Lincoln City – A Coastal Gem Worth Exploring
Tucked along the stunning Pacific coast, Lincoln City, Oregon, is a town that’s got something for everyone. Whether you’re into relaxing on seven miles of beautiful beaches, exploring Devils Lake and Siletz Bay, or getting your blood pumping with kayaking, surfing, or fishing, there’s always something to do. Nature lovers will also feel right at home, with parks and nature spots like Cascade Head and Drift Creek Falls Trail—perfect for hiking, birdwatching, or just kicking back in the fresh air.
And if you’re a foodie, you’re in for a treat. Lincoln City’s restaurants have all kinds of tasty options, from rich clam chowder to mouthwatering Dungeness crab, not to mention the sweet, nostalgic delight of saltwater taffy.
Discovering Lincoln City’s Attractions
Lincoln City is renowned for its extensive stretches of inviting sandy shores, spanning over seven miles where visitors can bask under the sun, scour for beach treasures, or engage in a myriad of beachfront fun. Activities such as kite flying, catching waves for surf enthusiasts, or exploring Siletz Bay on a paddleboard are common here. Scenes of the vast Pacific Ocean, Siletz Bay, and the estuary at Salmon River provide dramatic backdrops for an unforgettable visit. The heart of the town cradles Devil’s Lake, a hub for swimmers, kayakers, and anglers alike.
Nature Trails and Green Spaces
The region is peppered with parks and scenic trails that carve through the verdant landscapes of the Oregon Coast. Notable hiking spots like Cascade Head and Drift Creek Falls offer visitors impressive viewpoints and natural marvels, including a striking suspension bridge and a towering waterfall that plunges 75 feet below. Community parks dot the city, complete with family-friendly amenities such as picnic spots, playgrounds, and conveniently located restrooms.
Aquatic Recreation
For those with a penchant for aquatic adventure, Lincoln City doesn’t disappoint. Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are activities enjoyed in the calmer waters of Siletz Bay, while the mighty Pacific provides a playground for avid surfers. The area is also an angler’s delight, with fishing and crabbing as popular pastimes year-round.
Angling and Shell-fishing Pursuits
Angling aficionados and shell-fishing enthusiasts flock to Lincoln City for its abundant fishing and crabbing opportunities. The fertile waters of Siletz Bay teem with sought-after fish such as salmon, steelhead, and trout. The open ocean calls to those aiming to reel in halibut, rockfish, or lingcod. Crab hunters can set out to snare Dungeness and Red Rock crabs, favorites among the local seafood delights.
Food Adventures in Lincoln City
Seafood Eateries
The Oregon Coast’s Lincoln City is a haven for those who relish the bounty of the sea. A local favorite, Mo’s Restaurant, boasts a legacy over seven decades strong, renowned for its clam chowder and a broad range of seafood specialties. For those seeking variety, additional spots such as Kyllo’s Seafood & Grill, Tidal Raves, Blackfish Cafe, and J’s Fish & Chips offer a rich array of oceanic flavors, from succulent crab to fresh fish.
Variety of Mealtime Choices
Beyond the fresh catch selection, Lincoln City’s culinary landscape is dotted with diverse eateries. Casual diners might relish the flavors at La Roca or Mazatlan, as well as the aromatic dishes at Thai Bay. For those desiring early-day delights, The Wildflower Grill serves a delectable breakfast and American classics such as burgers and salads. Regardless of the craving, Lincoln City’s dining scene provides an array of options that solidify its status as a gastronomic hub.
Retail Adventures in Lincoln City
Boutiques and Specialty Stores
Diverse and quaint, Lincoln City teems with specialty stores that charm with their distinct local flair. Shoppers can discover everything from hand-forged art to the freshest seafood along the coast.
- Artistic Havens: For those who appreciate creativity, smaller galleries like The Edge Art Gallery showcase local talent through a collection of paintings and glass art.
- Fresh From the Sea: Barnacle Bill’s Seafood Market offers the day’s fresh catch, a perfect pick for seafood aficionados.
- Glass Artistry: At the Lincoln City Glass Center, visitors are treated to the spectacle of glassblowing and can purchase the handcrafted pieces on display.
Premier Outlet Shopping
Located off Highway 101, the Lincoln City Outlets combine a diverse shopping experience with irresistible bargains. This hub includes over 50 retailers, where savvy deal hunters can sate their appetite for discounts on premium brands.
Distinctive Attractions in Lincoln City
Handcrafted Glass Treasures
The hunt for beach-hidden, hand-blown glass treasures has become a hallmark of Lincoln City. These unique glass spheres, crafted by gifted local artisans, can be discovered along the city’s shores throughout the year, offering a one-of-a-kind beachcombing experience.
- Collectible Art: Each glass float is a work of art, sought after by collectors.
- Beach Exploration: A pleasant pastime for visitors combing the beaches.
Sky-High Celebrations
A haven for kite enthusiasts, Lincoln City boasts the title of “Kite Capital of the World,” thanks to its vibrant kite celebrations. Each summer and fall, the skies above Lincoln City come alive with colorful kites during their renowned festivals.
- Summer and Fall Festivities: Enthusiasts gather for these lively seasonal events.
- Kite Workshops: Learn to soar a kite alongside seasoned professionals.
Crafting Glass with Local Masters
Lincoln City’s past is reflected in its glassblowing scene. The Lincoln City Glass Center, nestled in the historic Taft District, invites visitors to observe skilled artists at work and even craft their own glass pieces to cherish.
- Live Demonstrations: Watch the mesmerizing process of glassblowing.
- Hands-on Experiences: Shape a personalized creation to commemorate your visit.
Nelscott Reef’s Giant Waves
For thrill-seekers, the illustrious Nelscott Reef is a spectacle of nature’s force with enormous waves, making it a surfer’s paradise. Spectators can marvel at the bold surfers braving heights of up to 60 feet, all from the comfort of Lincoln City’s shores.
Common Inquiries about Lincoln City, OR
Free Activities in Lincoln City
Visitors to Lincoln City can relish a variety of no-cost experiences. Cultural enrichment is on offer at the local cultural center, serene moments await at the Connie Hansen Garden, and the vast beachfront is perfect for leisurely walks. Nature enthusiasts can embark on scenic trails that reveal the beauty of the oceanic edge.
Restaurant Recommendations
Foodies can gratify their palates at Kyllo’s Seafood & Grill or the Blackfish Cafe, both acclaimed for their ocean fare. For informal meals, Mo’s Restaurant and The Pines Dine–Food Truck Village offer a laid-back dining atmosphere.
Tourist Assistance Locations
The primary hub for visitor information is the Lincoln City Visitor Center, situated at 540 NE Hwy 101. There, guests can gather maps, travel literature, and gain insider tips for an enriched visit designed by informed locals.
Local Weather
Boasting a gentle oceanic climate, Lincoln City experiences temperate weather with a balance of cool breezes and moderate rainfall year-round. It’s common to see summer temperatures peaking in the pleasant 60s.
Popular Attractions in Lincoln City
Top Spots to Visit in Lincoln City
- Seven Miles of Sandy Beaches: Ideal for beachcombing, kite-flying, and sunset viewing.
- Lincoln City Cultural center: A hub for community activities, local artwork, and shows.
- Glass Floats on the Beach: Handcrafted treasures hidden for lucky beachgoers to find.
Lincoln City’s Family Entertainment
- Beach Picnics and Sandcastle Building: Spend a day under the sun with family.
- Kite-Flying Competitions: Lincoln City is famous for its annual kite festivals.
- Hands-On Art Studios: Engage in creating art souvenirs with local artists.
Discovering Lincoln City’s Landmarks and History
- North Lincoln County Historical Museum: Learn about the city’s past.
- The Historic Bijou Theatre: Watch a movie in a vintage setting.
- Taft Historic District: Explore the charming old part of town.
Experiencing Local Life in Lincoln City
- Art Galleries and Studios: Witness the creativity of local artists.
- Cultural Festivals: Join in the celebrations that showcase Lincoln City’s traditions.