Pelican Brewing Company, a well-established name on the Oregon Coast, is expanding its footprint with the upcoming opening of its sixth location in Yachats, Oregon. The brewery has purchased the former Whale’s Tail Diner, a building with a history spanning over four decades as LeRoy’s Blue Whale, and plans to transform it into a new Pelican restaurant and taproom. This move underscores Pelican’s dedication to investing in and becoming an integral part of Oregon’s coastal communities.
The new Yachats location is strategically situated in a town often referred to as the “gem of the Oregon Coast,” with a population of around 1,000 residents known for supporting local businesses. Pelican Brewing aims to bring new energy to the town’s dining scene, joining other craft beverage destinations like WildCraft Cider & Pantry. Notably, the Yachats establishment will function as a restaurant and taproom, focusing on serving Pelican’s award-winning beers, zero-alcohol Sparkle Hops, and craft sodas, rather than brewing operations on-site.
Renovations are already underway to imbue the historic building with Pelican’s signature coastal-modern aesthetic. The anticipated opening for the Yachats location is set for the second half of 2026, a year that also marks Pelican Brewing’s 30th anniversary. This expansion follows closely on the heels of Pelican’s fifth location, which opened in Rockaway Beach in October 2025.
The decision to open in Yachats is also deeply personal for Pelican’s co-founder, Jeff Schons. “We are truly excited to locate a Pelican in Yachats, where my mom lived for about 15 years. LeRoy’s was our go-to place for lunch whenever my wife, Mary, and I would visit, and I think mom would be really pleased to know that we will be the new owners and that we’ll be remembering her and those great times in that special place,” Schons stated. This sentiment was echoed by co-founder Mary Jones, who expressed delight in expanding the Pelican experience to more coastal neighbors.
Yachats is a town renowned for its natural attractions, particularly Thor’s Well, a dramatic sinkhole near Cape Perpetua that draws significant tourist interest. The town’s culinary landscape recently saw the closure of Yachats Brewing + Farmstore in late 2023 after a lengthy dispute with city officials.
Pelican Brewing Company, founded in Pacific City in 1996, has a strong track record of coastal expansion. Its current portfolio includes brewpubs in Pacific City, Cannon Beach, Siletz Bay, and Rockaway Beach, as well as a production facility and taproom in Tillamook. The brewery is recognized for its “Born at the Beach” philosophy and has garnered over 450 industry awards. The new Yachats location will not include brewing operations but will offer the full range of Pelican’s acclaimed beverages and coastal-inspired cuisine.
A Growing Coastal Presence
Pelican Brewing has strategically expanded its presence along the Oregon Coast, with each new location reinforcing its brand identity and commitment to local communities. The Rockaway Beach location, which opened in October 2025, is situated just steps from the sand, offering a cozy retreat with a focused menu and a dog-friendly patio. Previously, the Siletz Bay location in Lincoln City opened in October 2022, featuring expansive bay views and a unique seafood market called Phil’s Nest. The brewery’s flagship location remains in Pacific City, the site of the only beachfront brewpub in the Pacific Northwest.
Yachats: A New Chapter
The acquisition of the former Whale’s Tail Diner marks a significant step in Pelican’s growth strategy. The brewery’s commitment to preserving the character of the historic building while infusing it with Pelican’s contemporary style is evident in the ongoing renovations. The addition of Pelican Brewing to Yachats is expected to enhance the town’s hospitality sector and provide a new gathering space for residents and visitors alike.
