23 Best & Fun Things To Do in Brookings (OR)

Brookings is a vibrant city in Curry County, Oregon, United States of America. Brookings was named after John E. Brookings, who founded the magnificent town in 1908.

Brookings is located on the beautiful Southern Oregon Coast, six miles north of the California border along US Highway 101.

Brookings, Oregon, was surrounded by the Chetco River and Port of Brookings Harbor to the south, as well as Harris Beach State Park to the north.

Brookings, Oregon, with its golden sand beaches, seaside bluffs, hidden dunes, and unusual animals, is a must-see trip. However, due to its fairly rural location, it receives significantly fewer visitors than the communities near Portland. As a result, it provides unparalleled peace.

Whether you’re on a summer vacation or a road trip along the Pacific Coast, Brookings, Oregon, has plenty of fun things to offer.

Here are the top 25 things to do in Brookings, Oregon, for an unforgettable experience.

Things To Do in Brookings, OR

1. Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is a magnificent linear waterfront park located 15 miles north of Brookings on Oregon’s Pacific Ocean coast.

The park, named after former Oregon Parks Superintendent Samuel H. Boardman, is known for its magnificent sandy beaches and breathtaking views of the coastline.

The Oregon Coast Trail stretches for more than two dozen miles throughout the corridor. It goes over natural bridges, arch rock, dunes, and panoramic vistas.

You can also explore the park’s natural treasures and use day-use picnic places from the numerous parking lots that lead to public beaches.

Address: US 101 Brookings, OR 97415, United States

2. Harris Beach State Park

Visiting Harris Beach State Park is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Brookings, OR.

Harris Beach State Park in Oregon is situated just north of Brookings. It is named for George Scott Harris, a 19th-century Scottish pioneer.

This lovely state park includes a National Wildlife Refuge on Bird Island. It is Oregon’s largest island and a nesting site for endangered species such as the tufted puffins.

The park’s stunning shoreline is lined with spectacular rocky outcroppings and sea stacks, and it is open to the public year-round.

This provides the opportunity to sail kites, swim, and see wildlife. Day-use picnic sites provide bathrooms and views of the coastline, whereas camping sections have RV connections for tents and RVs, as well as pet-friendly yurts.

A visit to Harris Beach is well worth adding to your list of things to do in Brookings, Oregon.

Address: US 101 Brookings, OR 97415, United States

3. Goldilocks Antiques

Goldilocks Antiques is a beautiful site for folks who enjoy collecting antiques. The store is conveniently located near the highway, making it both easy to find and accessible.

Goldilocks antique store is home to a wide range of artifacts from decades ago. Browsing through the goods with your children may be engaging and leave you wanting to see more.

Goldilocks Antiques sells a wide range of items, including dolls, picture frames, jewelry, collectibles, books, clocks, lamps, cutlery, china plates, and much more.

Although not a mall, Goldilocks Antique Store has loads of stuff to feed your eyes with and might give you the nostalgic sensation of fairytale stories like Enid Blyton, as many visitors to the antique store characterize the location as a treasure hunt.

4. Mill Beach

Are you planning a pleasant time with your boyfriend or buddy on the beach, watching the breeze caress the waters? Are you looking for a tranquil place to spend time and admire nature’s beauty? Mills Beach is the solution to your wishes.

Mill Beach is centrally located in Brookings. This beach is accessible from sunrise to sunset, so tourists can enjoy its splendor at any time of day. Mill Beach is an ideal location for enjoying the ocean with a loved one, having a picnic with family, or taking a walk on the beautiful sandy beach while appreciating nature’s gift.

Mill Beach not only lets you experience these amazing activities, but it also caters to your comfort. The beach features a paved parking lot, accessible facilities, and picnic tables.

The cove is also a great area to catch striped seaperch and shallow-water rockfish. You will also discover a starfish!

Address: Macklyn Cove Road, Brookings, OR 97415

5. Alfred A. Loeb

The lovely Alfred A. Loeb State Park in Oregon is situated on the banks of the Chetco River. The park provides good chances for outdoor activity throughout the year. Locals affectionately refer to the park as “Loeb.” It is located in a lovely Myrtlewood grove, one of America’s northernmost coastal redwood trees.

You can go fishing, swimming, whitewater rafting, or hiking along the riverbank. The self-guided Riverview Nature Trail provides additional opportunities to observe wildlife.

The park offers over 50 campsites with electric hookups for overnight stays, as well as three rustic, pet-friendly rental cottages.

Address: N Bank Chetco River Rd, Brookings, OR 97415, United States

6. The Oregon Redwood Trail

The Oregon Redwood Trail, a circular trail that winds through Brookings’ stunning mixed-upland forest habitats, provides an opportunity to observe some of the region’s old-growth redwoods.

The trail starts in the city. It is located in one of two state-owned old-growth redwood woods, providing a more serene alternative to the grove habitat.

A wheelchair-accessible ridgetop segment of the trail allows visitors of all mobility abilities to see lovely mid-sized redwood trees on a beautiful slope.

The trail portions are all well-kept and suitable for families with children or beginners.

Address: Brookings (OR 97444), United States

7. Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint

Do you enjoy hiking? Are you intrigued by the lovely vista of nature’s bounty? Do you need a cool spot to go and get some fresh air? If so, the stunning scenery of Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint is the ideal site to explore while in Brookings, Oregon.

The location is notable for its stunning sea views from various angles. The Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint is breathtakingly beautiful. It’s also one of the most enjoyable short hikes in the park.

The Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint is not only perfect for hiking, but it also has excellent route tracks for a personal walk, a walk with your dog, and, of course, a walk with your loved one.

Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint is located at the southern end of the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, adjacent to the Lone Ranch. It would be fantastic if you paused at the beautiful hilltop bench to take in the picturesque views of the area before returning across the peninsula to the parking lot.

Address: 18550-18592 Oregon Coast Highway, Brookings, OR 97415

8. Port of Brookings Harbor

The Port of Brookings Harbor, the most popular recreational port on the Oregon Coast, serves about 95,000 recreational users and 5,000 commercial fishermen each year.

It is located in a picturesque, shallow-draft harbor at the mouth of the Chetco River. This makes it the safest area for recreational and commercial fishing on the Southern Oregon coast.

The port is home to cod, halibut, and salmon, as well as Dungeness crabs and a variety of shrimp.

The port features a full-service marina, and guests can join guided fishing charters organized by local businesses.

Address: 16330 Lower Harbor Rd, Brookings, OR 97415, United States

9. Chetco River

Chetco River is an excellent location for that special family occasion. It is said to have the “Chetco Effect” on anyone who goes there. The Chetco effect makes you never want to leave. What a wonderful site!

The Chetco River is also an excellent place to go kayaking and fishing with friends. When visiting the Chetco River, try some, if not all, of the following activities: fishing for salmon and steelhead, camping, exploring, picnicking, hiking, and swimming down the crystal clear Chetco River and into the Kalmiopsis Wilderness.

The Chetco River is a 55-mile watercourse that flows east to west. Its headwaters are in the Kalmiopsis Wilderness, well off the usual path in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, to the Pacific Ocean near Brookings.

The picturesque Chetco River is clear and pure because it is well-maintained and free of pollutants and water problems. There are also colorful rocks beside the river, hiking routes, and plenty of campsites.

Address: Chetco Ranger District, Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest

10. Chetco Beer Company

Chetco Brewing Co. is a lovely little microbrewery in Brookings. It is owned and operated by the brewmaster, Michael Frederick.

This quaint brewery is well-known for its all-vegan beers, which are clarified with Irish Moss and contain no additions, extracts, or anything that could be contaminated with pesticides or chemicals.

There are 16 taps serving rotating flagship, seasonal, and special brews. These are favorites like Save For Ted Robust Porter, Eldorado IPA, and Kodiak Pilsner.

Address: 830 Railroad St., Brookings, OR 97415, United States

11. Chetco Community Library

Chetco Community Public Library has been serving the Brookings-Harbor area for nearly a century, dating back to 1924.

The magnificent public library houses a collection of more than 77,000 books. It has everything you need, including children’s and teen novels, adult fiction, nonfiction, reference books, and other items.

Multimedia collections can contain audiobooks, digital titles, and movies. Visitors can access the library’s free wireless internet service using their own computers or wireless devices.

In addition, the library’s computer lab houses 11 computers for public use. The library includes a display and meeting area for local artists to use.

Chetco Community Library is also available for hire for special occasions. During the Second Saturday Art Walk, the library’s meeting space gallery is a popular stop.

Address: 405 Alder St. Brookings, OR 97415, United States

12. Chetco Point Park

Chetco Point Park offers the greatest views in town. This park is regarded as one of the best due to its scenic views and rich greenery.

This park has several attractions, including beautiful beaches and lush green pathways.

The park is also an excellent spot for hiking. The park also provides spectacular views of the St. George Reef lighthouse, the Port of Brookings Harbor, and Macklyn Cove.

During your visit to the park, you will be able to see several fishing boats and whales. There are also horseshoe fittings and picnic tables available at the park.

Address: Brookings, OR 97415, United States

13. Elmo Williams Monument

The Elmo Williams Monument is located at Azalea Park. The Elmo Williams Monument was created in loving remembrance of James Elmo Williams, an award-winning American film and television editor and producer.

James Elmo Williams is from Oklahoma and was born on April 30, 1913. He lived in Brookings, Oregon, with his wife Lorraine.

Elmo, a kindhearted man, died on November 25, 2015, although his wife died in 2004. Elmo Williams Monument died aged 102. He was well-known, and people continue to visit his monument.

Nancy Tuttle, a famous architect, created and designed the tranquil and elegant Elmo Williams monument. Visit the Elmo Williams Monument to discover and learn intriguing facts about the monument and its surroundings.Â

Address: Lundeen Road, Brookings, OR 97415

14. Azalea Park

Azalea Park is a favorite place for afternoon walks in Brookings. It was named after the profuse wild azalea blooms found in the park.

Azalea flowers are native to Oregon’s coast and have been there for a long time. The Park offers more than just flowers. It is a popular location for seasonal activities such as holiday light displays, casual sporting events, and concerts.

Capella by the Sea, a wood and stone church, is also available at the Park.  It is an ideal location for wedding celebrations since it is colorful, gorgeous, and brings delight to those who visit.

Address: 640 Old County Rd, Brookings, OR 97415, United States

15. Whaleshead Beach

Whaleshead Beach is another fantastic sight that you should include on your list of places to visit on a hot summer afternoon.

Whaleshead Beach, which appears to be ahead of Whales, is encircled by enormous rocks. This beach almost resembles an animal in the ocean.

Another feature of the location is that it resembles whales. The high water splashes make it appear that a whale is exhaling out of the sea. You can participate in certain water sports like jet skiing.

The beach is not only attractive with its rocks, but it also has golden sand, which draws a lot of visitors.

There are lovely pathways, strawberry and huckleberry plants, and white roses on the beach. You can also capture stunning photographs here.

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16. Salmon Run Golf Course

The Salmon Run Golf Course is an exceptional golf resort designed for golfers of all skill levels. It is a lovely 18-hole municipal golf course maintained by the City of Brookings that features a tough range of hole layouts. Salmon Run Golf Course has a hole for everyone to try.

Salmon Run offers courses for all ability levels in a fun and memorable golf setting. The Salmon Run Golf Course opened to the public in 1999.

The golf course offers an amazing view of the surrounding countryside. It also has a lot of water and numerous creeks in the vicinity. You might be lucky enough to see a salmon hatching while golfing.

You’ll also discover one of Brooking’s top restaurants, a full-service pro shop, and superb golf teachers eager to make your golfing experience unforgettable.

If you’re looking for a golf challenge, the Salmon Spawn Hole will get you in the mood. Interestingly, the Salmon Golf Course is free and open to the public.

Address: 99040 S Bank Chetco River Rd, Brookings, OR 97415-8239

17. Indian Sands Trailhead

Brookings has Indian Sands Trailhead, which include gorgeous golden dunes. The beaches are the major attraction, but the Indian dunes are also appealing and popular with tourists.

The dunes rise above the cliffs that face the Pacific. When you reach the summit, you may enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Sandstone is made up primarily of sand and tiny rocks. It’s a really easy spot to visit, and you’ll understand why once you touch the sand.

Address: 20304-20390 Oregon Coast Hwy, Brookings, OR 97415, United States

18. Fujita Sword Display

The Fujita Sword is one of Oregon’s most distinctive tourist attractions. Brookings is claimed to be the only US continental area attacked during World War II.

Nobuo Fujita, a Japanese pilot, attempted to dump four bombs on the town in 1942. He intended to destroy the entire forest region, leaving no vegetation.

The strategy was foiled by the moisture of the location. Brookings invited Nobuo Fujita to come 20 years after WWII ended. During this visit, he handed over his samurai blade.

The 400-year-old sword served as a symbol of international peace. The mythical sword of Fujita is displayed at the Fujita sword exhibition.

19. Manley Art Gallery

What’s a tour without a stop at an art gallery? Whether you are a student, a professional artist, a family of enthusiasts, or an art lover, the Manley Art Center is an excellent venue to immerse yourself in the local art scene.

The Manley Art Gallery is packed with paintings, sculptures, and other wonderful works from well-known neighborhood artists as well as art students.

The Pelican Bay Arts Association is headquartered at the Manley Art Center. The Manley Art Gallery opened in 1955 and has since promoted the arts in the coastal community.

Address: 433 Oak St, Brookings, OR 97415-9612

20. McVay Rock State Recreation Site

Include a visit to the McVay Rock State Recreation Area on your list of things to do in Brookings. McVay Rock is the ideal location for outdoor activities in Brookings. This park is calm and located on a cliff that leads to an undiscovered beach.

Because of its location, this spot is perfect for hiking and seeing the tides. Other activities include whale watching, surfing, and clamming. You will be astounded by the spectacular sunsets. The park does not allow camping.

Address: Oceanview Dr, Brookings, OR 97415, United States

21. Lone Ranch Beach

One of the nicest things to do in Brookings is to feel the sand beneath your bare feet at Lone Ranch Beach.

Lone Ranch Beach is located about four and a half miles north of Brookings. This site is a long, broad, crescent-shaped beach with sea stacks.

It is an ideal location for a picnic or reading and lounging. There are six picnic tables here, four of which overlook the sea.

Trails lead from the parking lot to the picnic area, from which you can walk a few yards to the soft sand.

Unlike several of the city’s other beaches, these tidal pools are accessible, making them ideal for children.

Keep a lookout for crabs sprinting through the high zone rocks, hermit crabs fighting in the low tidal pools, spiky urchins buried in the sub-tide zone, and sea stars clutching onto rocks in the mid-tide zone.

While exploring the depths of these pools, remember to walk and avoid moving any rock organisms to help protect the habitats.

Address: Brookings, Oregon, United States

22. Bud Cross Park

Are you seeking a wonderful environment to meet people and have fun participating in a variety of activities? Bud Cross Park is the ideal location for that. People of all ages frequent Bud Cross Park, where you can engage and have fun with your family and friends.

In the park, you can play tennis, basketball, or baseball. There are ample facilities for leisure activities, including a swimming pool for individuals who enjoy swimming.

The park also includes a skating rink for those who enjoy the sport. Visit Bud Cross Skate Park for an enjoyable day with your friends and family.

23. Thomas Creek Bridge

Oregon has some magnificent man-made wonders, including several beautiful lighthouses, bridges, and skyscrapers.

This state has the longest continuous truss bridge in America, but there are many other gorgeous bridges to explore.

Thomas Creek Bridge, Oregon’s tallest bridge, is on the shore and worth a look. The Thomas Creek Bridge, which stands at 345 feet, is an astonishing construction.

The Warren deck truss bridge was designed by Ivan D. Merchant, who also created the well-known Astoria-Megler Bridge.

As you drive across the bridge, you won’t feel like you’re being lifted high above the land below. The steel frame tower gives plenty of stability, and approximately 5,000 cars pass this bridge each day.

Address: Brookings, OR 97415, United States

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Conclusion

Begin organizing your next exciting trip with your family or friends to Brookings, a pleasant and great city that greets guests with tasty foods, beautiful arts, and breathtaking landscapes.

Take a picturesque drive into the city to find great museums, parks, art galleries, rivers, restaurants, wineries, historical monuments, mountains, and vistas; wonderful delicacies, crafts, and other amazing locations to tour in the city.