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Lincoln City stretches along seven miles of Oregon coast. Hunt for glass floats, fly kites at the world's shortest river, and explore the Taft District.
Lincoln City City Guide
Discover seven miles of soft sandy beaches and the enchanting tradition of finding handcrafted glass treasures.
City snapshot
Lincoln City offers seven miles of continuous sandy beaches, making it a premier destination for kite flying and glass float hunting on the rugged Oregon Coast. The area surrounding the D River State Recreation Site serves as an ideal central base, providing immediate access to both the Pacific shoreline and diverse local dining. For a change of pace, visit the calm waters of Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area for freshwater activities just minutes from the ocean surf.
Quick facts
- Boasts seven miles of walkable coastline renowned for professional-grade kite flying conditions.
- Hosts the Finders Keepers program, hiding artisanal glass floats along the beach for visitors to discover.
- Contains the D River, officially recognized as the world's shortest river at just 120 feet long.
- Features the tranquil Devils Lake for freshwater kayaking and fishing within sight of the ocean.
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Top attractions & tours
Lincoln City offers seven miles of pristine coastline, perfect for those who find solace in the rhythm of the Pacific. A signature local tradition is the Finders Keepers program, where handcrafted glass floats are hidden along the beach for lucky explorers to discover. For a classic experience, head to the D River State Recreation Site, known for hosting world-class kite festivals and holding the title of one of the world's shortest rivers.
Beyond the sand, the city’s diverse landscape provides plenty of adventure. Hike the dramatic cliffs of God's Thumb for sweeping views of the coastline, or enjoy the tranquil waters of Devils Lake for kayaking and paddleboarding. After exploring the outdoors, visitors can browse the Lincoln City Glass Center to watch live demonstrations or try their luck at the Chinook Winds Casino Resort, which serves as a hub for local entertainment.
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Suggested Tours
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Nearby cities and attractions
Just 20 minutes south, Depoe Bay is known as the whale watching capital, featuring the world's smallest navigable harbor and dramatic basalt cliffs.
Located 40 minutes south, Newport offers the world-class Oregon Coast Aquarium and the historic Bayfront, perfect for maritime exploration and seafood.
A one-hour drive north leads to Tillamook, where you can tour the famous creamery or visit the historic Air Museum.
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Local picks
While many visitors flock to the main beaches for glass float hunting, locals often head north to the quietude of the Connie Hansen Garden Conservancy. This hidden acre is a lush sanctuary of rhododendrons and rare plants, offering a peaceful retreat from the coastal winds. For those seeking a perspective beyond the shoreline, the hike to God’s Thumb via The Knoll provides a dramatic cliffside viewpoint that overlooks the Pacific without the heavy foot traffic of more famous trails. To experience the town's authentic culinary roots, a stop at Barnacle Bill’s Seafood Market for fresh-off-the-boat chinook salmon or their signature smoked fish is a rite of passage for those who live here year-round.
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Weather and climate
Lincoln City experiences a quintessential Pacific Northwest marine climate, characterized by mild temperatures and consistent moisture throughout the year. Summers are comfortably cool and refreshing, with daytime highs typically ranging from the low 60s to lower 70s Fahrenheit. While sunshine is common, a marine layer often brings morning fog that burns off by midday, keeping the air crisp even in July and August.
Winters are cool, wet, and often windy, though temperatures rarely drop below freezing. Highs usually hover in the upper 40s to low 50s. The region receives substantial rainfall, particularly between October and May, which sustains the lush, emerald landscapes of the Oregon Coast. Dramatic winter storms are a local highlight, sending powerful waves against the shore and creating ideal conditions for beachcombing and storm watching.
Spring and autumn serve as transitional seasons, offering a mix of passing showers and brilliant, clear skies. Because coastal weather can shift rapidly, layered clothing is recommended year-round to stay comfortable against the ocean breezes.
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Safety considerations
Lincoln City is a welcoming coastal destination known for its friendly atmosphere and relatively low crime rates. While it is generally safe for visitors to explore the local shops and scenic parks during the day and evening, it is always wise to stay aware of your surroundings and keep personal belongings secure. In tourist areas and beach parking lots, standard precautions like locking your vehicle and keeping valuables out of sight will help ensure a worry-free stay.
The most important safety considerations in Lincoln City involve the powerful Pacific Ocean. Visitors should remain vigilant about "sneaker waves," which can appear unexpectedly and surge far up the beach without warning. Always keep an eye on the water, stay off large driftwood logs near the shoreline as they can become unstable in the surf, and be mindful of tide schedules to avoid becoming stranded on rocky outcrops or secluded stretches of sand.
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Getting around
Navigating Lincoln City is straightforward as the town stretches linearly along the scenic Highway 101. The Lincoln City Loop bus is the most affordable way to get around, offering regular service between the major districts and shopping centers for approximately $1.00 per ride or $3.00 for a day pass. While individual neighborhoods like Taft and Oceanlake are highly walkable and full of character, the city’s seven-mile length makes a vehicle or public transit necessary for traveling from one end to the other.
For more direct travel, local taxi services are reliable, though rideshare options like Uber and Lyft are present but can be less frequent than in larger cities. A typical taxi fare between the north and south ends of town averages between $15 and $25. If you are arriving from Portland International Airport (PDX), the most common transit method is the Groome Transportation shuttle, which provides a comfortable two-hour connection to the coast.
Expect to pay around $65 for a one-way shuttle from PDX to Lincoln City. For those who prefer the independence of driving, car rentals are available at the airport, which is often the most practical choice for exploring the hidden coves and hiking trails of the surrounding Central Coast region.
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Getting In and Out
Getting to Lincoln City primarily involves flying into Portland International Airport (PDX), located approximately two hours northeast of the coast. While the city does not host its own commercial airport or rail hub, travelers often utilize the Salem Amtrak Station for regional train access. Major airlines serving the area via Portland include Alaska Airlines, Delta, United, and Southwest, which offer extensive direct domestic and international connections.
Upon arrival, renting a car is the most convenient way to reach the city center, allowing for a scenic drive along Highway 18 and the iconic Highway 101. For those preferring public transit, shuttle services like the Oregon Coast-to-Valley Shuttle provide reliable transfers between Portland, Salem, and Lincoln City. Once in town, the compact layout makes reaching the beach and local districts straightforward and efficient.
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Shopping
Lincoln City offers a diverse shopping landscape, ranging from the sprawling Lincoln City Outlets to charming independent boutiques. For high-end brands at a discount, the outlets are a primary destination, featuring labels like Coach and Nike. If you are looking for something uniquely coastal, the Nelscott District provides a treasure trove of antiques and rare finds perfect for the budget-conscious collector.
No visit is complete without exploring the city's famous glass art. Local studios like the Lincoln City Glass Center showcase stunning hand-blown floats and sculptures that are emblematic of the region's artistic spirit. For those seeking a taste of the Pacific Northwest, local seafood markets offer smoked salmon and fresh catches that make for perfect edible souvenirs.
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Currency and tipping
In Lincoln City, tipping is a standard practice that reflects appreciation for the local service industry. When dining out, it is customary to leave a gratuity of 18% to 22% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service. For those enjoying a drink at a local bar or coffee shop, a tip of $1 to $2 per beverage is standard. At hotels, a small daily gratuity of $2 to $5 for housekeeping staff is a thoughtful way to recognize their hard work.
The currency used in Lincoln City is the US Dollar (USD). For international visitors, it is helpful to carry small bills for tipping taxi drivers, who typically receive about 15% of the fare, or for bellhops who assist with luggage. While credit cards are widely accepted and often include an option to add a tip, providing a cash gratuity is a direct and warm gesture often favored by service staff along the Oregon Coast.
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When to Visit
The ideal time to visit Lincoln City is during the summer months of July and August for the warmest weather and sunniest skies, perfect for exploring the seven miles of sandy beaches. While this peak season draws the largest crowds and highest accommodation rates, it offers the most reliable conditions for hiking and outdoor events. For those seeking a quieter experience with milder weather, the "Second Summer" in September and early October provides a beautiful balance of calm days and thinner crowds at more affordable prices.
Winter, from November through April, appeals to travelers looking for dramatic storm-watching opportunities and significant savings on lodging. While the weather is frequently cool and rainy, it marks the start of the famous Finders Keepers season, where handcrafted glass floats are hidden along the shoreline for lucky beachcombers to discover. Spring remains relatively quiet and budget-friendly, though visitors should pack layers to navigate the unpredictable coastal showers.