The Port of Brookings-Harbor is located on the Southern Oregon Coast just a few miles from the Northern California border. The unique coast-line, with picturesque beaches and numerous sea stacks, almost always requires a photo and our moderate year round climate, ensures visitor's comfort. It is a photographer's paradise with spectacular views around every corner and it's not unusual to witness the annual migration of large gray whales close to the shore and occasionally, Blue Whales and Orcas are also seen. Humboldt County, home of the world's tallest trees and Giant Redwood groves, are less than 15 miles away. Our area is considered a fisherman's paradise with ocean fishing available most of the year and three world class rivers are available to the angler, within 25 miles. Fishermen come from all over the world to try their luck at salmon and steelhead in the Rogue River as well as the Chetco River and the Smith River in northern California.
The Port of Brookings-Harbor is located at the mouth of the Chetco River and is the safest bar on the west coast. Almost every day of the year, fishermen journey along the Chetco River Bar in search of Snapper, Ling Cod, Halibut and when in season, Chinook and Coho Salmon. Many local fishermen also keep a few pots handy to try for the delicious Dungeness Crab and Shrimp. Guide services and charters are available most of the year and they are skilled navigators at locating schools of fish.
Occasionally in the winter, we can experience storms coming in from the south and west. Many find the experience of watching the ocean "up front and close" during a big storm, to be spectacular.
Some visitors time their visits to our area just to be here during one of these weather events. All of the amenities required for a fun and comfortable stay are available either at the Port, or less than one mile away. A large number of Motels, Bed & Breakfasts, Camp Grounds, State Parks and RV Parks can accommodate visitors. Good restaurants and shops are numerous. Check our Business Directory for more details.
In addition to the activities mentioned on this page, please refer to the Events Page.
The Port of Brookings-Harbor serves as a central point for some of the finest fishing in the country. Visitors come from all over the world to try their hand at catching a 40 or 50 pound salmon in the ocean, or in the rivers. We are fortunate to have two world class rivers within five miles of the Port, and the renowned Rogue River is only 25 miles from the Port. Using the safest bar on the west coast, fishermen take their boat out for Snapper, Ling Cod, Halibut, Salmon, Albacore Tuna and, Dungeness Crab almost year round. We have a permanent Coast Guard facility located on the mouth of the Chetco River, assuring the safety of all water crafts.
The Port is also home to a vibrant commercial fishing fleet. These boats ply our local waters for Dungeness Crab, Oregon Certified Shrimp, Salmon, and bottom fish. A good year will often see 10 million pounds of Dungeness Crab come over the Port docks. The commercial docks provide a unique view into the process of providing fresh fish to consumers', worldwide.
If you're not able to catch a ride with one of our multiple charter or guide boats, you can try fishing and/or crabbing at our public fishing pier near the coast guard station.