People don't actually swim in the ocean on the Oregon coast. There is some surfing and wind surfing is popular. There are dangerous undertows that take a number of lives every year. It is a beautiful area. May is often rainy and the summer is very, very busy. Even September requires reservations. If you don't have an RV I can't make any recommendations but I particularly like Depoe Bay, although it is south of Pacific City. You can take a whale watching dory ride or just watch the greys from the shore. Another favorite is Cannon Beach. There are nice motels everywhere and many parks with tent camping.