Nestled between the Alsea Bay and the Pacific Ocean, Waldport is truly “Where the Forest Meets the Sea.” This charming coastal town offers the perfect blend of breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventure, and small-town hospitality. From crabbing and clamming on the bay to exploring tide pools, hiking lush forest trails, or simply savoring fresh seafood with a view, Waldport makes the ideal home base for your Oregon coast getaway. Whether you’re here to relax, explore, or a little of both, you’ll find plenty to discover in this special place where ocean and forest come together.
The Oregon coast is world-famous for its dramatic landscapes, and Waldport places you right in the heart of it all. Just minutes away, the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area offers breathtaking views, lush hiking trails, and tide pools that showcase the beauty of the shoreline. Visit Devil’s Churn or Devil’s Punchbowl to witness the crashing surf in action, or spend a day exploring Driftwood Beach, Governor Patterson State Park, or Ona Beach, each perfect for long walks, picnics, and beach combing. Tide pooling is a must, with Seal Rock State Recreation Area, Yachats State Recreation Area, Smelt Sands, and Strawberry Hill all providing incredible opportunities to spot colorful sea stars, sea anemones, mussels, and other fascinating marine life. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes when exploring the rocks. The Siuslaw National Forest and Brian Booth State Park add even more opportunities for wildlife viewing and forest walks, while the Sea Lion Caves — the largest sea cave in the United States — give you a chance to see hundreds of wild sea lions in their natural habitat. For those looking for more adventure, the area is also popular for whale watching, surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, and biking.
No trip to Waldport is complete without experiencing the coast’s most iconic pastime — crabbing. McKinley’s Marina and Alsea Bay are famous for their abundant Dungeness crab, and our well-equipped boat rentals make it easy and fun for families and friends to drop rings and pull up a fresh, tasty catch. Rentals are popular, so booking in advance is recommended. We provide everything you’ll need, from crab rings and bait to gauges and gloves — all you need to bring is your sense of adventure. Check out our Marina page for more details. Clamming is another coastal favorite, where you can dig and rake for a variety of species. From razor clams along sandy beaches to gaper, butter, cockle, and littleneck clams on the Alsea Bay tide flats, there’s plenty to discover. Purple varnish clams and soft shell clams are also common, making Waldport a fantastic destination for anyone who enjoys harvesting fresh seafood straight from the shore. Just remember a shellfish license is required, and it’s always best to check tide charts and ODFW updates before heading out.
The fun doesn’t stop at the water’s edge. Crestview Golf Club offers a scenic round of golf right in Waldport, while the Oregon Coast Aquarium in nearby Newport is a must-see for families. Casinos such as Chinook Winds in Lincoln City and Three Rivers in Florence provide gaming, dining, and live entertainment, and the Newport Performing Arts Center hosts a variety of concerts, plays, and cultural events. Throughout the year, festivals like the Seafood & Wine Festival, Beach, Bike & Blues Festival, and Beachcomber Days bring even more music, food, and fun to the coast.
Waldport and its neighboring towns are full of ways to enjoy the Oregon coast’s incredible food and local charm. Fresh-caught seafood is the highlight, from buttery Dungeness crab to perfectly grilled salmon, but you’ll also find hearty burgers, wood-fired pizzas, and a wide range of cuisines. Restaurant recommendations include Azul Mexican Restaurant, the Salty Dawg Bar & Grill, Hilltop Café-Bistro, Café Chill and Skosh, known for its burgers and shakes. For something sweet, Pacific Sourdough Bakery serves artisan breads and pastries, while Chubby Lil Mermaid delights visitors with tasty baked treats. Pair your meal with a local brew from Rogue Brewing or a glass of wine at Bayside Cellars or Beach Daisy Wine Bar. When it comes to shopping, the historic downtowns of Waldport, Newport, and Yachats are filled with quaint boutiques and artisan shops offering everything from handmade jewelry and artwork to coastal apparel and unique souvenirs.
The Oregon coast is rich in history and culture, with plenty of ways to connect to its maritime roots. Iconic lighthouses like Yaquina Head and Heceta Head offer both history and incredible views, while local museums such as the Waldport Heritage Museum and the Alsea Bay Bridge Interpretive Center highlight the area’s fascinating past. Science lovers will enjoy the Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport, which brings the wonders of the ocean to life. For a blend of shopping, culture, and seaside charm, explore Newport’s historic Nye Beach and Bayfront districts, where galleries, shops, and coastal history come together in one unforgettable setting.
We’re proud to support local businesses that help make your stay on the Oregon coast even more enjoyable. From delicious meals and cozy cafés to trusted services and unique shops, here are a few of our recommended partners in Waldport and beyond:
Whether you’re looking for a great meal, a fun outing, or dependable local services, these businesses are here to make your stay at McKinley’s even better.
