Kelly’s Brighton Marina Tillamook, Oregon: Crabbing, Camping, & Coastal Life on Nehalem Bay
Kelly’s Brighton Marina is one of the most iconic waterfront destinations on the northern Oregon Coast. Located on Nehalem Bay near Tillamook, Oregon, this family-friendly marina is best known for dock crabbing, boat crabbing, fresh seafood, and waterfront camping. Kelly’s Brighton Marina offers a rare chance to experience authentic Oregon Coast life at a relaxed, tide-paced rhythm.
Where Is Kelly’s Brighton Marina Located?
Kelly’s Brighton Marina is located in the small coastal community of Brighton, Oregon, just off Highway 101, approximately:
- 25 minutes north of Tillamook
- 10 minutes south of Rockaway Beach
- 25 minutes south of Cannon Beach
The marina sits directly on Nehalem Bay, a protected estuary separated from the Pacific Ocean by Nehalem Spit. This sheltered location makes it one of the best places for crabbing in Oregon, especially for beginners and families.
A Brief History of Brighton and the Marina
The land where Kelly’s Brighton Marina stands today was once part of the Brighton Lumber Company, a major early-1900s industrial site. During World War I, the mill produced massive quantities of Sitka spruce used in U.S. aircraft construction. After a catastrophic fire in the 1920s, the mill closed and the area gradually transitioned from heavy industry to fishing, boating, and recreation.
In 2010, Kelly and Janice Laviolette purchased the marina and rebranded it as Kelly’s Brighton Marina, creating a welcoming, hands-on coastal business centered around crabbing and community. Ownership transferred to Colin and Randi Davis in 2021, who continue operating the marina with the same local spirit and visitor-friendly focus.
Crabbing at Kelly’s Brighton Marina
Crabbing is the main attraction at Kelly’s Brighton Marina, drawing thousands of visitors each year.
Dock Crabbing on Nehalem Bay
One of the most popular features of Kelly’s Brighton Marina is dock crabbing, which allows visitors to catch Dungeness crab directly from the marina dock. No boat is required, and rental gear is available on-site.
Dock crabbing is ideal for:
- Families with kids
- First-time crabbers
- Visitors without boats
- Anyone wanting an easy, low-stress experience
Nehalem Bay’s calm waters and healthy crab population make it one of the most reliable crabbing spots on the Oregon Coast.
Boat Crabbing Rentals
For those wanting to explore further, Kelly’s Brighton Marina offers small boat rentals for crabbing on Nehalem Bay. These protected waters provide excellent conditions for pulling crab pots without the challenges of open-ocean crabbing.
Boat crabbing allows access to deeper channels and additional crabbing zones, often increasing catch success while offering scenic views of the bay and surrounding forested shoreline.
Fresh Seafood and On-Site Crab Cooking
Kelly’s Brighton Marina also operates a fresh seafood market, offering locally sourced crab, clams, and oysters when available. One of the marina’s most popular services is on-site crab cooking, allowing visitors to enjoy their freshly caught Dungeness crab without any extra preparation.
Many guests enjoy their seafood at picnic tables overlooking the bay, turning a crabbing trip into a complete Oregon Coast dining experience.
Camping at Kelly’s Brighton Marina
Camping is another major draw at Kelly’s Brighton Marina. The marina offers:
- Waterfront RV sites
- Tent camping near the bay
- Easy access to crabbing docks and boat launches
Camping here allows visitors to fully experience the tidal rhythms of Nehalem Bay, with early mornings often bringing fog, calm water, and wildlife sightings. Evening campfires and bay sunsets make Kelly’s a favorite for travelers seeking a quieter alternative to larger coastal campgrounds.
Events and Seasonal Activities
Kelly’s Brighton Marina regularly hosts seasonal events, including crab derbies, which feature friendly competition, prizes, and live music. These events draw both locals and visitors and highlight the marina’s role as a community gathering place.
Seasonal crabbing conditions, tides, and regulations may vary, so visitors are encouraged to check current rules and licensing requirements before crabbing.
Why Kelly’s Brighton Marina Is a Tillamook Coast Favorite
Kelly’s Brighton Marina stands out because it offers:
- Easy access to Oregon Coast crabbing
- Calm, beginner-friendly waters
- A welcoming, local atmosphere
- Fresh seafood straight from the bay
- Waterfront camping in a scenic setting
Unlike more commercialized coastal attractions, Kelly’s maintains a working-waterfront feel, making it a favorite for repeat visits.
Tips when Visiting Kelly’s Brighton Marina
- Best Time to Crab: Around slack tide (near high or low tide)
- Bring a License: Oregon shellfish license required for crabbing
- Arrive Early: Summer weekends can get busy
- Dress in Layers: Coastal weather can change quickly
Nearby attractions include Nehalem Bay State Park, Rockaway Beach, and scenic drives along Highway 101. Kelly’s Brighton Marina in Tillamook, Oregon offers one of the most authentic coastal experiences on the Oregon Coast. From dock crabbing and boat rentals to waterfront camping and fresh seafood, it has everything visitors look for in a relaxed, memorable seaside stop.
