The city of Brookings got its name from John E. Brookings, who founded the beautiful city in 1908, and it is known to be an exciting city in Curry County, Oregon, United States.
This city is located on the beautiful southern Oregon coast, six miles north of the California border on US 101.
This breathtaking destination is home to natural attractions that tourists usually enjoy on vacation.
At the same time, Brookings is popular with those who like to spend vacations on beaches and deep waters.
The Chetco River and Brookings Harbor to the south and Harris Beach State Park to the north surrounded Brookings, Oregon.
Filled with beaches, beautiful sand, coastal cliffs, dunes, and plenty of flora and fauna, Brookings more than deserves to be your next favorite vacation destination.
Brookings, Oregon, is currently the largest city in Curry County, Oregon. Here in this post are the best things to do in Brookings (OR) for an unforgettable experience.
Fun Things to Do in Brookings (OR)
1. Take a Trip to the Indian Sands
Indian Sands is where the beautiful golden sand dunes can be seen in Brookings.
Although the city’s primary fascination is the sea shores, the Indian Sands rises are no less alluring and similarly famous among guests.
Sand dunes form above coastal cliffs facing the Pacific.
They also offer wonderful views of the surrounding area to those who climb to the top.
The dunes at Indian Sands are made of sandstone and small rocks from the surrounding cliffs.
2. Explore WIldlife at Crissey Field State Recreation Site
Crissey Field State Recreation Area is the perfect place to get lost in nature.
The resort is quite calm and offers ultra-fine sand along with the occasional driftwood.
Due to its different vegetation, this resort has unique wildlife.
The site likewise has a Tourist Center that offers an abundance of data about the encompassing sea shores.
3. Take Pictures by the Elmo Williams Monument
A landmark of Elmo Williams rests in Azalea Park.
The Elmo Williams Memorial is a commemoration erected in memory of an award-winning American film and television editor and producer, James Elmo Williams.
He hailed from Oklahoma and lived in Brookings, Oregon, with his wife, Lorraine. He was born on April 30, 1913.
He died on November 25, 2015, while his wife died earlier in 2004. Elmo Williams died at 102 years old. He was well known, and people still visit his memorial.
Nancy Tuttle built and designed a serene and beautiful memorial to Elmo Williams.
Things to Do in Brookings (OR) at Night
1. Don’t Miss Dinner at Black Trumpet Bistro
Capturing the true essence of the bistro dining experience, Black Trumpet Bistro offers excellent food at reasonable prices to ensure a night to remember.
Equally perfect for a quick dinner after work, a night out with friends, or a romantic date,
Here the food is very new and occasional, ready nearby with neighborhood produce at every possible opportunity – some examples are, foraged wild mushrooms, house-baked bread, and delicious Oregon beef steaks.
The menu has something for everybody – delicious appetizers, new salads, soups, sandwiches, and luscious courses, including their Slow Braised Pork Shank, Cranberry Glazed Duck, and flawlessly cooked Angus Sirloin.
2. Spend a Night at Sounds of the Sea
This two-bedroom home puts you right in Brookings, with the harbor just steps away.
The nautical-themed cottage has a rooftop terrace with ocean views and a large garden with a barbecue.
3. Visit Zola’s of Water
Looking for something to eat? If you ever stop by the Oregon coast off Highway 101, Zola’s on the Water is a family restaurant in Brookings Harbor that you must visit.
It boasts hand-tossed, wood-fired pizzas customized to your topping, sauce, and cheese preferences.
You can also choose from their Al’s BLT, All Cheese, Chipotle Chicken, and Mediterranean Veggie menu.
Zola’s on the Water also offers fresh salad, pasta, wings, steak, and sticks. Going for a few drinks? Choose from over 150 craft beers and a wide selection of mixed drinks to quench your thirst!
Things to Do in Brookings (OR) For Couples
1. Don’t Miss a Thing at Harris Beach State Park
The park also has arrangements for picnic tables and horseshoe pits.
You can also travel down to Chetco Beach, which is a perfect place for collecting shells and watching birds.
Like other parks in the city, Chetco Point Park is surrounded by a variety of flora and fauna and is perfect for spending some peaceful time.
2. Catch the Most Fascinating View of Nature at Chetco Point Park
Chetco Point Park is the place with the best views in the city.
The park witnesses beautiful tides, expansive beaches, and beautiful lush green trails that make it ideal for hiking.
From Chetco Point Park, you can also enjoy the view of the lighthouse of St. George Reef, Brookings Harbour, Macklyn Bay, and other main attractions of the city.
You can also spot various fishing vessels, boats, and even whales on some occasions in the park.
The park also has arrangements for picnic tables and horseshoes.
You can also travel down to Chetco Beach, which is perfect for shell collecting and bird watching.
Like other parks in the city, Chetco Point Park is surrounded by diverse flora and fauna and is just perfect for spending some quiet time alone.
3. Test Your Golfing Skills at Salmon Run Golf Course
The Oregon Coast is known for providing great golfing opportunities. Salmon Run Golf Course is one of the most famous golf spots in the city.
This is an 18-opening course found right on the Chetco River and is ideal for golf.
Moreover, Salmon Run Golf Course offers fishing opportunities as it is a focal point for an assortment of fish. Its natural views are likewise very outstanding.
This golf course is a perfect combination of nature and sport along with well-maintained services.
Things to Do in Brookings (OR) For Kids
1. Let Them Appreciate the Diversity of Birds at the Bird Island
Bird Island is a National Wildlife Refuge located just off the coast near Harris Beach.
It’s one of the city’s most famous spots to view native Oregon wildlife.
The place is quite fascinating and is home to an enormous number of bird species.
A few birds are local to the city, while others are transient birds that are only seen seasonally.
If you love bird watching and other beautiful views of nature, Bird Island is the place for you.
2. Take Them to Bud Cross Park
Bud Cross Park is an athletic haven for Brookings residents.
The park is a popular destination for those who want to participate in sports and fitness activities such as tennis and basketball.
Bud Cross Park has a skate park, basketball court, two baseball fields, a seasonal municipal pool, and four tennis courts.
Bud Cross Park’s two ball fields are a hotbed of activity during the summer and spring months when young athletes flock to the park to watch or participate in Brookings-Harbor Little League Association games.
Basketball lovers and tennis players can also enjoy their time on the courts regardless of their skill level.
The municipal swimming pool and skate park at Bud Cross Park provide a good time for all.
Although this park may be considered “small” compared to its counterparts in metropolitan areas, it is a great place for people who want to get outside and enjoy the ocean breeze.
To top it all off, Harris Beach is just walking distance from this park.
3. Check Out Oregon’s Largest Monterey Cypress
Visitors to Brookings can take advantage of the opportunity to admire one of the largest trees in the world.
Located on Museum Road, next to the Chetco County Historical Society Museum, the Blake Monterey Giant Cypress was planted in 1857 by Harrison Blake.
Over the decades, the tree grew and had a girth of about 34 feet and has reached a height of 130 feet.
Local folktale has it that the ghost of Mr. Blake lives in the tree.
For many years until it was surpassed by the even larger Monterey cypress in California, the blake cypress held the fame of being the largest Monterey cypress in the world.
Indoor Activities to Do in Brookings (OR) For Adults
1. Check Out the Fujita Sword Display at the Chetco Community Public Library
The Fujita Sword Display is a different type of tourist attraction in Oregon.
Nobuo Fujita is believed to be the only Japanese pilot to have bombed the American central area during World War II.
In 1942, he dropped a total of four bombs around Brookings.
His objective was to burn the entire forest area so that there was no vegetation left.
However, due to the humidity of the area, the plan failed.
Twenty years after World War II, Nobuo Fujita was invited to Brookings; and during this visit, he donated his samurai sword.
This sword was 400 years old and was a gesture of peace between the two countries.
The legendary Fujita sword is on display at the Chetco Community Public Library.
2. Grab Some Bottles at Chetco Brewing Company
Chetco Brewing Company is a famous and wonderful microbrewery in Brookings that offers visitors a respite from the city’s beaches and parks.
It is known for producing local beers and is run by brewer Michael Fredrick.
Chetco Brewing Company specializes in 100% vegan beers that are made using Irish moss and no additives.
All ingredients are organic and contain no pesticides or chemical traces.
With its 16 tap services, the brewery offers a variety of seasonal and flagship beers.
Some of Chetco Brewing Company’s most famous brews are Save for Ted Robust Porter, Kodiak Pilsner, house root beer, and kombucha.
The brewery also has several food trucks that sell some of the best regional food.
In addition, Chetco Brewing Company hosts a variety of events that include trivia nights, live music events, and happy hours.
3. Grab a Meal at Manley Art Gallery
What would a tour of Brookings be without a visit to an art gallery?
Whether you’re a student, professional artist, family fan, or art lover, Manley Art Center offers an extraordinary comfort to immerse yourself in the local art scene.
The Manley Art Gallery is full of paintings, sculptures, and many beautiful works of art from acclaimed artists in the community and works of art students.
Manley Art Center is home to the Pelican Bay Arts Association. The Manley Art Gallery began in 1955 and had been supporting the arts in the coastal community ever since.
Romantic Things to Do in Brookings (OR)
1. Check Out the Beautiful Flowers in Azalea Park
Azalea Park is a very popular place for an afternoon stroll in Brookings.
The park got its name from the wild azalea flowers that are present in abundance.
The azalea is a native flower species that has been present on the Oregon coast for a very long time.
It is known for being a hub for enjoying seasonal activities such as holiday light shows, sporting events, and also concerts.
The park also features the Capella by the Sea, which is made of wood and stone and serves as the final venue for wedding ceremonies.
Azalea Park is beautiful, colorful, and lively and will delight any visitor.
2. Shop at Goldilocks Antiques
Goldilocks Antiques is a beautiful place for people who love collecting antiques. The store is just off the highway, so it’s easy to find and accessible too.
Goldilocks Antiques is home to various types of items from decades ago. Browsing items can be captivating and leave you wanting to see more.
Goldilocks Antiques consists of dolls, picture frames, jewelry, collectibles, books, clocks, lamps, silverware, china plates, and an endless list of things you can find there.
Although not a mall, Goldilocks Antiques has plenty to feast your eyes on and might give you a nostalgic feeling like those from Enid Blyton’s books, as many antique visitors describe the place as a treasure hunt.
3. Visit Alfred A. Loeb State Park
Alfred A. Loeb State Park is a beautiful state park in Oregon located along the banks of the scenic Chetco River and offers excellent opportunities for year-round outdoor recreation.
Commonly referred to as “Loeb” by locals, the park is tucked away in a beautiful grove of century-old Myrtlewood trees in the northernmost coast redwood grove in the United States.
Visitors can enjoy year-round fishing, swimming, and whitewater rafting opportunities along the river’s banks or explore hiking areas such as the park’s self-guided Riverview Nature Trail, which offers wildlife viewing opportunities.
More than 50 campsites with electric hookups are available for overnight stays and three rustic, pet-friendly cabins for rent.
Free Things to Do in Brookings (OR)
1. Catch the Breathtaking Sight of the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
The State Scenic Corridor was named after the Oregon Park District’s first superintendent, Samuel H. Boardman, and spans 12 miles of the Oregon coast.
Since the state had many parks, it was thought appropriate to name one after the legendary city inspector general.
This park is one of the most beautiful attractions the city of Brookings offers its visitors.
It is full of sandy beaches, rocky outcrops, sea stacks, bridges, elevated viewpoints, and grassy plateaus.
The spectacular area is suitable for hiking, cycling, and taking beautiful photos of mother nature.
The weather around this corridor is also quite pleasant, which is another reason for its popularity.
The Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is definitely a hit in Brookings and the state of Oregon.
2. Enjoy Comfort at Lone Ranch Beach
Lone Ranch Beach is a must-see in Brookings.
This beach is nothing more than a massive collection of sea stacks that rose naturally from the ocean.
In addition to sea stacks, the beach has infinity tide pools and is perfect for viewing marine life and aquatic animals such as crabs, starfish, guppies, and more.
Lone Ranch Beach is also unique because it is shaped like a crescent moon.
In addition to the beautiful and long trails, the beach has almost a dozen picnic tables and is an ideal place to enjoy some personal time and a picnic.
As the name suggests, Lone Ranch Beach is also a great place for solo travelers.
You can collect many sea shells from this beach and take them home as holiday souvenirs.
3. Go on a Drive Across the Thomas Creek Bridge
The Thomas Creek Bridge is an exemplary piece of architecture that signifies the union of man-made and natural creations.
The 45-foot-drop structure is the tallest bridge in Brookings.
Each of its connected places has a screwdriver and another pine tree.
The bridge also has trails on each side that visitors can easily use to access the beach.
The Thomas Creek Bridge is a masterpiece in itself, and you ought to add a stop at this fascination to your Brookings itinerary.
Cheap Things to Do in Brookings (OR)
1. Visit the Chetco Community Public Library
The Chetco Community Public Library opened in 1924 and is perhaps one of the most popular and lovely public libraries around.
This library contains a collection of over 7,700 items ranging from children’s comics and youth material to adult fiction, non-fiction, and multimedia.
Now what makes this library very special is that it also has other collections such as audiobooks, magazines, movies, and digital titles.
With free wireless internet services, visitors can surf various educational sites.
The library’s common area is also full of artwork by local artists.
Its exhibition space can also be rented for private events and is a frequent stop for many visitors.
In addition to its excellent book collection, the library gallery is also known for hosting an event called the Second Saturday Art Walk.
With so many things to offer visitors, the Chetco Community Public Library is a favorite among tourists who come to Brookings.
2. Get a Feel of Nature at Oregon Redwoods Trail
The redwoods of rural Oregon allow travelers to enjoy the exquisite beauty of nature.
The Oregon Redwoods Trail is the perfect place for nature lovers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
This short circular trail offers occasional close-up views of the majestic old-growth forest giants that cover this peaceful landscape.
The trail starts on a ridge with no change in elevation, takes you down the slope to a vast section of lower elevation groves, and even has easy wheelchair access.
On this trail, travelers may have the best chance of seeing some of these ancient beauties.
3. Spend Some Time at Mill Beach
Mill Beach is located in the heart of Brookings. This beach provides access from dawn to dusk, allowing visitors to see its beauty at any time of the day.
Mill Beach is the perfect place to enjoy the ocean with your loved one or take a walk along the beautiful sandy beach while enjoying the gift of nature or just have a picnic with the family.
Mill Beach not only allows you to do these fantastic things but also takes care of your comfort. The beach has paved parking, accessible restrooms, and picnic tables.
The bay is also an excellent spot for fishing for several species of fish, such as sea bass and shallow rockfish. You will also discover a starfish!
Another exciting thing to do at Mill Beach is collecting seashells, glass, and rocks.
Visitors can also access Mills Beach by trail from Center Street of Brookings, Oregon.
Cool Places to Visit in Brookings (OR)
1. Whaleshead Beach
Whaleshead Beach is surrounded by massive rocks, including one shaped like a whale’s head – hence its name.
The site is also known to resemble a whale as it has a tall splash of water that creates scenes resembling a whale exhaling from the water.
Whaleshead Beach has very high waves, which are ideal for water activities.
Apart from the attractive rocks, the beach has beautiful golden sand that attracts quite a lot of visitors.
There are also beautiful trails on the beach.
In this area, you can explore some strawberry and blueberry bushes, white roses, and different types of moss.
The place is also perfect for taking beautiful pictures, so don’t forget to bring your cameras.
2. McVay Rock State Recreation Site
McVay Rock State Recreation Site is the ideal location for outdoor sports in Brookings.
This park is located on a cliff and descends to an invisible beach.
Due to its prominent location, this location is ideal for trekking and enjoying the tides.
You can likewise anticipate different exercises, for example, surfing, rock climbing, whale watching, disc golfing, and many more.
The place offers breathtaking sunsets.
3. Port of Brookings Harbor
The Port of Brookings Harbor, the most popular recreational harbor on the Oregon Coast, serves more than 95,000 recreational users and 5,000 commercial fishermen annually.
It is located in a beautiful harbor with a shallow draft at the mouth of the Chetco River.
There is a full-service marina in the harbor, and visitors can take guided fishing charters organized by local companies.
The Port of Brookings Harbor locale is fixed with shops, eateries, different businesses, and the absolute best seafood cafés in the area.
Conclusion
Plan towards your next vacation with family or friends to the warm and fantastic town of Brooking, as it’s a friendly town that welcomes its visitors with delicious food, beautiful art, and scenic views.
Take the scenic route into the city and explore fascinating museums, parks, art galleries, rivers, restaurants, wineries, historical monuments, mountains, and viewpoints; wonderful treats, crafts, and other amazing things to do and see around town.
