Complete Epic Itinerary For Visiting Pacific City Oregon

Pacific City is a little town on the Oregon Coastline that moves slow, and offers healing and solitude. It is known for being a popular surfing location due to the abundant waves that come in. It is a quite small compared to other coastal towns on the coast, but that is what gives Pacific City that special charm. With that being said, hotels in Pacific City Oregon hotels aren’t abundant, so be sure to book in advance. Same goes with restaurants in Pacific City Oregon, make reservations when you book your accommodations.

Where To Stay At Pacific City

This is my second time visiting. My first time I stayed at Hart’s Camp, the airstream park across from the beach. We loved this are so much that we find a way to come back every year since our first visit. Especially, a truly a magical little pocket of the Oregon coast. Let’s get into it!

Headlands Lodge

Last time we were in Pacific City Oregon the Headlands Lodge was brand new. We stopped by for brunch and a tour, so I have been dreaming of staying here ever since. Once you walk into the luxury lodge, you will understand.

Pacific City Hotels are few and far between, so this one sets the bar high! Immediately you feel immersed and not wanting to get back in your car (the only time we did was to go hiking). Most of the town can be visited by foot or bike, which is what we did.

What To Expect At Headlands Lodge

Every single room at the Headlands Lodge, Pacific City Oregons most beautiful hotel, overlooks the haystack, so don’t worry about not having a good view when booking. The moment you walk into the room, you have a view of the ocean. The balcony provides privacy from other guests as well. Truly this is the best Oregon Coast Getaway.

While we were here we booked this Pacific City Oregon hotel at Spring Coastal Reset Package which included spa treatment, a guided hike, and a 4 course meal at the on-site restaurant, The Meridian.

Added bonus: it’s dog friendly! Patsy and Gouda got to come with us. The room came with two dog beds, bowls, treats, and towels to wipe the sand off. When walking the dogs to the beach there is even an outside area to rinse their paws before coming into the hotel. It was such a treat to start the day with a walk on the beach with them.

Amenities at Headlands Lodge

On site there is a spa, salt water soaking hot tub, restaurant and bar, and gift shop full of Pacific Northwest goodies to take home. I will get into the specifics of what we did our entire stay. Oh, and did I mention each room has a claw foot bath?!

Cast Iron Bathtubs

One of my favorite parts of Headlands Lodge is the cast iron bathtubs in every room. Not only are they tucked right next to the bed so you can see the ocean- they are also GIGANTIC! There is plenty of room for two in these cast iron tubs. The bathtubs inspired my husband and I to have this set up in our home someday. Benji had never liked a bath in his 33 years of living until this one!

As you can imagine, the dogs lived their best life. Many hotels don’t allow dogs or have breed and weight restrictions. This Pacific City hotel in Oregon does, which is exceptional because of it being a 4 star hotel.

Tidepool Spa at Headlands Lodge

The spa and hot tub area of the lodge might be my favorite part. You can book treatments if you aren’t staying in this hotel at Pacific City Oregon.

We loved coming to the salt water hot tub in the mornings and evenings to unwind. It is open until 11PM, again something you don’t always find at hotels. Plus, you simply cannot beat the view here; again intentional with the haystack in your view.

I did the 90-minute body scrub as a part of my Coastal Reset which made me so incredibly relaxed and rejuvenated. There is a steam shower to use afterwards if you are staying at the lodge. Book far in advance as the treatments do book out, especially in the summertime.

Fat Tire Bike Ride In Pacific City Oregon

While we were there we rented the fat tire bikes from the Adventure Center to ride on the beach. This was our first time doing this and oh my gosh was it hard! We were so sore the next day. It was a fun way to get onto the beach and explore. Go to this page on their website to book in advance at the Headlands.

Located just across the street from Headlands, the Inn at Cape Kiwanda is a great place for the entire family! They have dog friendly rooms, suites, and rooms with jacuzzis! Plus, each room face the ocean have views of the Cape. Stimulus coffee is right below and Pelican across the street. It’s the kind of place you can park your car and never leave.

Ever wanted to stay in an Airstream? Hart’s Camp is for you! They have vintage and new trailers that you can stay in. With an outdoor shower and large space to grill and hang outside by the bonfire too. Have your own RV? This is a great place to park it. There are also tiny cabins and cozy cottages that you can rent too that are pet friendly!

Where To Hike Near Pacific City Oregon

Cape Kiwanda

Cape Kiwanda is a short 5 minute walk from Headlands Lodge. We hiked up the sand dune and explored the entire portion of the fenced in area. McPhillips Beach North of Cape Kiwanda is another way to view this portion of the coast. If your able to time it correctly with low tide, driving on this beach and seeing the sea stacks from this side is stunning.

Saftey At Cape Kiwanda

Be sure to stay inside the fence lines. These were added because people have died falling into the coast. The waves can often exceed the height of the sandstone stacks, and the ground is eroding. Most importantly, abide by signage and stay in designated areas. We hiked up to the top of the dune for sunset and it was spectacular!

God’s Thumb

If you want to drive a little south, God’s Thumb is 30 minutes south of Pacific City. I did this hike a year ago and it was quite muddy because of the constant moisture of the coast. Furthermore, pack hiking boots! I brought my dogs on this hike and probably wouldn’t bring them again because of how narrow and busy the trail can get at the end.

Length: 4.3 miles round trip

Elevation: 1,131 feet

Dogs: Allowed on leash

Sitka Sedge

We visited this area since it is five minutes up the road from Headlands and our 12 year old dog Patsy was feeling tired from the weekend. This is a great walk for those not looking for something too strenuous. It takes you through beautiful forested area all the way to the beach. We saw many people birding here as the area is known for having many species.

Length: 3.5 miles

Elevation: 98 feet

Dogs: Allowed on leash

Cape Lookout Trail

This hike is 20 minutes north of Pacific City, and will offer grand views of the coastline. This is moderately challenging as there are many roots to climb over as you hike. Especially, wear boots on this hike as it gets quite muddy!

Length: 4.7 miles round trip

Elevation: 810 feet

Dogs: Allowed on leash

Drift Creek Falls

This hike is an hour southeast of Pacific City. We did this hike on our way home to Eugene. If you are up to drive, I highly recommend it. An iconic suspension bridge and a waterfall, can’t go wrong there! Not only that, the forest trail on the way to the waterfall is absolutely stunning as well.

Length: 3.2 miles out and back

Elevation: 541 feet

Dogs: Allowed on leash

Fee: $5 be sure to bring cash

Elk Flats And Devil’s Cauldron Overlook

This is easily one of my favorite parts of the Oregon coast because of the stark cliff-lines along this hike. Be sure to be mindful of nesting birds during certain times of year along this hike when droning.

Length: 2.9 miles out and back

Elevation: 616 feet

Dogs: Allowed on leash

Fee: Free

Restaurants In Pacific City Oregon

If you’re not staying in an AirBNB there are limited restaurants in Pacific City Oregon if you’re not trying to travel to Lincoln City for food. Due to the size of restaurants reservations are always a good idea.

The Meridian

Located in the Headlands Lodge with ocean view, you won’t be disappointed in visiting the Meridian. Seafood forward and high quality. Be sure to make a reservation as it does fill up. We suggest doing the chef’s choice and wine pairing if it’s available. My husband was blown away by the martini’s. You really can’t go wrong here.

Pelican Brewery

Based out of Pacific City and right on the beach, this brewery is a great place for food and beer. Pelican Brewery is a popular Pacific City Oregon restaurant that is typically quite busy! We enjoyed flatbread and beer outside. They have happy hour from 2-4 and brunch on the weekends fro 10-2! Plus its dog friendly!

The River House

We came here last time we visited and was excited to return. This building has been a restaurant since 1978. Recently purchased from new owners in 2018, the quality still remains. Great place for dinner! My husband said the fish and chips were the best he has ever had.

Ben And Jeff’s Burgers and Tacos

Right next to Pelican Brewery this place is a gem to have walking distance from Headlands Lodge. Breakfast burritos are HUGE-we could have shared one. They were so good we went back for tacos and a margarita for lunch. You can walk up and order online and take your food to the beach.

Twist Tasting Room

We biked here from Headlands and enjoyed wine and cheese for the afternoon. The owners drive an hour from their winery to run it. Great atmosphere!

Stimulus Coffee

Located at the base of Inn at Cape Kiwanda and across the street from Headlands Lodge. I found myself walking the dogs here every morning then walking on the beach with the dogs enjoying my coffee. Stimulus has delicious coffee and pastries! It was a routine I could get used to!

Sportsmans Pub-n-Grub

This Local dive bar with reasonably priced food in Pacific City Oregon. Some say the best fish and chips in the area. Local dive bar with great bar food for a fair price!

The Ore House

We didn’t have a chance to visit but the menu looks delicious. Moderately priced fish options for a finer dining experience for dinnertime. Be sure to check if they’re open as they often close for catering.

What To Do In Pacific City Oregon

Observe The Dory Boat

Although we didn’t get to see it while we were here, watching the Dory boats during their fishing season (summertime) is fun as well. What is unique about this type of fishing is they paddle the boat out from the beach boat launch, then go full speed to get onto the beach to re-dock.

My husband and I talked about booking a charter with a Dory boat fisherman next time. We have done various types of fishing but this seems the most unique.

Surfing

Pacific City is one of the most popular places to surf along the Oregon Coast due to the constant size of the waves. Even if you’re not out there surfing yourself, it’s nice to pack a picnic and watch them from the beach if weather permits.

Horse Back Riding Tour

Rent horses for a couple hours and take a guided tour down the beach. You will cover more ground this way! Most importantly, be sure to book in advanced through Green Acres Beach and Trail Rides.

We cannot recommend visiting Pacific City Oregon more! Have you visited before? I would love to hear in the comments what you thought. Happy Adventuring!

Pin For Later!