How to Experience a Cozy and Magical Christmas in Pacific City, Oregon

If you’ve ever imagined swapping the usual holiday rush for a quiet Christmas by the ocean, Christmas in Pacific City, Oregon, is where your holiday dreams can come true. Pacific City’s serene atmosphere and stunning coastal views create a unique backdrop for the holidays. This cozy beach town transforms into a haven of festive charm. It offers an inviting mix of local traditions, outdoor adventures, and charming vacation rentals and you’ll feel like you’ve found your very own secret holiday retreat.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect beachfront rental to host a Christmas dinner with loved ones or hoping to experience a more peaceful, nature-filled holiday, this guide has you covered. Let’s dive into what makes Christmas in Pacific City so special and how you can plan the perfect coastal holiday escape.

Find the Perfect Holiday Haven

Cozy Vacation Rentals by the Beach

One of the best parts of spending Christmas in Pacific City is settling into a vacation rental that feels like your home away from home. There’s nothing like waking up to the sound of the ocean and stepping outside to breathe in the crisp winter air with the iconic Cape Kiwanda as your backdrop. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway for two or gathering the whole family for a holiday celebration, you’ll find a variety of beachfront homes and cozy cottages that are perfect for any occasion.

Most vacation rentals in Pacific City come fully equipped with kitchens, so you can enjoy the comfort of cooking Christmas dinner while the waves crash in the distance. Plus, many rentals feature fireplaces or wood-burning stoves—ideal for warming up after a day of coastal exploring.

Pro Tip: Look for rentals that offer oceanfront views or have direct beach access. Many properties also feature hot tubs, making it easy to relax and enjoy a quiet evening under the stars, even during the colder months. Be sure to book early, as Pacific City becomes a popular spot for holiday travelers!

Holiday Fun with a Coastal Twist

Festive Activities for All

While Pacific City is known for its laid-back vibe, you’ll still find plenty of festive charm and local events that bring the holiday spirit to life. Christmas here feels authentic—there are no over-the-top spectacles but rather a series of cozy, community-driven celebrations that make you feel like you’ve stumbled upon the perfect small-town holiday.

Christmas Tree Lighting and Local Festivities

Kick off the holiday season with a short drive to nearby Lincoln City or Tillamook, where the Christmas tree lighting ceremonies draw locals and visitors alike. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Hallmark movie, with twinkling lights, hot cocoa stands, and carolers filling the streets with cheer. These events are family-friendly and a great way to meet the local community, who welcome visitors with open arms.

For a more intimate feel, some vacation rentals even allow you to bring and decorate your own Christmas tree. Imagine turning your rental into a festive wonderland, stringing lights by the fire as you enjoy a relaxing holiday evening.

Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad

Holiday Train Rides

If you’re traveling with kids (or just want to embrace a little nostalgia), the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad offers festive Christmas train rides throughout December. Just a short drive from Pacific City in Garibaldi, this classic train ride is decked out for the holidays with Christmas lights, music, and even a visit from Santa himself. It’s a magical experience for families, and you’ll also be treated to breathtaking coastline views.

Pacific City’s Coastal Christmas Dining

Local Flavors with a Festive Twist

Christmas dinner in Pacific City is unlike anything you’ll experience elsewhere, especially if you love seafood. Here, you’re not limited to traditional holiday dishes—why not mix things up with fresh, locally caught Dungeness crab or grilled halibut?

Seafood and Holiday Dining

Pacific City’s restaurants, like the beloved Pelican Brewing Company, serve up local catches with a festive twist. Imagine enjoying a warm bowl of clam chowder or a fresh seafood platter while overlooking the Pacific Ocean with the soft glow of Christmas lights in the background. Our vacation rentals come with fully equipped kitchens, allowing you to try your hand at preparing a Christmas seafood feast for your loved ones.

For an extra treat, grab some fresh crab or fish from the Pacific City Fish Market and cook up a holiday meal that perfectly blends coastal flavors with holiday warmth.

Comfort Food and Sweet Treats

Of course, Christmas wouldn’t be complete without indulging in a little comfort food. Head over to The Grateful Bread Bakery for fresh pastries, holiday pies, or even breakfast before your Christmas Day beach walk. Or stop by Stimulus Coffee + Bakery for some festive baked goods and a hot chocolate to-go as you explore the town.

Pro Tip: Many restaurants offer holiday specials, so be sure to check ahead for menus if you’d rather enjoy a low-key Christmas meal out.

Embrace the Winter Beauty of Pacific City

Outdoor Adventures for the Holidays

One of the most magical aspects of spending Christmas in Pacific City is how easy it is to embrace the beauty of the outdoors—even in the middle of winter. While you won’t find snow-covered hills here, you will find the rugged beauty of the Oregon Coast at its most peaceful. The beaches are quieter, the air is crisp, and the dramatic waves crashing against the cliffs create a stunning winter scene.

Whale Watching: A Christmas Spectacle

December is one of the best times to witness the gray whale migration along the Oregon Coast. Pacific City’s Cape Kiwanda is a prime whale-watching spot, and with fewer crowds during the winter months, it’s a great time to catch sight of these majestic creatures as they make their journey south. Be sure to bring binoculars and keep an eye on the horizon for spouts and breaches.

Winter Beach Walks and Cape Kiwanda Views

Taking a long, peaceful walk on the beach during the holiday season is a wholesome treat. While the Oregon Coast doesn’t see much snow, the winter brings a calm, almost otherworldly beauty to Pacific City’s shoreline. A walk along the beach on Christmas morning is the perfect way to start your holiday off right, with views of Haystack Rock in the distance and the sound of the waves filling the air.

Pro Tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, climb up the giant sand dune at Cape Kiwanda for a panoramic view of the Coast—it’s an exhilarating hike and a rewarding way to see the ocean stretch out beneath you.

Explore Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge

For a more serene outdoor adventure, visit the Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge, just a short drive from Pacific City. Winter is an incredible time to visit the refuge, as it becomes home to a variety of migratory birds. Whether you’re an avid birder or just love the peace that comes with a quiet walk through nature, this is a great spot to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of the Oregon Coast during the holiday season.

The Magic of Christmas in Pacific City, Oregon

There’s something undeniably magical about Christmas in Pacific City in an Oregon coast vacation rental. It’s the perfect combination of peaceful coastal beauty, cozy holiday moments, and a sense of connection with both nature and the local community. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet morning by the fire in your beachside rental or embracing the rugged beauty of the Coast with a winter hike, Pacific City offers a holiday experience that feels both refreshing and timeless.

The slower pace, fresh sea air, and intimate setting make it easy to focus on what matters most—spending time with loved ones, creating memories, and savoring the simple joys of the season. This Christmas, escape the ordinary and discover the magic of the Oregon Coast in Pacific City.

Common Questions People Ask About Spending Christmas in Pacific City, Oregon:

Can I celebrate a “White Christmas” on the beach in Pacific City?

While you won’t find too much snow on the Oregon Coast, you can still experience a “White Christmas” with the white sand dunes at Cape Kiwanda! The towering dunes and windswept beaches, combined with the crashing waves, create a beautiful contrast to traditional snowy holidays.

Can I surf in Pacific City during Christmas?

Yes, and it’s more popular than you might think! Winter surfing in Pacific City is definitely for the adventurous, as water temperatures dip to around 50°F, but the waves are great. Grab a thick wetsuit and surf the holiday blues away near Cape Kiwanda—it’ll be a Christmas story to tell!

Is it too cold to enjoy a Christmas beach bonfire in Pacific City?

Not at all! Though it’s chilly, beach bonfires are a popular way to stay warm while enjoying the stunning winter coastline. Pack some blankets, grab some hot cocoa, and settle in for a cozy evening by the fire with the sound of the ocean as your backdrop.

Is it weird to eat seafood for Christmas dinner in Pacific City?

Absolutely not! In fact, it’s a local tradition. Many visitors swap the usual turkey for fresh Dungeness crab or grilled fish. It’s a coastal take on Christmas that fits perfectly with the laid-back vibe of the area​.

Can I find vacation rentals in Pacific City for Christmas?

Yes! Pacific City offers a variety of beachfront vacation rentals, perfect for a cozy holiday getaway. Many rentals come with full kitchens, and fireplaces, and some even have hot tubs—ideal for a festive and relaxing stay by the ocean. Be sure to book early, as these rentals fill up quickly during the holiday season​