Brookings, Oregon
The City of Brookings is located along Oregon’s Wild Rivers Coast, boasts some of the warmest temperatures on the coastline, and is known for its stunning natural beauty, and welcoming community. Brookings is bordered by the vibrant blue Pacific Ocean to the west, the fir covered Coastal Range Mountains to the east, the meandering Chetco River to the south, and winding scenic vistas to the north. In spite of the rain, and the marine layer (aka “fog”), Brookings gets plenty of sunshine and typically averages 191 days of sunshine per year!
Quality Outdoor Time
Today, Brookings serves as the commercial and service hub of the Wild Rivers Coast. The City is the largest in Curry County with a population of just over 6,800, and boasts a tight-knit community with a high quality of life. Although Brookings is small, the City has a charming downtown with several restaurants, quaint shops, and a cinema. The City also has a range of local events, festivals, and markets that foster a sense of community and belonging. The community's emphasis on safety, education, and healthcare contributes to its appeal as a place to live.
Outdoor recreational activities are plentiful, and include kayaking, canoeing, rafting, and fishing on the region’s numerous rivers which exit into the Pacific Ocean. The region also offers hiking on an extensive network of trails, biking, windsurfing, golfing, jet-boating, and exploring the beaches of the Pacific Ocean. From Port Orford to Brookings, Highway 101, known as the Pacific Coast Scenic Highway, hugs some of the most stunning and rugged coastline in Oregon, lined with dramatic sea stacks and rock formations.
The Chetco Effect
The temperatures around Brookings are so significantly warmer than other towns nearby that meteorologists named the phenomena — the “Chetco Effect”. It can be 20°F warmer in Brookings-Harbor than nearby areas, and temperatures in the middle of winter can sit comfortably in the mid-60’s. Because of this favorable weather local parks and gardens abound with seasonal azaleas and rhododendrons. The northernmost Redwood groves make their home here and the area is also known as the Easter Lily capital of the world. A short drive to the north of Brookings while traveling on Highway 101 brings you to the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, a 12-mile odyssey of one stunning view after another with beaches and hiking trails to explore.
Winter Waters is Going to Brookings!
We’re SO excited to be bringing the Winter Waters series to Brookings, Oregon for a seaweed and seafood-action packed day on March 1, 2026. Our main event will be at Pacific Sushi & Grill, which focuses on utilizing local seafood including an inventive "faux-nagi": Inspired by sustainable seafood activist Casson Trenor, it substitutes barbecued sablefish for the usual—but less sustainable—unagi eel.Details are coming soon but please sign up for our newsletter for first dibs on tickets. Thank you to Oregon’s Wilds Rivers Coast and Travel Southern Oregon Coast for sponsoring Winter Waters on Oregon’s South coast.
Trails and Views
There are countless ways to get outside around Brookings. This stretch of Oregon’s southern coast is known for rugged cliffs, hidden beaches, and forested river corridors, making it a standout destination for scenic walks and memorable hikes.
Chetco Point Park - Located near the mouth of the Chetco River, Chetco Point Park offers short walking paths with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. It is an ideal spot for a sunset stroll, whale watching in season, or simply taking in the dramatic meeting of river and sea.
Azalea Park - Right in town, Azalea Park features easy walking paths through manicured gardens, towering trees, and along the Chetco River. In spring, blooming azaleas fill the park with color, while year round it serves as a peaceful place for a gentle walk or picnic.
Harris Beach State Park - One of the most iconic coastal parks in southern Oregon, Harris Beach State Park offers several short trails leading to rocky viewpoints and sandy coves. Walk the coastal paths for views of sea stacks, tidepools, and offshore wildlife, or head down to the beach to explore at low tide.
Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor - Just north of Brookings, the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor is a must visit for hikers and photographers. Multiple trailheads lead to natural bridges, secret beaches, and cliffside overlooks. Popular stops include Natural Bridges, Secret Beach, and Arch Rock, each offering dramatic ocean views with relatively short hikes.
Chetco River Trails - For a change of scenery, follow informal trails and river access points along the Chetco River upstream from town. These forested walks offer a cooler, shaded experience with opportunities to spot birds, watch salmon during seasonal runs, or enjoy a quiet moment beside clear green water.
Getting to Brookings
Perched on Oregon’s southern coast just north of the California border, Brookings sits along Highway 101. While it feels remote and wild, Brookings is well connected by road and serves as a natural gateway to the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor.
From Portland: Approximately 6 to 6.5 hours by car. Most travelers take I 5 South to Grants Pass, then follow US 199 West through the Smith River Canyon before reconnecting with Highway 101 at the coast
From Eugene: About 4.5 to 5 hours. Drive I 5 South to Grants Pass, then US 199 West to Brookings for a scenic approach through forested canyons and river valleys
From Medford: Roughly 2.5 hours. This is one of the most direct routes, traveling US 199 West through the Rogue Siskiyou region and into Brookings
From Crescent City: Just 30 minutes south via Highway 101, making Brookings an easy add on for travelers exploring Northern California’s redwoods or coastline.
The closest commercial airport is Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport, about 110 miles east. Many visitors also fly into Eugene Airport or Portland International Airport and enjoy the drive down the coast or through southern Oregon’s inland valleys.
Once you arrive, Brookings’ compact size makes it easy to explore beaches, trails, rivers, and viewpoints all within minutes of town.
For the latest road conditions, visit TripCheck.com. Be prepared for occasional road closures or delays, especially during the rainy season.
5 Reasons Why Brookings Should Be at the Top of Your Oregon Coast Bucket List
As the southernmost city on the Oregon Coast, Brookings is a destination that takes more effort to get to but rewards those hard-fought visitors with exceptional adventures and natural wonders. This includes the Wild and Scenic Chetco River, Harris Beach State Park and downtown’s Azalea Park — all without the crowds. Here are the top five reasons to add Brookings to your Oregon Coast bucket list. Check out this article from Travel Southern Oregon Coast and start planning your escape.
Coast Like a Local
The Oregon Coast Visitors Association put together a helpful guide that we think is extra important when visiting the Oregon coast in the wintertime, when weather can be a bit unpredictable. Stay safe, have fun, and know before you go.
Know Before You Go
Check weather patterns, tide schedules, and fire restrictions before heading out. Winter storms and King Tides can bring especially hazardous conditions.
Sign up for Emergency Notifications at oralert.gov and install the FEMA app on your phone to get lifesaving alerts and instructions during emergencies to help you and others stay safe in Oregon.
Have a Plan for the Unexpected
Whether it’s a sudden storm or a tsunami warning, knowing local tsunami evacuation routes is essential for both locals and visitors. Maps are posted in many areas and can also be found at oregontsunami.org.
Respect the Power of the Ocean
Locals know to never turn their back to the ocean. Sneaker waves can strike unexpectedly, carrying anything in their path out to sea.
If a storm is forecasted, admire the coast from a safe distance—or even consider staying indoors when conditions are particularly risky.
Watch for signs of rip currents and avoid swimming alone.
Navigate Terrain Cautiously
Coastal terrain can be rough, slippery, and unpredictable. Avoid climbing on driftwood logs, rocks, or jetties, and be mindful of cliffs that may erode or collapse.
