12 Oregon Coast Restaurants That Offer Views As Epic As The Food
The Oregon Coast offers a feast for the senses, where the power of the Pacific meets some of the freshest seafood around. From Astoria to Gold Beach, restaurants along this rugged shoreline serve up memorable meals with spectacular ocean views.
Whether you’re craving crab cakes with a side of crashing waves or fish tacos overlooking fishing boats, these 12 spots deliver unforgettable dining experiences.
1. South Bay Wild Fish House (Astoria)
Harbor views complement the catch of the day at this family-run gem where the Columbia River meets the Pacific. Fresh-off-the-boat seafood transforms into delectable dishes while sea lions bark in the distance.
The Dungeness crab cakes here are legendary—packed with sweet meat and minimal filler. I still dream about them months after my last visit.
2. Clearwater Restaurant (Newport)
Sea lions sunbathe on docks below while diners savor award-winning clam chowder at this Newport treasure. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame Yaquina Bay’s bustling maritime scene.
Sunset transforms the enclosed patio into a magical space as fishing boats return with their daily catch. The crab-encrusted halibut deserves its reputation as a must-try dish.
3. Tidal Raves (Depoe Bay)
Perched dramatically above the world’s smallest harbor, Tidal Raves offers front-row seats to nature’s greatest show. Waves crash against volcanic rock formations while whales occasionally spout offshore.
The cioppino here changed my life during a stormy February visit. Watching lightning strike the ocean while savoring seafood stew created a memory I’ll cherish forever.
4. The Schooner Restaurant (Netarts)
Tucked along serene Tillamook Bay, this local favorite offers front-row views of oyster beds and distant dunes. The rustic interior feels like a coastal home away from home.
Order the oyster stew—velvety cream broth swimming with plump, just-harvested bivalves. The spacious patio becomes the perfect sunset perch when weather permits.
5. Local Ocean Seafoods (Newport)
Watch fishermen unload their catch just steps from your table at this dockside eatery. The connection between the ocean and the plate couldn’t be more direct or delicious. An open kitchen showcases chefs transforming just-caught fish into masterpieces.
The albacore tuna, seared rare with citrus notes, exemplifies Oregon’s commitment to sustainable seafood. Bay-facing windows frame sea lions lounging on nearby docks.
6. Kyllo’s Seafood & Grill (Lincoln City)
Waves crash practically underneath this Lincoln City institution where the D River meets the Pacific. The wraparound windows offer 180-degree ocean panoramas from nearly every table.
Families gather at sunset to watch kite flyers on the beach while sharing platters of Willapa Bay oysters. The pink shrimp salad delivers sweet, tender Oregon shrimp atop fresh greens.
7. Restaurant Beck (Depoe Bay)
Culinary artistry meets whale-watching at this James Beard-nominated hideaway. Tucked into a boutique hotel overlooking Depoe Bay’s rugged cliffs, Beck delivers fine dining with a side of marine wildlife.
My anniversary dinner here featured Chinook salmon with strawberries—an unlikely pairing that proved magical.
The chef’s innovative combinations showcase Oregon’s bounty while honoring classic techniques.
8. The Wayfarer Restaurant (Cannon Beach)
Haystack Rock stands sentinel outside the windows of this Cannon Beach classic. Morning fog often creates a mystical backdrop as diners enjoy breakfast with unmatched views. The crab-encrusted cod arrives golden and flaky, topped with sweet Dungeness meat.
During winter storms, waves crash dramatically against nearby rocks while you stay cozy inside with a bowl of clam chowder.
9. Pelican Brewing (Pacific City)
Sand dunes and surfers create a lively backdrop at this beachfront brewpub. The Pacific City Haystack Rock looms majestically offshore while dory boats launch directly from the beach.
The Dungeness crab mac and cheese pairs perfectly with award-winning craft beer. Last summer, we watched the sunset from the patio while devouring the unexpected delight of their blueberry burger.
10. Sand Dollar Restaurant (Rockaway Beach)
Twin Rocks formation creates a postcard-perfect backdrop for this Rockaway Beach staple. Unassuming from the outside, the restaurant reveals stunning ocean panoramas once you’re seated. Lingcod fish and chips arrive crackling hot with house-made tartar sauce.
The crab-stuffed sole represents coastal comfort food at its finest—delicate fish embracing sweet, tender crabmeat.
11. Bridgewater Bistro (Astoria)
Housed in a converted cannery building, this sophisticated spot offers front-row views of the mighty Columbia River. The historic Astoria-Megler Bridge stretches across the water as massive ships navigate the channel.
Live piano music often accompanies dinner service, enhancing the elegant atmosphere. The cioppino brims with local seafood in a tomato-fennel broth that honors Oregon’s bounty.
12. Hungry Clam (Gold Beach)
Where the wild Rogue River meets the Pacific sits this unassuming seafood shack. Fishing boats navigate the harbor entrance while osprey dive for fish just beyond the windows.
Don’t let the casual vibe fool you—their clam chowder rivals any fine dining establishment. Thick, creamy, and loaded with tender clams, it warms the soul on foggy coastal days.