A Local’s Guide to the Best Food and Fun in Charleston, Oregon

One of the best ways to discover and explore a new destination is to experience its restaurant scene like a local. The towns of Coos Bay , North Bend , and Charleston each have their own distinct culture and identity tied together by a passion for fresh ingredients sourced locally. We recently spotlighted some locally owned and operated restaurants in Coos Bay and North Bend.  In this post, we’re highlighting some of the best spots in Charleston, Oregon to grab a bite!  

Charleston is known by many as a “quaint” and “picturesque” fishing village on Oregon’s Adventure Coast, which serves as an entry point to some of the best ocean beaches and state parks in the Pacific Northwest. However, did you also know that Charleston is also full of hidden gems and restaurants that are a true reflection of its rich maritime heritage, spectacular natural beauty, and vibrant community spirit? 

So, without further adieu, here are some local recommendations for the best spots in Charleston to fill up when hunger strikes. For a complete list, visit oregonsadventurecoast.com/dining or download one of these guides to learn more:

• Oregon’s Adventure Coast Local Restaurant & Dining Guide
• Guide to Coffee Shops, Bakeries, & Specialty Shops on Oregon’s Adventure Coast

Where to Eat in Charleston, Oregon 

• Monkey Business | 63516 Kingfisher Road. For an authentic taste of the Oregon coast, try Monkey Business, located in the bustling Charleston Marina. The clam chowder, made fresh daily, is highly recommended. Andrea A says, “It is the best chowder on the Oregon coast, no joke.” Monkey Business is also famous for its burgers, fish & chips, and other fresh seafood dishes. Try the Crab Cake BLT for true delight! www.facebook.com/MonkeyBusinessFoodToGo/

• Fisherman’s Grotto | 91149 Cape Arago Hwy. Nestled along the East End of the Charleston Bridge, Fisherman’s Grotto offers diners a full line of fresh seafood, fish and chips, clam chowder and deli sandwiches. Easy parking and a covered patio (open during the summer season) make this spot a popular destination for visitors and locals alike. Indulge in a feast of locally caught Dungeness crab, succulent shrimp, and other delectable treats, all while soaking in the maritime ambiance. Learn more: www.fishermansgrottoinc.com  

• Miller’s at the Cove | 63346 Boat Basin Rd. Specializing in American fare with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, this charming Charleston sports bar & grill offers hearty sandwiches, soups, chowder and salads, along with melt in your mouth Fish-n-Chips and (according to multiple testimonials from visitors) some of the best fish tacos on the Oregon Coast! Their signature clam chowder alone is worth the visit! millersatthecove.rocks/menu

• Cape Arago Café & Espresso | 91120 Cape Arago Hwy. If you’re looking for a great local breakfast/brunch spot or a quick and satisfying lunch, look no further than Cape Arago Café & Espresso in Charleston. This cozy, down-to-earth café specializes in friendly service, freshly brewed espresso and coffee beverages, burgers and serves breakfast all day! Call ahead for meal pick-up at the window. https://www.facebook.com/CapeAragoCafeNEspresso/

When it comes to fresh seafood on Oregon’s Adventure Coast: Coos Bay, North Bend, Charleston, there is no shortage of options. We recommend bookmarking the Oregon’s Adventure Coast Dining Page to help you choose the right spot! Here’s a list of other activities visitors can enjoy while visiting Charleston, Oregon: 

• Learn more about the diverse marine life that inhabits the waters off Oregon’s Adventure Coast at the Charleston Marine Life Center , located on the harbor’s edge in Charleston. Explore the center’s touch tide pool, fossil displays, and live sea creature tanks at this year-round destination for all ages. 

• Go hiking & walking through the beautiful State Parks along the 6.5 mile Cape Arago Loop . Be sure to stop by Shore Acres State Park and explore the gardens and take in panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Note: dogs are not allowed in Shore Acres State Park and must remain in vehicles if brought to the park.

• Watch the seals and sea lions on Simpson Reef and Shell Island, part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge.

• Go beachcombing or tide-pooling along the pristine, undeveloped beaches in Charleston, like Bastendorff Beach, Sunset Bay State Park, Simpson Beach and Cape Arago State Park. Water Recreation activities like surfing, paddle boarding, and kayaking are popular with locals, especially in the summer months. 

• Go Crabbing off the docks of the Charleston Marina, to get a taste of Dungeness crab (Oregon’s official state crustacean) the DIY way. Most local fishing shops will supply the necessary licenses and equipment. 

• Take a stroll along the Charleston Marina and watch the fishermen haul in their daily catch. 

• Go on a fishing expedition in the waters of the Pacific with a local charter boat company.  

Other Charleston, Oregon Trip Ideas 

• A Weekend of Fishing – and so much more – on Oregon’s Adventure Coast  
• Saltwater Fishing – Ocean & Bay  
• Kayak Fishing On The South Coast  
• Crabbing and Clamming  
•  Charleston to Bandon Tour Route    
• Explore the Cape Arago Beach Loop  
• Forest Bathing & Mindfulness

Oregon’s Adventure Coast: Coos Bay, North Bend, Charleston boasts a wide variety of terrific dining options and exciting adventures to explore. We hope you have the opportunity to try some of these wonderful local restaurants on your next visit, and let us know what you think!  No matter what brings you here, we are here to make your stay as seamless as possible.