezes and stunning ocean views, it’s no wonder Lincoln City calls itself the “Kite Capital of the World.” The park’s easy beach access, paved parking, and restrooms make it a perfect destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a refreshing escape.
Beyond kite-flying and oceanfront relaxation, D River is also a prime spot for Lincoln City’s famous Finders Keepers tradition. From mid-October to Memorial Day, over a thousand handcrafted glass floats are hidden along the town’s 7.5-mile beach, offering visitors the joy of discovering a one-of-a-kind keepsake.
Whether you’re hunting for art in the sand, hiking nearby trails with ocean views, or simply enjoying a seaside picnic, D River State Recreation Site is a gateway to both adventure and serenity on the Oregon coast.
3. Sunset Magic from Roads End State Recreation Site
Tucked just north of Lincoln City, Oregon, Roads End State Recreation Site offers a peaceful and picturesque coastal retreat. This secluded spot, shielded from heavy winds and crowds, is perfect for romantic strolls along tidepools and through pebbled coves.
At low tide, adventurers can scramble around Roads End Point to find a hidden beach, framed by dramatic boulders and lava rock islands where cormorants perch. The area’s calm waters also attract sailboarders and kiteboarders, while the breathtaking sunsets make it a dream for photographers.
Adding to its charm, Roads End is part of the Finders Keepers tradition; each year, hundreds of handcrafted glass floats are hidden along the beach, waiting to be discovered and kept by lucky visitors. As part of the protected Cascade Head Marine Reserve, the site is rich in marine life, though collecting is strictly prohibited.
Whether you’re beachcombing, watching seabirds dance across the sky, or simply soaking in the sounds of crashing waves, Roads End State Recreation Site promises a magical and unforgettable experience on the Oregon coast.
Fun-Filled Lincoln City Activities
Lincoln City is a treasure store of outdoor adventures and family-friendly fun along the Oregon Coast. One of the highlights is tidepooling, especially at NW 15th Street Beach Access, which is the easiest spot to reach. Other favorite spots include the hidden tidepools at Roads End and those near the Inn at Spanish Head.
For an even deeper connection to the coastal environment, visitors can join the free “Exploriences” programs; ranging from tidepool and beachcombing walks to birdwatching and biosphere tours. These hands-on, expert-led experiences offer an educational and exciting way to learn about Lincoln City’s rich natural surroundings.
For those seeking more laid-back or cultural activities, Lincoln City has plenty to offer. Hike The Knoll for stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, enjoy the playground and paddle on Devils Lake at Regatta Park, or explore history at the North Lincoln County Historical Museum.
Visitors can also create their own glass artwork at the Lincoln City Glass Center or hunt for beautiful glass floats on the beach as part of the Finders Keepers tradition. Whether you’re into nature, local history, art, or food trucks at The Pines Dine, Lincoln City promises memorable moments for all.
4. Ride the Waves with a Surfing Lesson
If you’re looking for adventure in Lincoln City, Oregon, riding the waves with a surfing lesson is a great option. Surf shops like Safari Town Surf offer both group and private lessons, perfect for beginners and more experienced surfers alike.
Their lessons cover the basics; ocean safety, surfing etiquette, paddling, and how to stand up on the board. It’s a fun and exciting way to experience the Oregon coast.
Safari Town Surf makes it easy to get started. Group lessons cost $119 per person, while private lessons are $150. If you’re ready to take it to the next level, advanced private lessons are $175. They also offer surfboard rentals, guided kayak tours, and more outdoor adventures, making it a one-stop shop for coastal fun.
5. Whale Watching from Shore or Sea
In Lincoln City, Oregon, whale watching is a must-do experience that offers both land and sea options for spotting the majestic gray whales. From shore, you can visit top viewing spots like Roads End State Park, The Knoll hiking trail, and the Inn at Spanish Head’s 10th-floor lobby.
These elevated locations provide excellent vantage points during the whales’ spring and fall migrations. You can often see spouts, backs, or even tails as whales pass by close to shore. Volunteers from programs like “Whales Spoken Here” are also often available to share fascinating facts about these gentle giants.
For a closer encounter, charter a boat from nearby Depoe Bay; famous as the “Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coast.” Local operators like Dockside Charters offer tours that bring you right into the whales’ natural habitat. The best times for whale watching are during their migrations: southbound in winter and northbound in spring.
However, you can also spot resident whales feeding offshore from late May to October. Whether you’re on a scenic lookout or out on the Pacific, watching these powerful, graceful creatures is a breathtaking experience that connects you with the wild beauty of the ocean.
6. Fly a Kite in the Windy Skies of Lincoln City
Flying a kite in Lincoln City, Oregon, is more than just a beach pastime; it’s a dynamic tradition fueled by steady coastal winds and a strong community of kite enthusiasts. The city hosts two major kite festivals every year, drawing families, hobbyists, and pros to its wide, open beaches.
The D River State Recreation Site is a popular launch zone, offering easy access and great wind conditions, while quieter spots like Roads End give a more peaceful kiting experience. With plenty of local kite shops and even free shuttles during festival times, it’s easy for anyone to join the fun.
Whether you’re new to kite flying or a seasoned flyer, Lincoln City has something to offer. Beginners can start with simple deltas or diamond kites, and with consistent winds ranging from 5 to 12 mph, success comes quickly with a little practice.
Experts like David Gomberg and Rod Thrall call this city their home beach, not just for the great flying conditions, but for the joy it brings to others.
As Thrall puts it, nothing beats the smiles from people watching kites dance in the sky; making Lincoln City a place where the wind and wonder never stop.
Unique Attractions Near Lincoln City, Oregon Worth the Drive
7. Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area
At the edge of Oregon’s rugged coastline stands Yaquina Head, crowned by a proud 19th-century lighthouse. Here, land meets sea in a powerful harmony; waves roar below, seabirds soar above, and tide pools reveal miniature ocean worlds.
The lighthouse, standing since 1873, whispers tales of sailors and storms past. It’s more than a viewpoint; it’s a place where history, geology, and Pacific beauty converge.
8. Cape Perpetua Scenic Area
Cape Perpetua rises like a cathedral above the churning ocean, its cliffs steeped in Native American legend. Hike beneath ancient spruce trees and discover sacred natural marvels like Thor’s Well and Devil’s Churn. The area pulses with energy; where forest spirits meet crashing waves. It’s not just scenic; it’s spiritual, timeless, and deeply Oregonian.
9. Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area
Carved by nature and shaped by myth, the Devil’s Punchbowl is a raw expression of coastal drama. Waves hurl themselves into this collapsed sea cave, swirling and foaming like a living cauldron. Locals say it roars louder during storms, echoing the spirit of the sea itself.
A must-see for those who crave the wild beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
10. Oregon Coast Aquarium
Enter a world where Oregon’s marine life is not just displayed, but celebrated. From the graceful glide of jellyfish to the playful dives of sea otters, every creature tells a coastal story. Walk through glass tunnels, touch tidepool creatures, and feel the pulse of the ocean world. It’s a living tribute to the Pacific; immersive, inspiring, and deeply local.
Things to Do in Lincoln City: A Recap
Lincoln City, Oregon, is a perfect blend of seaside charm, adventure, and tranquility. Whether you’re flying kites on breezy beaches, chasing sunsets at Roads End, or watching whales glide through Pacific waters, this coastal town offers experiences that soothe the soul and spark excitement.
From handcrafted glass art and rich history to epic hikes and nearby wonders like Yaquina Head and Cape Perpetua, Lincoln City invites visitors to slow down, explore deeply, and fall in love with Oregon’s unforgettable coastline.