Anything goes on the Coast during the winter months: turbulent wind storms, misty drizzle, milky fog and more bursts of sunshine than you might imagine. Peak-season crowds give way to the locals, and hardy outdoor enthusiasts come here for solitude — drawn by the allure of playing at the beach when others go in search of snow. From biking and fishing to golfing, surfing and paddling, here are five only-on-the-Coast ways for hardy adventurers of all skill levels to embrace the season and fuel up afterwards.
1. Kayaking and a Cozy Coffee Spot
During winter months, the water level of waterways is higher, which means paddlers can venture further upstream. Also, the lack of visitors presents a better opportunity to get up close and personal with wildlife such as eagles, river otters, migrating birds and more. Kayak Tillamook offers several kayaking tours along the North Coast. Their Cape Meares Lake tour in the winter offers a special opportunity to see herds of resident elk and bald eagles. Afterward, sink your teeth into a gourmet burger at Big Wave Cafe, a popular lunch spot in Manzanita that focuses on fresh and local ingredients.
Further north in Seaside, the boat launch on the Neawanna River is a great starting point to explore the Necanicum Estuary. The 87-square mile area is a protected watershed that is a favorite spot for bird watching, so bring your binoculars. Talk to the experts at Clean Line Surf in town and compare photos over coffee at Controversial Coffee, which takes latte art and welcoming vibes to the next level.
2. Mountain Biking and a Pint
Just an hour from Portland lies some of the region’s best singletrack trails. The Wilson River Trail in the Tillamook State Forest features just over 20 miles of trail with more than 5,000 feet of elevation gain. Rolling hills vary between 1,000 feet and 1,500 feet of elevation, offering snow-free mountain biking when snow hits the trails at higher elevations, often between November through April. It’s mostly moderate riding, but the trail offers some challenging climbs for those who want a challenge. Afterward, treat yourself to a pint at De Garde Brewing, a European farmhouse-style brewery which hosts on-site sandwiches, wraps and rice bowls from Country Squire Kitchen.
The newly opened Klootchy Creek Trail, located a few miles north of Seaside, offers more excellent singletrack for all ability levels, with river, mountain and seaside views. Order a seasonal ale and house-smoked barbecue at Seaside Brewing afterward.
3. Golfing and Fireside Dining
What started as a P.E. class for school children in Tillamook turned into one of the Coast’s newest disc golf courses — a sport that’s taking off in popularity, as it’s widely accessible year-round. The 18-hole Bohannon Disc Golf Course opened in 2019 on school grounds, and is open to the public when school is not in session. Consider staying 10 miles north at the The Hotel Garibaldi and heading to Garibaldi Portside Bistro for smoked brisket, ribs and chicken made with a proprietary blend of spices.
If the links are more your scene, head to Gearhart to play on the oldest golf course west of the Mississippi River. The Gearhart Golf Links started out as a three-hole course in 1888 and today features a full 18 holes, while staying true to classic Scottish roots. Adjacent to the golf course, the McMenamins Gearhart Hotel Sand Trap Pub is a great spot to grab a bite to eat after a round of golf. The patio features a fire pit, perfect for lingering over a bowl of chowder.
4. Surfing and a Craft Cocktail
Yes, surfing in Oregon is a thing, and 10 miles south of Cannon Beach, Shorts Sands Beach is a great place for beginners to get started. Set in a protective cove, it is one of the safest spots on the Coast to surf. This popular spot draws crowds during the summer months, but winter weekends tends to keep surfers indoors. Newbies and intermediate surfers alike can book lessons with Cannon Beach Surf Lessons and Rentals. More advanced surfers frequent the waves near Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area in Pacific City. The large beach features free parking and a number of breaks to pick from.
Warm the bones with a soak in a hot tub and a craft cocktail overlooking the surf at the oceanfront Meridian Restaurant & Bar at the Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa. Celebrate your day with a campfire on the beach afterward, though make sure to use firewood, not driftwood, and build your fire in designated areas only.
5. Winter Steelhead Fishing and a Burger
Starting late November through March, the waters surrounding the Tillamook Bay boast some of the best spots in North America for steelhead fishing. Eager anglers should hit the Nestucca River for a good chance of landing a steelhead over 20 pounds. The river sees some 10 thousand native fish annually, plus an additional thousand or so thanks to the hatchery upstream. Celebrate a successful catch with a burger at nearby Pelican Brewery in Pacific City. Check MyODFW.com for fishing permits, regulations and more resources.
For anglers desiring a more low-key location, check out the Trask River. This small stream has just eight miles of boatable waterway, but doesn’t attract nearly as many visitors. Many fish released from the Gold Creek Hatchery return where they were raised on the Trask starting in November. Barnett’s Guide Service offers drift-boat trips on both rivers. After your day on the water, go back in time at Dutch Mill Cafe nearby in Tillamook for a good, old-fashioned burger.
If You Go:
Weather on the Coast can vary dramatically. Expect rain and clouds in the winter months with occasional bright, sunny and crisp days. Wind can pick up any day of the year, so layers are best. When playing in Oregon’s coastal areas, keep in mind Leave No Trace principles, and keep the beaches clean for all to enjoy. Storm watching is best done from a safe vantage point off the beach itself; when you’re on the beach, never turn your back on the ocean and stay off wet logs. Consider traveling car-free to the Coast to sit back and enjoy the ride.
