The Ultimate Getaway to Pacific City: A 3-Day Itinerary

Planning a getaway to Pacific City, Oregon, can seem daunting with so much to see and do. However, that’s where we come in! Lucky for you, we’ve curated the perfect 3-day itinerary designed to help both prospective visitors and those already booked to discover the hidden gems of this charming coastal town. 

Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors, enjoy local cuisine, or simply soak in scenic views at Cape Kiwanda, this guide aims to inspire you to craft an unforgettable experience tailored to your interests. Make the most of your getaway to Pacific City by following our suggested activities or mixing and matching them to create your own unique adventure.

3-Day Itinerary for Pacific City 

Here’s a comprehensive 3-day itinerary for an exciting getaway to Pacific City, Oregon. This plan includes a mix of outdoor activities, culinary delights, and visits to some of the most scenic and popular sights in the area. Feel free to mix and match these activities to create your own perfect itinerary that suits your group’s interests, happy exploring!

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Cape Kiwanda

Morning:

• Arrival in Pacific City: Settle into your accommodation and prepare for a day of adventure. Depending on the time of year you’re visiting, pack a bag with all the essentials needed for exploring. Whether it be a rain jacket for a bottle of SPF, the Oregon Coast’s weather can be unpredictable so be prepared.
• Breakfast: Head over to Ben & Jeff’s  to start your day with a hearty breakfast burrito and freshly brewed coffee at this local favorite.

Afternoon:

• Explore Cape Kiwanda: Head to Cape Kiwanda, one of the most popular natural attractions in Pacific City. Enjoy hiking up the sand dune for a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean. Don’t forget to take your camera for some stunning photographs. Check out this Cape Kiwanda hike that brings you along the best of this stunning coastline.
• Lunch Time: After your hike, relax and refuel with lunch at the Pelican Brewing Company, a beachfront brewery known for its craft beers and amazing ocean views.

Evening:

• Watch the Sunset: Return to Cape Kiwanda to watch a spectacular sunset, we promise it’s a sight to behold, especially for couples on a romantic getaway.
• Dine Out: After a busy day of exploration, it’s time for some fine dining at Meridian Restaurant & Bar, where you can enjoy tasty dishes crafted from local ingredients, offering a taste of the Pacific Northwest.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventure and Local Flavors

Morning:

• Breakfast: Grateful Bread Bakery is a local favorite in the area. Head over early and grab a delicious pastry or a full breakfast to energize yourself for a busy day of outdoor adventures.
• Kayaking on the Nestucca River: Rent a kayak and explore the calm waters of the Nestucca River, a perfect activity for all skill levels.

Afternoon:

• Horseback Riding on the Beach: Book a horseback riding tour along the beach for a unique way to see the coastline. With one and two-hour rides available, as well as proposal packages, horseback riding along the beach is a unique activity sure to make your Pacific City getaway even more special.
• Lunch Time: You’ll surely have built up a hunger after kayaking and horseback riding, so head over to The Oar House Bar & Grill to enjoy local seafood and classic American dishes.

Evening:

• Tide Pool Exploration: Wind down your evening at the beach by spotting unusual marine life in the tide pools and relaxing by the ocean
• Dinner Time: End your day with a casual meal at Sportsman Pub and Grub, a popular local spot known for its friendly atmosphere and great food.

Day 3: Shopping and Relaxation

Morning:

• Grab your Caffeine Fix: Have breakfast at Village Coffee Shoppe, a cozy spot for a laid-back breakfast. Grab a coffee-to-go before heading out for a walk.
• Visit Bob Straub State Park: Stroll through this beautiful park for a morning filled with wildlife spotting, beautiful landscapes and nature hikes. 

Afternoon:

• Shop til’ You Drop: Pacific City has an array of quaint boutiques and local artisan markets that showcase Oregon’s coastal charm. Here you’ll find everything from handcrafted jewelry to custom surfboards. It’s the perfect place to find a special souvenir to remember your getaway.
• Perhaps a Liquid Lunch?: What’s better than a chill glass of wine after shopping? Head over to Twist Wine Company and taste some of Pacific City’s finest wines paired with a gourmet lunch.

Evening:

• A Sunset Dinner: After a busy couple of days, stay in tonight and dine al fresco on your balcony or outdoor patio at one of our Kiwanda Coastal Properties rentals. Many of our properties offer sea views, perfect for soaking up the sunset at dinner.
• Evening Stroll along the Beach: Take one last leisurely walk along the beach, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and capturing those last-minute, Instagram-worthy sunset pictures.

Best Time for a Pacific City Getaway

The time of year you choose to plan your Pacific City getaway largely depends on what you want to get out of your trip. The summer months, from June to August, offer the warmest weather and the least rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach exploration. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect more crowds and potentially higher prices. 

Late spring and early fall are great for people looking to avoid large crowds and potentially find better deals. The weather is still favorable with beautiful scenery and milder temperatures. It’s important to keep in mind that the Oregon coast’s weather is notoriously unpredictable year-round, so packing layers and waterproof gear is essential to adapt your itinerary to sudden changes. If you’re hoping to have an action-packed, outdoor itinerary, summer is the ideal time for your Pacific City getaway.

Come Fall in Love with Pacific City

We hope this 3-day itinerary equips you with all you need for an unforgettable getaway to Pacific City, whether you choose to follow it step by step or use it as inspiration to craft your own unique adventure. Be sure to check out our list of vacation rentals to find the perfect spot to call home during your stay. So pack your bags, and prepare to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and charm of Pacific City. Happy travels!