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Neatly nestled into the southern corner of Oregon’s coastline is Brookings; a town in Curry county that is as alive and colorful as the sea itself. Taking a spot in the list of most beautiful states in the United States, Brookings possesses all of the best traits of the West Coast. Brookings, Oregon, replete with golden sand beaches, seaside cliffs, hidden dunes, and rare wildlife is a destination not to miss. Yet, due to its somewhat remote location, it is far less visited than the towns near Portland. As a result, it offers a level of tranquility that simply can’t be matched.
Whether you’re taking a summer holiday or a Pacific Coast road trip, you’ll definitely not run out of exciting things to do in Brookings, Oregon. Read on to discover what beautiful sights and serene areas await you in one of Oregon’s most underrated towns.
1. Stroll through Azalea Park
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Photo from Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
Though often overlooked by all of the natural scenery that Brookings offers on the coast, Azalea Park holds historical significance and incredible charm. Azalea Park is appropriately named after the abundance of wild azaleas that can be found in the commons.
Most notable among these spots is the Capella by the Sea, a small gazebo tucked away in the foliage. The wooden and stone chapel hides near the seaside, providing the ultimate space for weddings and ceremonies. However, the park itself offers far more than just flowers to admire. It houses picnic areas and a playground where kids can explore. It is also a hotspot for seasonal activities, such as concerts, sporting events, and a holiday light show. Throughout the entire duration of WWII, Brookings was one of the few areas of the continental US that was bombed. That area was near Brookings, Oregon. A young Japanese pilot by the name of Nobuo Fujita managed to drop four incendiary bombs near Brookings in 1942.
2. Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
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Photo by Michal on Adobe Stock[/caption]
Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is named after the first superintendent of Oregon Parks, Samuel H. Boardman. The coastline along highway 101 between Gold Beach and Brookings is some of the prettiest places in Oregon. Among the free things to do in Brookings, Oregon, Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is the one-stop spot that offers both a relaxed and active vacation.
Visitors can have a picnic or walk through more than two dozen miles of the Oregon Coast Trail as they marvel at the panoramic view of the Whaleshead Beach, rocky outcrops, and grassy plateaus. Another hidden gem in all of Brookings, Oregon, is Indian Sands, an area filled with majestic golden sand dunes. While finding the site may be a bit of a chore as it requires you to take on a challenging 2-hour loop hike, you’ll be rewarded with a marvelous view of the Pacific, calmly rising and falling from the ocean breeze.
Those looking for a more thrilling adventure, go on a short hike to the Thunder Rock Cove, a small cave between Natural Bridges and Secret Bridge. It offers spectacular views that only visitors who take their time to venture far from the parking lot can see.
3. Go Camping at Harris Beach State Park
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Photo by Rick Obst on Flickr[/caption]
Harris Beach State Park should be on every camper’s list of fun things to do in Brookings, Oregon. Among the state parks in Oregon, thousands of people camp at Harris Beach State Park yearly because it offers more activities than anywhere else on Oregon’s southern coast.
The state park is perfect for hiking, biking, climbing, and flying kites. Within Harris Beach State Park, you’ll find Bird Island, the largest along the Oregon coastline, which also stands as a National Wild Sanctuary home to rare bird species. Tide pools house countless species of marine life, such as sea lions and seals, which can be observed when the ocean retreats.
Astonishing waves, rocky outcrops, and grassy knolls make a majestic scenery. As a destination for camping and many activities, and a vantage point for stunning sights, Harris Beach State Park is a playground for all ages. For travelers planning a trip, consult a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy to compare climates, or check out the top 10 National and State parks to see for more outdoor inspiration.
4. Enjoy the views from Chetco Point Park
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Photo from Brookings Harbors Oregon official website[/caption]
Few tourist attractions on the Pacific offer better views than Chetco Point Park. The seaside park combines Oregon’s cliff sides' rocky splendor with its stunning sweeping beaches. Hikers can make their way out to the 100-ft plateau that is surrounded by water on all sides.
Once there, they will be granted views of the St. George Reef Lighthouse, Macklyn Cove, and the Port of Brookings-Harbor. Small boats, fishing vessels, and even the occasional whale can all be seen gently bobbing in the waves.
Moreover, those seeking physical activity can also enjoy the nearby trails filled with rich vegetation and greenery. A brisk hike will lead adventurers into grassy fields filled with picnic tables and horseshoe pits. The alternative trail then leads down to Chetco Beach, the ideal location for clamming, shell collecting, and bird watching. If you visit from April to October, you’ll be able to witness the varieties of flowers that bloom during this period.
5. Visit Arch Rock Viewpoint
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Photo from David Fulmer on Flickr[/caption]
Up for some picnic with a view? Witness a huge natural rock arch standing alone in the Pacific Ocean from the Arch Rock Viewpoint, an overlooking spot, which is only a short walk from the parking lot. Several picnic tables are scattered along the coastal forest, perfect for anyone who wants to have a picnic or simply relax while watching the waters crash through the massive rock arch. You can also choose to visit during the sunset for a stunning silhouette photo with the view of the arch rock from behind.
6. Dine at Black Trumpet Bistro and Bar
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Photo from Black Trumpet Bistro official Facebook page[/caption]
If you’re looking for downtime after a day of exploring, cap the night off at Black Trumpet Bistro and Bar. This bistro serves Italian cuisine perfect for family get-togethers, nights out with friends, or a romantic dinner for two. All dishes, from salads and sandwiches to pasta and desserts, are made from fresh local ingredients. Look forward to savoring exceptional food such as mussels Italiano, cioppino, chicken marsala, and lasagna intorno. To end the night, grab a few drinks and choose from a variety of local beers and cocktails, including dirty diamond martini, chantini, and goose milk.
7. Stop by the Natural Bridges Viewpoint
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Photo from Ken Lund on Flickr[/caption]
Looking for a romantic spot in Brookings, Oregon? Housed within Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is the Natural Bridges Viewpoint which features the seven iconic arch rocks and blowholes. Go on a romantic adventure at the short 0.8-km trail, a more or less 15-minute hike, that offers great views of the Oregon coast with abundant sea stacks, sheer cliffs, and natural arches.
The best time to visit is during sunrise and sunset when the sunlight beams through the arches. The rugged scenery from the viewpoint will surely make you want to snap a photo! Aside from sightseeing and picture taking, Natural Bridges Viewpoint is also ideal for birding. That area was near Brookings, Oregon.
8. Take a Walk on the Secret Beach
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Photo by Brian from Flickr[/caption]
Another hidden treasure in Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is the Secret beach with clear blue-green water. The shoreline along highway 101 between Gold Beach and Brookings is some of the prettiest places in Oregon, ideal for sunbathing and a romantic stroll. To reach the Secret beach, go on a 0.75-mile hike with a little bit of rock scrambling, then swim, explore the sea caves, and witness the waterfalls. That area was near Brookings, Oregon.
9. Try golfing at Salmon Run Golf Course
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Photo by OCVA on Flickr[/caption]
Sports enthusiasts looking for things to do in Brookings, Oregon should head on to Salmon Run Golf Course, found right alongside the Chetco River. A hotspot for Chinook salmon to spawn, thousands of dedicated fish make their way up the river to lay eggs in river bends. Golfers at each hole can witness the natural phenomenon occurring each spring.
The natural landscapes of the 18-hole course are the true main attraction. Nature is deeply woven into every hole, providing the experience of playing in the woods. The skill range varies so that all levels of talent may enjoy the fusion of nature and sport.
10. Learn the History behind the Fujita Sword Display
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Photo from Wikimedia Commons & brookings.or.us[/caption]
For history buffs, make sure to include seeing the Fujita sword display in your list of things to do in Brookings, Oregon. That area was near Brookings, Oregon.
His aim was to ignite forest fires, which would eat away at the surrounding vegetation. Yet the plan failed, as the area was too damp and wouldn’t catch fire.
Exactly 20 years later, Nobuo Fujita was invited to return to Brookings by the local government. During his visit, he donated his personal Samurai sword as a gesture of peace between nations. The 400-year-old sword was the very same one that flew with him during his missions. Visitors to Brookings can find the Fujita sword display and the local plaque honoring Nobuo in Brookings’ public library.
11. Spot the whale spout at Whaleshead Beach
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Photo by USFWS – Pacific on Flickr[/caption]
Find some of the best natural beauty on the Oregon Coast at Whaleshead Beach, situated between Gold Beach in Curry county and Brookings. Massive rocks jut up from the ocean to form a barrier that resembles a whale's head. When the tides are rough, spurts of water shoot into the air like a whale’s spout. A large cave with a hole that peers into the coast is also popular. The seaside beaches are second to none, with golden sand. Visitors can hike trails: south to House Rock, north to Indian Sands.
12. Check out Zola’s on the Water
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Photo from Zola’s On The Water official Facebook page[/caption]
Looking for something to eat? If you ever find yourself stopping by the Oregon coast off Highway 101, Zola’s on the Water is a must-visit family-owned restaurant up on the Port of Brookings Harbor. It prides itself on hand-tossed wood-fired pizzas customized based on your toppings, sauce, and cheese preference. You can also choose from their menu of Al’s BLT, All Cheese, Chipotle Chicken, and Mediterranean Veggie. Zola’s on the Water also serves fresh salad, pasta, wings, steak, and breadsticks. Up for a few drinks? Choose over 150 craft beers and a vast selection of mixed drinks to quench your thirst!
13. Spend the afternoon at Lone Ranch Beach
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Photo by Bonnie Moreland on Flickr[/caption]
Spending an afternoon at Lone Ranch Beach, just about 4.5 miles from Brookings, is yet another activity to add to your list of things to do in Brookings, Oregon. Lone Ranch Beach houses a massive collection of sea stacks, which quietly rise up out of the ocean. The famous crescent-shaped beach also hides endless tide pools; full of crabs, starfish, guppies, urchins, and other marine life.
A brisk walk along the trail reveals a half dozen picnic tables, which mark the ideal spot for an afternoon break. In addition, just behind the trail lies millions of seashells, which Native Americans collected for centuries.
14. Visit the Crissey Field State Recreation Site
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Photo by Bonnie Moreland on Flickr[/caption]
A trip to the 40-acre Crissey Field State Recreation Site is a must for people looking for a place to get lost in nature. Pass by the Welcome Center to see local birds and natural wildlife exhibits and learn about the surrounding beaches. The site houses endless beaches across the southern Oregon site, creating a scene as bare and peaceful as craters on the moon. The serenity is complemented by ultra-fine sand and the occasional piece of driftwood. Just outside the sands lie peaceful wetlands, housing unique species.
Like many other beaches on the Oregon Coast, the distance from the sand to the water is incredible. At some points, the width of the beach can be nearly a half-mile. For travelers also planning a trip abroad, a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy can help with packing, while those seeking outdoor adventures might consult the top 10 National and State parks to see.
15. Engage in outdoor activities at McVay Rock State Recreation Site
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Photos from OCVA on Flickr[/caption]
Among the things to do in Brookings, Oregon, those looking to enjoy outdoor sports should include the 19-acre McVay Rock State Recreation Site in their itinerary. The reclusive park sits 50 feet upon a seaside cliff, which drops down into a hidden beach. Once trekking down to the beach, adventurers can experience endless swathes of sand and tide that crash into the land. Aside from having beautiful nature, there is plenty to do at McVay Rock. The most notable sport found at the beach is surf fishing, which brings anglers from far and wide. However, other outdoor activities such as clamming, whale watching, and disc golf are also popular. For those planning a trip, a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy won't help here—check local Oregon forecasts instead.
16. Drive through Thomas Creek Bridge, Oregon’s Highest Bridge
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Photo by Oregon Department of Transportation on Flickr[/caption]
Located a few miles from Harris Beach State Park, Thomas Creek Bridge is Oregon’s highest bridge—a 345-foot tall, 956-foot long structure set into a ravine leading to the ocean. Pine and spruce trees anchor dark sandstone hillsides that meet golden sands at sea level.
Two trailheads lead down each side of the bridge, allowing visitors to trek to the beach or the base of the structure. Those in a hurry can peer over the bridge for photos of the scenery below. That area was near Brookings, Oregon.
A National Treasure Worth Exploring
Brookings, considered a national treasure, is home to some of the most beautiful beaches, thrilling outdoor adventures, and breathtaking views. That area was near Brookings, Oregon. A visit to Brookings, Oregon, is a must for adventure seekers, history buffs, and tourists simply looking for a meaningful and memorable vacation!
