Netarts: A Tranquil Escape with a Rich Coastal Heritage
Netarts is a small, peaceful community located at the mouth of Netarts Bay, just south of Oceanside. This serene destination is a great escape from the busier coastal spots, providing visitors with an authentic local experience. With a population of fewer than 1,000 people, Netarts offers a quiet and intimate setting where nature and simplicity take center stage.
Netarts Bay stretches over seven miles and is separated from the open Pacific Ocean by Netarts Spit. This natural barrier creates a unique ecosystem, making the bay one of the best spots for crabbing and clamming in Oregon. Visitors can rent boats or crab pots from the nearby marina, and during low tide, explore the bay for Dungeness crab, butter clams, and cockles. Crabbing and clammining in Netarts Bay is especially popular from July through November, when crabs are most abundant.
Cape Lookout State Park, located just a short drive away, offers some of the most stunning hiking opportunities on the Oregon Coast. The Cape Lookout Trail is a five-mile round trip that takes you through old-growth forests and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, with frequent sightings of migrating whales. Netarts' proximity to these natural attractions makes it a perfect home base for those looking to explore the great outdoors.
For a restful stay, browse our selection of Oregon Coast vacation rentals in Netarts, offering easy access to the bay and surrounding trails.
Oceanside: Coastal Views and Unique Adventures
Just north of Netarts lies the quaint village of Oceanside, a community perched on a hillside that offers some of the most breathtaking ocean views along the Oregon Coast. Oceanside is home to a few hundred residents, giving it a peaceful yet vibrant feel. This small town is ideal for visitors seeking a mix of scenic beauty and adventure.
Oceanside Beach is a popular destination for both tourists and locals, known for its unique geological formations. The famous Three Arch Rocks, a National Wildlife Refuge located just offshore, is a prominent feature of the landscape. These massive sea stacks are home to thousands of seabirds, including tufted puffins and common murres. Wildlife enthusiasts can often spot harbor seals lounging on the rocks or dolphins swimming nearby.
One of Oceanside’s most intriguing features is the tunnel at the northern end of the beach that leads to Tunnel Beach, a secluded spot that’s only accessible at low tide. This hidden beach is perfect for exploring tide pools or simply enjoying the peace and quiet. Just beyond Tunnel Beach lies Agate Beach, accessible during minus tides. Agate Beach is a fantastic location to search for agates and other semi-precious stones, adding a bit of treasure hunting to your beach day.
For a bite to eat, Oceanside offers two charming restaurants: Roseanna's Cafe and Blue Agate Cafe. Both spots serve fresh, local seafood with stunning ocean views, making them the perfect places to relax after a day of adventure. Oceanside’s slow pace and laid-back atmosphere are perfect for visitors who want to experience the quieter side of the Oregon Coast. For ideas on activities and attractions in the area, explore fun things to do on the Northern Oregon Coast.
