Garibaldi Travel Guide

Find the best attractions, food, stay, and activities in Garibaldi, Oregon. A comprehensive travel guide with tips and insights.


Introduction to Garibaldi

Garibaldi is a small village in Northern Oregon Coast, in the state of Oregon, that holds many undiscovered gems. It’s a unique and charming destination that offers a diverse range of both indoor and outdoor attractions. This sleepy coastal town is home to an active fishing community, an array of outdoor recreational opportunities, and historic sites to explore.

In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best places to visit, outdoor activities, where to stay, and what to eat.

List of Places to Visit in Garibaldi

Garibaldi boasts of an array of attractions that offer cultural experiences, scenic vistas, and outdoor adventures. Let’s explore them one by one:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Garibaldi has many cultural attractions that represent the region’s history and heritage. You can check out these museums and historical landmarks:

  • Tillamook County Pioneer Museum: The museum celebrates Tillamook’s rich history and culture, from Native American traditions to modern times. Visitors can explore photographic displays, unique exhibits, and interpretative resources that showcase the region’s past.
  • Garibaldi Museum: The museum features exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of Garibaldi’s fishing industry. The displays focus on the history of commercial and sport fishing in the region, as well as maritime artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Garibaldi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Garibaldi offers a wide range of natural attractions and adventures that will suit every traveler’s taste. Let’s see what the village has in store for you.

  • Garibaldi Marina: The Garibaldi Marina is one of the best places to go fishing on the Oregon Coast. You can also enjoy crabbing, clamming or kayaking, and boating here.
  • Twin Rocks: A trip to Garibaldi isn’t complete without visiting Twin Rocks. These iconic rocks rise from the ocean floor and provide a stunning backdrop for the beautiful beachfront of Garibaldi. Visitors can relax and sunbathe on the beach or enjoy kite flying.
  • Bayocean Spit: Bayocean Spit is a narrow strip of land that separates Tillamook Bay from a long stretch of sandy beach. It’s an ideal spot for camping, hiking, and beachcombing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Garibaldi

Several hiking and biking trails are available in Garibaldi. If you’re keen on exploring the wilderness, check out these trails:

  • Twin Rocks County Park: This hiking trail provides scenic views and beautiful vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the Tillamook Bay. The trail starts from the park’s south end and is less than two miles long, making it a perfect family-friendly excursion.
  • Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge: Located 14 miles from Garibaldi, this wildlife refuge provides an excellent opportunity for nature walks. The refuge features over 170 acres of lush coastal forests with an abundance of flora and fauna.

Best Things to Do in Garibaldi: Activities and Tours

Apart from the attractions mentioned earlier, Garibaldi has plenty of activities and tours that will add excitement and fun to your trip. Here are some:

  • Crabbing Tours: Come to Garibaldi and enjoy guided crabbing tours that allow you to dig and harvest clams and catch crabs! The local fishing boat captains will take you on a trip and help you catch your dinner.
  • Fishing Tours: Garibaldi is a perfect destination for fishing enthusiasts. Take a guided fishing tour and reel in some of the ocean’s finest catches, including salmon, rockfish, and lingcod.
  • Garibaldi Coastal Explorer: Take a slower pace and explore the calm waters of Tillamook Bay with a guided kayak or stand-up paddleboard adventure.

Week-Long Itinerary for Garibaldi

Garibaldi has a lot to offer, and you should plan your itinerary to make the most of your trip. Here’s an ideal week-long itinerary that you can follow:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Garibaldi Museum and explore the local charm.
Day 2 Kayak or paddleboard on Tillamook Bay and enjoy the scenic views
Day 3 Take a fishing trip and catch a salmon
Day 4 Hike around Twin Rocks and relax on the beach
Day 5 Visit the Tillamook Cheese Factory and try some cheese
Day 6 Go camping and explore Bayocean Spit
Day 7 Visit Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge and hike along the trails

Food and Drink Scene of Garibaldi

Garibaldi has a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of options to experience the local flavor. From seafood restaurants to local bars, there’s something for every palate.

Must-Try Dishes

Here are some local dishes to try while in Garibaldi:

  • Fish and Chips: This classic coastal dish is a staple at any seafood restaurant in Garibaldi.
  • Clam Chowder: This thick and creamy broth featuring ocean-fresh clams is a Northwest classic.
  • Burgers: Whether it’s a classic hamburger or veggie burger, Garibaldi serves up some delicious burgers that will have you coming back for more.

Local Beverages

Garibaldi has a thriving craft beverage scene with microbreweries, wineries, and distilleries. Some local favorites include:

  • Pelican Brewing Company: Pelican Brewing is an award-winning microbrewery located adjacent to Cape Kiwanda. It’s known for its excellent beer and fantastic views.
  • Oregon Coast Wineries: Oregon Coast Wineries produces delicious wines from scenic vineyards throughout the region.
  • Tillamook Creamery: This is a world-famous cheese factory that offers free self-guided tours and tastings.

Where to Stay in Garibaldi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Garibaldi offers several options to stay while you explore the local charm. Here are some top picks:

  • Garibaldi House Inn and Suites: This boutique hotel is a great choice for luxury travelers, featuring a heated indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center.
  • Harborview Inn and RV Park: A top choice for those traveling with RVs, Harborview Inn is located near Garibaldi Marina.
  • Seagull Apartments: These fully furnished apartments are a perfect fit for those who prefer a home-like stay. The Seagull Apartments overlook the ocean and the harbor.

What to Buy in Garibaldi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Garibaldi offers plenty of options for souvenir shopping, and you can take home something unique to remember your trip. Here are some top presents:

  • Fishing souvenirs: Garibaldi takes pride in its fishing heritage, and you can buy fishing-themed items like t-shirts, hats, and pins from local souvenir shops.
  • Seafood: Garibaldi’s seafood is traditional and well-known, and you can take back some smoked salmon and Tillamook’s cheese.
  • Art and handicrafts: Many local artists display their artwork at galleries and markets. You can purchase unique crafts from these places.

Local Culture and Customs of Garibaldi

Garibaldi retains a distinctive coastal culture, both in terms of traditions and its people’s daily lives. Visitors have the opportunity to learn more about this unique way of living. The people are friendly, personable, and welcoming, and you’ll feel at home in no time.

Best Time to Visit Garibaldi

The best time to visit Garibaldi is in the summer (June to August) when the weather is warmer, and there is less chance of rain. However, the off-peak season (September to May) offers better deals on accommodations and fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Garibaldi

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and people.
  • Be environmentally conscious and limit your impact on the local flora and fauna.
  • Follow rules and regulations when fishing and crabbing.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave trash on the beach or waterways.
  • Venture off hiking trails into sensitive areas.
  • Disrupt the local wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Garibaldi

Garibaldi is a safe place to visit, but like most coastal cities, you must be careful around the waterways. Always wear life jackets when kayaking and consider the weather conditions before heading out to sea.

Health in Garibaldi

Garibaldi has a modern medical facility and two small pharmacies. However, it’s recommended to bring your first-aid kit and ensure that you have sufficient insurance coverage before traveling.

Getting to Garibaldi: Transportation Options and Logistics

You can reach Garibaldi by car, local bus, or air, and there are several transportation options available:

Airports Near Garibaldi

  • Portland International Airport: Located two hours from Garibaldi, PDX is the primary airport serving the region.

Bus Stations Near Garibaldi

  • Greyhound Bus Station: The closest bus station to Garibaldi is in Tillamook, 7 miles north.

Other Options

  • Car rental: This is a popular option, and there are several car rental agencies available in Portland and other cities.
  • Taxis/Uber: These ride-hailing services are available.

How to Get Around in Garibaldi

Garibaldi is a small town and easily accessible by foot, but if you need to travel around, renting a bike or a car is the best option. Taxis and Uber are also available, but they may be more expensive.

Where to Go Next from Garibaldi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Garibaldi is the perfect base for exploring the Northern Oregon Coast. Here are some nearby destinations that you can check out:

  • Tillamook: Tillamook is just seven miles from Garibaldi, and it’s best known for its famous cheese factory.
  • Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint: Cape Meares is a state park that offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding countryside.
  • Cannon Beach: Cannon Beach is an hour’s drive from Garibaldi and offers broad sandy beaches, scenic landmarks, and charming small-town atmosphere.

Conclusion

Garibaldi is a hidden gem in the Oregon Coast region, and it provides an ideal mix of outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, and culinary experiences. Plan your itinerary, explore the village, and discover the hidden gems that make Garibaldi so special.