beautiful places to visit in oregon coast

15 Best Places to Visit on The Oregon Coast For First Timers

If you’re looking to visit the best places on the Oregon Coast but not really sure where to go, I’m going to help you there because I’ve done that several times already.

Not only have I crossed the entire coastline of Oregon, but I’ve also crossed the entire eastern and nearly the entire western shorelines of the United States overall. Without hesitation, out of the 1,000’s of miles of nature that I saw during the span of all my trips, the Oregon Coast stands king and this post showcasing 10 spots I’ve seen there will show why. Here are the spots:

• Samuel H. Boardman Park
• Whaleshead Beach
• Natural bridges
• Secret Beach
• Oregon Sand Dunes
• Thor’s well.
• Florence (Sea Lions and caves)
• Cannon Beach
• Devil’s Punchbowl
• Cape Sebastian Scenic Corridor
• The Yaquina Head Lighthouse
• Jetboat tour in Gold’s Beach
• Depoe Beach (whale watching)
• Otter Crest

All of them are easily accessible as they are right off the 101 road, which is also known as the Oregon Coast scenic drive.

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor: 

• Location: Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor . 

Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor is a very long park that stretches for about 40 miles that has many attractions that are easy to access (hikes, overlooks, and some of the best sights on the Oregon Coast in my opinion).

This park itself has at least 10 different spots where you can pull off the road and go exploring to the coast itself, including secret beaches, natural bridges, hiking trails and more.  Samuel H. Boardman Park itself has at least 10 different and amazing locations you can explore and I could honestly fill up this whole article’s list with just the locations here (plus the 101 road in this section is one of the best Oregon scenic drives in my opinion), but this park is only a small chunk of the beauty that is the Oregon coast. But I would be re-missed if I didn’t include the next 3 locations on this list to visit that are all within this park that I honestly think you can’t afford to miss:

Whaleshead Beach:

• Location: Within Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor.

This is a large beach area with large cliffs in the water. Overall this place is great for sunset viewing and seeing classic Oregon Coast views. I mentioned Whaleshead Beach and how awestruck I was when I got there in this article, so I won’t say the same stuff other than you should go here if you own a all wheel drive vehicle.

This is simply a beach that has a beautiful scenic view where you can spend hours at. If I had my way, I’d stay there all night as it has some of the best Oregon Coast camping spots to enjoy the views. Other than the rocky road that is a bit annoying to drive through, the parking lot near the beach is clean, organized and the beach is a few steps from there.

Natural Bridges:

• Location: Also within Samuel H Scenic Corridor.

Natural Bridges Oregon is an aamazing overlook of an iconic rock formation on the Oregon Coast (very famous spot on Instagram). There are also awesome hikes in the area. If you’ve been impressed by the recommendations I’ve had so far, then I can argue that Natural Bridges is going to put those other spots to shame.

I will say that in my opinion Natural Bridges is one of the best places to visit on the Oregon Coast and overall state (and that includes central and Eastern Oregon). I can’t be more anymore clear on this. And quite frankly out of all the spots in the park I saw on the 101 road here, this one ironically was the easiest to access. You can park right outside the viewpoint of this place and if you then wish to, hike down to it (that is a tough hike, and I explain how to do it in the link above, but fair warning, it can be dangerous).

Secret Beach:

• Location of this place on the Oregon Coast: 2 minutes north of Natural Bridges.

Secret Beach Oregon is another iconic location to visit. It has some of my favorite sea caves on the Oregon Coast , beautiful sunset views and a beach walk you can do. Ideally you should visit this place when it’s low tide. And it’s easy to reach too! 

The first time I visited the Oregon Coast, I missed it, but the second time and every time after, I made sure to get there and altogether I have been here at least 4 times. Believe me when I say, you need to come here during low tide because most of this places “secrets” are open to explore then (like sea caves) making the stuff you see here one of the best hikes on the Oregon Coast you’ll find. Considering this and Natural Bridges are so close, the next thing I want to do is kayak at both spots.

Oregon Sand Dunes:

• Location: Oregon Sand Dunes National Recreation area .

The 101 in Oregon will undoubtedly lead you across a large beach mixed in with sand dunes. I’ve been to this place once and tried to rent some ATV’s and dune buggies, but most of the places that rent them close around 5 pm so if you want to try this attraction, make sure you visit the sand dunes before then. But if not these attractions, then just seeing the Oregon Coast mixed with sand dunes is incredible in itself.

Thor’s Well:

• Location: Here is a map listing of Thor’s Well .

Thor’s Well is one of the most popular Oregon Coast attractions for tourists and photographers and honestly the actual well is not even that big, but the whole location around Thor’s well is well worth looking at which is a park with many other attractions, hikes and sights. 

But regarding Thor’s Well, i t is located on this amazing black rock formation (not on a trail) that looks like it’s been made from lava and the entire landscape around Thor’s well is also impressive. If you want to see the “geyser” like effect of Thor’s well, visit it during low tide like I did. If you come here during high tide, you won’t be able to get close to that area (it’s too dangerous). During low tide you have a much easier time accessing it, but you should also be careful as there’s still many slippery areas and sharp rocks too so wear good hiking shoes as they will help protect you better here.

There are some other cool areas near Thor’s Well you can explore such as Hug Point, that features a beautiful waterfall right on the beach. Just as well, sunsets around (or any area in Oregon) are absolutely stunning and I recommend staying for those too if you go.

Florence sea lion caves:

• Location of this place on the Oregon Coast: Sea Lion caves location (Florence OR).

Florence is actually a town right by the Oregon Coast and it has it’s own beach and nature spots to see, but in this case what I’m recommending is the sea lion cave attraction that’s north of it. It’s actually easy to spot as you’re on the 101 road as you will see a pull off with signs for it. This is a paid attraction and you will go down in an elevator to see the sea lions.

Cannon Beach:

• Location: Cannon Beach Oregon .

Cannon Beach is considered by many people to be one of the best places in the Oregon Coast (to me, it’s in the top 3). In terms of why, there’s many reasons:

• There’s many gigantic mountains in the ocean and throughout the beach there.
• There’s an amazing town right on the beach too with hiking trails nearby.
• Generally speaking, Cannon Beach is one of the most photographed places on the Oregon Coast.

Having been there myself, I can say that this place is really amazing in many ways. As an east coast native, when I first came here, I was floored by this place because I was just not used to seeing anything like in the eastern states.

Devils Punchbowl:

Location: Otter Rock Oregon .

A good way to describe Devils Punchbowl Oregon is to imagine a meteor landing on a shoreline, making a huge hole in it and then within that hole you can enter and see the ocean waves come in. It’s viewable from the top area 24-7, but if you want to go inside it, you can only do that during low tide.

• Location: Astoria Oregon .

One of my favorite childhood movies was the Goonies and if you’ve ever seen that movie and wondered where it was filmed, the answer is Astoria, Oregon. In addition to that this town also has a lot of things to see and do including great restaurants, great scenic views of the Columbia River Gorge area and even areas where you’ll also find a lot of sea lions.

Cape Sebastian Scenic Corridor:

• Location: Cape Sebastian trailhead .

Cape Sebastian is an amazing yet easy spot to miss on the Oregon Coast because the turn into it is so small. However after discovering it and actually going there, I was amazed at how beautiful this place was. There are a lot of things to see here including:

• A beautiful overlook of the Oregon Coast.
• An awesome hike called the Cape Sebastian Trail .
• A really awesome beach you can hike down to.
• You can see amazing sunsets here.

Yaquina Head Lighthouse :

Location on the Oregon Coast: Yaquina Head Lighthouse OR .

Another must do activity on your first trip through the Oregon Coast in my opinion should be to see Yaquina Head Lighthouse and it isn’t only because it’s one of the best lighthouses on the Oregon Coast , but also because this is one of the most popular and scenic activities to do in this area (lighthouse hopping basically). For what it’s worth every major coastal state in the US has amazing lighthouses and I have more and more articles coming out sharing where to find them in everyone. 

Jetboat tours:

• Location: The most popular is Jerry’s Rogue Jets . 

Jetboat tours are also very popular to do on the Oregon Coast and in this particular case, the type of tour you will be doing is a 50-100 mile boat ride that starts from the Oregon Coast (near Gold’s Beach) and takes you up the Rogue River. This will give you awesome views of the inland mountains of Oregon and there are parts of the tour where you explore the Oregon Coast too.

• Location: Depoe Bay Oregon .

Whale watching is another awesome way to explore the Oregon Coast and in this case, you will take a tour boat out into the Pacific Ocean to do this. Whale sightings in Oregon are seasonal though and it’s usually after June through early December when you can see them. Depoe Bay in this case is the most well known spot for this attraction and I have created a list of the best places to do whale watching on the Oregon coast , where there are 3 places specifically in Depoe Bay that have them.

Otter Crest:

• Location: Otter Crest State scenic viewpoint .

This place is a small, yet beautiful park that overlooks one of the most beautiful parts of the Oregon Coast. From it you can hike up to the top of the area to see the famous overlook there, or hike down to the beach area if you want to swim. There are also incredible sunsets in this specific park as well.

Bonus: Oregon Coast scenic railroad

• Location: Tillamook Oregon

This is a recent one I learned about while studying scenic train rides. This one is an excellent attraction to add to your Oregon coast explorations. There’s an entire guide you can find on the Oregon Coast scenic railroad that will show you when to go. Ticket prices are usually very cheap and the ride is very family friendly.

Common questions:

Which part of oregon coast is the best.

In my opinion the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor has the best compilation of spots to see on the Oregon Coast.

What is the nicest coastal town in Oregon?

Cannon Beach city as it has a great combination of beaches, views and village areas to explore.

What is the Oregon Coast famous for?

For the most part it’s beauty. There are over 400 miles of coastal road that contain beautiful parks, beaches, sea cliffs, great sunset spots, sea caves and much more.

What is the best month to visit the Oregon Coast?

The best time to visit the Oregon Coast is in March because the weather is pretty cool, there are far less crowds on the coastal drives and you can also see the beginning of spring rise up.

Hi I'm Vitaliy, I love nature travel and this blog encapsulates all of my adventures and top recommendations of what to see (and what to avoid).

Learn More Here

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12 comments.

Love the Oregon coast! Drove it’s entire length as well. I did not explore as much as you but I will save this article and hopefully I’ll have the opportunity to return and see more.

Thanks Renee!

Great suggestions Vitaliy! If you ever return to the Oregon coast, I encourage you to visit the follow epic spots that will leave you in awe;

1. The Devil’s Cauldron inside Oswald West State Park 2. Cape Perpetua Overlook in Yachats 3. Cape Kiwanda in Pacific City

When you have a chance, check out my instagram to see some of my pics from my recent Oregon coast trip and let me know what you think! IG: Nando928

Really appreciate you sharing these spots Nando! I have never heard of them, but since I will be revisiting the Oregon Coast again, I’ll be sure to add them! I also added on you Instagram as well.

I’m researching Oregon and Washington coastal areas to move to (and eventually retire to) sometime in the next 3-5 years. I came across your blog in my research.

What you shared makes me sure the Oregon coast is the perfect place to settle! Now it’s just deciding where. Thank you for such a wonderful post!

Hi Jennifer thanks! I would agree on the Oregon or Washington areas to settle, and I hope within the next 3 years or so things will calm down in those regions.

A visit to all these 10 places would be a dream come true, but for a small budget, I would rather visit some fabulous places like the Thor’s well. I am a lover of historic places, even if they are man made. 

Of the Oregon coast wonders I have had the opportunity of seeing devils punch bowl and it was such a awesome sight. 

I wish I was able to see Devil’s Punchbowl in the daytime like you probably did, but i have to say with regards to the 10 spots listed here, you CAN check them out on a budget. Just rent a car, head along the coast during the off season and the prices for hotels during that period (February was pretty good for prices) will be pretty cheap.

My wife and I are going to be doing retirement soon and we are looking for ideas on travel that we can take our underused trailer on.

This is something we have talked about wanting to do for a few years now. Up until now, our trailer adventures have been limited to the North West corner of Washington State for a couple of weeks at a time so you can understand why we would like to expand our horizons.

These places sound amazing and the pictures, although very nice, probably don’t compare to the real thing and being in the great outdoors is something that has always been appealing to us.

Friends of ours have been to Cannon Beach often and really like it there. It will definitely be on our list when we go.

I was wondering if you knew whether or not there were any places one could camp for free in this area?  We have a limited budget so we are looking for ways to save, you know?

Thanks again for this timely post.

All the best as you travel,

Hi Wayne, I am certain you will find plenty of areas where you can park and camp all throughout highway 101, which will take you through all the areas I listed here. As I drove up the coast, I saw a lot of empty spots (it was off season) and at times there was one trailer or so. I doubt these people reserved a spot but I would call up the area you are going to before hand and ask them. 

For example, when you enter an official park, find the park on Google maps, and you will be given a number for the ranger station. Ask them these same things and they will be able to provide a better answer.

I once did a road trip from San Francisco to San Diego and the coast there is supposed to be amazing, it is very well known for it. However, the Oregon coast sounds better and prettier. I just added it to my bucket list. I want to see all of the places you’ve mentioned but on the top of the list is probably Thor’s Well. That just looks and sounds unreal!

Thanks for the recommendation 🙂

Hi Hollie, I briefly stopped at San Francisco and then headed up the coast to Fort Bragg, before hitting up Oregon the next day. Trust me, California itself has plenty of beautiful coastal spots to see there too, but if you’re tight on time and really into nature, Oregon is where I recommend you spend most of your time. Thor’s Well is awesome, but do not neglect the beauty of Samuel H. Boarderman park, they have even more spectacular places there!

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30 Incredible Things To See & Do Along The Oregon Coast

Pristine nature. Jagged ocean cliffs. Vast empty beaches. These are just a few of the things that you can expect when you visit the Oregon Coast.

If it’s your first time traveling to the Oregon Coast, you’re in for a treat ! And it’s much different than its counterpart – the California coastline.

In Oregon, you won’t find many big chain hotels, piers stuffed full of tourists, promenades, and bougie brunch spots. Think more along the lines of small fishing villages, charming oceanfront lodges, lonely lighthouses perched on top of grassy hills, and moss-covered hiking trails.

In this guide, we cover 30 incredible things to see & do along the Oregon Coast!

This travel itinerary includes beaches, viewpoints, natural wonders, and unique attractions that you don’t want to miss!

What Is There To Do On The Oregon Coast?

We’ve made the Oregon coastline trip multiple times, sometimes starting from Portland in the North and sometimes starting from California in the South.

The entire Oregon coastline, from Astoria to Brookings, is around 340 miles.

If you’re limited on vacation days, you can also just visit smaller sections at a time. This is something that we did quite often when we lived in Portland for a year and wanted to head out to the coast for quick weekend adventures. 

To help make your trip planning easier, I have divided our guide into three different parts:

Northern Oregon Coast

Central oregon coast, southern oregon coast.

The entire Oregon coastline is just jaw-dropping but each of these regions is slightly different in landscape, town size, and attractions that you can visit there.

The northern part is where people from Washington and Portland go-to vacation. Here you’ll find cute beachfront cottages and other more touristy amenities. The central part mostly consists of charming fishing towns with fresh-off-the-boat seafood (if you’re a foodie – you will love this region!). The southern part of the Oregon Coast is best known for its rugged landscapes and volcanic black sand beaches.

Before we dive into the details of what attractions to visit, here are some frequently asked questions about the Oregon Coast.

How Many Days Do You Need?

The quick answer – as many vacation days as you can squeeze in!

340 miles is a lot of ground to cover. If you plan to travel down the entire coastline, we recommend that you give yourself at least a week , although you could pack in most of the major attractions within 5 days if you rush through.

If you’re not able to dedicate an entire week, you can also take on sections at a time.

For those flying into Portland, the Northern Oregon coastline is a very popular destination. You can spend 2-3 days just exploring Cannon Beach.

If you’re coming from California, consider visiting the southern part of the Oregon Coast. Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor has a lot of great stops that you can see in 2 days including my all-time favorite – the Secret Beach. But more on that later!

When To Go?

There is no such thing as a bad time to do the Oregon Coast road trip. But there is a rainy season in Oregon which usually lasts from November to March.

Most people visit the coast in the summer when winter gloom finally clears up and sunshine replaces rainy days.

But that doesn’t mean you should wait all winter at home for warmer weather to come!

It doesn’t snow along the Oregon Coast making it one of the best road trips to do in the PNW during winter months when other trails and attractions are not as easily accessible.

Just be sure to pack a rain jacket, some warmer sweaters, waterproof hiking boots and you’ll be all set!

Where To Stay?

The lodging options along the Oregon Coast include hotels & Inns, private stays, and State Campgrounds.

The northern part of the Oregon Coast has the majority of the hotels to accommodate visitors coming from Portland and Washington . Then, as you travel south, the hotel and lodging options become more limited because the towns get smaller and more spread out.

Here are some of the most popular beach towns for staying along the Oregon Coast:

• Cannon Beach . Cannon Beach is an iconic beach town that has a ton of hotel options to choose from. Our personal favorite is the Hallmark Resort Hotel & Spa that’s located right on the sandy beach and has a direct view of the ocean. The rooms have spacious patios so you can enjoy watching colorful sunsets right from the comfort of your room. As a fun treat, for $25 get the S’mores Package that comes with firewood and marshmallows and set up a romantic bonfire on the beach right outside of the hotel. Hallmark Resort is where we recommend our friends and family to stay whenever they come out to Cannon Beach.

Click here to check out more from Hallmark Resort!

• Pacific City . Pacific City is another wonderful beach town that offers a lot of great adventures including climbing the towering Cape Kiwanda sand dune and exploring sea caves. Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa is a luxury lodge that’s situated on the beach next to the sand dune and offers sweeping oceanfront views.
• Lincoln City. As you head more south your best option is to look for private accommodations and stays. For about $220/night, you can stay in this beautifully crafted oceanfront home with floor-to-ceiling windows that open up to the beach.

Click here to check out more from this Oceanfront Vrbo

• Newport . Newport is a solid size town in the central part of the coast that is also home to the famous Oregon brewery Rogue . If you’re driving the entire Oregon Coast, this is a great town to stop, rest, and stock up on any road trip supplies that you may need. Browse the top Newport, Oregon vacation rentals here!
• Coos Bay . As you keep heading south, the coastline becomes more rugged and the towns more scarce. Coos Bay is the largest city in the southern part of the Oregon Coast where you will find Inns, Motels, and RV parks. For something a bit more refined, check out this recently remodeled Vrbo with its own private beach and direct views of Cape Arago Lighthouse.

Click here to book this charming home!

• Brookings . This is the last major coastal town in Oregon before you reach California so many people start or end their road trip in Brookings. Although the town itself is not very big, you can stay in an oceanfront cottage in Brookings falling asleep to the relaxing sounds of the waves crashing against the shore.

Camping At State Campgrounds

There are State Campgrounds scattered throughout the entire Oregon coastline so if you plan on camping in a tent, campervan, or an RV, these will be the best places to stay at. A couple of things to note about Oregon State campgrounds:

• If you go in the summer, you will need to make reservations ahead of time. State campgrounds can get booked up quickly so plan accordingly.
• In the winter you will find plenty of open campsites so you don’t need reservations. You can just arrive, find a spot and pay the park ranger there.
• Each campground and types of site vary in price. In general, we paid around $20-$40 to camp in State Campgrounds per night.
• All of the Oregon State campgrounds that we stayed in had steaming hot showers – a nice perk for winter road trips!
• Most sites come with a picnic table, a flat spot to park your car, and a fire pit.
• Oregon State campgrounds allow dogs and many of the State Beaches do as well (unless it’s a protected area – which it will usually specify at the parking lot or trailhead). When it comes to pets, Oregon State parks are much more dog friendly than California ones where pets are usually confined to campgrounds, parking lots, and paved trails.

Browse Oregon State Park Campgrounds Here

What Should I Pack For The Oregon Coast?

If you’re wondering what you should pack for an Oregon road trip, check out our post that covers literally every single item that we bring for road trips in our car .

Or maybe you’re getting into van life and want to take your home on wheels for a spin on the coast? Well, we have a WHOLE separate list with 85 essentials that you should be packing in a campervan .

Along with the basics, here are some Oregon-specifics that we recommend bringing:

• Rainjacket . This is a MUST for any Oregon adventure. You never know when it will start raining (from our experience, probably just as soon as you head out of the door ) so pack one along. I recommend a rainjacket over an umbrella especially if you plan to do a lot of hiking.
• Waterproof hiking boots . Bring two pairs of hiking boots because they will get wet and muddy so you can wear one pair while the other one dries out.
• Comfy leggings . For road trips, leggings are a must. I recommend darker simple colors that won’t get as obviously dirty when you slip and fall down a trail ( or is that just me? ).
• Cozy but breathable sweaters and plenty of layers.
• A towel to wipe your boots or your dog’s feet before getting into the car.

Now that you have an idea of what to expect, here are 30 incredible things to see & do along the Oregon Coast!

The northern section of the coast is one of the most visited regions in Oregon. A few of the must-see locations include Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach and enormous ocean caves at Cape Kiwanda.

If you’re flying into Portland and don’t have the time to do the entire coastal route, we recommend spending 1-2 days on the northern coast, a couple of days in Portland , and one-day exploring waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge .  

Astoria is the first city south of the Washington-Oregon border and an excellent place to start your Oregon Coast road trip.

Spend some time along Astoria’s riverfront that overlooks Columbia River and stop at Bowpicker Fish & Chips for an order of mouthwatering beer-battered albacore tuna.

Then head out to the beach to explore the Peter Iredale shipwreck that can be found partially embedded in the sand. This ship ran ashore and got stuck in the sand in 1906 after bad weather made it impossible to navigate it out of the sandy shore. Now only the skeleton of the ship remains but over the years it’s become a popular tourist attraction for being one of the most accessible shipwrecks in the PNW.

Location: Peter Iredale Rd, Hammond, OR 97121

2. Ecola State Park

Situated directly north of Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park is a recreational area consisting of 2700 acres of land that was once a site for private homes. The main attraction of this park is an overlook that offers panoramic views of the Cannon Beach coastline and the Terrible Tilly lighthouse which took over 500 days to construct in brutal weather and is now abandoned.

To get there you will need to drive along the Ecola State Park Road that leads through a moss-covered rainforest. Although the drive is short, it feels very magical!

The entrance to Ecola State Park costs $5 which grants you a day pass to enjoy the park’s day-use area. The best views of the beach are located within a short ( but often muddy and slippery ) 5-minute walk from the parking lot.  

Location: Ecola State Park, Cannon Beach, OR 97110

3. Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is one of the most popular coastal towns in Oregon. More than 750,000 visitors come to Cannon Beach every year to vacation in this beautiful beachfront city.  

The most recognizable landmark of Cannon Beach is the towering Haystack Rock that you can spot standing tall in the ocean from just about anywhere in town. Cannon Beach also offers a variety of lodging options from charming private rentals to casual resorts and spas.

Whenever our friends and family come out to visit Portland, we always recommend spending a couple of days in Cannon Beach. This little beach town offers all the necessities for a relaxing vacation including easy beach access, charming mom-and-pop shops, and plenty of restaurant options.  

Location: Haystack Rock, US-101, Cannon Beach, OR 97110

4. Tillamook Creamery

One of my personal favorite stops along the Oregon Coast is Tillamook Creamery. It’s like Disneyland for adults ( except the souvenirs are edible ). As a big Tillamook fan, I try to visit this factory store every chance I get!

The Tillamook Creamery gift shop features specialty items that are hard to find outside of here like aged cheeses and Pendleton whisky-flavored frozen custard.

After touring the factory and browsing the gift shop head over to the restaurant next door for lunch and a fresh scoop (or two, or three ) of creamy Tillamook ice cream right out of the factory.

Location: 4165 N Hwy 101, Tillamook, OR 97141

5. Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area

Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area is an essential stop on an Oregon Coast road trip. Cape Kiwanda features a scenic stretch of coastline with ocean caves and a giant dune that is an excellent place for photography, hiking, and watching sunsets.  

Want to feel like a kid? You can even try to sandboard down the giant dune! Although, fair warning , every attempt we saw ended up with the person tumbling face forward into the sand.

After a fun day playing on the beach, head over to the Pelican Brewing Company for a dinner with a view.

Location: Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area, Pacific City, OR 97135

6. Neskowin Beach

Looking for a secluded spot to head out on a walk? Be sure to stop by Neskowin Beach, an extremely picturesque stretch of the coastline that is not as crowded as the other beaches nearby because it’s not easily spotted from the road.

After parking follow the path along Neskowin Creek until you reach the beach. During our visit, the beach was empty except for a few locals who were walking their dogs.

The main attractions here at the Proposal Rock that you can walk up to during low tide and the Ghost Forest which consists of 2000-year-old petrified tree stumps.

Location: Neskowin Beach State Recreation Site, Neskowin, OR 97149

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The central part of the Oregon Coast is mostly known for small fishing towns and lots of quick drive-up viewpoints.

Here you’ll find a few incredible natural phenomena like Devil’s Punchbowl and Thor’s Well , but much of the central coast consists of viewpoints that look very similar to each other.

As you travel through this region, you’ll encounter fewer and fewer tourists because it’s further away from major cities. The visitors that mostly make it out here are local or driving the entire coastal route – start to finish .

We usually pick a few major highlights to see along the central Oregon Coast and then zoom down to the southern section where the landscape is more rugged and pristine.  

7. Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint

This viewpoint is a day-use area where those who are traveling along the Oregon Coast can stop to go on a walk, enjoy panoramic views and use the public restrooms or picnic tables.

This location also offers photo opportunities of the shoreline as you walk along the park and excellent bird watching – some of these brave guys sat on poles undisturbed by our presence just feet away from us!

Location: Boiler Bay State Wayside, Depoe Bay, OR 97341

8. Depoe Bay Scenic Park

Depoe Bay is a small coastal town with charming mom & pop candy shops, souvenir stores, seafood restaurants, and a lava-covered shoreline.

Depoe Bay is famous for having the smallest harbor in the world! But what really attracts people to this town is the ability to watch whales right from Highway 101 which runs through the city.  

Although we personally did not spot any whales here, we did enjoy walking next to the Depoe Bay Scenic Park and seeing water splash dramatically in the air out of the Spouting Horn . Just be careful not to stand too close to the edge or you’ll get soaked by a sneaky wave!

Location: Depoe Bay Scenic Park, Depoe Bay, OR 97341

9. Rocky Creek State Scenic Viewpoint

Rocky Creek is an easily accessible drive-up viewpoint where you can see a jagged shoreline made of 15-million-year-old volcanic sediments. During high tide, you can watch stark white waves crash against the dark basalt shoreline, quite the sight!

Location: Rocky Creek State Scenic Viewpoint, Depoe Bay, OR 97341

10. Devil’s Punchbowl

Devil’s Punchbowl is one of the most remarkable stops along the Oregon Coast. Despite limited parking, it’s a natural geological wonder that attracts many visitors.

Devil’s Punchbowl formed after the ceiling of an ocean cave collapsed creating a giant hole in the rock . During stormy days you can watch the waves crash against it with sheer power.

There is a designated trail on the top of a cliff overlooking Devil’s Punchbowl that offers pretty good views. If you visit it during low tide, you can also take a trail down to the beach to explore Devil’s Punchbowl from underneath it.

Location: Devils Punchbowl State Natural Area, Otter Rock, OR 97369

11. Beverly Beach State Park

From December to March, Beverly Beach State Park is an excellent place to come whale watching along the long stretch of the beach. Just steps away from the beach is a State Park campground that offers secluded campsites tucked away in between the woods.

Location: 198 NE 123rd St, Newport, OR 97365

12. Yaquina Head Lighthouse

Oregon has quite a few scenic lighthouses scattered throughout its shores. At Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area you can explore the grounds of a 147-year-old lighthouse that still actively signals ships, or take the Lighthouse Trail down to a cobblestone-covered beach.

Cobble Beach has one of the richest tide pools in Oregon and the surrounding area is also part of a wildlife refuge. At low tide, you can walk around the beach and see the thriving marine garden up close.

After exploring Yaquina Head Lighthouse and Cobble Beach, follow the paved path down to the Quarry where you can see Harbor Seals lounging on nearby rocks.

There are information plaques scattered throughout the park so visitors can learn more about the conservation efforts done to protect seabirds, marine mammals, and ocean species. We personally had one of the coolest wildlife encounters here witnessing two bald eagles hunting for food along the shoreline.

Cost: It costs $7 per car for a 3-day pass

Location: 750 NW Lighthouse Dr, Newport, OR 97365

13. Luna Sea Fish House

Luna Sea Fish House is a casual café that is run by a local fisherman and offers fresh seafood at affordable prices. We stopped by here to try out one of their famous Fish & Chips plates along with a cup of clam chowder and marinated fish tacos.

You can grab the food to go or enjoy the meal at their rustic outdoor patio furnished with picnic tables and heaters that will keep you cozy on colder days!

Location: 153 US-101, Yachats, OR 97498

14. Thor’s Well

Thor’s Well is one of the most unique attractions on the coast and offers great photo opportunities, especially around sunset. Located on the edge of a sharp volcanic formation, it’s a natural wonder that you shouldn’t miss!

Thor’s Well is a hole in the rock that’s almost perfectly round and as the waves wash over, it first erupts and spouts the water up, then swallows it down into the hole .

This can be a dangerous location to visit, especially during high tide when sneaker waves can happen unexpectedly. Keep a safe distance from Thor’s Well and from the brim of the rock where it drops off into the ocean.

Location: Thor’s Well, Yachats, OR 97498

15. Heceta Head Lighthouse

Heceta Head Lighthouse is another gorgeous historical landmark and a beach along the central Oregon Coast. Here you can park next to the ocean and enjoy walking down the shoreline or head up to visit the lighthouse that is located on top of a nearby hill ( hint: it looks amazing at sunset! ).

For a unique experience, you can also stay at the 125-year-old Heceta Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast which used to be the light keeper’s home. For more on Heceta Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast see here .

Location: 725 Summer St, Florence, OR 97439

16. Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area

Although a slight detour off Highway 101, Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area offers visitors the chance to see majestic elk up close in a safe and environmentally friendly way.

You can keep an eye out for elk from your car in the designated parking lot or by walking to one of the viewpoints. The elk may not always be out in the pasture but it’s well worth a shot!

Location: Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area, 48819 OR-38, Reedsport, OR 97467

Similar Post:

• 10 Unreal Waterfall Hikes In Oregon

The Southern part of the Oregon Coast is my personal favorite! If you like pristine natural scenery minus the crowds, this is the area that you’ll want to spend a lot of time in.

The best part about the Oregon Coast is that within a few hours of driving you can experience a variety of landscapes.

With secluded black-sand beaches, ancient coastline forests, and jagged cliffs, the southern Oregon Coast is just unbelievable. In some ways, it reminds me of the landscape that we witnessed during our trip to Iceland.

Psst! Check out our post where we compare 10 sights in Oregon that are just like Iceland!

17. Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

At the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, you can hop on an ATV for a thrilling ride, explore trails that lead into sweeping sand dunes, and hang out on sandy beaches.

For Hiking: We recommend checking out the John Dellenback Dunes Trail . This is a 1-mile-long interpretive loop that starts in the forest and leads to an easy access point of the tallest dunes in Oregon. This area is solely used for foot traffic so you don’t need to worry about watching out for off-roading vehicles.

On the second part of this trail, you will come across rare plant species like the red fescue that are almost extinct except for here.

The John Dellenback Trail is named after a US Representative who helped turn the Oregon dunes into a National Recreation Area for protection and preservation.

Rentals: There are several places at Oregon Dunes where you can rent quads, dune buggies, and ATVs to take them out for a spin:

• Torex ATV Rentals
• Ridin’ Dirty ATV Rentals
• Spinreel Dune Buggy and ATV Rentals
• Steve’s ATV Rentals

Location: 855 US-101, Reedsport, OR 97467

18. Shore Acres State Park

Shore Acres State Park is a day-use area where you can see views of the jagged ocean shoreline.

This is a fascinating place to visit in the winter or during a storm when massive waves come to a halting stop as they crash against the shore. The power of nature can be so mesmerizing, but also feel so humbling.

This is one of the few State Parks in Oregon where you do need to pay for the day-use area and the park closes at dusk. The current fee is $5 per vehicle.

Location: 89039 Cape Arago Hwy, Coos Bay, OR 97420

19. Cape Arago State Park

If you’re looking for a place to observe nature, the offshore islands at Cape Arago State Park serve as the largest natural habitat in Oregon for birds and marine animals .

Multiple viewpoints offer easy access to see sea lions and seals swimming between the shores or lounging on the rocks. Often you can spot them popping up through the waves and hear barking sounds in the distance.

Much of this area is a protected wildlife refuge and is closed to the public to provide a safe area for marine animals to rest, take care of their pups, and regulate their body temperature.

From the parking lot, there is a short trail to the right that leads to a great viewpoint of the North Cove, Shell Island, and Simpson Reef.

Location: Cape Arago State Park, Coos Bay, OR 97420

20. Tony’s Crab Shack

If you love seafood, be sure to stop by Tony’s Crab Shack for fresh-off-the-boat-finger-licking-good lunch or dinner. Don’t let the little shack exterior fool you – this place serves top-notch food that will leave you craving for more!

Their famous crab sandwich served on toasted sourdough bread is an absolute must! Pair it up with fresh local oysters on the half shell along with a cup of clam chowder – and you’ll have a meal that you won’t soon forget!

Location: 155 1st St SE, Bandon, OR 97411

21. Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint

Face Rock is one of my favorite viewpoints along the Oregon Coast. Here you can get a clear view from an overlook that opens up to a vast beach with enormous rock formations scattered along the shore. At low tide, you can also walk down to the beach and explore sea caves, tide pools, and hollowed arches.

For an unforgettable time, enjoy a horseback riding adventure right on the beach! Bandon Beach Riding Stables offer horse riding on the beach daily. You can get more info and make a reservation on the Bandon Stables Facebook page here .  

Location: Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint, Bandon, OR 97411

22. Devil’s Kitchen Vista Point

Devil’s Kitchen Vista Point is a gorgeous spot for sunset along the Oregon Coast. Here you can witness amazing views of the beach and towering haystack rocks within a short walk from the parking lot.

Location: 87108 Saturn Ln, Bandon, OR 97411

23. Bandon State Natural Area

If you’re looking to take a break from driving and stretch your legs in solitude, Bandon State Natural Area is an enormous beach along the southern Oregon Coast. Here you are likely to be greeted by a vast empty beach without another person in sight for miles.

For those who are traveling with a dog , keep in mind that between March 15 – September 15 Bandon State Natural Area is a nesting ground for endangered Snowy plover shorebirds, and dogs are not allowed on the beach during these months.

Location: 53969 Beach Loop Rd, Bandon, OR 97411

24. Cape Blanco Lighthouse

Cape Blanco is a State Park that’s situated on a beautiful peninsula offering panoramic views of the craggy shoreline. One of the most recognizable landmarks here is Needle Rock which stands tall in the ocean.

At Cape Blanco you can explore several historic landmarks:

• Cape Blanco Light House . This lighthouse is the most popular of the sites here and is perched at the edge of a cliff.
• Hughes Historic House . This is an original Victorian house from 1898 where a local dairy farmer and businessman used to live.
• Port Orford Lifeboat Station . This station was used by the U.S. Coast Guard to rescue wrecked vessels.

If you don’t have the time to visit all three sites, I recommend stopping by the lighthouse. Within a short walk from the parking lot, you can reach the pristine lighthouse and its adjacent workroom. Back in the day, the lighthouse keepers used to live on the premises along with their families and farm animals.

Cape Blanco Lighthouse is a 10-minute detour off Highway 101, but it’s well worth the stop!

Location: 91100 Cape Blanco Rd, Port Orford, OR 97465

25. Secret Beach

When I first came across a photo of the Secret Beach online, it was hard to believe that a place like this exists!

The Secret Beach is named accordingly – I didn’t know the name nor the location at the time and it took me several different road trips and tries until I found the exact location of this beach. Ironically, it’s marked on the map as “ Secret Beach ” – pretty obvious if you spend enough time browsing through Google Maps.

The entrance to Secret Beach is located right next to Highway 101 . There is a turn-off Highway 101 that leads to a small dirt lot where you can leave your car.

Once you park, follow the short trail that takes you down to the beach. As you come out of the forest clearing, you will be greeted with one of the most remarkable sights along the Oregon Coast.

I recommend visiting Secret Beach for sunrise or sunset when it looks extra magical, often covered in a layer of fog.

From there you can scramble down to the sandy beach and roam around freely. The beach is made of black volcanic sand that adds a mystical element and makes this place look out of this world !

Location: Secret Beach, Brookings, OR 97415

26. Natural Bridges

Natural Bridges is a unique wonder like no other. Natural Bridges is the most iconic spot of the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor that spans across the southern section of the Oregon Coast.

This location is recognizable for a set of giant rocks and a natural bridge that are scattered along the ocean cove. Natural Bridges is best viewed from a platform perched up on a cliff directly across from the beach.

The designated overlook is located less than 5 minutes from the parking lot. If you’re feeling up for an adventure, you can take a narrow trail to get much closer to the rock formations for photos.

Location: Natural Bridges, Brookings, OR 97415

27. Whaleshead Viewpoint

Whaleshead Beach is a stunning coastline stop that has a lot of large rocks on its shore, including one that’s shaped like a whale’s head.

There are two ways to access the beach here – by taking a small trail from Whaleshead Viewpoint or by driving down to Whaleshead Beach. 

Not knowing better, we parked at the Whaleshead Viewpoint and hiked down a narrow path carved into the cliff until we reached the beach. The hike offered incredible views but sections of it were very slippery and steep. Once we got to the beach, we realized there was an easier access point from Whaleshead Beach down the road.

The main attraction here is the Whaleshead Rock but the beach itself is enormous and very scenic!

Location: 19694 Oregon Coast Hwy, Brookings, OR 97415

28. House Rock Viewpoint

House Rock Viewpoint is a quiet stop along the Oregon Coast Highway where you can pull off the road, get out of the car and stretch your legs. There is a short trail that leads to a viewpoint, although some of it is obstructed by overgrown bushes. 

Location: 18982 Oregon Coast Hwy, Brookings, OR 97415

29. Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint

Cape Ferrelo is a quick viewpoint that you can easily stop by and see within a few minutes. This is a drive-up viewpoint so here you can witness those sweeping Oregon coastline views for very little work. You can also head out on some smaller side trails that travel along the coast.

If you come here in the winter or spring, you might even spot migrating whales that travel between Alaska and Baja California.

Location: 18550-, 18592 Oregon Coast Hwy, Brookings, OR 97415

30. Harris Beach State Park

Harris Beach State Park is the last State Park along the Oregon Coast. This recreational site is also one of my favorite places to camp because it’s located just a short walk from the beach.

The campsites at Harris Beach State Recreational Area feel very private and secluded, sheltered by trees in a dense forest. One year we even spent Christmas at this campground with our friends, hanging around the campfire.

Harris Beach State Park is the perfect place to kick off ( or finish up ) the Oregon Coast road trip.

From the campground, you can take a short trail down to the beach. Keep going to the right along the shore and you will come across secluded coves with very few people around, except for some locals walking their dogs.

During low tide, you can also walk out onto giant rock formations in the ocean. But do watch out for rising tide because some of the areas can get harder to access once the water levels start rising.

Location: Harris Beach State Park, U.S. 101, Brookings, OR 97415

Easily one of the most beautiful places in the western part of the United States, the Oregon Coast has unforgettable scenery and natural beauty.

Ready for an Oregon vacation? Before you go, check out some of these popular Oregon posts for some more travel inspiration!

• The 11 Best VRBOs On The Oregon Coast
• Guide To The Best Waterfalls Near Portland, Oregon
• 10 Reasons To Skip Iceland And Head To Oregon Instead
• 15 Best Things That Make Portland Awesome

Interested in stepping up your photography game? Here is the camera gear that I carry everywhere I go to create amazing travel photos:

• Main camera:   Sony a7c Camera . The Sony a7c is tiny, light, full-frame, and durable – in other words, amazing!
• Polarizer Filter:   Hoya 40.5 mm Filter . Polarizing filters reduce glare in water, protect the lens from getting scratched and bring out the best colors when it’s bright outside. Having a polarizing filter is a must-have if you plan to photograph lakes, oceans, rivers, and waterfalls.
• Wide Lens:  Sony 16-35 mm F4 . Great for capturing wide panoramas, nature landscapes, and cramped city streets. Mounts to any Sony mirrorless camera and features autofocus, image stabilization, and incredibly sharp images.
• Lightweight Travel Tripod:   Manfrotto Carbon Fiber Tripod . A good tripod is essential for capturing images in low light conditions, such as during sunset and sunrise, or creating smooth water effects when shooting waterfalls. The Manfrotto Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod is very sturdy, light, and folds small so you can take it on all of your adventures!
• Memory Cards:  SanDisk Extreme 256 GB . It’s always good to bring a few extra memory cards on trips. SanDisk Extreme is ultra-fast for capturing high-quality images, bursts, long exposure night shots, and 4k videos. This memory card is also durable and reliable yet very affordable.
• Camera Batteries:   Wasabi Power Battery Set . I’ve made the mistake of getting to a location to realize my camera is out of battery. Always keep your batteries charged with this camera charger set.
• Camera Bag:  Lowepro adventure shoulder bag . A camera bag is something you should definitely invest in! Without having a proper place to store it I would get my camera scratched, sandy, or even occasionally drop it.

Some of the links used in this blog may be affiliate links, which means that if you place an order through one of those links, we may get a small percentage of the order amount at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

Related Posts

10 Memorable Places To Stay In Bend, Oregon

10 Best Hotels To Stay In Portland Oregon

10 Incredible VRBO Rentals in Cannon Beach

2 thoughts on “30 Incredible Things To See & Do Along The Oregon Coast”

Love this article! Do you have any recommendations on where to stay one night on the coast? We would be traveling from the Bandon area up the coast to Portland.

Hey Kristen! If you plan to stop by Cannon Beach, I recommend spending the night here. Cannon Beach has a lot of great hotels and vacation rentals to choose from. We usually stay at the Hallmark Resort & Spa Cannon Beach that’s situated right on the beach!

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20 Must-See Places Along the Oregon Coast (Super Detailed Guide!)

• By Site Staff
• February 16, 2024
• In Northwest Travel

We've traveled along the Oregon Coast for a total of three times. It's a fantastic drive and a Bucket List Travel destination with so much to see and do along the way! In today's post, I'd like to share with you a fully-curated super-detailed guide listing all of the must-see attractions along the Oregon Coast. Arranged from south to north, we've covered the entire coast in full detail:

Harris Beach State Park

Whaleshead viewpoint.

• Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

Prehistoric Gardens

Rogue river bridge, cape blanco state park, face rock state scenic viewpoint, bullards beach state park, circles in the sand, cape arago state park, shore acres state park, mccullough memorial bridge, umpqua river lighthouse, oregon dunes national recreation area.

• Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint
• Sea Lion Caves
• Siuslaw River Bridge Interpretive Center
• Siuslaw Pioneer Museum
• Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park
• Darlingtonia State Natural Site
• Neptune State Scenic Viewpoint

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area

Thor’s well, devil’s churn.

• Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area
• Oregon Coast Aquarium
• Hatfield Marine Science Center
• Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area
• Yaquina Bay Lighthouse
• Newport’s Historic Bayfront
• Cape Foulweather
• Yaquina Bay Bridge
• South Beach State Park

Otter Crest Loop

Boiler bay state scenic viewpoint, lincoln city glass center, roads end state recreation site, historic taft district, finders keepers.

• Three Capes Scenic Drive (from Pacific City to Tillamook)
• Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint
• Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge
• Munson Creek Falls State Natural Site
• Tillamook Forest Center
• Tillamook Air Museum
• Tillamook County Pioneer Museum
• Tillamook Creamery

Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad

• Oswald West State Park
• Hug Point State Park
• Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site
• Haystack Rock
• Ecola State Park
• Lewis & Clark Salt Cairn Monument
• Turnaround at Seaside
• Seaside Promenade
• Seaside Aquarium

Peter Iredale Ship Wreck

• Astoria Column
• Columbia River Maritime Museum
• Astoria-Megler Bridge
• Fort Stevens State Park
• Astoria Riverfront Trolley
• Flavel House Museum
• Fort Clatsop National Memorial
• Astoria Oregon Riverwalk
• Cathedral Tree Trail
• Young River Falls

Boy, I wish I had that list ready prior to our visits. It sure would have saved us some planning time and helped us focus on the important things. Which is exactly what I hope to achieve here.

The fact is, there is so much to see and do along the ocean beaches of Oregon, that one post - even a mega-post - just can't cover it all. That's why we've published a series of posts in previous posts, each one covering a larger location along the coast. These included the following destinations: Florence , Newport , Seaside and Cannon Beach , Tillamook and Astoria . It's now time to wrap everything together to create this definitive guide to the Oregon Coast!

Here's how this is going to work.

In this post, you'll find a list of places to visit along the coast, from south to north. When we reach one of the towns that have a dedicated post to them, we'll link to that post. Otherwise, the specifics will be given here in this post.

Keep reading for details about each of these cities, along with suggestions on where to stay along the Oregon Coast. Where necessary, I have included admission costs, hours of operation, and links to websites. Hopefully, this list helps you plan a fantastic trip you won’t soon forget!

Oregon South Coast

1. brookings-harbor.

This park has the largest island off the Oregon coast. It has miles of sandy beaches with rocky outcroppings. In addition, there are sea stacks that dot the ocean near the shore and offshore. It is a favorite location for photographers and bird enthusiasts. Check the park’s website for more information and to see if there are any advisories you might need to know of prior to your visit.

Bird Island (or Goat Island, depending on who you talk to) is a wildlife sanctuary. It is the breeding site for many different birds, including the rare tufted Puffin. While you are not able to go out to the island, binoculars allow you a chance to spot any of the 100,000 seabirds that nest there.

This park has wonderful tide pools due to the rocky intertidal area. This rocky cove includes Arch Rock. At low tide, you could see sea stars, green anemones, hermit crabs, and who knows what else?!? Just remember, this is a protected area, so you are free to look and take pictures but not to remove anything.

Known as one of the most gorgeous and scenic spots along the Oregon coast, this viewpoint is worth the stop. There is a parking area right at the viewpoint. There is also a trailhead, but visitors say the one a half mile further north is a safer hike down to the beach.

It is named for the sea stack offshore that looks like the head of a whale. The way the sea stack is cut with a rock channel causes waves to spurt a spray, which makes it look like a whale’s spout. Hence, the name of this viewpoint.

2. Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

This park is a 12-mile stretch of Highway 101 that goes from Brookings-Harbor to Gold Beach. There are a couple of ways you can experience this park; it just depends on your preferred way of exploring. You can pick one specific trailhead and spend the day hiking through one section, or you can stop at each of the different parking areas and explore its features.

Based on my research, here are the must-see parts of the corridor and what you should look out for while exploring this section of the coast.

Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint is a great place to spot migrating whales in the fall and spring seasons. To get to this rugged coastline that has photo-worthy sunsets you just have to hike about a mile.

House Rock Viewpoint has a memorial in honor of Samuel H. Boardman, Oregon’s first Parks Superintendent. It also has a 4-mile trail stretching from here to Cape Ferrelo with numerous side trails that lead to secluded beaches.

Whaleshead Beach is a great picnic spot with gorgeous views. It also has an easy, flat trail to the beach.

Natural Bridges consists of seven iconic arch rocks and blowholes. You can reach the best viewpoint of this natural attraction by following a short trail.

Arch Rock is an area that has a series of offshore sea stacks and islands. From the parking lot, you can take a short path to a lookout which is a perfect place to view these.

3. Gold Beach

Created within Oregon’s natural rainforest, this unique park contains life-sized dinosaur sculptures. There are 23 total sculptures, based on scientific measurements and made to look as realistic as possible.

Each dinosaur exhibit has a plaque that contains fun facts about the creature. Dinosaur tracks help guide you through the park. The graveled path and 6 beautiful wooden bridges make the visit possible for anyone who wants to take in the prehistoric scenery.

In the spring and fall, the gardens are open from 10 am to 5 pm daily. During the summer, the hours switch to 9am to 6pm. In the winter the hours vary. The cost of admission is $12 for adults, $8 for children ages 3 to 12, and anyone 2 or younger is free. Check their website for additional information.

Spanning the mouth of the Rogue River, this bridge was completed in 1932. The revolutionary technique used during the construction of this bridge allowed the architect to include embellishments. These features give the bridge the illusion of being made from cut stone, making it a sight worth seeing.

The bridge is 2 lanes, spans a total of 1,938 feet and is still in use today. It is free to use and open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to anyone traveling on US 101.

4. Port Orford

Located on Oregon’s westernmost tip and perched over the Pacific Ocean, this park is full of state history. There are more than 8 miles of hiking trails within the park providing visitors incredible viewpoints and access to the beach and lighthouse. Within the park are two attractions worth noting.

Cape Blanco Lighthouse is the oldest standing lighthouse on the Oregon coast. Touring the lighthouse costs $2 for adults and is free for anyone 15 years old or younger. Tours are available from April 1 to October 31, Wednesdays through Mondays from 10 am to 3:30 pm.

Historic Hughes House was constructed in 1898. It is a 3,000 square foot farmhouse with plenty of Victorian charm. The home is free to tour, but donations are accepted. From April through the end of October tours are offered Wednesdays to Mondays from 10 am to 3:30 pm.

This scenic location offers you a view of Face Rock along with plumbed restrooms and ample parking. The pathway leading from the parking area to the point is ADA-accessible so anyone can enjoy this location.

At the point, there is a viewing scope and picnic tables so you can relax and enjoy the scenery. According to an American Indian legend about this spot, you can hear a maiden’s voice on the wind. Now, I can’t verify this but from here you can easily pick out the face on the rock which gave this point its name.

In addition to the viewpoint, there are several sets of stairs that lead you down to the wide, sandy beach. These are fairly steep, so before you venture down to make sure you will be able to get back up!

This park is family-oriented and well known for excellent fishing and crabbing along the Coquille River banks. There are numerous hiking and biking trails available for exploring, including a 1-mile mostly paved pathway leading from the registration booth to the beach.

The Coquille River Lighthouse was active from 1895 until 1939 and is located within the park. You aren’t able to access the tower, but the fog and signal room remains open to the public from mid-May through the end of September starting at 11 am until 5 pm. From the lighthouse, you can walk onto the jetty and get a great view of the river and the long stretch of sandy beach.

The park is open for day use year-round, and for those so inclined there are camping accommodations available. If you want more information about the rates for camping or about the history of the park you can check out their website .

What began as a special project has turned into a Bandon staple. The labyrinths are created by Denny Dyke, a local artist, and his team. These walkable pieces of art are designed to promote meditation and reflection right on the beach and free for the public to enjoy.

Most weekends the artists begin drawing in the sand when the tide goes out in the mornings. There is about a 2-hour window of time available to walk the labyrinths, but the end time is dependent on the weather and the tides. There is a detailed schedule available on their website , but the event may be canceled if the weather turns bad.

6. Coos Bay

Located at the literal end of the road, this scenic headland juts out into the Pacific Ocean. It is an excellent location for spotting migrating whales, other marine life, and the numerous vessels traveling through Coos Bay.

The South Cove Trail is a favorite of visitors because it leads to a sandy beach with “superior” tide pools. If you enjoy getting a glimpse of what lives in the ocean’s current, this is a wonderful place to do so.

In addition, the North Cove Trail provides areas great for fishing and beachcombing. It also provides a great view of the off-shore colonies of seals and sea lions at Shell Island. Just an FYI, from March 1 to June 30 this trail is closed to protect the newly born seal pups.

Another state park? Well, this one will surprise you! Located atop sandstone cliffs high above the Pacific Ocean this park features multiple formal gardens along with stunning views and beach access. In addition, there is a fully enclosed observation building allowing you to enjoy the views no matter what the weather is doing.

It doesn’t matter what time of year you visit because there is always something in bloom somewhere in the park. There is a formal garden, a Japanese garden complete with a lily pond, and two rose gardens. Within the park, there is also one of the largest Monterey Pines in the US. Estimated to have been planted around 1910, it stands 95 feet tall, has a 208-inch trunk circumference and a 74-foot crown spread.

The park is open daily from 8 am to dusk and admission is $5 per vehicle. For more information on the park, including any advisories and detailed history, check out their website .

Named for the architect in charge of the design, this draw bridge (formally called a cantilever bridge) opened back in 1936. At that time it was the longest bridge in the state at 5,305 feet long.

At each end of the bridge are pedestrian plazas to give visitors a chance to watch the bridge and passing vessels. The plazas also have built-in benches for those wanting to sit back and enjoy the view. The sweeping stairs provide access to the shoreline and park below.

7. Winchester Bay

This Lighthouse was commissioned in 1894 and stands 65-feet above Winchester Bay. It was constructed after the collapse of the original Lighthouse due to a flood. It is one of the few lighthouses where visitors are permitted to climb the tower to the top.

The Lighthouse Museum is located within a restored Coast Guard barracks. It provides visitors a glimpse into what life was like for a lighthouse keeper. In addition, there is period furniture, memorabilia, and artifacts available for viewing. There is even information on lighthouse lore and shipwrecks that occurred along the Umpqua River Bar.

The Lighthouse and Museum is open May 1 through October 30 from 10 am until 4 pm. Tours are available and cost $3 for adults and $2 for children. Check their website for information on night tours and seasonal options.

8. Reedsport

This 31,500-acre park of the Siuslaw National Forest is home to one of the largest expanses of temperate coastal sand dunes in the world. There are many different activities available in this park to fill your time and enjoy the scenery.

In the summer, there are ranger-led talks available on most days of the week. In addition, there are guided hikes available most weekends. Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs) are allowed in specific areas outlined in maps available at this website .

While the area includes 40-miles of the Oregon Coast, the Oregon Dunes Visitor Center is located in Reedsport. Here you can find maps, brochures, information, exhibits, a gift shop, and restrooms. It is open from 8 am to 4 pm daily and is only closed on federal holidays.

The area itself is free for all to enjoy but there are some areas that require a day-use fee of $5 per vehicle. For more specific information on recreational activities, programs offered, and specific sites within the Oregon Dunes visit their website .

Central Coast

9. florence.

This city is full of amazing opportunities to enjoy the Oregon coast. From exploring North America’s largest seal cave to multiple museums about the area’s history, to enjoy the view from Heceta Head Lighthouse, this place has something for everyone.

I have detailed 7 of the most popular attractions in Florence in a previous post. Check out all the information on the things to do and see, as well as where to stay while visiting in “Top 7 Things to Do & See in Florence, Oregon.”

10. Yachats

The Cape Perpetua Headland towers over 800 feet above the protected Marine Garden shoreline. This is the highest viewpoint accessible by car on the Oregon Coast and where you will find this national park.

There are 26 miles of trails radiating out from the visitor’s center. From these trails, you can explore old-growth forests, Native American shell middens, and many other attractions. You can download a trail guide by visiting this website .

The visitor’s center is open seven days a week, but the hours vary based on the season. It gives visitors an amazing view of the Pacific Ocean and has a viewing deck available if the weather is agreeable. The staff is available to help you discover the activities suitable for your visit. In addition, there are interpretive programs available and a bookstore with souvenirs.

A day-use pass is required since you will be within the Siuslaw National Forest. It costs $5 per vehicle and can be purchased online at this website , you can either buy an ePass or have one mailed to you.

Near Cape Perpetua Thor’s Well is a seemingly bottomless sinkhole that seems to drain water from the Pacific Ocean. Estimated to actually be around 20-feet deep, this huge hole is a spectacular site.

The best time to visit is at high tide or during storms when the waves violently crash over the rocks and funnel into the hole. Locals suggest arriving an hour before high tide so that you can see how it looks prior to water coming in and filling the hole.

This wave carved inlet allows visitors a chance to watch the dramatic churning action of the ocean. The chasm likely started as a narrow fracture or collapsed lava tube within the volcanic bedrock. It is a view into the shoreline’s volcanic history and an awe-inspiring place to view the relentless and violent power of the ocean.

There is a $5 fee per vehicle to access this location. If you visited another location within the Siuslaw National Forest, then the pass you purchased there will be accepted here. You can access the Devil’s Churn Day Use area year-round and there is a restroom available.

11. Newport

Nestled in the heart of Oregon, Newport is full of opportunities to enjoy the sand and sun. There are many attractions to keep you busy, but there is still a small-town atmosphere that makes visiting enjoyable.

Some of my favorite places give you a chance to not only learn about the area but to also interact with it. The Oregon Coast Aquarium and Hatfield Marine Science Center definitely top the list. There are also many natural areas that took our breath away!

In the article “Top 10 Things to Do and See in Newport, OR” you will learn about these attractions and many more. In addition, there are suggestions for where to stay while you enjoy all this city has to offer.

12. Depoe Bay

Winding just to the west of Highway 101, this 4.2 mile narrow stretch of road offers unique views along Cape Foulweather. There are a few small pull-offs that allow you to get out of the car and take in the sites. Two of the stops considered must-do are Otter Crest State Wayside and Devil’s Punchbowl.

This Bay is named for the freighter J. Marhoffer which wrecked off the point in 1910, to this day its boiler is visible at low tide. In addition to its namesake, this location is a rugged, basalt-rimmed bay making it a great spot for surfing.

The Bay also has an amazing panoramic view that provides visitors with one of the best opportunities for spotting gray whales year-round. In addition, locals say this is one of the best places for bird watching along the coast. You can catch shearwaters, jaegers, albatrosses, grebes, pelicans, loons, oystercatchers, and many additional species.

13. Lincoln City

Have you ever wondered how glass art is made? If yes, then this is the place for you! You can observe glass blowing demonstrations on Mondays and Tuesdays, or you can sit and observe anytime. If you want to actually participate, you can make an appointment Wednesday through Sundays from 10 am to 6 pm. There is also a gallery where you can purchase items made previously.

If you want to make your own project, you will need to make a reservation on their website . Projects vary in cost but start at $65. Children are able to participate if they are at least 8 years old and 46 inches tall. The typical project takes about half an hour to complete, so plan accordingly.

Since any glass project has to cool for 24 hours prior to being able to be taken home, the Center does allow you to ship your project back home for $15 and up depending on size and destination. Or, if you are staying in the area you can drop back by the next day and pick up your project. For more specific information and answers to frequently asked questions, go to their website .

Many locals claim this is THE place to go if you want to take a romantic stroll along the beach. It is also a popular location for sailboarders due to the coastal winds that typically blows here. There are islands and even a hidden cove located within this Recreation area.

At the north end of the beach you will find Roads End Point. This is where lava has formed ragged islands over time. At low tide you can get around the point to find the secret cove and beach hidden during high tide. Keep in mind, you will be stuck here if you don’t get out before the tide comes back in!

Located on the southern end of town, this strip of land is the home to many attractions, restaurants, shopping venues, and has easy access to Siletz Bay. Included along this stretch is art studios, a historical museum, and a surf shop that will get you set to enjoy the ocean. For more detailed information on the District, check out their website .

While this isn’t a specific location, it is a unique feature of Lincoln City beaches. All along the seven miles of public beach handcrafter glass floats (or balls) are placed for visitors to find and keep. The “Float Fairies” put out more than 3,000 treasures each and every year, and more are placed each day that weather allows.

These floats are not hidden in difficult to find locations, so don’t hurt yourself while looking for your own keepsake! People find items throughout the day and all along the shore, so there isn’t a specific time or location to hunt. Check out their website for specifics and to learn how to register your found treasure!

North Coast

14. three capes scenic drive (from pacific city to tillamook).

This easy 40-mile drive provides you with some of the most breathtaking views available in northing Oregon. There is ample signage, making the drive stress free and one that many visitors compare to a Sunday drive reminiscent of years gone by.

Following the coast, you will pass by Cape Meares, Cape Kiwanda, and Cape Lookout. Each of these locations have something special to offer you if you choose to stop. However, even if you don’t stop, this stretch of coastline is amazing to see.

Cape Meares filled with stunning sea cliffs and old-growth forest this location has more than 3 miles of hiking trails. If you choose to take a walk, be sure to visit the “Big Spruce” and “Octopus Tree.” There is also an iconic lighthouse dating back to 1889.

Cape Kiwanda is known for having one of the best views of Haystack Rock.

Cape Lookout is located within a state park full of hiking trails and waterfalls to gape at. Beachcombing, whale spotting, and bird watching are activities popular here. Many people claim this Lookout gives the farthest view of the coastline and is incredible in any type of weather.

15. Tillamook

If you enjoy Tillamook cheese, this is a stop you can’t miss! In addition to the famous creamery, there is a lot of history to take in at the Pioneer Museum and the Air Museum. Oh, and of course there are plenty of parks and scenic locations to enjoy while you are there.

In my post “ 7 Best Things to Do in Tillamook, Oregon ” I detail each of the popular attractions within the city. I believe this city is one you can’t miss, especially in your trek along the Oregon coast. Included in the post are a couple of places you can stay while in the area.

16. Garibaldi

Extending from the Tillamook Air Museum through Garibaldi, Rockaway Beach, and Wheeler this steam-powered locomotive offers riders an unmatched experience. The views are spectacular, and everyone is able to enjoy it since nobody is driving! It runs right along the coast, parallel to Highway 101 from about mid-May through September.

Those aged 11 to 61 are able to enjoy the Coastal Excursion trip for $22, children from 3 to 10 years old are $14, and anyone under 3 is free. There are additional discounts and routes available, check their website for more detailed information.

17+18. Cannon Beach & Seaside

This is a little area that packs a big punch! The two cities are close together and offer numerous parks for you to explore. In addition to nature’s beauty, the Seaside Promenade is a wonderful location to soak up some local flavor.

Learn all about our favorite parts of these two cities in my post “ 9 Best Things to Do in Cannon Beach & Seaside, Oregon .” In addition to the numerous attractions, I have included a couple of suggestions for where you could stay while here.

19. Warrenton

Only 4 miles south of the Columbia River channel, The Peter Iredale ship ran ashore back in 1906. Today it is one of the most accessible shipwrecks along the coast. During low tide, visitors are able to walk right up to what remains of this rotting sailing vessel. It is on a public beach so it is free to visit and open to the public year-round.

20. Astoria 

As you have realized by now, the Oregon coast is an area I love to visit. Astoria is the diamond located at the top of this gem-filled coast. I haven’t been able to see and do all I want to in Astoria, but I plan to fix that someday soon.

The area is full of historical locations including the Astoria Column, the Maritime Museum, the Riverfront Trolley, and Fort Clatsop National Memorial. In addition, you will find the Cathedral Tree, a 300-year-old Sitka Spruce.

You can find my full list of things you have to check out while in the area in my post “ 10 Best Things to Do & See in Astoria, Oregon. ” In addition to the numerous attractions, you will find my suggestions on where to stay while you are in the area.

Places to Stay along the Oregon Coast

Here are my suggestions on where you can stay while touring the Oregon Coast. As always, I have used booking.com to do my research and I strongly suggest you start using this site. In addition to being able to filter by location, but you can do it by cost and guest ratings.

Therefore, it is a great way to ensure your stay is as great as you expect while still being within your budget. For this list, I have given you a handful of options for each part of the coast. All of these are considered great places to stay and won’t break the bank. If you want to learn more about the location, just click on the name and you will be taken to their page on booking.com.

South Coast

Ocean Suites Motel is located in Brookings-Harbor, right at the southern tip of Oregon. It is within walking distance to the beach and many local restaurants.

Taylor Creek Lodge is in Gold Beach and has a sauna, fitness room, and hot tub. In addition, there is also a shared lounge and water sport facilities available.

Lamplighter Inn is located in Bandon right off of Highway 101. It is only 1.4 miles from Coquille River Lighthouse and is close to many other attractions.

The Old Tower House Bed & Breakfast is in Coos Bay and was built back in 1872. It is within walking distance to the beach and has fishing, crabbing, and whale watching tours available to book.

Park Motel & Cabins is located in Florence and has barbecue facilities and laundry services available on site. Each room has a microwave and a refrigerator if you are wanting to save some money on eating out.

Deane’s Oceanfront Lodge is in Yachats and located on 4 miles of oceanfront property. In addition, there is a shared lounge with DVDs, puzzles, games, and books available for guests to borrow during their stay.

Agate Beach Motel is located in Newport just a little over a mile from Yaquina Head Lighthouse. There are barbecue facilities available on the property and ovens in every room.

Looking Glass Inn is in Lincoln City just a few steps from the beach. It is one of the top-rated locations in Lincoln City as well as being considered a great value.

Surf & Sand Inn is located in Pacific City with a private garden and concierge service. It is a break from the typical chain hotels as it is a privately-owned location.

Tradewinds Motel is in Rockaway Beach and within walking distance to miles of sandy beaches. There is a private balcony, microwave, and refrigerator in each guest room.

Sea Breeze Court is located in the heart of Cannon Beach’s city center and is a 100% non-smoking hotel. Each room has a microwave and refrigerator.

Sandy Cove Inn is in Seaside, only a short walk from the beach. Each room has a mini-fridge and is decorated in a uniquely charming way (according to those who have stayed there!).

Norblad Hotel is in a historical building located in Astoria. There is a shared kitchen available for all guests to use and a tour desk to help you plan your stay.

How long should the Oregon Coast Road Trip take you?

That's an excellent question. At the bare minimum, I would say two days. That's pretty much how long it's going to take you to drive along the 101 from Brookings to Astoria while making 3-4 short stops every day. We've spent a total of 8 days exploring the Oregon Coast and no, we don't feel like we've had enough. This is a perfect destination for a family vacation. We once rented a place in Newport for five days. Another time, we stopped for 3 days in Manzanita. That gave us more time to explore in depth and hike the state parks. If you can afford it, I can't recommend it enough.

How much should a trip to the Oregon Coast cost?

One of the greatest aspects of visiting Oregon, in my opinion, is that a large majority of the state parks and beaches are free to the public and open to visitors daily all year long. Most state parks charge an entrance fee, and with so many state parks along the coast, this helps to save you quite a bit of money along your journey!

There are some parks that have additional costs due to attractions located within the park boundaries, that information is included below. When visiting any of the beaches, be sure to check the tide-pool schedule to make sure you time your visit right. In addition, any specific hours of operation that vary from the year-round day use will be outlined in the description of the attraction.

All you need to add is the cost of gas and accommodation - which would vary, depending on how many days you'd like to spend road tripping along the coast.

Over to you!

Have you made it thus far? Well done! This was one long post to write so if you made it through, do leave me a comment? Let me know what you think of these destinations. Which have you visited? What did you think of them? Which would you like to include in a future itinerary? I love comments and questions from blog readers, so bring them on!

FANTASTICO! I’ll visit this Oregon coast this October 2022 for sure. Thank you so much for your long and very well described article. So helpful and so enticing indeed!

Enjoy your trip! I hope you get good weather and get to enjoy the Oregon coast to the fullest!

This is the most comprehensive list I have ever seen. Thank you so much for putting this together. We are hoping to visit Oregon next Spring; however, it will be in early March and I’m wondering if that’s even a good time to do it or if we should wait until Summer. Also, my only question is about places to eat along the way. My daughter is a culinary science student so food is usually a big part of any trip we do. Are there accessible places to eat? Any must not miss places? I know on the east cost the lobster and crab shacks are dotted around very abundantly.

Hi Rosemary, I think early March would be a hit or miss, in terms of rain. Typically, along the coast the temperatures are cool all year around without getting super cold in winter. Rain would be the issue, and it’s just hard to tell in advance. I would go for it – with the off-season prices you could probably find some accommodation bargains along the way! I’m not sure about places to eat, sorry! Not much of a foodie, myself. I would just use TripAdvisor and similar apps to find places to eat around me. Even Google Maps has good listings, with reviews. Enjoy your trip!

This post is amazing! We are going for Spring Break this year and planning on staying at a few Sate Parks (we have a truck camper and Grandpa can stay in a yurt).

This lost will be very helpful! I saw somewhere else I,go about the Oregon Coast Quests. We thing our boys will love these challenges through the trip.

Those dunes are not in Reedsport they are in North Bend, I recognize that exact spot in the ‘Oregon Dunes National Recreation area’. Mislabeled the location. Otherwise, this is an excellent list✌

Thanks for letting us know – so glad you liked the list!

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25 Things To See and Do On The Oregon Coast

Hilarye June 3, 2019 Destinations , Family Travel 5 Comments

The Oregon Coast is one of the most beautiful places in the country. It is absolutely my all-time favorite road trip destination after being on the road fulltime for a year. This fact actually surprises a lot of people, but it is so unique and so accessible that it is by far my favorite coastal area. The key to enjoying the Oregon Coast is to take your time. For the full experience, plan on driving down (or up) the US 101 and enjoy the sights as your heart desires. 

What I love about the Oregon Coast is that each area is so unique and breathtaking. Because of this I really do think you need to visit a few different areas, not only one, before calling it good. We started south in Florence and worked our way up to Astoria and then into Washington State. Next time I think we will start even further south and enjoy even more of the west coast.

I love that each city and region had its own set of unique natural wonders and fun things to do and see. So if you are planning a road trip to the Oregon Coast with your family here is our list of 25 things to do and see on the Oregon Coast. This list starts South and works its way North but you could easily reverse it. 

25 Things to do on the Oregon Coast

Cape arago lighthouse.

Cape Arago is a beautiful lighthouse on the southern coast of Oregon along the Cape Arago Highway. It is unique in the fact that you can’t walk up to it due to the fact that it is on an island just offshore. There are plenty of spots along the Cape Arago Beach Loop to get a great view and snap a photo though. Lighthouse Beach is one of the best viewpoints of the lighthouse and it is accessible with a short hike.

Though images of The Cape Arago Lighthouse are posted everywhere, the lighthouse itself remains a mystery to many. It is no longer in operation nor is it open to the public. And yet, it still has a commanding presence and simple beauty making it the star of photographs and journals from travelers from around the world! The lighthouse stands on Chief’s Island at Point Gregory but visitors are no longer allowed on the island and is now private property.

Oregon Sand Dunes National Recreation Area

Florence is famous for its massive and long stretching sand dunes. Here you will find miles and miles of dunes lining the beach. It’s a popular ATV and four-wheeling destination but it’s also great for families who want to try sandboarding or dune sledding.

Sea Lion Caves

Just down south of Heceta Head State Park is Sea Lion Caves where you can catch a glimpse of a bunch of Sea Lions in the world’s largest sea caves. An elevator takes you down to ocean level where you have a great viewpoint of the wildlife.

Heceta Head Beach and Lighthouse

View this post on Instagram Making summer plans currently… lots of options and finding it hard to choose. It will be hard to top the Oregon coast. Where do you dream of going this summer?⁣ ⁣ ⁣ #oregoncoast #oregonnw #exploreoregon #bestoforegoncoast #thatoregonlife #traveloregon #discoveroregon #upperleftusa #pnwonderland #pnwisbeautiful #oregonexplored #nomadfamily #nomadlife #digitalnomad #nomad #laptoplifestyle #workanywhere #youroregon #laptoplifestyle #workfromanywhere #pnwdiscovered #nomads #bestoforegon #travelphotography #dronestagram #drones #dronefly #dronelife #droneheroes #lonelyplanet A post shared by Reid and Hilarye Fuller (@dottingthemap) on May 14, 2019 at 1:27pm PDT

We absolutely loved this fun little beach area with a short hike up to the lighthouse. The half-mile trail passes the lighthouse keepers house that is now a beautiful bed and breakfast. The views here are like nothing else. We spent a whole day here doing little hikes behind the lighthouse as well as playing on the beach and exploring the tide pools.

Haceta Head Aerial Video

Devils Churn

This was actually one of our all-time favorite spots. We headed here on a whim one evening when we just wanted to get out of the RV but ended up staying for hours. Devils Churn is an inlet on the Pacific Ocean in between two steep cliffs that when the high tide comes in the waves crash and put on a show!

There is a beautiful walkway down to the churn on one side and another path to a nice beach. The paths are well taken care of, have handrails, and are lined with vegetation and flowers. It’s a great spot for tide pooling or climbing on rocks or just admiring the sunset.

Again located near Devil’s Churn and Cape Perpetua is this natural wonder that amazes almost everyone who sees it. Thors Well is a sinkhole that seems to have endless water streaming through it. It’s best seen in high tide so make sure to check out the tide schedules if you want to see it in its full glory. It’s important to note that this can be a little dangerous, especially in high tide so please use caution.

Cape Perpetua

We would not have found this gem had we not spoken to some locals at one of the shops in Yachats. It’s just a little south of Devil’s Churn but follow the signs up the mountain a short distance to one of the most breathtaking lookouts on the coast. The trail isn’t bad, but the edges are really high and steep so make sure you have firm grasps on little hands. My palms were sweating quite a bit but it was worth it for the view. Follow signs for the rock shelter for a quarter mile roundtrip walk that will be 100 percent worth it. Stunning views in a beautiful little rock shelter built in 1933.

Oregon is the Magic Mural

View this post on Instagram Oregon is Magic. We are most definitely finding this to be true.⁣ ⁣ ⁣ #oregon #oregonnw #exploreoregon #thatoregonlife #portlandnw #pnwcollective #northwestcreatives #upperleftusa #pnwlove #familytravel #exploregon #familytrip #oregoncoast #pnwonderland #youroregon #discoveroregon #bestoforegoncoast #travelwithkids #pacificnorthwest #nomadfamily #nomad #digitalnomad #nomadlife #laptoplifestyle #northwestisbest #traveloregon #thenwadventure #oregonexplored #laptoplifestyle #locationindependent A post shared by Reid and Hilarye Fuller (@dottingthemap) on Apr 29, 2019 at 6:16pm PDT

If you are looking for a great Instagram shot then check this beauty. The Oregon is Magic mural is in the small coastal town of Yachats between 3rd and 4th streets on the east side of Highway 101. It’ll be a great place to stop for a quick photo opportunity for your family.

Waldport Bridge

We loved driving over this bridge and seeing the sea lions resting on the beach and admiring the views of the Newport area. All the bridges in Oregon are interesting and unique but this is one of our favorites.

Hatsfield Marine Science Center

This is a must for anyone visiting the area, especially if you have kids interested in Marine Science. It’s perfect for a quick afternoon trip or for a rainy day. Admission is free but they have a suggested donation of $5 per person or $20 per family. Really you can give whatever you have or feel like. There are touch aquariums, hands-on activities that demonstrate Tsunami impacts, and other fun little Science experiments. 

Newport Historic Bayfront and Marina

If you are going to Newport then you need to spend an afternoon wandering around the piers and shops on the water. My girls could have watched the resident sea lions fighting and splashing for hours. We loved perusing the local art shops and watching the fishing boats in action.

Devils Punchbowl

This is an interesting state park where you can watch the surfers in action, explore tide pools, and see cool rock formations. The Devils Punchbowl is famous for winter storms slamming into the hollow rock formations that make it look like a giant punch bowl and gives off an amazing show. It’s a beautiful location for a picnic and to do some exploring.

Yaquina Head Lighthouse and Tide Pools

Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area is another state park is brimming with beautiful things to see and do. There is a visitors center with educational opportunities and fish tanks, but the real show is at Cobble Beach which has some of the best tide pools we found in the whole state.

Here you can see sea urchins, starfish, fish, and anemones with plenty of rangers around to answer questions and keep you safe from sneaker waves. This is also a popular spot to see seals just offshore as well. Please note that Cobble Beach is only accessible by stairs.

Just up from Cobble Beach, you can take tours of the beautiful Yaquina Head Lighthouse. This lighthouse is among the oldest in the state.

If you are looking for a good beach to take in some time relaxing with your family, this is a good spot. It’s easily accessible to haul stuff in and close proximity to shops and parking. Don’t forget to pack your kite!

Munson Creek Falls State Natural Site

Everyone loves a good waterfall and this one is no exception. Munson Creek Falls is located about twenty minutes south of Tillamook. It has a short hike to the falls (perfect to work off some of that cheese and ice cream from the Tillamook Creamery). The trail follows the creek and during the winter season, you can also see salmon. It’s the biggest waterfall on the coast trail and actually the only one on this list, so it’s worth a visit.

Tillamook Creamery

I really believe that no visit to the Oregon Coast can be complete without visiting the Tillamook Creamery. If you like cheese or ice cream than you need to plan to stop here. We all loved watching the process of how cheese is made, stored, aged, and packaged before it heads to the store. Of course, getting to sample many different types of cheese topped everybody’s list.

The Tillamook Creamery recently went under a massive renovation in 2018 so if you have been before you will want to come back. The facilities are beautiful and it’s really a great spot to spend a few hours and do some tasting and shopping.

Cape Meares Lighthouse

If you love lighthouses like we do and can’t get enough of them then a short fifteen-minute drive away from Tillamook you will find Cape Meares. This is a smaller, inactive lighthouse but there is a short accessible trail that you can walk on to the lighthouse and catch some beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s a quick visit but we were glad we went.

*Just a little tip here. If you have extra time when heading north to Newport I would suggest ignoring the GPS and following the 101 instead of shaving 15 minutes by cutting inland. We had a lot of fun seeing the sites and caught up with the Oregon Coast Scenic train a few times much to the delight of my three-year-old son.

Hug Point State Recreation Point

This is a pet and people friendly beach with more scenic views of the beautiful coast. It has plenty of parking and restrooms and is a great spot to walk the beach. It is a beach with more rocks than sand, so water shoes or flipflops will do better than bare feet.

Cannon Beach

View this post on Instagram Promise me that sometime in your life you will come see this ok?⁣ ⁣ ⁣ ⁣ #familytravel #travelwithkids #oregoncoast #bestoforegon #familytrip #cannonbeach #oregon #haystackrock #thatoregonlife #pnwlife #oregonnw #kidstravel #exploreoregon #discoveroregon #pnwwonderland #jj_oregon #exploregon #bestofnorthwest #bestoforegoncoast #wherewillwegonext #upperleftusa #pnwcollective #northwestisbest #pnwisbeautiful #thenwadventure #pnwisbest #pnwexplorations #wa_nderlust #travelphotographer #youroregon A post shared by Reid and Hilarye Fuller (@dottingthemap) on May 11, 2019 at 12:00pm PDT

Do you need to stop in Cannon Beach? YES, you do. The small town has lots of beautiful shops and restaurants but this is by far one of the most beloved beaches in all of Oregon. It is famous for its beautiful views and of course, it’s seaside rock formations including the most notable Haystack Rock.

Ecola State Park

If you want a beautiful panoramic view of Cannon Beach, lush hiking trails and lighthouse views than this is a great place to come. You do need to purchase a day use pass for this park ($5). It is a famous archeological site known for finding treasures from the Tillamook people. It’s also a great place for viewing native tree species including Douglas Fir, Sitka Spruce, Red Alder, and many others. Lots of people come to see Tillamook Rock Lighthouse which can be seen at Ecola Point.

Seaside Beach

The town of Seaside is a unique destination. If you are looking for a beach town with the perfect summer vibe and carnival-like feel, then Seaside is perfect. The beach is best known for playing in the waves, flying kites and enjoying time with friends. It’s also widely known for it’s clamming and kids 12 and under can clam for free. Anyone older than that needs a license which is fairly easy to receive. 

Fort Stevens State Park

One of my favorite spots in the area, we could have spent a whole day here (we almost did). Fort Stevens is a unique state park that has many different things to see. It’s famous for having the remains of the shipwreck of the Peter Iredale which was abandoned in 1906. I was surprised but it is not protected so kids can wander around and play on it. The beach itself is gorgeous and fun to spend time splashing and playing in. FYI the sandy walk to the beach is a special kind of hot, so make sure you have flip flops or beach shoes.

Fort Stevens State Park is also known for its views of the Columbia River mouth. There are many hiking trails along the river you can wander and find secluded areas on the coastal line with views of Astoria and Washington. We spotted four bald eagles and two elk nibbling on flowers, so it’s also great for finding wildlife.

Astoria and the Goonies Attractions

Thousands of Goonies fans flock to Astoria each year to retrace the steps from the cult movie. My husband has now done this twice. The town welcomes Goonies fans with open arms. You can stop by the Lower Columbia Bowl- bowling alley for a map of all the Goonies spots and sign the guestbook, head over to the Oregon Film Museum which is the old jail in the movie to see memorabilia, but please note you are no longer able or welcome to visit the Goonies house as it is a private residence. We’ve written a post about places from The Goonies that you can still see today . Check it out.

Lewis and Clark National Historic Park

Fort Clatsop is a great place to stop with your family for a history lesson with costume led tours of the fort and activities. The National Park is also a beautiful wildlife viewing spot and a great place to kayak and hike.

Astoria Bridge

By far our favorite bridge in Oregon is the Astoria Bridge. This bridge connects Astoria to Megler Washington and spans the wide Columbia River. It’s fun to drive across as you leave one state and enter another, but also the views of the Columbia, all the big ships and wildlife alone make this a must-see.

Bonus – A Few Places to Eat on the Oregon Coast:

There are some amazing locally owned and sourced restaurants all along the coast and each city has its own unique take on seafood favorites. They are all fresh and delicious so we always encourage to find the local favorites. That being said we also believe that no trip to the Oregon coast is not complete without trying these two restaurants that are chains (family-owned) but specific to the Oregon coastal front.

Pig ‘N Pancake

This restaurant became a favorite for my kids to spot on our drives through different cities. It’s a family restaurant with a wide variety of items on their menu. Our favorites were the coconut pancakes.

Mo’s Clam Chowder

Known for their delicious and creamy clam chowder, Mo’s is a favorite spot to enjoy seafood and scenery. We loved Mo’s on Cannon Beach with ocean views or the one in Florence on the river. Newport has a great location right on the historic bayfront.

If you’re looking to hit the Oregon Coast, make sure to check these spots out. Let us know where else you stop!

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The Best Oregon Coast Towns and Attractions

Updated September 2023

When it comes to exploring the western coast of the United States, Oregon has it all. From coastal towns and epic attractions, you’ll want to bookmark these best spots along Oregon’s coast for your trip.

Over the years, we’ve spent a few trips exploring Oregon’s endless coastline . Each winding turn down the coast from north to south leads to a new vista, a new town to explore, and stunning beaches. You could spend a few weeks just exploring the different regions of Oregon’s coastline.

Whether you choose to go in the spring or fall, you’ll find each region has beauty to offer no matter the time of year. I’ve loved exploring in the fall months as the summer crowds die down and you often have beaches to yourself. The moodiness of an early spring trip is also welcomed. Foggy mornings burn off to sunny afternoons for a pleasant day.

As you’re spending time planning your trip to Oregon, you’ll want to organize the best places to visit along the way. I’d highly recommend setting aside a couple of nights to explore Oregon’s coast. Our two trips that we’ve done have been split into two areas: north and south .

Thinking through an Oregon Coast trip, it may make sense to break it into two smaller trips that could be enjoyed at a more leisurely pace. This guide to the Oregon Coast will help you plan your time and decide which places you want to stop.

Read on for a look at some of the best Oregon coast towns and attractions.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels on the Oregon Coast:

• The Waves , for the best northern coast hotel
• Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa , for the best central coast hotel
• Bay Point Landing , for the best southern coast hotel

A Guide to the Oregon Coast

Oregon coast map.

To get an idea of the location of all of these towns across Oregon’s coast, I’ve created a Google Map with saved locations. You’ll be able to get a good idea of where these towns are located as you pick your itinerary. The towns saved on the Oregon coast map that work best for staying overnight and exploring nearby sights.

Best Towns and Attractions

When it comes to the best towns and attractions along the Oregon Coast, there is a lot to cover. I’ve narrowed down the best and must-see spots along the coast. Below, you’ll find the list broken down into three main regions: north, central, and south. The list is a combination of towns and highlights. Ready to start planning your epic coastal trip?

Northern Oregon Coast

One of the most historic towns in all of Oregon, Astoria is an iconic fishing town and now more commonly known for the American Comedy, The Goonies . Its riverfront is chock-full of local breweries, restaurants, and shopping opportunities. Astoria is the gateway to the northern coast of Oregon. This family-friendly destination welcomes Oregon Coast visitors who want a city experience close to Oregon’s beautiful outdoors.

A few things you don’t want to miss:

Astoria Riverwalk : Head here first along the Columbia River. The historic corridor that is protected for pedestrians has museums, restaurants, and more.

Lewis and Clark National Historic Park : For those looking for a historical experience, come here to understand more of the Lewis and Clark expedition. It’s located near Fort Clatsop, so you can experience both in one visit.

Oregon Film Museum : Astoria has its share of museums and for those interested in movies, you won’t want to miss this one. Each month it rotates a different exhibit on a movie made in Oregon.

Fort Stevens State Park : Fort Stevens State Park is a large park area that is historic and home to multiple hiking and biking trails as well as the famous 1906 shipwreck.

Astoria Hotel Recommendations

• Find the best Astoria Hotels here

A popular resort city located just south of Astoria, Seaside makes for a wonderful option for a home base for exploring the north coast. You have close proximity to Cannon Beach and other sights. It’s the largest city on the coast and has a lot to offer in town. You can explore town or get out on the water.

Here are some of the highlights of things to do in Seaside:

Rent Kayaks: One option for exploring the ocean here is to rent a kayak (I hear Seaside Lodge & Hostel has the best rates) and explore the Necanicum Estuary .

Explore Cannon Beach : Though you can stay in Cannon Beach, you can also pop down from Seaside for a day at the beach.

Hike the Tillamook Head Rainforest : If you’re looking for time inland and in nature, this trailhead provides access to a mysterious green rainforest just south of Seaside.

Cannon Beach

This may be my favorite town on Oregon’s coast, it truly is beautiful. The beach and its rock outcroppings, and its most famous Haystack Rock. It is worth a visit even if you don’t stay overnight. The town itself is charming with tons of boutiques and restaurants to enjoy while visiting (check out Pelican Brewing and Sea Level Bakery).

Ecola State Park : If you go explore one State Park, let it be Ecola. The sweeping views down the coast are incredible (bring your camera) and there are plenty of hiking trails here. You can also pop into Oswald West State Park to the south if you’re looking to explore headlands.

Bonfire on the beach : One of the beaches you can have a bonfire on is Cannon Beach. Dig a pit in the sand and start a fire to enjoy as the weather cools off.

Cannon Beach Hotel Recommendations

• Schooner’s Co ve Inn

Manzanita is a small, charming town in comparison to other towns on the coast. Plus, it’s home to the most photographed scenery of Oregon — yup, the views here are that great. It has to do a lot with its temperate weather year-round and its access to empty beaches. This small town also packs a surprise — it has fine dining and a rather famous spa . For those looking for the “off-the-beaten-path,” I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Restaurants & Cafes: One of the highlights of Manzanita is its food, so you’ll want to carve out some time for this. A few highlights are San Dune Pub , Left Coast Siesta , Yolk , Manzanita Mudd Dogs , and Wild Grocery & Cafe .

Oswald West State Park : You can pop in from the north or more conveniently from Manzanita which is four miles of dense, temperate rainforest along the ocean. Don’t miss the views of Neahkahnie Mountain and Nehalem Bay. Other highlights include Short Sand Beach , Cape Falcon , and Devil’s Cauldron .

Tillamook Bay

I’m putting the entire Tillamook Area under Tillamook Bay because there is so much to see here on the coast and inland. This is where we based ourselves for one of our trips and loved the proximity to both central and northern coastal Oregon. Tillamook is certainly most famous for the Tillamook Creamery , definitely pop in to get ice cream and their cheese. The architecture is done by Olson & Kundig , one of our favorite firms from Seattle.

As far as what to do, you may find yourself enjoying some of these activities:

Cape Meares : Head out on a scenic drive to Cape Meares to explore the trails and see the Cape Meares Lighthouse . You can also stop in at Short Beach if you’re looking for a beach area.

Stay at a design Airbnb: Along the Wilson River inland, is one of my favorite Airbnbs in Oregon. It’s the River Cabaan and is wonderfully designed for those looking for a retreat.

Kilchis Point Reserve : For a relatively flat trail and scenic area to go for a walk, Kilchis Point Reserve is it. The reserve is owned and maintained by the Tillamook County Pioneer Museum .

Crabbing / Fishing: One of the main areas to go crabbing along the coast is an awesome spot to go fishing. The bay is home to Chinook and coho salmon as well.

Netarts: This town just south of Tillamook Bay is worth a quick stop for a few things. The first is for a meal at The Schooner Restaurant and Lounge — their crab mac & cheese is insanely good. Along the Netarts Bay, you’ll also find the famous Jacobsen Salt Co. shack that is open and sells salt directly (a great souvenir). And for the best view, head up to Cape Lookout Viewpoint which looks out over the bay — hiking can also be done there at the Cape Lookout State Park .

Tillamook Hotel Recommendations

• Find the best Tillamook Hotels here.

Central Oregon Coast

Pacific city.

Located at the southern end of the Three Capes Scenic Route , Pacific City is another wonderful coastal fishing town. What it may be most famous for is Cape Kiwanda and its Giant Sand Dune (quite literally). It’s also one of the few beaches that allow you to drive your cars on the beaches. Pack up a picnic and enjoy some time out on the beach here.

Some highlights:

Giant Sand Dune : One of the most unique attractions in Oregon is the “Giant Sand Dune.” Go for a hike and soak in the views from atop.

Nestucca River : The river is home to a wonderful place to kayak, swim, and fish. You can even rent paddle boards to go up the river.

Pacific City Hotel Recommendations

• Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa
• Find more Pacific City Hotels here

Another one of those gems, Neskowin one may take the prize for the central region given its charm and restaurants. You are also well based for exploring local and nearby sights. It’s also home to the Neskowin Beach Golf Course , so your golf-lover’s will enjoy a day out on the greens. It’s most famous for its large beach which Slab Creek empties into the Pacific Ocean. Proposal rock (a sea-stack) is just off-shore, popular for photography at sunset. Here’s how to experience Neskowin:

Proposal Rock : Yes you can climb this rock following the well-worn footpaths that are there. It is not an easy task and it can be slippery, but it is doable to do.

Neskowin Beach Golf Course : Play a round of golf at this course that has been around since the 1930’s.

Restaurants: The Cafe on Hawk Creek and Neskowin Trading Company are both wonderful restaurants in Neskowin.

Neskowin Hotel Recommendations

• Find the best Neskowin Hotels here

I had to include Depoe Bay as it is most famous for being the whale watching capital of Oregon’s coast. During the months of March through December, there is a resident pod of grey whales that hang out here. In the harbor, companies charter out day trips to go see the whales and take excursions. Depoe Bay also has one of the best coastal resorts, Whale Co ve Inn that offers incredible views over Whale Cove.

Depoe Bay Hotel Recommendations

• Whale Co ve Inn , for the best views over Whale Cove
• Find the best Depoe Bay accommodations here.

Often referred to as the funky capital of Oregon’s coast, Newport has been attracting visitors for decades. It’s a family-friendly destination, has some strange museums, and plenty of opportunities to see the resident sea animals. Pop into:

The historic Bayfront : Right along the Yaquina Bay, this bayfront has restaurants and even a chance to see the sea lions right there.

Ripley’s Believe it or Not! : It’s one of the more popular museums here to visit or even consider visiting the The Wax Works , a museum home to dozens of wax sculptures.

Rogue Ales and Spirits : Rogue Brewery has its official headquarters here in Newport, so pop in for a brewery tour, a pint, and a bite.

Agate Beach : Go for a stroll along the beach at Agate or consider visiting Nye Beach as an alternative.

Yachats is a very small town of only 1,00 residents but attracts a lot of visitors. From art galleries to cycling trails, it also has the highest point on the Oregon coast at Cape Perpetua Scenic Area . A few popular things to do:

Lunch at Luna Sea Fish House : Fish and Chips are really popular here and feature fresh fish.

Walk the 804 Trail : It’s a coastline trail that follows along the sandy beach and into town.

Explore Cape Perpetua Scenic Area : Head here to see the blowholes of Devils Churn and Spouting Horn at Cooks Chasm , where water shoots up. There are plenty of panoramic vistas as well. Entrance is $5

Yachats Hotel Recommendations

• Find accommodations in Yachats here.

Southern Oregon Coast

With one of the best locations at the furthest northern point of the southern coast, Coos Bay is a great location for exploring local sights. This coastal town has some lovely local restaurants and is known for oysters located at Clausen Oysters near the Bay. For the best local pizza, check out Front Street Provisioners and book a cabin at Bay Point Landing .

When staying in Coos Bay, you’ll want to check out these sights:

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area : It’s 40 miles of natural sand dunes that are along the coast. You can hike them or rent an off-roading vehicle to have some adventure. My suggestion is to go early in the morning to avoid the high winds. For the best trailhead to explore the dunes, park at John Dellenback Dunes Trailhead .

Shore Acres State Park and Cape Arago State Park : Not too far from Coos Bay, you can come to explore this state park that is home to hidden beaches on coves, hiking trails, a botanical garden, and vista points. Don’t miss the Cape Arago Lighthouse Viewpoint.

Many know Bandon for its famed Bandon Dunes Golf Resort . It’s a bucket list destination for the avid golfer. You can opt to stay right at the golf course or stay in the small fishing town that is there. Some other local highlights include:

Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint and Bullards Beach : These are two wonderful beaches local to Bandon. You can catch sunset even at Coquille Point while here. For another beach option, check out Bandon Beach .

Crab at Tony’s Crab Shack : A traveler’s favorite spot in Bandon is fresh seafood at the iconic Tony’s Crab Shack.

Floras Lake State Natural Area : Further south, you’ll find the Floras Lake Natural State Area that is well known for hikes through the woodlands and the famous Blacklock Point .

Bandon Hotel Recommendations

• Find properties to rent in Bandon here

Located in Curry County, the larger of the cities on the southern Oregon coast is Gold Beach. It has several restaurants, a grocery store, and other amenities. It makes for a good home base as well for exploring this part of the coast. It’s also near the mouth of the Rogue River where you can hop on a speedboat tour that takes you up the river.

One other highlight nearby is the Crazy Norwegian Fish and Chips located a few miles north in Port Orford. If you’re driving in from the north, you could stop for lunch.

Samuel H. Corridor

Though the accommodations are very limited here (I’d recommend staying in Gold Beach or Brookings), the Samuel H. Corridor has to be highlighted. In my opinion, this is the most scenic part of the Oregon Coast. The winding freeway has several stops that are marked and you can pull off and enjoy.

My favorite stops include: Arch Rock State Park , Secret Beach , Natural Bridges , Whaleshead Beach , House Rock Viewpoint , and Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint .

The final major town is Brookings and is another great option especially if you’re driving in from California. It is more of a city where you’ll have big brand stores and businesses. There are some local gems here too like the Pacific Sushi & Grill .

Just north of Brookings is the scenic Samuel H. Corridor which I highly recommend visiting. In the area of Brookings, you will not want to miss:

Azalea Park : A quaint city park home to a ton of azaleas, it’s a beautiful park to explore. I’d pop in for a stroll during the blooming season.

Lone Ranch Beach : Come here for a crescent-shaped beach home to tide pools and a large area for a beach hang.

Harris Beach State Park and its Puffins : We have to note the island just off of Harris Beach called Bird Island. It’s home to seasonal tufted puffins that are just the cutest.

Indian Sands : Technically in the Samuel H. Corridor , if you missed the other sand dunes, come here for these sand dunes that sit along the cliffs of the ocean.

Brookings Hotel Recommendations

• Find hotels and accommodations in Brookings here

Best Hotels Along the Oregon Coast

With Oregon’s expansive coastline, there are several hotels to choose from for your stay. I’d highly recommend booking in advance for the summer months given the popularity of road trips. One idea if you’re looking for a romantic getaway in Oregon, you could consider booking your trip around one of these epic hotels.

When we travel, we often do a combination of hotels we are wanting to stay at as well as destinations nearby. We did this over the summer in Oregon as we had found the epic Bay Point Landing cabins and planned a whole trip around the southern Oregon Coast .

You will also find plenty of vacation rentals on VRBO as well if you’d like to book a private home for your trip.

Here Are Some of the Best Oregon Coast Hotels to Book:

• Arch Cape I nn and Retreat (Arch Cape)
• The Waves (Cannon Beach)
• Schooner’s Cove Inn (Cannon Beach)
• Whale Cove In n (Depoe Bay)
• Inn at Manzanita (Manzanita)
• Inn at Cape Kiw anda (Cape Kiwanda)
• Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa (Pacific City)
• Bay Point Landing (Coos Bay)
• Salishan Coastal Lodge (Lincoln City)

What to Pack a Trip to the Oregon Coast

If there is one recommendation for a trip to Oregon, it is to pack layers. You’ll find that coastal towns are often quite windy and can cool off at night and in the morning. If you’re planning on hiking as well, you’ll want a pair of sturdy hiking shoes for the coastal trails. And don’t forget a camera to snap some photos along the way!

Favorite Outer Layers

Favorite boots/shoes for hiking, camera gear for travel.

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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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Lewis and Clark National Historical Park

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The Oregon Coast: 5 Beautiful Places to Visit in the Pacific Northwest

October 16, 2020 · In: Destinations , North America , Oregon , Road Trips

The Oregon coast is a stunning stretch of rugged coastline bordering the Pacific Ocean dotted with beaches, parks and hiking trails. Oregon is located on the west coast of the United States and borders Washington, Idaho, Nevada and California.

While there are many gorgeous places to visit in the Pacific Northwest, this post will focus on the top things to do along the Oregon coast within a two hour drive of Portland.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may receive a small compensation at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support !

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Table of Contents

Oregon Coast Map

A visit to these five picturesque spots is one of the best Oregon coast day trips from Portland. I spent six hours exploring this area in one day but you could easily spend a few days here hiking, surfing and enjoying the small town of Cannon Beach.

Save this map of where to go on the Oregon coast to easily reference for your trip!

Ecola State Park

Ecola State Park is one of the most beautiful Oregon coast State Parks and is the perfect starting point for exploring this area of the Pacific Northwest. Within the forest park you will find numerous hiking trails, panoramic viewpoints and access to Indian Beach.

Directly off the parking area are two paved trails leading down towards the Pacific Ocean. The longer trail to the left offers views of the southern coastline towards Cannon Beach. If you continue on this trail it will wrap around leading you to a small lookout point of the Tillamook Lighthouse.

Ecola State Park is one of the best places along the Oregon coast to see Grey Whales as they migrate through during the winter and spring.

Ecola State Park Entrance Fee

There is a $5 day permit which is required and can be paid by credit card using the machine in the parking lot near the restrooms. If you have an Oregon State Parks permit or an Oregon Pacific Coast Passport than you can display that instead.

Note: The $5 day use permit can only be paid by credit card. Cash is not accepted at the machine.

Is Ecola State Park Open?

Yes, Ecola State Park is currently open to visitors with some restrictions. There are a few Ecola State Park hikes and trails that are closed due to storm damage. However that may change as they get repaired. Check here for all the latest updates on closures in Ecola State Park. While the facilities in the park may be limited the restrooms are still open. Note that visitors are required to wear a mask whenever it is not possible to practice social distancing.

Indian Beach Ecola State Park

One of the most popular spots to visit within Ecola State Park is Indian Beach. You can either hike from Ecola Park or drive directly to the parking lot and walk down to the sandy shores.

Indian Beach in Ecola State Park is a beautiful stretch of sand with incredible views of the coastline. Just south of Indian Beach is Cannon Beach where the iconic Haystack Rock can easily be seen from the shoreline.

Indian Beach is also one of the more popular spots along Oregon’s coast for surfing. The location of the surrounding cliffs offers shelter from the north west winds making the surfing conditions exceptional.

The best time to surf with consistent breaks is usually around mid-tide. Surfing at Indian Beach may not be for beginner’s so make sure you are a strong swimmer and feel confident out on your board before going. Also, be sure to watch out for rocks, rip currents and sharks.

Note that as of August 2020 the Indian Beach trail that goes from Ecola Point to Indian Beach is closed due to damages from the storms. Check here for updates on trail re-openings and restrictions due to the global pandemic.

How to Get to Ecola State Park and Indian Beach

Getting to Ecola State Park and Indian Beach is an easy hour and a half drive from Portland. You’ll take US-26 to US-101 (Oregon Coast Highway) and then turn onto Ecola State Park Rd via E 5th Street. Follow the road until you reach a large parking area. You can find it by typing Ecola State Park Parking into your GPS. See below for all the details on how to get to the north Oregon coast from Portland and Seattle.

Must Read: 7 Best Hikes Near Portland, Oregon in the United States

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is one of the most popular Oregon coast beaches and is home to the iconic and imposing Haystack Rock. The long stretch of sandy beach borders the charming old town filled with boutique shops, cottage style homes and delicious restaurants.

Try to visit Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock during low tide so that you can experience the magical tide pools. If you look closely you may see some orange or purple starfish resting on the rocks. Unfortunately, the number of starfish has rapidly declined in the past few years but you can still spot a few.

There is a lot to do in this cozy Oregon coastal town besides just visiting Haystack Rock. Spend some time wandering around the small streets and checking out the local galleries and boutiques.

There are quite a few ice creameries and small cafes around the town which offer delicious treats! I recommend the marionberry cheesecake ice cream from Island Coffee Roasters and the Chai Latte from Insomnia Coffee Company. There are also a couple of trendy breweries in town and restaurants offering local seafood fare.

A visit to Cannon Beach is an absolute must and is easily one of the best beaches on the Oregon Coast.

A few key things to remember about visiting Cannon Beach:

• Dogs are allowed but they either need to be on a leash or well behaved off of a leash.
• Camping is not allowed on Cannon Beach
• When the tide is low you can see starfish or other sea creatures around the tide pools near Haystack Rock. Please be respectful and do not touch any of the wildlife
• As of October 2020 you are required to wear a mask even on the beach if you are unable to properly social distance
• Drones are not allowed at Cannon Beach near Haystack Rock. Click here for all the information on flying drones in Oregon State Parks.

Remember to always practice leave no trace when visiting national or state parks, as well as beaches and lakes. Take all of your trash with you and dispose of it in the proper bins.

Where to Park at Cannon Beach

There are a few free, public parking lots located in the town of Cannon Beach. There is one directly across from Mo’s Restaurant with instant access to the beach. There is another one in the old town behind the Cannon Beach Library. From here you can walk around town and then head down to the beach. There are public restrooms at both parking lots.

Arcadia Beach Oregon

Just a few minutes drive south from Cannon Beach along the Oregon Coast Highway you’ll see a small parking lot and signs for Arcadia Beach State Recreation site. This small stretch of beach has a picnic area, panoramic coastal views and is a family friendly spot along the Pacific Northwest coast.

During low tide you can explore around the rock formations and spot all kinds of unique marine life such as crabs, anemones and ochre sea stars.

You can access the beach from a set of stairs located just off the free parking area. The stairs are a little steep but manageable if you don’t have any mobility issues. You can also view the coastline from Arcadia beach without having to go all the way down to the shore so it is definitely worth a stop!

Hug Point State Park

Hug Point State Park is one of the best places on the Oregon coast and is just a short drive from Arcadia State Park. This beach has a number of sea caves, small stretches of sandy beach and incredibly scenic views.

What makes this particular beach unique is the mysterious waterfall cascading from one of the nearby sandstone boulders. The waterfall is fed from Falls Creek and leads directly into the ocean.

To reach the falls you will head north from the sandy beaches of Hug Point and walk around the large boulder. Unfortunately it is only accessible during low tide so be sure to check the tide schedule prior to arriving.

Must Read: Hiking Mount Constitution on Orcas Island in Washin gton State

How to Get to the Oregon Coast

Driving to the Oregon Coast, more specifically Cannon Beach and the surrounding areas, is an easy and beautiful drive. The closest main cities are either Portland or Seattle. All of these places are located along the highway US-101.

How to Get to the Oregon Coast from Portland

The drive from Portland to Ecola State Park, Cannon Beach and the nearby beaches and parks is super easy and beautiful. Departing from Portland you will drive along US-26 towards Beaverton/Ocean Beaches for most of the way until you reach US-101. Surrounded by forests, the two lane winding road will take you right to the coast where you can start exploring some of the best stops in northern Oregon. The drive takes just under 1.5 hours.

How to Get to the Oregon Coast from Seattle

The drive from Seattle is longer than from Oregon but if you drive along the coast you will be rewarded with some pretty spectacular views before you even arrive. Departing Seattle you’ll take I-5 South towards Portland/Tacoma until you eventually reach US-101.

How to Get Around the Oregon Coast

The best way to get around the surrounding area is to either drive or ride a bike. The Oregon Coast Highway is the road that connects these five beautiful places and biking would be fairy easy as long as the weather permits.

If you are stressed for time I highly recommend driving therefore you’ll be able to make it to each of these stops along the way.

Oregon Coast Hotels: Where to Stay in Cannon Beach

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway and want to spend a few nights on the coast there are plenty of options for accommodations. Dotting the shores of Cannon Beach are numerous boutique hotels and quaint bungalows with panoramic sea views. Alternatively, you can find small family run inns scattered around town with easy access to the beach.

You can check out all of the available accommodations here!

Oregon Coast Camping

Camping is not permitted at any of these five parks or beaches located along the coast. There are day shelters which are available for use but be aware that you are not allowed to stay overnight.

Oregon Coast Weather

The best time to visit the Oregon coast is between July and October. This is when the coast near Cannon Beach experiences the most amount of sunshine and clear skies. The weather is particularly perfect during September through mid-October. I visited in early October and the temperatures were cooler and the sun was shining!

Ecola State Park is one of the best places along the Oregon coast to watch the migration of gray whales right from the shore. There are two peak seasons for watching the gray whales: winter and spring. The best time to see the whales during winter is from mid-December to mid-January. Whereas, the best time during spring is from mid-March to mid-April.

How Many Days on the Oregon Coast

These five spots along the northern part of the Oregon coast can easily be visited in one day. However, if you’d like to spend a little more time exploring Cannon beach town or relaxing along the sandy shores then a few days would be perfect.

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November 7, 2020 at 2:37 pm

I love this article Marisa! The state of Oregon is so breathtaking. I really wish I went to Canon Beach during my road trip this summer. Looks like I have to get back. 🙂

November 7, 2020 at 3:27 pm

The coast of Oregon is so amazing. I would definitely want to visit someday.

December 9, 2020 at 11:33 pm

It really is such a beautiful place! I hope you can visit one day!

November 7, 2020 at 3:58 pm

The Oregon Coast is one of my favorite places in the whole country! We’ve explored much of it, but always looking to go back. I’m saving this for our next visit!

Oh that’s amazing!! I love the coast and most of Oregon so much but there really is so much to see and do!

November 7, 2020 at 4:35 pm

This coastal locations in Oregon all look absolutely stunning to visit and go for a walk or hike along.

December 9, 2020 at 11:32 pm

They really are so beautiful! The coast is the perfect place to explore and be out in nature!

November 7, 2020 at 10:27 pm

You sure did capture so much of Oregon’s beauty! I’m a local here and love these destinations, especially Ecola. Also, it looks like you had amazing weather on the Oregon Coast!

December 9, 2020 at 11:31 pm

Oh thank you for saying that! I had such a wonderful time on the coast and can’t wait to visit again! My sister lives in Portland so I am always trying to visit as much as possible!

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Best places to visit in oregon.

Oregon offers some of the West Coast's most captivating scenery. Moody coastline, lush mountains and mesmerizing waterfalls are abundant, and lucky for travelers, many are easily accessible from nearby towns and cities. U.S. News took into account dining – another one of the state's standout attributes – as well as affordability, sights, traveler sentiment and expert opinion to come up with the best places to visit in Oregon. Want to put in your two cents? Be sure to vote below to influence next year's list.

Crater Lake National Park

Cannon beach, willamette valley, silver falls state park, newport, or, portland, or, john day fossil beds national monument, seaside, or, florence, or, mount bachelor, oregon dunes national recreation area, newberry national volcanic monument.

Formed 7,700 years ago after Mount Mazama erupted and collapsed, Crater Lake is America's deepest lake and makes for a superb lake vacation . Today, you can admire Crater Lake National Park's rich blue water and towering mountains during a boat or trolley tour, a scenic drive along the rim or a hike on one of its many trails. In winter, some roads are closed and visibility may be poor due to clouds and snowstorms. But if you don't mind these potential drawbacks, you can enjoy fun winter activities like sledding, skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing.

A top destination on the Oregon Coast, Cannon Beach features a nearly 4-mile-long shoreline with tide pools and sand dunes in addition to its most well-known attribute, the 235-foot-tall Haystack Rock. Once you've gotten your fill of this breathtaking beach, hop in the car and visit nearby Oswald West State Park, which offers great hiking, surfing and fishing opportunities. Or, stay in town to check out Cannon Beach's art galleries and watch experts make glass art at Icefire Glassworks.

Powder hounds and nature lovers take note – Mount Hood is one of Oregon's best places to enjoy outdoor activities. The state's tallest mountain towers more than 11,000 feet above sea level and is reputed to be the second-most climbed peak in the world. Its perpetually snow-covered peaks are home to six ski areas that offer the longest ski season in North America, with Timberline Lodge open 10 months of the year. You can also ski after dark at Mount Hood Skibowl, which boasts the nation's largest terrain for night skiing. In the warmer months, take a scenic hike or drive through the mountain's forest.

Willamette Valley is to Oregon what Napa Valley is to California. This destination is home to two-thirds of Oregon's wineries and vineyards, totaling more than 700 wineries for the entire region. Come here to wine and fine dine for days, and be sure to sample as much pinot noir as you can, since it is Willamette Valley's specialty. When you're not wine tasting, enjoy a relaxing soak in one of Willamette Valley's hot springs.

Oregon's largest state park is one of the state's most unique and scenic natural attractions because of its jaw-dropping waterfalls. The Trail of Ten Falls hiking path loops through the park and takes you above, below and even behind its 10 waterfalls, including the 177-foot-tall South Falls. What's more, Silver Falls State Park offers 35-plus miles of backcountry trails that can be used for mountain biking, horseback riding and hiking. When you've worked up an appetite, venture to the park's South Falls Day-use area to enjoy a picnic or barbecue lunch.

Hood River's location in the Columbia River Gorge makes it a prime place for outdoor pursuits. The 80-mile-long valley is known for its stunning collection of waterfalls (think: Multnomah Falls and Starvation Creek Falls) accessible via various hiking trails. It's also considered the windsurfing capital of the world and an excellent destination for other water sports like kiteboarding and sailing. After a long day of adventuring, travelers can unwind with a beer or two at one of the town's microbreweries.

If you're after hearty hikes and delectable eats, Bend is the place for you. This small city has a dining scene that foodies fawn over, complete with food carts, breweries and even cider houses. Bend is also a jumping-off point for numerous natural attractions, including the Deschutes National Forest, which features multiple rivers, mountains and scenic byways. Ample opportunities for outdoor recreation like skiing and snowboarding in winter, hiking in summer and rock climbing in spring and fall make Bend appealing year-round.

Of all of the cute coastal towns Oregon has to offer, families will probably appreciate Newport the most. The town, located on Oregon's central coast, features kid-friendly attractions like the Oregon Coast Aquarium, Oregon State University's Hatfield Marine Science Center and several beaches. Newport also provides numerous outdoor attractions suited for adults, including scenic Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area and the equally picturesque Ocean to Bay Trail.

Located on the southern Oregon Coast just 6 miles north of the California border, Brookings offers outdoorsy travelers the perfect Pacific Northwest welcome, with rugged coastline views and natural splendor to explore. Head to Harris Beach State Park for its sandy beach, tide pools, tufted puffins and views of sea stacks on the shoreline. Then, drive up the coast on the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor for 12 miles of breathtaking ocean vistas. While the town itself is small, you can catch a movie at the local cinema, grab a beer at Chetco Brewing Company or stroll through Azalea Park.

Portland has one of the most dynamic (and affordable) food scenes in the USA, so you'll likely spend the bulk of your time enjoying the city's many culinary offerings, from Voodoo Doughnut to Eastern European fare at Kachka. In between meals and snacks, visit one of Portland's many parks or cultural sights, such as Forest Park (one of the largest urban parks in the country),  the Portland Art Museum (the oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest) or Powell's City of Books (the largest independent bookstore in the world).

Fans may recognize Astoria as the setting of "The Goonies," and you'll find several iconic film sites in town, such as the original Goonies house and the Oregon Film Museum, which was featured in the opening scene. But beyond its film history (more than a dozen movies have been filmed here), Astoria holds rich heritage. Its location on the Columbia River near the Pacific Ocean made it a prime fur trading post in the 1800's, and many of Astoria's attractions are dedicated to maritime history. Today, visitors can take in the town's Victorian houses, climb the 125-foot Astoria Column or dine at local breweries and bistros.

As its name suggests, this protected area is famed for having one of the most complete fossil records in the world, spanning more than 40 million years. Visitors can hike through and explore fossils and rock layers in the park's three separate units. Sheep Rock Unit, home to the monument's visitor center which features exhibits and a working lab, is the best starting point. But you won't want to miss the Painted Hills Unit, which woos visitors with distinguishing layered rocks, and the Clarno Unit, which boasts jutting Palisades (rock towers formed from volcanic mudslides).

Seaside is an exceptional vacation destination because it's a gateway to some of the most notable attractions on the Oregon Coast. From this small town of less than 8,000 residents, visitors can reach Tillamook Head, Ecola State Park and Lewis and Clark National Historical Park. All can be found within 15 miles of Seaside, presenting plenty of opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. Seaside also offers several can't-miss attractions, such as a beachfront promenade, the Seaside Aquarium and Captain Kid Amusement Park.

Florence appeals to travelers keen on spending their next vacation outdoors. One of this coastal town's best assets is its proximity to Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, but Florence is worth a visit in and of itself. Visitors can explore Sea Lion Caves, the largest sea cave in the country, ride horses on the beach, fish on the area's many lakes and play golf on a coastal course. Don't forget to save time for visiting the Heceta Head Lighthouse and Historic Old Town Florence, where you'll find shops, art galleries and the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum.

With 4,300-plus skiable acres and the highest skiable elevation in the state, Mount Bachelor is one of the country's top ski destinations . While there are plenty of trails for experienced skiers, Mount Bachelor also offers runs designed for beginners, as well as free and discounted ski lift tickets for first-timers. The mountain, which is a dormant volcano about 20 miles southwest of Bend, receives an average of 462 inches of snowfall annually from late November to May. The fun doesn't stop after ski season, though, when visitors can trade their ski poles and snowboards for mountain bikes and hiking shoes.

This endless sea of sand is best described as otherworldly. In fact, this locale inspired Frank Herbert to write his sci fi book, "Dune." To catch an eyeful of the park's tallest dunes, hike the John Dellenback Dunes Trail. Once you've exhausted yourself from walking on dry sand (trust us, it won't take long), opt for a high-speed ATV or dune buggy ride, or hop on a sandboard. Then, enjoy some shade in the coastal forest at Tahkenitch, or look for wildlife at the Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area.   

Foodies and outdoor lovers will love visiting Tillamook. This small town in northwestern Oregon is an outdoor recreation hub where you can enjoy hiking, kayaking, crabbing, clamming and fishing, among other activities. After an active day, you'll find no shortage of places to satisfy your appetite. Tillamook is perhaps most famous for its dairy industry, so no trip here would be complete without touring the Tillamook Creamery and sampling its cheese and ice cream. Also save time for trying local brews at one of downtown Tillamook's breweries.

Situated roughly 12 miles south of Bend in the Deschutes National Forest, Newberry National Volcanic Monument features one of Oregon's most unique landscapes. The monument's nearly 55,000 acres are filled with lava flows and other fascinating geological features, including a lava river cave and a lava field where NASA astronauts trained to walk on the moon in the '60s. There's also Paulina Peak, which you can climb to the top of for incredible views. When you're not hiking, go biking, boating or fishing.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

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Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

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The 11 Best Spots on the Oregon Coast: Must-See Places

T he Oregon Coast is one of the most beautiful places in the world. With its rocky coastline and pristine beaches, it’s no wonder that so many people flock to this area every year. If you’re planning a trip to the Oregon Coast, or if you’ve already been there and are looking for more information on what to see and do, this blog post is for you. We will list 7 of the best spots on the Oregon Coast, so you can make sure to see them all!

Best Time of the Year to Visit the Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast is a beautiful place to visit any time of year. In the summer, the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for spending time on the beach. However, it can also be crowded during this season. Fall is a great time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds. The weather is still pleasant and you can enjoy the stunning fall foliage.

Winter can be rainy, but it’s also a great time to spot whales as they migrate along the coast. Spring is another great time to visit, as the weather starts to warm up and the flowers start to bloom. No matter when you visit, you’re sure to have a great time on the Oregon Coast!

Best Spots on the Oregon Coast

Visiting the Oregon Coast should be a must-do for anyone planning a Pacific Northwest vacation. Here are the best spots on the Oregon Coast that are perfect for any Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary .

Cannon Beach and Seaside

No trip to the Oregon Coast would be complete without visiting Cannon Beach and Seaside. These two charming towns are located just a few miles apart and offer visitors a chance to experience the best of what the Oregon Coast has to offer.

Cannon Beach is best known for Haystack Rock, a towering monolith that looms over the shoreline. Haystack Rock is an Oregon Coast must-see spot. Visitors can explore the tide pools around the rock at low tide, or simply admire its majesty from afar. There are also plenty of sandy beaches to relax on, as well as hiking trails that offer stunning coastal views. In addition to its natural beauty, Cannon Beach also offers a variety of shops and restaurants for visitors to enjoy.

Seaside, on the other hand, is best known for its lively boardwalk. This historic promenade stretches for nearly a mile along the shoreline and is lined with shops, restaurants, and amusements. Visitors can also find a variety of hotels and vacation rentals in Seaside, making it the perfect place to stay while exploring the Oregon Coast. No matter what your interests are, Cannon Beach and Seaside have something to offer everyone. So plan your visit today!

Ecola State Park

There’s no better place to enjoy the best of the Oregon Coast than at Ecola State Park. Located just north of Cannon Beach, the park offers stunning views of the coastline, as well as plenty of opportunities for hiking and enjoying the outdoors. The best part is that the park is also home to some of the filming locations for The Goonies, making it a must-visit spot for any fan of the classic movie.

Whether you’re looking to take in the incredible views or relive your childhood by visiting some of The Goonies’ filming locations, Ecola State Park is definitely worth a visit. So make sure to add it to your list of must-see spots on the Oregon Coast.

God’s Thumb

God’s Thumb is a rock formation on the Oregon Coast that is said to resemble a thumbprint. This Oregon Coast must-see is located near Lincoln City, and it is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. The views from God’s Thumb are stunning, and it is definitely worth the hike if you are in the area. The hike itself is 4.3 miles and 1100 ft of elevation gain and rated moderate . The hike to God’s Thumb is mostly forest until the very end.

If you are looking for something less intense, consider the shorter hike to “The Knoll” which starts from the same trailhead. This hike has a similar view to God’s Thumb, but a little less dramatic.

Thor’s Well

Thor’s Well is one of the best spots on the Oregon Coast. Located just south of Yachats, this natural wonder is best seen during high tide when water rushes into the bowl-shaped hole and then disappears back out to sea. Visitors can stand on the rocks and watch as waves crash around them. Be careful as the surf can be dangerous. Low tide is also a good time to visit Thor’s Well, as it’s possible to walk around the rocks and get a closer look at the geology of this fascinating place. Regardless of when you visit, Thor’s Well is sure to leave you awestruck.

Devil’s Punchbowl

Devil’s Punchbowl is one of the best spots on the Oregon Coast. The natural amphitheater is formed by a huge rockslide that happened thousands of years ago. Today, the punchbowl is a popular spot for hikers and picnickers. There are several trails leading to the punchbowl, and the views from the top are incredible.

Devil’s Punchbowl is also a great place for tide pooling. During low tide, you can explore the pools and look for marine life. Starfish, urchins, and crabs are just some of the creatures you might see. So whether you’re looking for a great hike or a fun place to explore, be sure to check out Devil’s Punchbowl on the Oregon Coast.

Astoria, Oregon

Known for being the epic filming location of the cinematic classic The Goonies , Astoria is a small seaside town in Oregon that is easily one of the best spots on the Oregon coast.

So, if you would like to make the most of your time here then be sure to head to the top of the Astoria Column to enjoy impressive views of the surrounding area.

You can also walk along the Astoria Riverwalk, or use the Old Riverfront Trolley, and soak up the natural beauty of the nearby Columbia River.

And for all my fellow Goonies fans out there, you can visit the jail from the opening scene if you stop by the Oregon Film Museum.

Bandon Dunes

Bandon Dunes is an oceanfront golf resort located on the Oregon Coast and it is one of the best golf destinations in the country. It features five championship courses, each with unique characteristics and breathtaking views. The courses are situated on a spectacular stretch of coastline, offering stunning views of the ocean. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, you’ll find plenty of reasons to tee off at Bandon Dunes. Check out this blog post to find out which is the best course at Bandon Dunes . This is one of the best places to go on the Oregon Coast, especially if you are looking for a golf experience.

Florence, Oregon

If you love watching sea lions relax in their natural habitat then this is one of the best spots on the Oregon coast for you.

See, the quant little town of Florence sits along the coast and is well-located near Sea Lion Caves.

In fact, these caves are so massive that they are actually famous for being the largest Sea Lion caves in the country.

So, if you would like to visit then you’ll need to hop on a gorgeous piece of road along the coast and take it to the caves, which are 11 miles north of the town of Florence.

You’ll then need a ticket so that you can take an elevator down to the cavern where these wonderful creatures spend most of their time.

However, other fun things to do in Florence include Darlingtonia State Natural Site, the Bob Creek Tide Pools, and the sand dunes at Sand Master Park.

Natural Bridges

The Samuel Boardman Scenic Corridor is one of the best spots on the Oregon Coast and a must-see place to visit in Oregon . This 12-mile stretch of coastline features rocky headlands, secret coves, and dramatic sea stacks. 

A highlight of the Samuel Boardman Scenic Corridor is Natural Bridges, a series of sea caves that have been eroded by the ocean over time. Visitors can explore these caves at low tide, when the water level is low enough to walk through. With its dramatic cliffs, peaceful coves, and fascinating sea caves, the Samuel Boardman Scenic Corridor is one of the best spots on the Oregon Coast.

Whaleshead Beach

You’ll need a four-wheel-drive vehicle to access this pick for one of the best spots on the Oregon Coast.

But, it’s worth it since this unique sandy spot on the Southern coast features a stack of rocks just offshore that resembles a giant whale’s head.

Additionally, because there are tons of underwater caves scattered throughout the area, sea spray will soar into the air once waves crash into the rocks.

It’s also one of the lesser-known spots along the Oregon coast. Therefore, you won’t have to share this magical place with a ton of other people.

Pro Tip: This is one of the best spots on the Oregon coast to visit in the winter since a weather pattern known as the “Chetco Effect” results in the cold and wind never settling on the beach.

The result is plenty of flowers and greenery growing throughout the area all year long.

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

Home to the natural bridges and Whaleshead Beach mentioned above, this top Southern coast location is easily the single most beautiful place on the Oregon coast.

To get here, simply use Highway 101 to drive across the park. Once there, you’ll see why this stretch of road is also one of the most picturesque thoroughfares in the state.

Be sure to take plenty of time to explore the area since there are tons of places (10+) where you can get out and explore hidden beaches, stunning hiking trails, and awesome natural bridges.

If you want, you can even use one major trail through the park to make your way from the mountains to the coast. The result is that you’ll get to see all the major highlights of the park.

Alternatively, you could always use the scenic drive to do the same. But, be sure to make special stops at the natural bridges, Whaleshead Beach, and Secret Beach along the way.

Best Spots on the Oregon Coast FAQs

What is the most beautiful part of the oregon coast.

The most beautiful part of the Oregon Coast is Cannon Beach. After all, no road trip along the northern coast of Oregon would be complete without visiting this unique beach.

Plus, this incredible spot was named one of the one hundred most beautiful places in the world by National Geographic.

What is the Most Beautiful Stretch of the Oregon Coast?

The most beautiful stretch of the Oregon coast is the Boardman State Scenic Corridor. It’s a 12-mile-long piece of land that sits on the southernmost end of the Oregon coast.

Highlights include soaring cliffs, stunning coastal hikes, gorgeous coves, and incredible beaches.

Where is the Best Viewpoint on the Oregon Coast?

The best viewpoint on the Oregon coast lies within Cape Perpetua Scenic Area.

Not only does this place stand 800 feet above the shore but the viewpoint is completely accessible by car and offers stunning panoramas for 70 miles in every direction.

What Month is Best for Oregon Coast?

The best month to visit the Oregon Coast is September since the crowds of summer are gone.

Additionally, the warm and dry weather usually lasts well into October, making this a great time to visit.

The Oregon Coast is one of the most beautiful and varied coastline in the world. Anyone who has visited the Oregon Coast knows that it is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Stretching for over 300 miles, the Oregon Coast is home to sandy beaches, towering cliffs, and crashing waves make it a paradise for both tourists and locals alike. Hopefully this blog post has given you 7 places to go on the Oregon Coast. Have you visited? Which one is your favorite?

You May Also Enjoy These Posts:

• Best Waterfalls in Oregon
• The Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary
• The Perfect Oregon Road Trip Itinerary
• Underrated Places to Visit in the Pacific Northwest

Let’s Stay in Touch…

The post The 11 Best Spots on the Oregon Coast: Must-See Places appeared first on Our Beautahful World .

23 Amazing Beaches in Oregon and What To Do Nearby

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If there’s one thing Oregon is known for, it’s for its stunning and rugged coastline! Jagged volcanic cliffs, insane tides crashing on the shore, sea caves to explore, sweet waves for surfing, marine life galore, epic hiking trails along hillsides, and of course, some of the most beautiful beaches in the country to stroll along.

We could go on and on but selected our absolute favorite beaches on the Oregon Coast for you to explore. As always, we are providing you everything you need to know, not only about the beach, but what Oregon adventures are around the area too!

Here’s everything you need to know about the best beaches in Oregon!

Table of Contents

23 Amazing Beaches in Oregon

1. cannon beach, 2. hug point, 3. short sand beach, 4. nehalem bay beach, 5. oceanside beach, 6. cape lookout, 7. cape kiwanda, 8. neskowin beach, where to stay around the northern oregon beaches, 9. beverly beach, 10. hobbit beach, 11. heceta beach (cape cove), 12. south jetty beach, 13. john dellenback trails beach, where to stay around the central oregon beaches, 14. sunset bay state park, 15. bullards beach, 16. bandon beach, 17. floras lake beach, 18. port orford beach, 19. sisters rock state park beach, 20. secret beach, 21. indian sands beach, 22. lone ranch beach, 23. harris beach state park, where to stay around the southern oregon beaches, 14 adventurous things to do in cannon beach, short sand beach on the oregon coast—hike, surf, chill, 9 cool adventures around bandon beach, oregon, 9 epic beaches for surfing in oregon—beginner to experienced, 15 adventurous things to do around gold beach, oregon.

Below are some of the coolest beaches you can explore along the Oregon Coast. We ordered everything from north to south, and here’s a handy map to visually see where each beach is. Be sure to click on the posts linked in this article for further information about the beach and area.

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Northern Oregon Beaches

A list of best beaches in Oregon would not be complete without Cannon Beach . A walk along the beach itself is a visual treat, with an ever-changing landscape of rugged coastal outcroppings, ocean vistas, and nesting seabirds.

There are almost 4-miles of sandy beach stretching between Cannon Beach and the Pacific Ocean, so there is plenty of room for everyone despite its popularity. There are many access points making it a great beach for anything from a romantic stroll to sandcastle building with the family.

Cannon Beach is stunning, but it’s largely known due to one incredible natural landmark, Haystack Rock, towering 235-feet out of the ocean. This Oregon icon is a must-see along the Oregon coastline, and it will be clear to see why it was named one of the world’s 100 most beautiful places by National Geographic.

The tidepools found at Haystack Rock are one of Oregon’s protected Marine Gardens, providing vibrant habitats to observe. There are so many adventures to be had here, whether you like hiking the trails, surfing, whale watching, or taking a stroll along the beach.

READ MORE: 14 Adventurous Things To Do in Cannon Beach

Flanked by two well-known state parks, many people may be tempted to drive right on by Hug Point , but this beautiful beach is well worth stopping at and is one of Oregon’s best beaches.

There is easy beach access from the parking lot, and at low tide, you can walk right around the coast to where you can explore sea caves and evidence of the old road that once hugged the cliffside. The road was one of the main thoroughfares before the construction of the Coast Highway.

One of the best things about this beach is a stunning seasonal waterfall that you can hike to directly from the beach. If you are up for heading a little off the beaten track, there are some great tide pools to explore, which are often teeming with life.

READ MORE: Your Guide to Hug Point State Recreation Site

Short Sand Beach is one of the best beaches in Oregon for surfing and boogie boarding—hopping on a board here can be a lot of fun! The breaks here are relatively consistent, yet the cove protects the waters around the beach from the worst of the weather.

If you don’t surf, ‘Shorty’s’ is still a great place to visit, as the beach itself is stunningly beautiful, although it can get a little busy in the peak summer months. Try heading there in the winter or fall for a little more solitude and rugged beauty.

Getting to the beach is beautiful, as, from the parking lot, you’ll head through a thick old-growth forest of Sitka Spruce, dripping emerald moss and sparkling vines, before being spat out onto the sand.

If you want to extend the walk, you take a hike to the end of Cape Falcon  or even to the top of Neahkahnie Mountain. The beach is nestled in Oswald West State Park , a truly stunning part of the coast where waterfalls trickle down the volcanic basalt and sandstone cliffs into the tide pools below.

READ MORE: Short Sand Beach on the Oregon Coast – Hike, Surf, Chill!

Situated on a 4-mile sand spit, Nehalem Bay Beach offers a wonderful escape from busy city life. Although the views are stunning, there is also a forested 1.8-mile long bike path that offers some great views of the bay and coast.

There are many different types of birds that live on this part of the coast, making it a popular spot for bird watchers, while nature enthusiasts will also have a chance to spot various deer and elk grazing.

Other activities include kayaking around the bay, crabbing, fishing and clamming. There is also a seasonal boat ramp and several companies that offer kayaking and horseback riding tours if you don’t fancy heading out on your own.

The beach sits within Nehalem Bay State Park , which contains two day use areas. There are plenty of amenities such as restrooms and picnic areas, so you could easily spend the whole day on the beach. If that’s not enough time, set up camp in one of the 265 camping sites.

READ MORE: Your Guide to Nehalem Bay State Park

Oceanside Beach sits under a small town of the same name, just a short detour from the Three Capes Scenic Route .

A cool feature of this beach can be discovered at low tide. A tunnel through one of the vertical sea cliffs will lead you to another stunning beach to explore, known as Tunnel Beach. Just be aware of the tide and the weather if you do choose to venture here.

RELATED: How To Do an Oregon Coast Day Trip From Portland

Cape Lookout is one of the most beautiful Oregon Coast beaches, with easy beach access to comb for treasures along the coastline.

There are over 3-miles of stunning Pacific coastline beaches to enjoy at Cape Lookout, where you can wade in the waves at the sandy waters’ edge and take long walks up the coast. Just be aware of the changing tides as some of the beaches disappear during high tide.

The bay is home to many mollusk and shellfish species, which will give seafood lovers a delicious meal, while crabbing is also popular. Netarts Bay is renowned for its excellent water quality, making it a great place to dig out your fishing gear.

For some of the best views in the area, enjoy hiking the eight miles of trails, with the Cape Trail leading to the very tip of the cape. You will struggle to find a better spot to whale watch than the bench at the end of this trail.

The waters around the beach offer both gentle water and pounding surf, and when the conditions are right, it is possible to kayak the two or three miles between the mainland and the islands.

READ MORE: Your Guide to Cape Lookout State Park

Pacific City is home to Cape Kiwanda , one of the most beautiful beaches on the Oregon Coast. The cape is ideal for a long walk beside the waves, or if you are after something a little more adventurous, grab your board and surf instead.

You can also head to the state natural area nearby. One of the most iconic Oregon photography spots can be found here, only accessible at low tide. A stunning natural arch can be seen on the cliffs’ north side, tucked in between tall sandstone cliffs.

The cape is one of the three capes on Oregon’s Three Capes Scenic Route , so if you have the time, you can see all three of these beautiful spots.

One of the area’s major features is the giant sand dune, accessible from the north side of the beach. The dune is massive, towering at 240-feet, and it is a challenge to climb but will be completely worth it when you reach the top.

There are incredible views in all directions, although you should always pay attention to the warning signs. Slightly inland, there is a hotspot for hang gliders and paragliders where you can take advantage of the coastal winds.

RELATED: Exploring Cape Kiwanda Near Pacific City, Oregon

If you are looking for a pristine, uncrowded beach experience on the Oregon Coast, look no further than Neskowin Beach. The town and beach have avoided a lot of commercialization, so depending on the time of year, you may have this stunning stretch of coast all to yourself. The beach is fascinating because of the many 2000-year-old Sitka spruce stumps.

The area used to be a forest containing 200-foot trees, the remnants of which can still be found today, and the stumps are believed to have been buried and preserved by the same event that destroyed the trees in the first place.

The beach is over 3-miles long, stretching from the mouth of the Nestucca River to its southern tip, with the impressive Cascade Head rising 1200-feet.

Take a walk to Proposal Rock, which offers one of the best views of the Ghost Forest on the beach, although like with all hikes on the beach, be aware of the rising tide. There are plenty of trails to explore on Cascade Head, some of which may give you a chance to spot some of the local sea lions.

Recommended Places:

• The Shell Cottage
• Artist Cottage
• Salty Dog Cottage

Campgrounds: Wright’s for Camping, Nehalem Bay State Park

RELATED: 17 Best Beaches in Portland, Oregon!

Central Oregon Beaches

Beverly Beach is part of Beverly Beach State Park and comprises a 5-mile stretch of broad and sandy beach. There is a well-known campground here with lots of different camping options, but it is also a great place to spend the day even if you don’t plan on spending the night.

The beach itself is pretty famous and was named one of the best beaches on the Oregon Coast for a good reason. It extends from Yaquina Head, with views of the lighthouse, to Otter Rock’s headlands.

Surfing is a popular activity here, with many surfers bringing their boards and heading to the reliable waves at north beach, while those that are interesting in hunting out the fossils that can be found in the area can head south. But that’s not all Beverly Beach is suitable for.

With stunning views and plenty of beaches, it is the perfect spot for a gentle stroll, flying a kite, or simply building some sandcastles with the family. The beach is sheltered by a wind-sculpted forest and is just a few minutes away from some major Oregon Coast attractions such as the Yaquina Head Lighthouse and the famous Devils Punchbowl .

READ MORE: Beverly Beach State Park – Camp, Surf, Hike!

One of the best things about Hobbit Beach is the trail you take to get there. The Hobbit Trail is well known in Oregon and takes you through a thick forest of dense green tree tunnels on a winding path down to the sea.

On a misty morning, the beach might look something just like you would see in a Lord of the Rings movie. It is quite a large beach, meaning there is plenty of room for a lengthier stroll once you emerge from the forest. There are also some tide pools to explore, which is great if you have kids.

You can start at Heceta Head Lighthouse and hike down to Hobbit Beach or start at Hobbit Beach and come up behind Heceta Head Lighthouse for a great three and a half-mile hike.

Nearly everyone who visits this area of Oregon will make a stop at Heceta Head Lighthouse, yet the beach just below it is worth checking out as well. This beautiful beach is often overlooked but stretches for nearly 1,000-feet with Heceta Head to its immediate north.

The rocky stacks around the Head are home to thousands of shorebirds, making it a hot spot for bird watchers, while picnic tables are located near the parking lot so that you can enjoy lunch with a view.

This parking lot also serves as the trailhead that will take you to the lighthouse if you fancy a bit of a stroll accompanied by beautiful views. Beyond the lighthouse is the gorgeous Hobbit Beach!

RELATED: 11 Oregon Lighthouses & The Adventures Nearby

Walkers and hikers can enjoy miles and miles of open beach at South Jetty, with incredible dune formations that sit above the Siltcoos River. Freshwater from the river mixes with the Pacific Ocean here, with the beach occupying a sand spit at the south shore of the mouth of the river.

There are around nine access points to the beach, making it very easy to get to and explore. You’ll also find a huge range of recreational activities available, including horse riding, fishing, clamming, surfing, scuba diving, and even windsurfing when the conditions are right.

There are also separate areas for off-highway use and non-motorized vehicle use.

RELATED: 9 Epic Beaches for Surfing in Oregon – Beginner to Experienced!

This incredible beach can be found within the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area , which, as the name suggests, really is home to a lot of dunes and sand. Overall there are nearly 32,000 acres of dunes that stretch for 40 miles, the largest area of coastal dunes on the continent.

A really cool beach can be found here by taking the John Dellenback Trail. The trail is roughly 2.5-miles, but seeing as you will be walking through dunes, it can be pretty challenging, especially as some of the dunes are several hundred feet above sea level.

There are posts that mark the trail, and after the dunes will take you into a dense section of coastal forest, a real contrast to what you have left behind. Forge your way through the tunnel of trees, and before long, you will reach the beach, with the Pacific Ocean stretching out before you.

The beach itself is beautiful, backed by the forest of dunes and views of the Umpqua River’s South Jetty to the North.

• Suite Williams
• Bayfront Condo
• Florence Coastal Cottage

Campgrounds: Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area, Heceta Beach RV Park

READ MORE: Your Adventure Guide to the Oregon Dunes  

Southern Oregon Beaches

Sunset Bay is a stunning sheltered cove that is protected by sea cliffs and sandstone bluffs. As one of the most picturesque Oregon Coast beaches along the Cape Arago Highway is a very popular spot.

The bay is one of the few places on the Oregon Coast which is suitable for swimming, as it is relatively shallow and protected at the bay mouth.

There is less wind, and the water tends to be a bit warmer and more gentle than other places on this rugged and wild coastline. According to legend, pirates used this bay as a hiding spot, and it is still a safe harbor for fishing boats during storms.

The 0.2 miles of sandy beach is the perfect place to enjoy all kinds of activities, including picnicking, surfing, kayaking, beachcombing, swimming, and fishing, while a campground is just a short walk away from the beach.

There is a hiking trail that connects Sunset Bay to Shore Acres and Cape Arago State Park, and along the way, you can enjoy pristine coastal forests and coastal views that will take your breath away.

RELATED: 19 Must-Visit Oregon Coast State Parks

Just north of Bandon, you will find Bullards Beach , a beautiful sandy beach complete with the historic Coquille River Lighthouse at one end. There are 3.5-miles of open beach to explore and enjoy, so there is plenty of room for everyone, even in the busier summer months.

A great adventurous activity here is mountain biking, as the sand tends to be much harder nearer the surf, making for an exciting place to ride, weaving to avoid the incoming waves.

If bike riding is not your thing, you could simply enjoy a gentle stroll along the shore or take the mile-long trail to the nearby camping site, where there are lots of options to camp if you fancy staying the night in this stunning part of the coast.

The lighthouse is open for visits from May to September, and it is a great place to learn a little more about the history of the area on tour.

With both the Coquille River and the Pacific Ocean, visitors have plenty of opportunities to enter the water. There’s a boat launch and public dock just south of the beach if you fancy a spot of fishing or getting out on the water on a kayak or other boat.

Bullards Beach State Park has ten different beach trails ranging from easy to difficult, depending on how much of a challenge you are after. The most difficult is the 3-mile North Loop Trail, which will help you explore the farthest corners of the beach. Some of the trails are suitable for horse riding as well.

READ MORE: Visiting Bullards Beach State Park Near Bandon, Oregon

Every season, the weather and the tides reshape the sandy beach and landscape at Bandon Beach , while the tide pools, sand, water, and sea stacks are all home to countless varieties of wildlife.

Like much of the Oregon Coast, the seascape at Bandon is full of mighty sea stacks, remnants of an ancient marine terrace. Some of the more noticeable rocks include Face Rock, Elephant Rock, and Komax, all of which help make it one of the best beaches on the Oregon Coast.

Located along Beach Loop Drive, the area has plenty of access and parking. Some of the best places to access the beach are the jetty near the Old Town, Kronenberg Country Park, and the Face Rock Scenic Viewpoint, to name a few.

All the beaches in this area are perfect for a fun day of wading, walking, wildlife and sunset viewing, and beachcombing. With the sea stacks and dramatic rock formations, the Bandon Sunsets are renown throughout Oregon as some of the best.

It is not unusual to see people on horseback riding along the shore, which can be a unique way to explore the coast. The Bandon Beach Riding Stables has been leading rides across the sand for years. Another great way to enjoy the area is via a fat tire bike, perfect for riding along the sand.

RELATED: 9 Cool Adventures Around Bandon Beach, Oregon

Floras Lake is usually empty of people, so chances are you’ll have it to yourself. While on the beach, you’ll be treated to some natural wonders, such as sheer cliffs and even a small waterfall spilling onto the beach, so this really is a beach you shouldn’t miss out on seeing.

The imposing sandstone cliffs really set this beach apart from the other best beaches on the Oregon Coast, forming 80 to 100-foot walls around the sand, topped by pines and other coastal shrubbery.

The best time to visit is on a receding tide when the water makes the beach’s surface firm and not so tough to walk on, whereas, during high tide, the waves can be found crashing into the cliff. From the day-use area, it is a 6-mile roundtrip hike across the beach to the end of the sand, where cliffs from Blacklock Point meet the ocean.

Although not strictly on the beach, Floras Lake itself is a well-known spot for wind-surfing thanks to the windiness of the area. There are also some impressive dunes nearby that are worth exploring.

READ MORE: Your Guide to Exploring Floras Lake State Park

Take in the views of the Pacific Ocean from Port Orford Bay, one of the best beaches on the Oregon Coast. The sand here is pretty compact, taking a walk on the beach nice and easy-going, while the sea stacks along the coastline are spectacular.

There is plenty to do on the beach, both bird watching and whale watching gives you a great insight into the local wildlife, as do the many tide pools that dot the shore. In season you can even gather mussels and clams.

Some of the best wind, board, and body surfing in Oregon can be found here, as the bay offers sets of head-high waves the majority of the year.

In calmer weather, you can take out your canoe or kayak and explore the cove further. If you are up for a bit of a challenge, take the climb up to Battle Rock, a huge rock where great battles between soldiers and Native Americans in 1851 signaled the start of the oldest town in Oregon.

RELATED: 7 Adventurous Things to Do Around Port Orford, Oregon

Sisters Rock State Park beach is special thanks to the three huge rocks that sit on the shoreline. One of the rocks is its own island, while the others are linked to the mainland. The rocks are bordered both to the north and the south by grey sand beaches, making it a little different from the other beaches in Oregon.

The area is relatively undeveloped, therefore, it is seldom visited by those who prefer to stick to the tourist trail, but that doesn’t make it any less spectacular. The fact that it is quite often deserted makes it even more appealing to some.

The beach is pebbly all the way up to the rocks that sit on the shore, and there are other areas to explore by walking in both directions from the rocks. A dark-colored beach extends north of the Sister Rocks , dispersed by photogenic rocky pinnacles, caves, natural arches, and narrow sandy inlets, resulting in a pretty impressive landscape.

Just 10 minutes north is Humbug Mountain with its own beautiful beach, a trail up the mountain, and an excellent campsite.

RELATED: Southern Oregon Coast: 13 Epic Stops—Bandon to Brookings!

Secret Beach is not particularly easy to find, hence the name but people are figuring it out! In fact, if you didn’t know it was there, chances are you would drive right on by as the parking area is unassuming and not signed. The beach is located in the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor , a tiny coastal paradise and home to some of the best beaches in Oregon.

The beach is tucked into the northern end of the corridor where the Coastal Trail winds between the overlook to Thunder Rock Cove and the road; after about a third of a mile, you’ll find the trail that leads down to this quaint pocket beach.

This stunning beach is made up of fine-grained sand and hugged by chiseled cliff faces, only to be seen at low tide, so drink in the serenity while you can. The beach has two sections to explore, each of which has a small creek flowing through it, one of which even has a small waterfall cascading onto a rock pile.

There are so many possibilities for adventure around Secret Beach, and thanks to its location in the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, there are tons more beautiful beaches nearby to explore too.

READ MORE: Hiking the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

The Samuel H.Boardman State Scenic Corridor is filled with stunningly scenic spots, including natural coves and large natural rock arches, but one of the unique areas is Indian Sands, a particularly unusual Oregon Coast beach.

Huge patches of sand dunes sit high up on the coastal cliffs and look like they have appeared out of nowhere. You can reach the sands by taking just a short hike across the clifftops, roughly a mile long.

Once you reach the sand, you’ll see massive waves swirling into the rugged rocks below. Hiking is one of the main activities here. The area is an amazing place to explore on foot, with some cool sandstone features, incredible viewpoints, and silky stretches of sand to enjoy in one of the most unusual places on the west coast.

The sand has appeared here where the years have worn away the soft sandstone, leaving behind a beautiful, natural playground.

RELATED: 25 Cool Oregon Coast Campgrounds to Stay At

Just 4.5-miles north of Brookings, you’ll find Lone Ranch Beach, located along the Samuel H.Boardman State Scenic Corridor . This stunning beach is in a protected little cove with several huge sea stacks just off the shoreline.

These striking rock formations provide shelter and homes for all kinds of wildlife, making it perfect for nature lovers. Keep an eye on the tide pools at low tide, and you have a good chance of spotting crabs, brightly colors sea stars and sea anemone.

Sea lions are also often spotted in the area. Bring some snacks with you as there are some perfectly placed picnic benches with views out over the ocean, or take a stroll for some even more incredible vistas.

This Oregon Coast beach is long, wide, and crescent-shaped, so there is plenty of room for everyone to enjoy it, and there is a paved trail that leads from the parking lot down to the soft sands. Walk, run, fly a kite – there is something for everyone.

RELATED: 7 Adventurous Things to do in Brookings, Oregon

Harris Beach State Park is most well known for its sandy beaches and impressive rock formations. People come from miles around to explore the colorful tide pools and watch out for the marine life that frequent the waters around the cliffs.

There are miles of sandy beaches to enjoy here, making it a popular spot for families and making an inspiring place for those who enjoy walking with the ocean as a backdrop.

From the main day-use parking area, you can access around half a mile of the sandy beach, which contains plenty of scenic offshore rock formations. From the parking lot near the entrance, you can take another trail that leads you to South Beach, an incredible mile-long stretch of untouched sand.

Just offshore is Goat Island, also known as Bird Island, which has an estimated 100,000 sea birds nest here, making it a mecca for bird watching. Visit the beach at low tide and tread carefully to spot sea stars and crabs in the tide pools, or take one of the many scenic walking paths that take you to scenic viewpoints and overlooks.

A few companies will take you paddling by kayak or paddleboard to explore this scenic stretch of the South Oregon Coast. Those that are more experienced can enjoy the more extended tours around towering arches and deep coves.

READ MORE: Your Guide to Harris Beach State Park

• Tranquil Cottage
• Barney B’s Cornett
• Chetco Point Park

Campgrounds: Sunset Bay State Park, Harris Beach State Park

RECOMMENDED OREGON ADVENTURE GEAR:

Tried and tested gear that we use around Oregon and the PNW!

Hiking and Camping

• Water Bottle Filter  
• Camping Stove
• Camping Cook Set
• Light 2-Person Tent
• Car Trash Bin
• Car Power Inverter
• Road Trip Duffel Bag
• Northwest Pass

Clothing Gear

• Hiking Socks – Men’s / Women’s
• Rain Jacket – Men’s / Women’s
• Hiking Backpack – Men’s / Women’s

Car Rental:

• Car Rental – Check here for deals
• Outdoorsy – For Vans, RV, etc

More Beaches in Oregon

We hope you enjoyed this guide to the best beaches in Oregon! Check out more posts on the Oregon Coast  and even more  adventures around the state .

I've been perpetually traveling and living around the world for years but it's hard to beat Oregon and the PNW. After years of road-tripping the area, I guess you can say I know it pretty well! When I'm not writing guides for you, you can catch me somewhere petting a dog, attempting to surf, hiking a volcano, or stuffing my face with bread and cheese.

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15 Most Scenic Spots on the Northern Oregon Coast

If you’re planning a road trip along the northern Oregon Coast and are wondering how to narrow down your itinerary with all that there is to see, you’ve come to the right place!

Driving this Pacific Northwest coastline has always been on my bucket list ever since I moved to California. Something about the moody, foggy images of the rocky coastline that are all over Instagram reminded me of my childhood growing up in Maine and I was determined to explore it for myself.

I finally got to take a girls trip to the area last year, starting in Portland and continue down the northern section of this beautiful coastline. Since the entire coast only takes 7.5-hours to drive, our initial plan was to try to squeeze the whole coast into one trip. But after researching all the stops I wanted to make along the way, I quickly realized that there was way too much to fit into just one week. Instead, we decided to hone in on the northern Oregon Coast and save the southern spots for another epic road trip. And spoiler—I already can’t wait to go back!

There is seriously SO much to see here and it’s all stunning—but my biggest piece of advice is to take your time and not try to cram too much in. Ideally, you’ll want a week or so to road trip through the area so that you have plenty of time to take in all the beauty it has to offer. However, there are ways to make it work if you’re only in town for a few days.

This has to be one of the most picturesque road trips in the entire United States. At about 363 miles long, Highway 101 winds along the entirety of the Oregon Coast, offering spectacular views of the rugged Pacific coastline. In between epic vistas and beautiful beaches, you’ll find quaint seaside towns that have old-school seafood restaurants and motels that feel like they’ve been untouched for decades. I really love that about the Oregon Coast; it has a very local feel without many big built-up cities or huge chain hotels.

No matter how long you plan on visiting, this guide will serve as a great resource while planning your trip to the northern Oregon Coast so don’t miss the best spots along the way!

Discover More Coastal Getaways

13 easily driveable weekend getaways from los angeles, 11 can’t-miss things to do in mendocino, california, a nature lover’s ultimate northern california road trip guide, the most scenic spots on the northern oregon coast, 1. ecola state park overlook .

Just a few miles north of Cannon Beach (arguably one of the most popular spots on the northern Oregon coast), Ecola State Park offers one of the state’s most famous views. We decided to stay here from the afternoon into golden hour to watch the light change over the coast and it was pretty freaking magical. If there’s only one viewpoint you make it out to on your trip, make it this one.

The lookout point is super easy to access right off the parking lot once you enter the park (about a 3 minute walk), but I’d recommend spending more time in the area so you can take advantage of the hiking trails. Also, be sure to visit Indian Beach, which is a super picturesque and popular surf spot.

How to Get There: If you’re driving along Highway 101, you’ll enter the park from the north end of Cannon beach. Head down Ecola Park Road for a little over a mile to the fee station (a $5 day-use permit is required if you don’t have an Oregon State Parks permit or Oregon Pacific Coast Passport). Then, take a left for the Ecola Point parking lot or a right to head a few miles down the road to Indian Beach.

2. Cannon Beach

No northern Oregon Coast road trip is complete without a trip to Cannon Beach. Named one of the world’s 100 most beautiful places by National Geographic, Cannon Beach truly is one of the most unique beaches I’ve ever visited.

Chances are you’ll recognize Haystack Rock once you get there, since it’s one of the most iconic (and photographed) spots along the whole Oregon coast. The entire area is beautiful for photography at sunrise or sunset, and you can have a lot of fun shooting photos on the beach or up by the sand dunes. If you’re there during the day, you’ll also see a lot of people laying out and flying kites.

How to Get There: Only about 90 minutes from Portland and just a few minutes off the coastal highway, Cannon Beach is an easy stop. Note: there isn’t any parking along the beach, so you’ll have to find a spot at the free lot in town and walk (but don’t worry, it isn’t very far). The town is super cute too and definitely worth exploring, or at least stopping for a bite to eat. 

3. Hug Point

Cutest name ever, right? Hug Point is just five miles south of Cannon Beach and is a popular spot because of its unique mix of sea caves, tide pools and a small cliff waterfall that drops onto the beach.

Regrettably, we didn’t make it here on our trip, but I’ve got it bookmarked for next time. The Hug Point State Recreation Site has easy access to the beach, forested picnic areas, and a seasonal waterfall that you can walk to—just be mindful of the tide so you don’t get stranded when it comes in (apparently that happens to tourists a lot).

How to Get There: Hug Point is located between Cannon Beach and Manzanita. Though it probably won’t be as busy as Cannon Beach, the parking lot is tiny, so you may have to wait for a spot or park along the highway and walk down. 

4. Short Sand Beach

One of the best beaches in Oregon, Short Sand beach is located in Oswald West State Park which has four miles of coastline that include a secluded, sandy beach and miles of trails that lead to the ocean. A half-mile walk through the woods will bring you directly to the sand, or you can take a longer trail to get up to the Cape Falcon lookout for gorgeous views looking back at the beach below. This park is a popular spot for beach goers, hikers, and especially surfers.

How to Get There: Spanning from Arch Cape to Manzanita, there are four parking lots along Highway 101 that you can park in to access the park. If you’re looking to get to Short Sand beach specifically, use Oswald West State Park’s main parking lot and take the short hike from the lot down to the beach.  

5. View From Neahkahnie Mountain Loop Hike 

The Neahkahnie Mountain Loop Hike is also located in Oswald West State Park, and it gives you some pretty stunning views of Manzanita Beach and the Pacific Ocean. The trail is 8 miles long and has a 2,300 foot elevation, so make sure you’ve got the time (and energy) if you want to embark on this one. I will say that the views make it all worthwhile if you’re up for a good workout. 

How to Get There: You’ll start your hike at the Short Sand trailhead located in Oswald West State Park and end it at Neahkahnie Mountain Viewpoint. Be sure to check the park website before you go since storms can sometimes cause damage to the trail.

6. Manzanita Beach

Manzanita is a little oceanside village right next to Neahkahnie Mountain. I absolutely LOVED it here! The main beach is huge with gorgeous white sand, turquoise water, dunes, and a large cliff on the north side of the beach. It might just be one of the best beaches on the northern Oregon Coast.

It’s a popular spot for general beach-going, surfing (we caught a really windy day here and there were tons of kite surfers), and fishing. However, my favorite part was the overall vibe—this area feels less touristy and much more local, but there’s still some cute shops and restaurants to explore in the area.

How to Get There: Manzanita Beach is an easy stop off of Highway 101 and just 20 minutes south of Cannon Beach.

7. Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint  

We were absolutely wowed by Cape Meares and this spot has very iconic Oregon Coast vibes. Stunning views of the Pacific, a lighthouse, old-growth coastal forest, and a wildlife refuge—what else do you need? There are scenic viewpoints super close to the parking lot, or you can hike one of the many trails.

One of them even leads to Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to thousands of nesting seabirds. There’s a good chance you might spot some gray or humpback whales too! All-in-all, Cape Meares is a must-see on any northern Oregon Coast trip. 

How to Get There: Cape Meares is about an hour south of Manzanita Beach on the south end of Tillamook Bay. Once you arrive, park in the lot for the lighthouse and walk down the path on the left for gorgeous views overlooking the rocky coastline. You can continue on the path to see the lighthouse, but the views to the south were honestly my favorite part.   

Visit the state park website here for more info.

8. Symons State Scenic Viewpoint 

As you drive down the northern Oregon Coast, you will encounter several “pull over now” moments, and Symons State Scenic Viewpoint is definitely one of them. However, this one feels a bit more off-the-beaten path and people seem to overlook it and instead head straight to Cape Meares instead.

It’s absolutely worth the stop though, offering stunning cliff views that look down onto the beach and three large rock formations right off the coastline. There is also beach access if you want to sunbathe, swim, surf, or take a long walk along the water. 

How to Get There: Symons State Scenic Viewpoint is about 15 minutes off of Highway 101, just south of the town of Oceanside. It may add a little extra time to your Oregon road trip, but the views are worth it if you’ve got the time. 

9. Netarts Bay Lookout

Though you can explore the beach in Netarts Bay, the best view is from the lookout along the Netarts Oceanside Highway as you drive up towards the Symons State Scenic Viewpoint. From there, you get an overhead shot where you can take drone-esque pictures, no expensive equipment necessary! It almost looks tropical from above.

How to Get There: Netarts Bay Lookout is just a few minutes south of Symons State Scenic Viewpoint and can be a quick stop if you just want to snap a few photos. 

10. Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area

The whole coastline in the Pacific City area is beautiful, and Cape Kiwanda is no exception. Similar to Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach, a standout feature at Cape Kiwanda is also a giant sea stack jutting out of the ocean just offshore, which makes for great photos.

However, what makes this spot special is the massive dune that you can climb (it’s a workout—trust me) for epic views looking down onto the beach. Burn out those glutes as you climb the hill before sitting down and watching the waves crash along the shore. If you’re up for some off-roading and want to visit a quieter section of coastline, you can also travel slightly north to McPhillips Beach where you can drive right onto the sand. 

How to Get There: Cape Kiwanda is located in Pacific City. You’ll need to pay $10 to park in the Cape Kiwanda parking lot and from there it’s a short walk to the beach. 

Need to find accommodations for your stay on the Oregon Coast? Check out these local options!

• Inn at Cape Kiwanda in Pacific City
• Sunset Surf Motel in Manzanita
• The Ocean Lodge in Cannon Beach
• Clarion Inn Surfrider Resort in Depoe Bay

11. Neskowin Beach

One of the most unique beaches I’ve ever visited is Neskowin Beach, located just north of Cascade Head. Visitors flock here during low tide to catch a view of the “Ghost Forest,” a beautiful and slightly eerie series of ancient and decaying Sitka Spruce stumps that are scattered throughout the sand. Take a sandy stroll to Proposal Rock to get one of the best views of the Ghost Forest and the surrounding coast.

Good to note: When we visited here we had to wade through a bit of water to be able to cross from one side of the beach to the ghost forest side. Make sure to wear shorts or pants you can roll up if you don’t want to get your clothes wet.

How to Get There: Neskowin Beach is right near the Oregon Coast Highway, and it is easily accessed by the free public parking lot which has a short trail that leads down to the water. 

12. Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint

As you’re driving around Depoe Bay, the Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint is a great spot to pull off. A rugged bay with wild surf, you can spot grey whales here year-round and several different kinds of seabirds—or you can just sit out on the rocks and enjoy the view. 

How to Get There: Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint is right off the highway, south of Lincoln City and just north of Depoe Bay, making it a very easy stop with ample parking. 

13. Depoe Bay 

Depoe Bay is the whale watching capital of the Oregon coast. This place reminded me a lot of growing up on the coast of Maine with its gorgeous blue water and rocky coastline. There’s a Whale Watch Center, shore observation decks, and boats that will take you up close and personal if you’re interested in seeing the whales (March through December is the best time for this).

Otherwise, Depoe Bay is a cute little town with plenty of beautiful ocean views to admire. Fun fact: Depoe Bay is apparently home to the world’s smallest navigable harbor.

How to Get There: Located right on Route 101 alongside the ocean, Depoe Bay is an easy stop on your Oregon coast road trip. 

14. Yaquina Head  

Yaquina Head features a lighthouse and many vantage points to take in the beautiful scenery of the northern Oregon coast. It extends one mile into the Pacific, north of the town of Newport. The fog was super intense the day we tried to go, so we didn’t get to see the lighthouse in all of its glory, but I still consider it a must if you’re traveling through the Newport area.

How to Get There: As you travel south on Highway 101 from Depoe Bay, take a right onto Lighthouse Drive and then turn left to enter Yaquina Head. It’s worth noting that this was one of the only parts of our Oregon coast road trip that requested payment for entry ($7) which we didn’t think was worth it since the fog was basically impenetrable. If you don’t want to pay the fee, you can also get views of the Yaquina Head Lighthouse from Agate Beach which is a little further south.  

15. Cape Perpetua Scenic Area  

Part of the Siuslaw National Forest, Cape Perpetua Scenic Area is located near the central Oregon coast and has tons of cool features to check out like Spouting Horn, Devil’s Churn, and Thor’s Well (pictured). There are great hikes on well-marked trails, tide pools, and of course, stunning ocean views as far as the eye can see.

How to Get There: The most gorgeous section to drive through Cape Perpetua is two miles south of Yachats. It is absolutely gorgeous! I recommend parking at the Thor’s Well trailhead (right off the 101) and walking the path along the coast for the best views.

Did this post inspire you to explore the scenic Oregon Coast? Let me know in the comments below!

Planning a trip right now don’t miss my go-to websites for booking everything from flights and tours, to accommodation and more:.

• Booking.com for the best hotel deals
• World Nomads for flexible travel insurance
• VRBO for awesome rentals
• Skyscanner for finding the best flight deals
• Hostelworld for budget accommodation
• Rentalcars.com for easy car rentals

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Holy smokes!! This is exACTLY what I needed after talking with a friend about these very kinds of places this afternoon. We’re both amateur photographers and transplants to Washington of 15 years or better. There’s nothing within all of this to let us know who you are, but you’ve done a superb job with this trip primer (my friend lives in Bremerton, WA., my wife and I live in Redmond, WA. I’d love to know if you’ve followed up with either central Oregon coastal spots and/or southern Oregon coastal spots. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Hi Bob! Thanks for the message, I’m so glad you found this post helpful. I had so much fun photographing all these gorgeous spots. I need to create more Oregon content for the site, so hopefully more will be coming soon, but this is it for now. Hope you have an incredible trip!

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Oregon (OR) » 19 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Oregon

19 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Oregon

Oregon , also known as the Beaver State, has some of the most beautiful and spectacular sights and places to visit! Just browse through these awesome pictures I found and be amazed by it’s beauty.

1. Boardman State Park

Boardman State Park is a great starting point for anyone who wants to start exploring the natural beauty of Oregon. The park – which is named after the first Oregon Parks superintendent, Samuel H Boardman – is close to both Route 101 and the city of Brookings. The park boasts a few secluded small beaches, some sand dunes and stunning scenery that will take your breath away. There are 27 miles of Oregon Coast Trail to enjoy in Boardman State Park too and most of these are easy beginner hikes.

2. Tulip field in Woodburn

Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm dates back some 65 years ago and is a must-see for anyone visiting Oregon for the first time. Since 1985, the family that owns the farm has been opening the fields for people to enjoy every Easter weekend, and now the farm is open from the end of March to the first week in May. With 40 acres of beautiful fields to explore, Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm is a brilliant day out for all the family.

3. Mount Hood

Mount Hood is Oregon’s highest point, but the peak is so much more than that. The mountain, which was called Wy’east by the Multnomah tribe, is often described as the crown jewel of the Columbia River Gorge. Mount Hood, one of the seven wonders of Oregon, is home to a wide range of hiking trails, while there is also skiing, snowboarding and climbing available. The foothills of Mount Hood are well worth exploring as well, as they boast farms, wildflowers and orchards, while there are many lodges to stay in nearby too. Thrillseekers can even enjoy extreme sports such as sailing, windsurfing, hang-gliding and parasailing in the imposing shadow of Mount Hood.

4. Tumalo Falls

Tumalo Falls can be found in the Cascade Range west of Bend, within the boundaries of the Deschutes National Forest. The best way to see the waterfall is to follow the Tumalo Falls Trail, which leads to a viewing platform boasting an incredible place to experience Tumalo Falls. There is also a nearby picnic area which is an ideal spot to stop for some food and a rest. Take care to look out for wildlife around the falls, as visitors to the falls have spotted animals such as hawks, deer and squirrels in the area.

5. Snow Lakes Trail

The Snow Lakes Trail is one of the more challenging hikes available in Oregon, but the views on offer in this part of the state are well worth the effort. Snow Lake is by far the most visited lake in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, with visitors flocking to enjoy the sights of Roosevelt Peak and Chair Peak. Keep in mind that there is a risk of avalanches in the area if snow has been falling during the winter months. There are great views all the way up the Snow Lakes Trail, but it is highly recommended to push on to the end as they get even better the further along the trail you go.

6. The Haystack Rocks

The Haystack Rocks are one of Oregon’s most incredible natural phenomenons. Located at Cannon Beach in Clatsop County, the rocks are accessible by foot at low tide and are a highly popular tourist destination throughout the year. The area is rich with wildlife too, with animals such as puffins and terns calling the rocks their home. Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach also features smaller rocks known as The Needles and there are various rocks to explore throughout the state, including one in Tillamook County near Portland.

7. Toketee Falls

Toketee Falls is arguably Oregon’s best known waterfall and is perhaps even more famous than the aforementioned Tumalo Falls. Toketee – which is a Chinook word that means graceful – can be found close to Highway 138 near Toketee Lake. The hike to the best viewpoint of the falls is just a third of a mile and due to the way the water falls, Toketee Falls is a truly spectacular sight at any time of the year.

8. Opal Creek

Visiting Opal Creek is a must for anyone who enjoys exploring rugged and wild forest. Named after the wife of an early Forest Service ranger, Roy Elliot, Opal Creek is home to eight hiking trails, which take in sights such as five lakes and no fewer than 50 waterfalls. The 20,746-acre site is best visited between April and October and those who want to experience the wilderness up close and personal can even camp overnight at the site too.

9. Japanese Garden in Portland

Run by the Japanese Garden Society of Oregon, the Portland Japanese Garden is one of the state’s most memorable experiences. The garden, which can be found in the West Hills of Portland , is made up of five sub-gardens. The largest of these is the Strolling Pond Garden, which features a 100-year-old five-tiered pagoda lantern and a handmade moon bridge. Elsewhere in the Portland Japanese Garden is an authentic tea house that was built in Japan.

10. Oneonta Narrows

Oneonta Narrows is another of Oregon’s famously stunning waterfalls. Located at the Columbia River at River Mile 138, the falls are just half a mile up Oneonta Creek. The best way for visitors to reach Oneonta Narrows is by taking the Historic Columbia River Highway, which also takes in must-see sights such as the Benson State Recreation Area, Multnomah Falls, John B Yeon State Park and Ainsworth State Park.

11. St. Johns Bridge

The St. Johns Bridge is regarded as one of the most iconic sights in the city of Portland. The steel suspension bridge, which spans the Willamette River, is the tallest bridge in Portland and the northernmost crossing of the river. Nearby Cathedral Park, which is located underneath the bridge, has been named after the Gothic style of the St. Johns Bridge. An annual summer jazz festival is held on the park’s small outdoor stage every summer.

12. Alvord Desert

Alvord Desert is perhaps the most magical place in Oregon, with the area home to incredibly rare light shows – known as The Happening as they are so far unexplained – that some photographers have been fortunate enough to witness. The desert itself is flat enough to drive across during the driest periods, while the area is also known for being where Kitty O’Neil set an unofficial women’s world land speed in 1976. Visitors to the desert have also been known to spot wild horses at springs, drinking in water at the eastern edge of the desert. Be sure to check out Mark Metternich’s site for more beautiful photo’s!

13. Thor’s Well

Thor’s Well, sometimes known as the drainpipe of the Pacific, is a strange natural phenomenon that appears to be draining water out of the sea. Right at the edge of the Oregon coast, Thor’s Well is best seen at high tide or in stormy weather when the rock provides superb photo opportunities. Visitors to Thor’s Well should also check out the nearby Cape Perpetua Visitor Center, which boasts spectacular ocean views and the chance to spot migrating gray whales.

14. Umpqua Hot Springs

Accessible all year round, Umpqua Hot Springs – which is also sometimes known as Toketee Hot Springs – features three gorgeous hot pools located in breathtaking scenery above the North Umpqua River. The view of Surprise Falls from the relaxing pools is simply unforgettable and the springs are found by taking the Umpqua Hot Springs Trail, which is a very short hike. Take note that clothing is optional at Umpqua Hot Springs, which gets very busy at weekends but can be quiet during the day in midweek.

15. Misery Ridge Hiking trail

The Misery Ridge Hiking trail is one of the most popular hikes in Oregon, with walkers flocking to the area to take on the steady climb and take in the spectacular scenery. Rock climbing is one of the best leisure activities in this central part of Oregon and the site gets very busy with climbers at the weekends. Perhaps the best hike within the Misery Ridge area is round the east side of Misery Ridge, which provides great views of the rock formation known as Monkey Face – as soon as you see it, you will immediately know why it has been given that name. The Misery Ridge Hiking trail also takes visitors to Smith Rock, which is another of the seven wonders of Oregon.

16. Sweet Creek Trail

The Sweet Creek Trail is an easy 2.2-mile trip that takes in around a dozen beautiful waterfalls. April and May are perhaps the best time to visit the trail, as this is when various woodland wildflowers burst into full bloom. Look out for the pink fawn lilies, which are particularly rare. The trail is found only a few miles inland from Florence, at the mouth of the Siuslaw River.

17. Wallowa Mountains

Found in the Columbia Plateau in northeastern Oregon, the Wallowa Mountains boast perhaps the most varied and beautiful sights in the whole state. Another of the seven wonders of Oregon, the Wallowas are perhaps best experienced by riding a horse to the summit, but there is also the option of taking a gondola for a spectacular trip from Wallowa Lake Village all the way up to the peak of Mount Howard. Nearby towns Joseph and Enterprise are worth exploring too, with handcrafted beer and chocolate available to buy as a memento of an unforgettable trip.

18. Yaquina Head Light and Cliffs

The tallest lighthouse in the state, Yaquina Head Light used to be known as Cape Foulweather Lighthouse and can be found close to the mouth of the Yaquina River, near the city of Newport. The lighthouse is famous for its appearance in the 2002 film The Ring, when it stood in as the Moesko Island Lighthouse. Tours of the lighthouse are available and visitors should also take time to take a walk along the cliffs at Yaquina Head, although the weather here can be unpredictable – hence the extremely honest former name of the lighthouse.

19. Cape Meares

Cape Meares is highly popular with tourists who are travelling along the Three Capes Scenic route. Cape Meares itself, which is close to the city of Tillamook, is named after British explorer John Meares. The cape, a headland located over 200 feet above the ocean, is a great place to visit for wildlife enthusiasts, as it is home to nesting common murres. Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint is also a fine place to spot bald eagles – the national bird of the United States. Tours of an 1890s lighthouse are also available at Cape Meares and are highly recommended.

19 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Oregon:

• Boardman State Park
• Tulip field in Woodburn
• Tumalo Falls
• Snow Lakes Trail
• The Haystack Rocks
• Toketee Falls
• Japanese Garden in Portland
• Oneonta Narrows
• St. Johns Bridge
• Alvord Desert
• Thor’s Well
• Umpqua Hot Springs
• Misery Ridge Hiking trail
• Sweet Creek Trail
• Wallowa Mountains
• Yaquina Head Light and Cliffs
• Cape Meares

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25 Staggeringly Beautiful Places to Visit in Oregon

You may think I’m biased when I say that Oregon is the best state in the union, but I’ve got HARD FACTS to back up my claim: Beaches? ✅ Mountains? ✅ Deserts? ✅ Rivers, lakes, and waterfalls? ✅ Vibrant, artsy cities? ✅ Wineries, breweries, cideries? ✅, ✅, and ✅! No sales tax? ✅

Out here in the Pacific Northwest things are bigger and better than you can imagine, and Oregon delivers on anything your heart may desire. Below you’ll find a comprehensive list of the best places to visit in Oregon whether you’re just visiting or if you call the Beaver State home. 

So far, I’ve spent 34 years in this magical state, and though I haven’t turned over every stone, I have made a significant dent and am ready to share my findings with you! I’ll take you north and south, east and west, and high and low to cover (nearly) every square inch of my home state. 

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel and vacation rental links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would absolutely never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

The Best Places to Visit in Oregon: An Oregon Bucket List

I’m presenting these in alphabetical order because, if not, it’s like asking a parent to choose their favorite child—I love them all equally and they’re all my favorites!

I’ve tried my best to give an overall description of each destination along with a few specific suggestions of what to do with your time, be it hikes, restaurants, breweries, museums, or hot springs!

The Alvord Desert

This is one of only two places on the list that I haven’t personally visited but it is quite literally on my bucket list (and I may even go this fall!).

The Alvord Desert (which is actually a dried-up lake bed) has been called the best place for solitude and stargazing in the whole state. In typical desert fashion it will get hot during the day and cold at night, so the best time to visit is probably late spring or fall.

From what I’ve read, it seems like you can camp pretty much anywhere you like, but remember to stake your tent because it will get windy and bring a bike to explore the area!

Admittedly, this place won’t be for everyone as it’s pretty far away from everywhere (way southeast Oregon near the Nevada border). That said, there are two noteworthy attractions that draw me to this barren landscape. 

First is the Steens Mountain Wilderness , a very rugged and exposed mountain range with alpine lakes and peaks to one side and a frickin desert to the other! And there are wild horses!!! I’ve had friends who’ve backpacked here and said it was the most remote and mystical experience they’ve ever had .

But the coup de grâce? The Alvord Hot Springs ! They offer cheap, clean tent and cabin camping, have hot springs under the stars that go up to 170 degrees, and they sell local beef on site for grilling! 

Home to the world-renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF), Ashland is a small, Southern Oregon town that’s a haven of arts and culture.

You’ll have to drive almost to the California border to get here, but once you do Ashland makes for the perfect destination for a long weekend—not just for its theater, but for the city itself and the outdoor adventures in the area. 

The Oregon Shakespeare Festival began in 1935 and though they primarily stick to his plays, they do put on other classical and contemporary plays if you’re not a Shakespeare lover. However, if you are a fan of the Bard, you’ll love seeing his plays in the open-air, Elizabethan Allen Elizabeth Theater . 

Ashland is also surrounded by the mountains of the Siskiyou and Cascade Range. In the winter you can ski at Mount Ashland , or hike in the spring and summer on the nearby Grizzly Peak trail for epic views of Mount Ashland and Shasta.

Or, stay in town and explore one of the nicest city parks I’ve ever been to, Lithia Park . And you can’t leave the city without trying some of the Lithia mineral water (which is apparently really good for you, but tastes awful to me. Try it! )

The Oregon coast is wild and rugged and though there are several great beach towns to explore, the one with the most charm and history is Astoria.

It was named after John Jacob Astor whose fur company founded this city at the mouth of the Columbia River in 1811, making it the first American-owned settlement west of the Rockies.

You can really feel the history when you walk through town and unlike other beach towns that can have too much of a tourist vibe, Astoria manages to retain a certain working-man grittiness.

Here are some ideas of what to do while you’re in town:

Astoria Column: What could be a cheap, tourist attraction is actually one of my favorite Astoria activities. The Astoria Column was built in 1926 and though it’s only 125 feet tall, it sits on the top of Coxcomb Hill overlooking the river so when you finish climbing the 164 spiral-staircase steps to the top, you can see foreeeeeeeeeeeeever. It’s really a phenomenal view and well worth the workout. It costs $5 per car to get there and you can buy glider airplanes in the gift shop to send off from the top. DO IT!

Fort Stevens State Park and Lewis and Clark State Parks – These are two great parks that should be part of any trip to Astoria. Fort Stevens is much bigger and offers hiking trails, campgrounds, a lake, great beach access, and is home to the wreck of the Peter Iredale (which a lot of people love and I respect that, but for me it’s a little underwhelming). What’s more fun (for my fellow history nerds) is going to the nearby Lewis and Clark National Historic Park to see 19th century fort replicas, docents dressed in old-timey clothes, and if you’re lucky you’ll get to watch historical demonstrations like quill pen writing, flint fire starting, and hide tanning with real cow brains!

Blue Scorcher and Coffee Girl: The two best coffee houses in town! Blue Scorcher has been a mainstay of downtown Astoria for over 15 years and I almost always stop here for a cup of joe and an oatcake. Unless of course I stop at Coffee Girl which is located in the old Bumble Bee Cannery building on Pier 39. There’s a free museum there and you can sit with your coffee and carrot cake right out on the pier and watch the ships pass.

Goonies house: Yes, the very house where Chunk does the Truffle Shuffle. You can go up to the gate, but not to the house itself since it’s privately owned, but it’s still so cool for those of you jonesin’ for a hit of 80’s nostalgia. 

Youngs River Falls: A super easy (not even half a mile) out & back hike to a 54 foot falls that’s pretty to look at and great to swim in! Only ten miles south of town. 

Read More: Exactly What to Do in Astoria, Oregon

Bend is one of the fastest growing cities in the country and every time I visit I feel like I’m seeing a whole new town—it’s hard to keep up!

However, some tried and true things remain the same and they’re what makes Bend such a great place to live in and visit. Plus, because it’s conveniently located in the middle of the state, it’s one of the best places to go in Oregon no matter where you’re coming from.

The Deschutes River runs right through town and one of the best ways to see the city is to float the river. And don’t worry if you forgot to pack your inner tube because you can rent gear and grab a shuttle back to your car at Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe .

You may also want to try your hand at the state-of-the-art (and FREE!) Bend Whitewater Park for surfing or kayaking; I would have never believed such a thing existed until I saw it with my own two eyes. 

If water sports aren’t your thing, Bend is also teeming with exceptional hiking options. Tumalo Falls is incredibly popular and incredibly beautiful (even in winter!) and only 30 minutes outside of town. 

If you don’t feel like leaving the comfort of the city, hike up Pilot Butte then walk a mile into downtown Bend to enjoy some fine food and beer! 

Like Portland, there’s no shortage of breweries or grub so your most difficult decision will be choosing where to eat. Try the relatively new (and woman-owned and operated!) Spider City Brewing , or GoodLife Brewing who’s been serving up incredible beers for 11 years now in Bend.

Cannon Beach

Admittedly, Cannon Beach is not my favorite coastal town in Oregon (don’t get me wrong—I do like it, but prefer the smaller, kitchier ones instead), but its location is unbeatable!

First of all, it’s one of the closest beach towns to Portland and its home to the famous Haystack Rock . It also has some great beer ( Cannon Beach Hardware and Public House , yes—it’s also a hardware store!), restaurants ( Cannon Beach Smokehouse ), and coffee shops ( Insomnia ). 

But the best part about Cannon Beach is that it’s flanked by two outstanding state parks, Ecola State Park and Oswald West State Park.

Ecola State Park has one of my favorite beaches on the coast, Indian Beach. It’s also quite popular with local surfers, but remains surprisingly secluded given how rad it is.

At the park, you can head out one of the many trails around you, but my favorite is this 2.8 mile loop (that I actually don’t do as a loop, rather an out & back along the trail closest to the water).

Don’t forget to look out at “Terribly Tilly,” the doomed lighthouse that was deemed too dangerous to remain open.

Oswald West State Park is just south of Cannon Beach and though it only stretches four miles along the coast, it’s some of the most beautiful scenery you’ll find.

The main beach here is called Short Sand and it’s a relatively easy hike in where you’ll be surrounded by cliffs and caves and tide pools. 

Oswald also puts you right by Neahkahnie Mountain that’s said to have Spanish treasure buried at its base and is one of the best hikes on the coast. There are a few ways to get to the top, but this hike is the shortest (though it’s still not easy!).

From the top, you’ll have a great view looking south over Nehalem Bay if it isn’t too overcast.

Read More: All the Best Things to Do in (and Around) Cannon Beach

Cape Perpetua

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area is an 800 foot headland that also happens to be the highest point on the coast you can get to by car. Start your visit at the overlook to watch the crashing ocean below and trace the winding 101 highway as it makes its way down the coast. 

Then get back in your car and drive down to Thor’s Well (best name ever). It’s believed to be an old sea cave whose roof collapsed and now it looks like a sinkhole that’s constantly sucking in ocean water into a bottomless pit. Is it really bottomless?!? Well, no, but it sure looks cool! 

Another rare oceanic wonder that’s right by Thor’s Well is the Spouting Horn which looks just like—a spouting horn! Technically it’s called an “ocean geyser,” and while this isn’t the only one on the coast, it is the easiest to get to.

It’s especially impressive at high tide or during a storm when the water shoots up into the sky and makes a slight hissing noise. If you’ve missed high tide, no worries because this area abounds with tide pools!

And, though it’s technically ten miles south of Cape Perpetua, the Heceta Head Lighthouse that’s been in service since 1894 is one of the most picturesque on the coast.

And on your way down, you can stop at the Sea Lion Caves ! It does cost $15 to go down into the cave, but it’s very impressive and not as tourist-trappy as you may think.

Read More: How to Plan an Incredible Oregon Coast Road Trip

Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway

I love me a scenic byway, and this one may just be the best in Oregon. The whole Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is 66 miles, but you may get distracted by all the incredible stops along the way.

Note : this is a seasonal route since the road closes west of Mount Bachelor sometime between October and June depending on the snow pack. 

Starting in Bend and heading west, you’ll pass the peaks of Mount Bachelor, South Sister, Broken Top, and 10 different alpine lakes! The best option for swimming is Elk Lake and there’s also a great campground here. 

For those who prefer to kayak or SUP, you can’t beat Sparks Lake (catch it for the sunrise!) or the turquoise waters of Devils Lake , both of which also have  killer hiking trails.

The Green Lakes Trail is long but beautiful and makes an easy overnight backpacking trip (though it can be done as a day hike).

And if you’re really craving a workout, try the (very difficult) non-technical climb to the top of South Sister .

The Columbia River Gorge

Often dubbed Washington and Oregon’s playground, the Columbia River Gorge is more than 80 miles of jaw-dropping beauty and no matter where you’re coming from this should be on the top of your list for things to see in Oregon.

Formed by volcanic flows three million years ago, then carved out by the Missoula Floods around 15,000 years ago, what remains now are towering cliffs and ridges that flank the mighty Columbia River below. 

The Gorge is home to some of the best hiking in Oregon (though if you want the views without the hiking, the Vista House along the Historic Columbia River Highway is a great alternative), and I’ll break down your options into three categories: waterfalls, wildflowers, and views.

And, though this is technically an Oregon bucket list, I will be throwing out a couple options for Washington-side hikes because we’re all just one big family, right?

Waterfalls: The Gorge is known for its waterfalls, and there are over 90 of them on the Oregon side alone. The mother of them all is Multnomah Falls , the 627 foot masterpiece of the Gorge. Multnomah Falls is the busiest natural recreation site in the entire Pacific Northwest with over two million visitors each year, so be prepared for crowds and go early in the day or mid-week to make it more manageable.  However, there are lots of other incredible falls to see, notably Latourell Falls , Punchbowl Falls , Wahkeena Falls , and Dry Creek Falls . 

Wildflowers: Wildflowers will be in bloom in late spring and early summer and the best places for viewing are mostly on the Washington side. The most popular spot is undoubtedly Dog Mountain , but it’s also one of the hardest and busiest hikes in the area ( and you have to obtain a special permit on the weekends during wildflower season). This isn’t to dissuade you from going (it’s popular for a reason), but only to let you know you’ll need to plan ahead. Luckily, there are other comparable wildflower hikes like Coyote Wall and Tom McCall Point . 

Views: Last but not least are the spectacular views that the Gorge provides! My favorite spot on the Oregon side is Larch Mountain, one of the highest peaks in the Gorge at 4,062 feet. From the top, you’ll get 360 degree views of St. Helens, Adams, Rainier, Hood, and Jefferson! There are several ways to the top, but you can only drive up there from May to November when the access road is open. For those who like a long haul, this 15 mile hike starting at Multnomah Falls is incredible and weirdly doesn’t feel as long or difficult as you’d imagine. Alternatively, for those who like a winter hike, follow this trail but you’ll need to park about a mile down the road where the gate is closed around milepost 10. Other honorable mentions for views are Angel’s Rest and the Hamilton Mountain loop hike (on the Washington side).

Read More: 12 Mesmerizing Hikes in the Columbia River Gorge

Crater Lake National Park

As the only national park in Oregon, Crater Lake should be on anyone’s bucket list, not just Oregonians. Crater Lake is not the result of a crater falling to earth like I believed as a kid, rather from a volcano that blew up around 7,700 years ago (which technically means it should be called Caldera Lake, but I’ll let this one slide). 

If it hadn’t blown its top, the mountain (Mount Mazama), would have stood at around 12,000 feet making it the tallest peak in Oregon. But alas, now we’re stuck with a shockingly blue, pristine, deepest-in-the-United-States lake. 

Crater Lake deserves more attention than these two puny paragraphs, so if you’re interested to learn more please read here and here .

Here are the highlights for everyone else: 

You’ll have three main tasks when you visit: go high, go low, and go around.

There are a handful of great hikes in the area and conveniently, none of them are too long. For views of the lake and surrounding area try the shorter Watchman Peak or the slightly longer Garfield Peak . 

You’ll also be doing a real disservice to yourself if you don’t go down to the lake itself and the only way to do that (legally) is on the Cleetwood Cove Trail .

Lastly, after you’ve checked your hikes off the to-do list, it’s time to drive around the lake on the ridiculously scenic Rim Drive , but you should check conditions first as the full route is only open during the summer. 

Read More: How to Plan an Amazing Crater Lake Itinerary + 7 Incredible Hikes in Crater Lake National Park

Enchanted Forest

This is my happy place, y’all.

Enchanted Forest is a theme park located about an hour south of Portland and since I was a wee bairn it’s been one of my favorite things to do in Oregon; I’m sure all Oregon kids have a special place in their heart for it. 

It was dreamed up and built by a local family starting in 1971 and has stayed locally-owned and operated ever since. There are a couple knock-off Disneyland rides, a truly creepy haunted house (like I don’t know how they let kids in there . . . or maybe I’m just a wuss), storybook villages, and cheesy performers—it’s a little chintzy, but just so delightful and both kids and adults will have a good time!

An hour’s drive east of Portland sitting on the Columbia River is the city of Hood River , a mecca for wind and kite surfers from all over the country.

The city is small and quaint and among other things, it’s known for its food scene with exceptional restaurants like Broder Øst , The Mesquitery , Kickstand Coffee & Kitchen , and Solstice Wood Fire Pizza . 

It’s also the perfect place to grab a beer after a satisfying hike in the Gorge , or to head out for a drive (or bike ride) on the 35-mile Fruit Loop , a tour through the Hood River Valley’s orchards, wineries, breweries, distilleries, cideries, fruit stands, and lavender fields. 

In addition to its proximity to hiking trails in the Columbia River Gorge and snow sports on Mount Hood, the city is very committed to their water sports. Rent gear and get lessons in windsurfing or kiteboarding right in town at Big Winds , and try your hand in the beginner-friendly area of the Columbia called The Hook.

There’s also phenomenal white water rafting just across the river in White Salmon (and the fine folks at River Drifters can help you out!).

Read More: 12 Amazing Things to Do in Hood River: A Complete Trip Planning Guide

The Mckenzie River Scenic Byway

Just east of the hippie town of Eugene, lies the remarkably blue and serene Mckenzie River.  Drive along OR-126 to experience the 34-mile stretch of the Mckenzie River Scenic Byway , an area known for its fly-fishing, crystal-clear waters, and lush forests. 

For you non-car adventures, there’s also a 26 mile long thru trail that follows the river and is popular with both hikers and mountain bikers. 

The most impressive stop on the route is Tamolitch Pool (also called the “Blue Pool”) that I’ve recently learned was formed from the river traveling underground through a lava tube then rising up to make this mind-blowingly beautiful basin. Just a few miles further down the road is your next required stop to see Sahalie and Koosah Falls . 

If you’re not up for another hike, you can still view Sahalie Falls from a drive-up viewpoint. Last but not least, there are hot springs to enjoy!

Belknap Hot Springs is available for both drop in and overnight guests, or you can drive just a bit out of your way to the smaller, day-use only Terwilliger Hot Springs (but everyone calls them Cougar Hot Springs).

Mount Hood is an outdoor-lover’s paradise with winter sports in the snowy months and hiking and camping in the summer. Situated east of Portland and south of Hood River, most activities here are doable as daytime adventures from either of these locations. 

However, the area around Hood makes for some exceptional camping, backpacking, or cabining (I may have just made up a word). 

If you like to play in the snow, the best options for skiing and snowboarding are Mt. Hood Meadows , Timberline , and Skibowl .

Full disclosure: I am not the right person to advise on these sports (or any sport where you go fast and have no brakes), but what I’ve heard is that Meadows is the biggest and a better all-around choice, but Skibowl is superior for night skiing as well as having some very steep runs (locally referred to as “steep and cheap”). 

Timberline has the highest elevation runs so it typically opens earlier and stays open later in the season and they have a terrain park. For you cross-country skiers, you can either hit up Teacup Nordic Snow Park or Mt. Hood Meadow Nordic Center .

In the summer, there is hiking galore and like the Gorge, there’s just too much good stuff to name. Check out my comprehensive guide to hiking at Mount Hood if you want the details. 

Some notable hikes are Tom Dick and Harry (many people like the much shorter Mirror Lake Loop Trail that starts out this hike, but it doesn’t do much for me and I much prefer Timothy Lake if I’m looking to cool off!).

Ramona Falls is a must-do for all you waterfall chasers.

And though it’s long and tough , McNeil Point gets you fully immersed in the alpine scenery and makes for a great overnight backpacking trip. 

Read More: 11 Jaw-Dropping Hikes near Mount Hood You Have to Hike to Believe

The Oregon Dunes

The first time I set out for the Oregon Dunes , we left Portland later than intended and rolled in just as the sun was setting. We hiked in a few miles, set up camp and watched as the landscape became dark and foreign. 

In all my years in Oregon, I had never made it out to the dunes before, and I was kicking myself for taking so long to do so! We were still relatively close to the road and to the ocean just beyond the sandy hills, but it felt like we had stepped onto another planet.

The next morning we tromped through sand, then slogged through waist-deep water in the marshlands, and finally emerged out to the coast and the whole experience left an indelible mark in my memory. 

I can’t say enough about this corner of the state, and you should really go even if it’s just for the day. And, for those of you who aren’t campers, you can experience the dunes in a radically different way by renting a dune buggy or ATV at Spinreel in nearby North Bend.

The Painted Hills 

It takes about four hours to drive to the Painted Hills from Portland, which makes it a great camping destination.

Just north of the very small town of Mitchell (that used to be known for having an actual bear named Henry that lived in a two-story cage right off the main drag. Reportedly, Henry has now moved out to a ranch) lies the Painted Hills National Monument . 

If you’ve never seen them before it really does look like the hills have been painted with yellow, red, orange, and black stripes and the colors are most vibrant in the afternoon.

And if you’re at all into geology or paleontology, I highly recommend visiting the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center to see all the fossils that have been found here and during the week there are actual paleontologists that you can watch work!

Pendleton Round-Up

Next to the Alvord Desert, this is the only other item on the list I haven’t done personally.

I’ve actually had a long-running fantasy of winning the lottery and paying for all my friends to spend the week at the Pendleton Round-Up , and I’d buy them new cowboy boots and Stetson hats and Wranglers and large belt buckles. It could happen. 

Until then, it’s possible for those of even simple means to enjoy this annual rodeo that’s been running for over 100 years. They have concerts, parades, bucking broncos, rodeo clowns, cowboys and cowgirls late night shenanigans, and nightly pageants that honor the local indigineous culture.

Plus, it’s almost all volunteer-run and the whole town pitches in to accommodate the over 50,000 people that visit just for the Round-Up. 

Yes, it’s only one week out of the year (second week of September), but it sounds like so much fun!

Portland is the largest city in Oregon, with over 2.5 million people in the metro region. It’s the best big city in the U.S. (fact), and one could easily spend their whole life here (and it’s looking more and more likely I’ll do just that.) 

Like its sister city, Seattle, Portland sees a good amount of gray skies and rain in the winter, but the summers are unbeatable. And really, the rain doesn’t stop you from enjoying all the city has to offer. 

Here are just a few things you can experience when you visit the City of Roses.

Food: Portland finds its way on best-of lists across the country for its food scene and once you’ve spent some time here you’ll know why. With all the fresh, local produce and wine, Portland is a magnet for food-lovers and chefs. With over 500 food carts and a steady stream of new restaurants mixed with more established businesses, there is ALWAYS something exciting and delicious to eat. It’s almost a futile endeavor to try to list the “best” restaurants here but I shall try, highlighting my personal faves (with menu recos!) in each quadrant of the city. North: Eem (white curry), Northeast: Pine State Biscuits (the Chatfield), Southeast: Apizza Scholls (Paulie Gee), Southwest/Downtown: Fried Egg I’m in Love foodcart (Huevo Mutilation), Northwest/Pearl: Ken’s Artisan Bakery (quiche—any kind). 

Beer: Beer culture in Portland is huge due to some innovative craft beer pioneers in the ‘80s, notably Widmer Brothers and Bridgeport Brewery, the latter sadly closing its doors in 2019 after 35 years in the business. But today, there’s no lack of phenomenal breweries and it seems like there’s one on every corner. Like restaurants, it’s hard to make a “best-of” list, but since this is my guide I’m choosing the ones I like! The short list: Little Beast for their barrel-aged beer, Upright for their creative farmhouse styles, Level Beer for their easy-to-drink classics, and Cascade Brewing for their sours. 

Washington Park: Washington Park is located in southwest Portland and it really embodies what the city is all about. And though it’s popular with tourists, I legitimately come here ALL. THE. TIME. Hike through the over 2,300 species of trees in the Hoyt Arboretum , see elephants or live music at the Oregon Zoo , zen out in the Portland Japanese Gardens , or literally stop and smell the roses at the International Rose Test Gardens .

Forest Park: Portland is home to one of the largest urban forests in the country, and with it you get access to over 80 miles of trails right in town! Great for hiking, trail running, dog walking, kid walking, or just communing with nature, Forest Park is a treasure in this city. Stand out hikes are Lower Macleay to Pittock Mansion (and to see the Witch’s Castle) and the Ridge Trail to explore the northern sections of the park and get a great view of the iconic St. Johns Bridge.

Only in Portland: Some quintessentially “Portland” things that deserve a shout out: 

• Read : Powell’s City of Books is the largest new and used bookstore in the world and I would live there if I could.
• Bike : Tons of hotels now offer complimentary bikes for their guests to use, but you can also pick one up at the more than 180 BIKETOWN stations around the city. Biking is often the best way to experience a city, but in Portland this is especially true.
• Shop: Portland Saturday Market is hailed as the “largest continually running outdoor market in the country,” and there’s something here for everyone even if it’s just people watching.
• Dance: Yes, Portland is a bit of a hipster paradise, but with that comes an incredible music scene! Check out distinctive venues like the Crystal Ballroom , Revolution Hall , and Mississippi Studios .

Looking to explore Portland? We have plenty of other Portland travel guides (written by a Portland local) to help you discover something new and exciting.

• The Best Things to Do in Portland: A Complete Portland City Guide
• How to Spend One Amazing Day in Portland
• How to Spend a Weekend in Portland (Complete 3 Day Itinerary)
• Where to Stay in Portland, Oregon: A Complete Guide to 8 Neighborhoods
• The Best Time to Visit Portland, Oregon (According to a Local)
• The 13 Best Hikes Near Portland, Oregon: Complete Portland Hiking Guide
• 16 Amazing Day Trips from Portland, Oregon
• 12 Perfect Weekend Getaways from Portland, Oregon
• The Best Parks in Portland: A Local’s Take on Portland’s Parks

Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor

All the way at the bottom of the state, tucked away in its own magical little corner of the southern coast is the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor .

You really have to make an effort to come here since it’s not really on the way to anywhere, but let me assure you your hard work will be well rewarded as this is hands-down one of the best places to visit in Oregon!

The good and bad thing about this area is that you’ll be in and out of your car a lot, which makes it easy to take in the sights, but also—you’ll be in your car a lot. There are about a dozen viewpoints along this 12-mile stretch of coast and while they’re all worth seeing, you’ll need to focus your attention somewhat. 

If you’re starting from the north on the 101, a good first stop is the Arch Rock picnic area for gorgeous views, bathrooms, and a short loop hike around the area.

Then make your way a few miles south to Secret Beach where you’ll take the 1.5 mile trail down to the water, but you should only attempt this at low tide.

Your next stop is the Natural Bridges , probably the most iconic section of the corridor. The trail down to the best viewing area is short but steep, so please stay on the trail! I cringe when I see people risking their lives trying to get the best shot for their Instagram. 

And although there are even more places to check out, if I have to pick just one more it would be the somewhat steep and treacherous Indian Sands trail .

Silver Falls State Park

Silver Falls is an unbelievable oasis of waterfall majesty and should be on the top of your list for places to see in Oregon.

There are 10 —count ‘em— 10 waterfalls in the park and they’re not dinky little ones either. Some of them are probably the coolest you’ve ever seen, including the famous 177 foot South Falls that you can actually walk behind.

If it’s any indication, there are multiple falls from Silver Falls on our list of the best waterfalls in Oregon .  

By taking this moderately easy 7.4 mile hike , you can see all of them, then enjoy a picnic, bbq or even camp overnight!

Probably the cutest town you’ve ever been in. It feels like a movie set and has some of the best selection of food, like, in the whole state ( for real , though!).

Must stops are the Sisters Coffee Company for scones and coffee, Sisters Meat and Smokehouse to pick up a deli sandwich on your way out to a hike, and the Sno Cap Drive In for classic burgers, fries, and shakes!

Sisters is also only a 30 minute drive from Bend and if you’re exploring Central Oregon, you may prefer a quieter stay Sisters (check out the Left Coast Lodge ) and then drive into Bend for the day. There’s also plenty of great hiking and skiing around you, so this is the perfect spot for the adventure-minded traveler. 

Smith Rock State Park

Just 30 minutes north of Bend in Central Oregon is a climber’s paradise, with literally thousands of climbing routes.

Smith Rock State Park is made up of 3,000 foot spires of condensed volcanic ash that now tower over the Crooked River that wends its way through the park. And although it’s most well known for climbing, there’s also great hiking, mountain biking, and even horseback riding. 

The most popular route is definitely the six mile Misery Ridge hike, though there’s a shorter (but still hard) 3.5 mile option . I like the longer one because it really lets you see the whole park. 

Smith Rock is often accessible year-round, but beware of the hot summer months when temperatures exceed 100 degrees and there’s very little tree cover.

The Three Capes Scenic Route

From Tillamook Bay down to Cape Kiwanda is the 30-mile Three Capes Scenic Route. Here you’ll see some of the most astounding scenery the central coast has to offer including Cape Meares, Cape Lookout, and Cape Kiwanda. 

Coming from the northern Oregon Coast, your first stop is Cape Meares which features the state’s shortest lighthouse (weird claim to fame, I know), the ever-popular “octopus tree,” and stunning views down the coast. 

Next, you’ll go to Cape Lookout (which also has a great campground right on the coast) and one of the best coastal hiking trails that takes you right to the tip of the cape. Many hikers report seeing whales from the point, but I’ve never been so lucky. Be prepared for mud unless you’ve had several days of dry weather beforehand. 

Your last stop is Cape Kiwanda (my favorite). The headlands are all soft sandstone that the ocean is constantly eroding and sculpting creating an ever-changing work of art. 

Once you’ve explored Cape Kiwanda, pop into Pacific City and get your fill of delicious food at Grateful Bread Bakery . You can then make this a loop trip by heading north on a lovely inland portion of the 101 up to Tillamook where you might as well pay a visit to the Tillamook Cheese Factory .

The Umpqua River Scenic Byway

Traveling along the Umpqua River Scenic Byway is a great way to experience some of Oregon’s wine country and then head east through the enchanting Umpqua National Forest . 

The Southern Oregon city of Roseburg is a good place to start, and if you’re into wines you may want to spend a little time in the Umpqua Valley that has over 20 wineries dotting the area. A few standouts include the Reustle-Prayer Rock Vineyards , Henry Estate Winery , and Cooper Ridge Vineyard . 

After you’ve got your fill of wine, start heading east on OR-138 for your first stop at Fall Creek Falls , then on to the spectacular Toketee Falls . 

Just north of Toketee Falls (and actually hikeable to) is the Umpqua Hot Springs . These hot springs aren’t huge so if you’re there on a nice Saturday it might be too crowded to really enjoy it, but if you can hit it up mid week (or better yet, in the winter!), you’ll likely get a pool all to yourself. Note: there WILL be naked hippies there. 

The end of this route puts you in striking distance of Crater lake, but if you’re not feeling ambitious enough for that, Diamond Lake makes an excellent destination in its own right.

The Wallowa Mountains

Nestled in the northeast corner of the state, the Wallowa Mountains seem to materialize out of nowhere. If you’re heading over from Portland, you’ll spend a couple hours driving through semi-desert land, but as you start gaining elevation the trees start springing up and before long you’re in the beautiful Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, sometimes called the “Alps of Oregon.”

The Wallowas are far away from anywhere, so plan to stay at least three days. I’ve done a five-day backpacking trip here and regretted not allocating more time. 

If you’re down to strap on a backpack and get lost (figuratively, of course), I recommend the 26 miles Wallowa River Loop Trail , but this is best done late summer or early fall as the snow lingers into July. Alternatively, you can make your way to the top of the 8,261 foot Mount Howard by way of the Wallowa Lake Tramway , and if that doesn’t make you feel like you’re in the Swiss Alps, I don’t know what will. 

For a more laid-back experience, camp at the gorgeous, glacial Wallowa Lake where you can rent kayaks, paddleboards, or even motor boats at the marina . 

Then stroll into the town of Joseph to have lunch at the R & R Drive In or grab a beer at Embers Brewhouse . Or, drive ten minutes north to the equally cute town of Enterprise for the annual Oregon Alpenfest in late September. Brats! Beer! Yodeling!

Willamette Valley Wine Country

Oregon’s Willamette Valley is known throughout the world for its premier pinot-noirs, though in the last few decades it’s stepped up its game in chardonnay, pinot gris, and rieslings as well. 

Plan a day (or two or three) wine tasting throughout the region, and stay in the local towns at an AirBnB or an old-fashioned B&B!

Two of the cutest towns in this area are Newberg and McMinnville, and they’re both surrounded by award-winning vineyards like the Stoller Family Estates , Lemelson Vineyards , and Brooks Wine . 

A Map of Oregon’s Best Places to Visit

You Might Also Like

• OREGON: How to Plan an Amazing Oregon Road Trip
• OREGON COAST: Planning An Unforgettable Oregon Coast Road Trip
• PORTLAND: How to Spend a Weekend in Portland, Oregon (3 Days)
• PORTLAND: Where to Stay in Portland: The Best Areas According to a Local
• MOUNT HOOD: 11 Breathtaking Hikes at Mount Hood You Have to See to Believe

More to Explore in Oregon

Enjoying this guide? We’ve got more Oregon travel guides to help you explore the best of Oregon and fall head-over-heels in love with it like we have.

• 25 Incredible Places to Visit in Oregon, the Best State in the Union
• How to Plan An Unforgettable Oregon Road Trip
• A Complete Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary
• 16 Incredible Hikes in Oregon
• One Day in Portland: The Best of Portland in a Day
• A Weekend in Portland: A Portland Itinerary for First Timers (Local’s Guide)
• Where to Stay in Portland: A Local’s Guide to 8 Areas to Stay
• The Best Hikes Near Portland (Local’s Guide)
• The Best Day Trips from Portland
• Amazing Weekend Getaways from Portland, Oregon
• The Best Things to Do in Hood River, Oregon
• What to Do in Cannon Beach: A Complete Getaway Guide
• How to Plan an Amazing Crater Lake Itinerary (1 or 2 Days)
• 24 Amazing Cabins in Oregon (Coast, Mountains, and More)
• Glamping in Oregon: 23 Cool Glamping Spots to Book for your Next Getaway

Diana lives in Portland with her delightful son and her crotchety cat. Growing up in the area, family vacations were often to nearby destinations reachable by car. She has since expanded that love of local road trips and has been all over the great state of Oregon and throughout the Pacific Northwest, frequently pairing backpacking trips with exploring new towns and regions.

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25 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Oregon

Written by Brad Lane Updated Aug 1, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Oregon is a state of adventurous landscapes. From the coast to the mountains and the Oregon high desert, vacations to the state traverse all types of terrain. The multitude of places to visit and things to do in Oregon can make planning a getaway overwhelming until you have a complete picture of everything Oregon offers.

A few beautiful places in Oregon include an ancient lake created by a volcanic eruption, a luscious gorge streaming with waterfalls, and several impressive sea stacks jutting out of the ocean. These scenic attractions are spread throughout the state, leading to memorable road trips and excursions.

In addition to its natural beauty, Oregon is equally known for its urban charms. The state's largest city, Portland, has an international reputation for drawing tourists with an offbeat and welcoming culture. The top things to do in Portland range from visiting rose gardens and art museums to browsing an immense bookshop. And this cultural capital is only one of many of the best cities in Oregon .

Plan your summer or winter trip to Oregon with our list of the top attractions and places to visit.

1. Crater Lake National Park

2. columbia river gorge national scenic area, 3. cannon beach, 4. washington park, portland, 5. mount hood national forest, 8. hood river, 9. samuel h. boardman state scenic corridor, brookings, 10. smith rock state park, terrebonne, 11. oregon shakespeare festival, ashland, 12. newport, 13. sisters, 14. silver falls state park, sublimity, 15. depoe bay, 16. newberry national volcanic monument, 17. klamath falls, 18. oregon dunes national recreation area, 19. hells canyon national recreation area, 20. oregon coast trail, 21. willamette national forest, 22. willamette heritage center at the mill, salem, 23. jordan schnitzer museum of art, eugene, 24. oregon caves national monument and preserve, 25. medford.

Crater Lake National Park lies in the Cascade Mountains of southwestern Oregon. Its landscape is like nowhere else. It's not actually a crater but rather an ancient caldera of an extinct volcano, Mount Mazama, which erupted over 7,000 years ago. Today, lava cliffs rise 2,000 feet around the sky-blue, seemingly bottomless lake.

The easiest way to see and visit Crater Lake is along Rim Drive , circumnavigating the entire lake. The route begins at Rim Village , home to the Crater Lake Lodge and Rim Village Visitor Center. Rim Drive is only drivable in the warm weather months (typically mid-July to Mid-October). Snowshoers and cross-country skiers utilize the unplowed road for winter travel throughout winter.

Crater Lake National Park is home to some of Oregon's best hiking trails . Stunning trails like Watchman Peak give great views of the caldera, while more moderate options stem from Rim Village via paved sidewalks. And extended hiking and backpacking opportunities, including the country-spanning Pacific Crest Trail, present themselves away from the rim.

To access the water in the summer, head to Cleetwood Cove , where cruises depart for Wizard Island. Camping is also available at two developed campgrounds, with most sites found at the Mazama Campground , located in the Mazama Village.

Southern Oregon has a lot more to explore outside the national park. Crater Lake is surrounded by wild places like Umpqua National Forest and Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest , featuring hundreds of more miles of hiking trails to explore. And Crater Lake is at the northern end of the spectacular 500-mile, state-spanning Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway .

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area follows the course of the Columbia River as it cuts through the Cascade Range. This stunning river gorge is the boundary line between Oregon and Washington. It falls within a thirty-minute drive from Portland and is best known for its spectacular views and numerous waterfalls.

Traveling along the Historic Columbia River Highway through the gorge offers a slower pace than the adjacent Interstate 84. This historic corridor has several roadside attractions and is a popular route to explore via bicycle.

The tallest waterfall in the state, Multnomah Falls, is perhaps the most iconic display of gravity in the Columbia River Gorge. Alongside a dazzling two-tier waterfall, the area around Multnomah offers a range of hiking and biking trails, plus camping facilities . It's also home to the historic Multnomah Falls Lodge , built in 1925, and is still a popular place to dine or stay the night.

Multnomah Falls is one of the most popular day trips from Portland , but not even close to the only waterfall to check out in the gorge. One of the many other great destinations to aim for is Punchbowl Falls on Eagle Creek. This iconic waterfall doesn't drop anywhere close to the same distance as Multnomah Falls, but it arguably leaves an even better impression.

Author's Tip : New Time Use Permits have been in place for the past few years, requiring visitors to reserve parking spots during peak visiting season (May 26 th – September 4 th ). You can bypass the need for a permit with different transportation means. Check out all the options with the From Portland to Multnomah Falls: 5 Best Ways to Get There guide.

Cannon Beach is a popular tourist destination on the northern Oregon coast with a vast stretch of sand and spectacular views of jagged coastal rocks. Haystack Rock is the largest of these sea stacks and is a constant presence during any visit to this coastal community.

Alongside spectacular ocean scenery, Cannon Beach also delivers cultural appeal with restaurants, boutique shops, and great hotels. This combination of culture, community, and ocean access earns Cannon Beach its reputation as one of the best small towns on the Oregon Coast ,

To the north of Cannon Beach, the enchanting Ecola State Park and Tillamook Head encompass historic and scenic landscapes to explore, including a trail that follows the path of Lewis and Clark. The charming city of Seaside is on the other end of Ecola State Park, offering more days of family-friendly travel along the coast.

Portland offers a bevy of delightful parks and gardens, but none has quite the density of attractions as Washington Park. Within park grounds, the famed International Rose Test Garden is located near the impressive Portland Japanese Garden . Both display exceptional horticultural expertise and are favorites with green thumbs.

Washington Park is also home to the Oregon Zoo , Hoyt Arboretum , World Forestry Center Discovery Museum , and a popular Rose Garden Children's Playground . And even without these attractions, Pacific Northwest splendor imbues the entire park with a dense landscape of foliage and nature.

The park is also next to the expansive Forest Park , encompassing approximately 1,300 acres, and home to some of the best hiking trails in the Portland area . Plan to spend the whole day exploring this urban respite in the middle of the city.

Author's Tip : Parking is scarce in parts of Washington Park, particularly nearest the International Rose Test Garden and Portland Japanese Garden. A free Washington Park shuttle operates within the park daily between April and September, and several public transit options bridge the gap between downtown and the park.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Portland, Oregon

Mount Hood is the highest mountain in Oregon, with a peak rising to 11,239 feet. This enormity makes the mountain an unmistakable landmark of the state, seen from miles in every direction. On clear days, it provides a brilliant backdrop for the city of Portland to the east.

Mount Hood National Forest encompasses the entire mountain and much of its flanks. This public space offers all types of adventures. On the mountain slopes are downhill offerings at Mount Hood Skibowl , picturesque hiking paths like the Timberline Trail , and scenic viewpoints accessible via the Mount Hood Scenic Loop. The nation-spanning Pacific Crest Trail also crosses the southwest flank of the mountain.

The historic town of Government Camp and the nearby Timberline Lodge are big attractions in this mountain landscape. The reflective Trillium Lake offers a postcard setting and a great mountain view. Mount Hood National Forest fans out from the peak to encompass waterfalls and hot springs.

• Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Mt. Hood National Forest

Bend sits roughly in the center of Oregon, edged by a mix of national forests, volcanoes, and dry plains. The city's High Desert Museum has informative displays about the surrounding arid regions.

Popular things to do in Bend include rafting trips on the Deschutes River, excursions to the volcanic landscapes of Lava Butte and Newberry National Volcanic Monument , and skiing at the large Mount Bachelor Ski Area . For an iconic waterfall of the area, Tumalo Falls can be reached from Bend in just over a 10-mile drive.

Also nearby, Smith Rock is famous with climbers for its many routes and long history as a rock-climbing destination. Hiking trails around Bend are a great way to explore these scenic areas, and mountain biking trails also add to the excitement.

For a more laid-back approach, Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is a popular auto-touring route through the Deschutes National Forest. The drive passes lakes, mountains, and spectacular scenery with many picnic spots and campsites available along the way.

Astoria is a charming seaside city with inspiring surroundings in the far northwest corner of Oregon, near the end of the Columbia River before it meets the ocean. Although smaller, it's called the San Francisco of Oregon, thanks to its seaside status and vibrant downtown district filled with a community flavor.

Movie fans may recognize Astoria as the backdrop for the 80s cult-classic movie, The Goonies . Visitors to Astoria can learn more about this movie and other Oregon productions at the Oregon Film Museum , located in the old Clatsop County Jail.

Nearby, the Astoria Flavel House Museum provides historical insight into this well-aged city. Other top attractions of Astoria include the scenic Riverfront and the Astoria Column, both with great views of the area.

The scenic city of Hood River is on the banks of the Columbia River just over an hour east of Portland. It is a great place for sightseeing and outdoor sports and is well-known as a destination for kiteboarding and windsurfing. Other common things to do in this adventurous region include hiking, biking, and camping .

The city is also well regarded for its emerging culinary scene. Menus are often bolstered by fresh ingredients from the adjacent Hood River Valley. Even more tastes of the region are found on the 35-mile Fruit Loop , which runs from the city into the agricultural fields to the south.

Visitors wanting a little less physical activity can easily hop on the Historic Columbia River Scenic Byway to explore a lush world of waterfalls. The Mount Hood Railroad also departs from Hood River and travels 17 miles to Odell, with Mount Hood in view the entire way.

The Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is a 12-mile linear park between Brookings and Gold Beach on the southern Oregon coast. This stunning coastal corridor exhibits some of the best oceanside scenery in the state.

The park is named after the first Oregon Parks superintendent and is easily accessible from US 101. Various pull-offs line the entire park, connecting beaches, rock formations, and the distinct natural beauty that defines this part of the coast. The Oregon Coast Trail also spans the entire park, offering a very challenging day hike.

Most of the pull-offs in the state park lead to steep hiking trails that quickly descend to the beach, sometimes over rough terrain. A few popular pitstops along this scenic corridor include Arch Rock; Indian Sands; and one of the best beaches on the Oregon coast , Lone Ranch Beach . This beautiful beach is easily accessible with convenient parking nearby.

Smith Rock State Park is an international climbing destination in central Oregon, near Bend. The state park has over 1,000 bolted sport routes lining a stunning river canyon environment. These routes range from beginner to finger-crimping hard, and all require proper climbing experience and gear.

It's not just climbers who flock to this outdoor playground – mountain bikers, hikers, and photographers often explore the scenic surroundings of the state park. And with a high-desert weather system, climbing and exploring Smith Rock in winter is usually a T-shirt endeavor.

For one of the best hikes in the area, head to Misery Ridge . Despite its foreboding name, the trail provides a stunning view of the Crooked River and its canyon walls.

Smith Rock State Park has an RV-exclusive campground and a walk-in area for campers and climbers.

Official site: https://smithrock.com/

The world-renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival takes place in Ashland for much of the year. This non-profit theater production puts on over 700 shows annually, spread across three stages, including the beautiful Allen Elizabethan Theatre. And catching any one of these performances is a quintessential Southern Oregon traveling experience.

With a season that spans February through October, alongside ample fanfare, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival greatly defines the community and culture of the surrounding city of Ashland. This is especially true in the downtown district, with Victorian-themed restaurants and shops throughout. Much of the audience tends to spill out of the theaters and onto these streets after a show.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Ashland, Oregon

Family-friendly attractions line Newport on the Oregon coast, a city that mixes beach scenery with a distinct Victorian heritage. The Oregon Coast Aquarium and Hatfield Marine Science Center are often favorite places to visit, and to the north, the Yaquina Head Lighthouse is a beacon of coastal beauty.

Beaches abound in every direction from Newport. Its historic Nye Beach certainly ranks among the Best Beaches near Newport , with other sunset-capturing contenders like Agate Beach and South Beach State Park nearby.

The town is a good base camp for exploring the central coast and whale watching. The city's busy bayfront faces Yaquina Bay , home to a large fishing fleet. Extending from the sheltered bay, the city's wild Pacific beaches offer storm-surge rollers and unfiltered sunsets

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Newport, Oregon

Sisters is a fun western-themed town on the west side of the Cascade Mountains, approximately a 30-minute drive from Bend. It's smaller than Bend and offers a more tourist-orientated community with a centralized downtown shopping area. This downtown area has a distinct western charm circa the 1880s, with old-fashioned storefronts housing several modern retailers.

Sisters is also a major basecamp for adventures. Willamette and Deschutes National Forests dominate the landscape immediately east, offering endless adventure throughout the year. Hop on the McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway , starting in sisters, for one of the best automobile loops in Oregon.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Sisters, Oregon

Silver Falls State Park is thirty minutes east of the state capital of Salem and provides perhaps the most dazzling display of waterfalls in the country. It's home to the nationally recognized Trail of Ten Falls , a moderate hiking path that tours the many water attractions of the area.

This jewel of the Oregon State Park system takes users behind a few waterfalls for an exciting perspective. One of these waterfall tunnels includes the largest waterfall in the area and one of the best waterfalls in Oregon , the stunning South Falls.

Visitors don't have to travel far to see the signature South Falls with the adjacent South Falls Day-Use Area nearby, with parking and visitor amenities like picnic tables and restrooms.

Address: 20024 Silver Falls Highway Southeast, Sublimity, Oregon

Depoe Bay is a seaside town with a stunning overlook of the Pacific Ocean. With its high vantage point and Main Street perched on the side of a cliff, it easily earns its reputation as the " Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coas t." The Depoe Bay Whale Watching Center is the first place to go for information on how to spot these massive mammals.

Alongside the ocean sounds and vistas presented along the entire western edge of the town, Depoe Bay caters to an authentic Oregon coast vacation. Local taffy shops and seafood restaurants line the charming Main Street , next to the World's Smallest Harbor, where commercial fishing trips encourage a day of adventure.

Depoe Bay also lends easy access to a stunning section of the coast. Several public access points dot the elevated Depoe Bay coastline, lending to spectacular views come sunset, and areas like the Devil's Punchbowl and Yaquina Head are within a quick drive from Depoe Bay on the 101.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Depoe Bay

The Newberry Volcanic Monument provides a plethora of unique scenery to explore within the Deschutes National Forest of Central Oregon. It's centered around the Newberry Caldera and surrounds a 1,200-square-mile volcano. A great first stop when visiting the monument is the Lava Lands Visitor Center to learn more about this thermally active area.

Popular activities at Newberry include bicycling, hiking, and boating. One of the best campgrounds in Oregon is in Newberry, and those who nab a reservation at the popular Little Crater Campground have immediate access to the welcoming waters of Paulina Lake .

Several scenic hot springs are dug into the shoreline of Paulina Lake. From the campground, this thermal area is accessible by boat ride or moderate hike next to the water. It's approximately a three-mile round trip hike on an undulating lakeshore trail to reach the hot springs on foot.

Klamath Falls is a base camp for adventure in Southern Oregon. The town is one of many stops on the state-crossing Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway . Crater Lake National Park is 90 minutes north on this bucket-list highway from Klamath Falls, and Lava Beds National Monument is less than 60 minutes south.

Outside of its nearby natural attractions, the city itself offers several attractions and things to do . The town's blessed with abundant sunshine throughout the year, and places like Moore Park and the Link River Trail offer plenty of space to explore outside.

Head to Klamath Fall's downtown district for cultural appeal, where history and modern taste combine for a fun visiting experience. Surrounding the downtown area, a collection of Klamath County Museums offers valuable insight into the region.

The dune landscape of Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area begins south of Florence and stretches along the Pacific Coast for about 40 miles before reaching Coos Bay . The National Recreation Area is within Siuslaw National Forest , near other scenic attractions such as Cape Perpetua and the Heceta Head Lighthouse.

The ocean and several pocket forests sandwich these miles of shifting dunes, offering tons of space to explore by foot or via off-highway vehicle. Popular destinations within the dunes include the Umpqua Dunes area at Winchester Bay and the sandboarding destination known as Sand Master Park in Florence.

For a great place to pitch a tent or park an RV, Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park is located south of Florence and is one of the best campgrounds on the Oregon coast . It offers a popular place to access the sand dunes with horse and off-road vehicle staging areas.

Visitors to the dunes should be aware of snowy plovers and the restrictions put in place to protect their habitat.

Hells Canyon is the deepest canyon in the United States. This rugged river canyon is in the extreme northeast of the state, straddling the Idaho border, and is managed within Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. This remote landscape is mainly inaccessible, but for the adventurous, it offers lengthy outdoor excursions like rafting and backpacking trips.

The Wild and Scenic Snake River runs at the bottom of the canyon and is a major bucket-list destination for whitewater boaters. Other popular activities at Hells Canyon include nature photography, wildlife spotting, fishing, and hiking. The Western Rim National Recreation Trail traverses the Oregon side of the canyon and provides excellent views for hikers and backpackers.

For those traveling by car, the Hells Canyon National Scenic Byway departs from Baker City and La Grande, with side trips to Hells Canyon Dam and viewpoints.

The Oregon Coast Trail (OCT) stretches for over 360 miles along the western edge of Oregon, taking in the sights, sounds, and top attractions of the Oregon coast .

Most tackle the Oregon Coast Trail in segments, doing three to five days at a time and covering 20 to 30 miles. Several campgrounds along the trail consist of state parks, with hiker/biker sites set aside. Reservations aren't needed for hiker/biker sites, though everyone has to arrive via muscle-powered transportation.

While the trail mostly sticks to beaches, hikers on the OCT navigate forested headlands, catch boat rides across estuaries, and follow along the shoulder of the US 101 for portions of the trek. Research is needed before any trip to solidify logistics like campgrounds and estuary crossings.

The vast Willamette National Forest covers nearly 1.7 million acres on the western slopes of the Cascade Mountains. The forest contains spectacular scenery, including several volcanoes, mountains, rivers, and some of the best hot springs in Oregon .

Visitors can explore trails or head to attractions such as the Dee Wright Observatory (a stone tower atop McKenzie Pass) or the 280-foot Salt Creek Falls . The famous Three Sisters Wilderness is also accessible within Willamette National Forest.

This region of the state is particularly dense with national forests. Directly to the east, the Deschutes National Forest is just as popular for recreation. And to the north, Mount Hood National Forest surrounds the impressive peak for which it's named.

Salem is the state capital of Oregon. It's within the Willamette Valley and home to historic theaters, family-favorite carousels, and an Enchanted Forest. Other top attractions of Salem include Riverfront City Park, the State Capitol building, and the Willamette Heritage Center.

The Heritage Center looks at the life and industrialization of the Willamette Valley in the late 1800s. It's spread across five acres and centers on the Thomas Kay Woolen Mill , dating to 1895. Alongside the large red structure, other historic wooden buildings are brought to life by exhibits and interpretive guides.

Address: 1313 Mill Street Southeast, Salem, Oregon

This windowless museum in Eugene is designed to protect its art treasures. The wide-reaching collection features primarily Asian artworks and pieces from America and Europe.

Opened in 1933, the museum is located on the University of Oregon campus, where other attractions include the Museum of Natural and Cultural History and a historic track at Hayward Field.

Guided tours of the museum are available on the first Saturday of every month and are included with the cost of admission.

Address: 1430 Johnson Lane, Eugene, Oregon

Official site: http://jsma.uoregon.edu/

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Eugene, Oregon

This subterranean attraction centers on a marble cave, accessible only during guided tours. The National Park Service offers a variety of tours that explore the cave, ranging from guided treks for families and kids to wild cave expeditions that veer off the typical tourist path.

Above the surface, the protected area offers hiking trails through old-growth coniferous forests. The monument sits at 4,000 feet elevation in the Siskiyou Mountains. Seventeen primitive campsites are available at the monument's Cave Creek Campground , located approximately four miles from the cave entrance.

Address: 19000 Caves Highway, Cave Junction, Oregon

Medford is the largest city in Southern Oregon and a hot spot for travel and vacations. It's the heart of the Rogue River Valley, tying the city to an agriculturally rich region and several natural playgrounds.

Outdoor adventures stemming from Medford include jet boat tours of the Rogue River and climbing to the top of the culturally significant Table Rock formations. Prescott Park is a local favorite place to explore, encompassing one of the most prominent peaks closest to the city, Roxy Ann Peak.

Medford is also a hub for culture in Southern Oregon. Its larger population lends to more shopping malls and big-box retailers. But the downtown district, with local shops lining the streets, is the best place to experience the Medford community.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Medford, OR

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25 Most Beautiful Places in Oregon: Discover the Best of the Pacific Northwest

Posted on Last updated: March 28, 2024

Home » Destinations » Oregon » 25 Most Beautiful Places in Oregon: Discover the Best of the Pacific Northwest

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Are you planning a trip to the Pacific Northwest and want to explore the most beautiful places in Oregon? Keep scrolling to find out which places in Oregon are worth a stop!

This list of the most beautiful places in oregon was written by pnw family travel expert marcie cheung and may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on the link and purchase the item, i will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. all opinions remain my own..

As a Seattle-area native, our family loves doing easy weekend trips to Oregon. It’s so close but there’s a slightly different vibe to the state that keeps us coming back.

Oregon is home to some of the most beautiful beach towns on the West Coast, cities as quirky as they get, and natural landscapes that range from forests to snow-capped peaks and high deserts. 

As if that weren’t enough, the Beaver State has a world-class coffee and craft beer scene, not to mention it has become an example of sustainability. The art scene here is fantastic as well, with plenty of museums, art galleries, and exhibitions being hosted all over the state by local artists.

When you put everything together, Oregon pretty much becomes the perfect destination for an incredibly varied trip.

If it’s your first time visiting, you may be wondering what there is to do in the Beaver State. So we created a list of the most beautiful destination in Oregon that includes just about everything that needs to be on your itinerary!

The Most Beautiful Destinations in Oregon Worth Seeing

No list of the most beautiful destinations in Oregon would be complete without including Portland. It’s the largest city in the state and one of the most interesting ones in the world!

My kids started visiting Portland as toddlers . We’re constantly in awe of how many cool things there are to do in this city.

In recent years, Portland has become a hub for creatives and art lovers who enjoy expressing themselves freely. Moreover, the city has earned fame thanks to its conservation efforts, which have ranked it as a highly eco-friendly city!

As if that weren’t enough, Portland is known for its excellent coffee. Coffee shop culture is huge here, so you can expect to spend a large portion of your itinerary sitting at cafés.

Craft beer, incredible restaurants, and plenty of parks are also part of what this unique (and somewhat quirky) city is all about. And don’t get me started on the beautiful Portland Japanese garden.

Located just an hour away from Portland, Lost Lake is one of the most beautiful destinations in Oregon for those who love nature.

The setting you’ll find here is as idyllic as it gets. The lake is located in the middle of an insanely charming forest and towered by Mount Hood, which is the state’s most iconic natural landmark. The lake reflects the mountain at certain times of the day, creating a truly delightful scene!

As for what to do at Lost Lake, there’s plenty on the menu, especially during the summer months. Boating, kayaking, canoeing, and hiking in the forest are just a few of the activities you can enjoy here.

Camping is another favorite. But if you’re not into sleeping outside, there are plenty of cabins available as well.

I suggest staying at Lost Lake for at least a night because it’s one of the best places in the USA for stargazing.

Pillars of Rome

If hidden gems are what you’re after, Pillars of Rome is a pretty great place to visit.

Tucked away in the high desert of the southeastern side of the state, the Pillars of Rome are a series of gigantic rock formations and pillars. They can measure up to 100 feet in height and create a scene that looks as though it belonged in ancient Rome.

Cannon Beach

Located on Oregon’s coast, Cannon Beach is one of the most charming seaside towns the state has to offer.

Not only is the beach a treat to visit during the warmer months, but Cannon Beach is also known as a destination where you can combine tons of fun-in-the-sun activities with outdoor experiences.

All around Cannon Beach, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the ocean, plenty of waterfalls, and tons of hiking trails, especially at the nearby Ecola Point State Park.

Historic Columbia River Highway

The Historic Columbia River Highway is considered one of the most beautiful places to see in Oregon for several reasons.

It offers breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge, including vistas of the river and scenic overlooks.

The highway passes by several beautiful waterfalls, including Multnomah Falls, which is one of the most photographed waterfalls in the country. Visitors can stop at each waterfall to take photos and explore the surrounding trails.

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a deep canyon that was carved out by the Columbia River thousands of years ago.

These days, the gorge and the region around it have become a destination that offers a wide variety of activities. The area boasts over 90 gorgeous waterfalls. So hiking in search of a few of them is a must on your itinerary (don’t miss out on visiting Multnomah Falls, which is 620 feet tall!).

Moreover, the Columbia River Gorge Natural Scenic Area is also a major producer of wine. You’ll find plenty of vineyards and wine estates all over. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Tempranillo, and Syrah are all produced here.

You’ll also find a wide array of organic and farm-to-table restaurants in the are. This makes it a wonderful destination for a peaceful getaway.

Oregon Coast Trail

The Oregon Coast is home to some of the most stunning coastal landscapes in the United States. It features more than 360 miles of rugged coastline, sandy beaches, towering cliffs, and stunning rock formations.

There are also several adorable Oregon Coast towns worth visiting along the way.

Along the coast is the Oregon Coast Trail also called the OCT.

The trail offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching. There are also opportunities for kayaking, surfing, and other water sports along the coast.

From whale watching to exploring tide pools, the Oregon Coast Trail offers unique experiences that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

The Oregon Coast Trail is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

Crater Lake National Park

Home to the deepest lake in the United States, Crater Lake National Park is located in the heart of the fascinating Cascade Mountain Range. It was created as a result of an ancient volcano that crinkled thousands of years ago.

As a result, the landscape you’ll find there is as gorgeous and unique as it gets. Simply getting to stand by the lake and enjoy the views is reason enough to visit this nature destination in Oregon. But there are things to do within the park that can easily keep you entertained for days on end.

Scenic driving around the rim is one of the most beautiful ways to explore the park. However, make sure not to leave without enjoying other activities as well, including hiking, swimming, boating, and more.

Smith Rock State Park

Smith Rock State Park is a popular place to visit in Oregon for outdoor enthusiasts, rock climbers, hikers, and anyone seeking stunning natural beauty and rich cultural history.

The park has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. These include the Crooked River, the volcanic rock formations, and the snow-capped Cascade Mountains in the distance.

Smith Rock State Park is also home to towering rock formations, deep canyons, and stunning vistas, making it a popular destination for photographers and nature lovers.

Suttle Lake

Hidden away in the Deschutes National Forest somewhere in the Cascade Mountains, Suttle Lake is an extremely idyllic alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks and forests.

Here, you’ll find a plethora of hiking trails both around the lake and within the forest. All of them provide wonderful opportunities to spot animals such as Bald Eagles and ducks.

If you’d rather focus on water activities, though, you can go swimming, boating, sailing, and more.

Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway

The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway winds through some of the most stunning landscapes in Central Oregon. These include volcanic peaks, alpine lakes, and dense forests.

The byway offers breathtaking views at every turn, making it a popular destination for photographers and nature lovers.

A few top photo spots along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway include Sparks Lake, Mount Bachelor, Devils Lake, and Proxy Falls.

Ecola State Park

Ecola State Park is widely considered one of the most beautiful places in Oregon. The park is located on the northern Oregon coast. It offers a variety of stunning natural features, recreational opportunities, and scenic views.

Here you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged coastline, which is dotted with sea stacks, arches, and tidal pools.

The views are particularly stunning from the park’s vantage point on Tillamook Head, which provides unobstructed views of the coastline.

Painted Hills and John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

Painted Hills and John Day Fossil Beds is one of the most interesting landscapes you’ll find in Oregon, especially when you consider the scenery here is all about the desert.

This striking national monument is divided into two sections. The first one, Painted Hills, is a place where you’ll feel as though you were transported to a different planet.

Here, you’ll find a series of hills that come in all shades of colors, ranging from orange, red, gold, black, and more.

Moving onward to the other side of the park, you’ll find John Day Fossil Beds. Here you’ll find a world of prehistoric goodness, quirky rock formations, and some of the best views the rocky desert of Oregon has to offer.

Silver Falls State Park

Silver Falls State Park is one of the top places to visit in Oregon for photographers. That’s because of all the stunning natural beauty.

This park is home to ten breathtaking waterfalls, ranging in height from 27 to 177 feet. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery and provide numerous opportunities for capturing stunning landscape photos.

The park’s Trail of Ten Falls is a 7.2-mile loop trail that takes hikers past ten of the park’s waterfalls. This trail provides numerous opportunities for capturing unique and stunning photos of the waterfalls from different angles.

The park is beautiful year-round. In the fall, the park is surrounded by colorful foliage. In the winter, the waterfalls are often surrounded by ice and snow, providing unique photo opportunities.

Mount Hood is the highest mountain in Oregon and is part of the Cascade Range, which stretches from British Columbia to Northern California.

You won’t believe the stunning views of the surrounding wilderness, including old-growth forests, glaciers, and alpine meadows. It’s packed with scenic hiking trails.

Mount Hood can be seen from miles away and is particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset.

The summer snowfall attracts visitors from all over the country. This is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Oregon.

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area is a photographer’s paradise, with a variety of unique and beautiful photo spots.

The lookout at the top of Cape Perpetua offers panoramic views of the coastline and the forested hills, making it a great spot for landscape photography.

Thor’s Well is a natural saltwater fountain that shoots water up into the air as the waves crash against the rocks. It’s a unique and impressive sight.

Devil’s Churn is a narrow channel in the rocks that fills with water during high tide. It creates a dramatic display of waves crashing against the rocks.

Whether you’re interested in landscape photography, wildlife photography, or macro photography, you’re sure to find plenty of great photo opportunities at Cape Perpetua.

McMinnville

Many don’t know it, but the state of Oregon has a pretty cool wine scene. McMinnville is one of the best destinations to head to in order to explore it.

This charming town is located only 30 miles away from Portland and boasts dozens of wine-tasting rooms within its downtown. All around its outskirts, you’ll also find a plethora of vineyards perfect for a day spent tasting wine and learning about the viticulture history of the area.

Aside from tasting wine and eating everything at the many farm-to-table restaurants in town, McMinnville is also an extremely historic city. This is where you’ll find plenty of beautiful turn-of-the-century buildings. Many of these now house restaurants, coffee, shops, art galleries, and more.

Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm

This farm features over 40 acres of vibrant tulip fields in a variety of colors that create a gorgeous backdrop for photos. It’s a popular tourist destination for families.

The Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm holds an annual Tulip Fest each spring, which draws visitors from around the world. The festival includes a variety of activities, including wagon rides, wine tasting, hot air balloon rides, and live music.

The vibrant colors and picturesque scenery of the tulip fields provide numerous opportunities for stunning photos. Visitors can capture photos of the fields, the flowers up close, and the surrounding countryside.

The Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking stunning natural beauty, family-friendly activities, and a unique experience in Oregon.

Willamette National Forest

The vast Willamette National Forest, located in western Oregon, offers many attractions and activities for tourists visiting the Pacific Northwest.

It’s home to many beautiful waterfalls, including Proxy Falls, Sahalie Falls, and Koosah Falls. I recommend hiking to the falls, taking in the scenery, and enjoying a picnic lunch.

There are also several hot springs in the forest, including Terwilliger Hot Springs and McCredie Hot Springs. These offer a relaxing soak in natural hot water surrounded by the forest.

Sea Lion Caves

If you love wildlife and want to experience the best Oregon has to offer in terms of marine life, Sea Lion Caves is a wonderful place to do just that.

The caves were formed some 25 million years ago. Today, they are considered one of the longest caves systems in the United States.

While that is reason enough to visit them, what makes the extremely unique and gives them their name is the fact that, during the winter and fall, the caves turn into the home to a colony of Stellar Sea Lions. Visitors can see dozens of them on the rocks during their visit!

Newberry National Volcanic Monument

Located in central Oregon, the Newberry National Volcanic Monument covers over 50,000 acres of volcanic landscapes, including lava flows, cinder cones, and lava tubes.

The Lava River Cave is a mile-long lava tube that can be explored on a self-guided tour. The cave stays a cool 42 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making it a great place to escape the summer heat.

But that’s not all! Paulina Falls is a beautiful waterfall that drops 80 feet into a volcanic canyon. And Paulina Lake is a stunning alpine lake with clear blue water and great fishing.

Hood River is considered one of the prettiest places in Oregon. It’s a popular destination for visitors seeking beautiful natural scenery, outdoor activities, and a charming small-town atmosphere.

Hood River is located in the Columbia River Gorge, and it offers stunning views of the river, the surrounding mountains, and the Hood River Valley.

The area is particularly beautiful during the spring and fall. This is when the orchards and vineyards in the valley are in bloom or changing colors.

Visitors can take scenic drives or bike rides through the valley to see the fruit trees and grape vines in bloom.

Boardman State Scenic Corridor

The Boardman State Scenic Corridor in Oregon is definitely worth a visit for tourists who enjoy scenic natural beauty, hiking, and outdoor recreation.

The corridor is located on the southern Oregon coast and stretches for 12 miles along Highway 101, between Brookings and Gold Beach.

Along the drive, you’ll see stunning coastal views, rocky headlands, and hidden coves, as well as dense forests of Sitka spruce and western hemlock.

Wallowa Mountains

Know as the “Alps of Oregon”, the Wallowa Mountains are found in the Columbia Plateau in the northeastern part of the state. They are made up of the highest peaks in Oregon. A visit here is perfect for those who love nature and history.

Hiking here is an absolute dream. Most summits provide views of the high desert to one side and Hells Canyon to the other.

Aside from hiking, you can also take up the chance to road trip the region. There are plenty of small towns, alpine lakes, and working ranches dotting the way. Plus there are ghost villages that are completely uninhabited today!

Most towns you’ll find along the way are extremely charming. Great stops to make include Enterprise and Joseph. Both of these are known for their artsy vibes, hand-crafted beer scene, and chocolatiers.

Oregon Caves National Monument

Oregon Caves National Monument is considered one of the most beautiful destinations in the Pacific Northwest.

The monument features an intricate system of marble caves that have formed over thousands of years, creating stunning and unique geological formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones.

The caves are surrounded by a beautiful old-growth forest and are situated on a mountainside, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Places to Visit in Oregon FAQ

The Oregon Coast Aquarium is a popular attraction located in Newport, Oregon, known for its impressive collection of marine life and exhibits. One of the highlights of the aquarium includes the Passages of the Deep exhibit, where visitors can walk through an underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and other fish.

The Oregon sand dunes are located along the coast of Oregon, stretching for about 40 miles from Florence to Coos Bay. This area is known as the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area and is one of the largest expanses of coastal sand dunes in North America.

The Hatfield Marine Science Center is an educational and research facility located in Newport, Oregon, that is dedicated to exploring and understanding the marine environment. It has touch tanks where visitors can interact with live sea creatures such as starfish and sea anemones.

Amazing Places to Visit in Oregon Wrap Up

These are some of the best places to visit in Oregon for families, couples, or solo travelers. Many of them offer cool hiking and biking trails or other outdoor recreation.

Looking for more places to go in Oregon? Find out the best things to do in Astoria , adorable Oregon Coast towns , the best things to do in Cannon Beach , coolest Oregon small towns , cool things to do in Seaside , scenic drives in Oregon , and unique places to visit in Oregon .

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The Most Beautiful Places in the Pacific Northwest

By Caitlin Morton

There's no shortage of naturally beautiful regions in the United States, from the dreamy desert landscapes of the Southwest to the charming small towns of New England . But when it comes to natural diversity, few areas can compete with the Pacific Northwest—we’re talking misty beaches, wooded mountains, wildlife-filled islands, endless fields of flowers, and some of the best stargazing spots in the entire country.

The Pacific Northwest—which includes Washington, Oregon, and Idaho in the contiguous United States—is perfect for epic road trips or national park sojourns, as well as long weekends in some of the country’s coolest big cities (which also happen to be filled with green spaces). So whether you’re looking to explore Olympic National Park or sip coffee with a view in Portland, you’re sure to find travel inspiration in this list of the most beautiful places in the Pacific Northwest.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This article has been updated since its original publish date.

San Juan Islands

Hawaii isn’t the only place to have an epic island vacation in the United States: Some of the country’s best islands happen to be located off the coast of Washington. The San Juan archipelago consists of about 175 named islets, the three largest of which—Orcas, San Juan, and Lopez—are easily accessible from the mainland by ferry. You’ll find laidback locals and splendid nature galore throughout the area, but we’re particular fans of Orcas Island , with its spectacular views over Puget Sound, forested hiking paths, and pilgrimage-worthy restaurants .

Leavenworth

Can’t swing a trip to Europe right now? Fear not—there are plenty of US cities that are full of the same charm and culture you’d expect to find overseas. Case in point: Leavenworth, a town deep in Washington’s Cascade Mountains that looks exactly like a Bavarian village. Visitors will find Alpine architecture, a nutcracker museum, and plenty of German-style food halls serving up brats and beer. The city even holds its own annual Oktoberfest celebration .

Olympic National Park has so many different landscapes, we have to break it up into multiple entries. First up is Ruby Beach, a stretch of coast on the Olympic Peninsula (and one of the best beaches in the US ) known for its rock formations and sun-bleached driftwood. You can appreciate the moody shores from one of the many viewpoints along Highway 101, but if you want to truly immerse yourself, set up camp in the nearby Kalaloch Lodge —the views here are some of the best in the entire park.

Hannah Towey

CNT Editors

Jessica Puckett

Steph Koyfman

Hoh Rain Forest

Next up is the Hoh Rain Forest, an Olympic National Park site that is completely different from Ruby Beach (though equally stunning). Replete with lichen-covered trees and bright yellow banana slugs, the forest is like the quiet eye in the often tourist-heavy storm. (And we mean that literally: The forest is reportedly the  quietest spot in the lower 48.) Venture through the Hall of Mosses Trail (just under a mile long) for some of the best views of maple trees draped in bright green moss.

Skagit Valley

You think tulips, you think Holland, right? These beautiful spring flowers can be found closer to home : Washington’s Skagit Valley has sprawling fields of tulips much like Lisse’s Keukenhof (the largest bulb garden in the world), with a festival offering guided bike tours and photo contests every April.

Whidbey Island

Often overshadowed by the more prolific San Juan Islands, Whidbey Island refuses to be ignored. Located just north of Seattle, the 55-mile-long island is a mecca for outdoorsy folks, with enough watersports and hiking trails to plan an entire trip around. Make sure to pay a visit to Deception Pass State Park for some incredible cliff-top views, then set up camp at the Captain Whidbey , a historic inn originally built in 1907 that was rebooted in 2019 .

Puget Sound

So many of Washington’s best sites are in and around Puget Sound, we thought the body of water deserved its own spot on this list. The Pacific Ocean inlet encompasses Whidbey and the San Juan islands, and it’s the main reason Seattle is so appealing to outdoor enthusiasts (and seafood lovers , while we’re at it). And then there’s the fact that the sound is just plain beautiful, with mountainous backdrops and whale sightings galore.

Discovery Park, Seattle

Speaking of outdoor activities in Seattle, there happens to be a fairly epic 534-acre park right in the city. Discovery Park is perched on the shores of Puget Sound in Seattle’s Magnolia neighborhood, drawing both residents and tourists with its hiking trails, coastal bluffs, lighthouses, peaceful meadows, and Indigenous cultural centers.

Columbia River Gorge

One of our favorite day trips from Portland , Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge is the birthplace of the nation’s first ever scenic highway. That means it’s an obvious road trip destination, but the site also has plenty of hidden treasures worth getting out of your car to find. Make sure to hike to the Multnomah Falls, which look like something straight out of a fairy tale .

Crater Lake National Park

Sitting at 1,943 feet deep, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States, made entirely out of glacial runoff and precipitation—hence its clarity and intense blue color. To best enjoy the lake and its surroundings, book a few nights at Crater Lake Lodge —the only accommodation within the National Park borders.

Silver Falls State Park

While most travelers flock to America’s national parks, Oregon makes a great case for adding state parks to your road trip itinerary. The state has hundreds of protected areas , but few capture the PNW brand of beauty quite as well as Silver Falls State Park. There’s no shortage of things to do here—at 9,000+ acres, it’s the largest state park in Oregon—but we recommend prioritizing the iconic Trail of Ten Falls, which stretches along a moss-drenched canyon and passes by the 177-foot South Falls waterfall.

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach may just be the most beautiful place in all of Oregon—and one of the most beautiful places in the entire United States . The boulder-studded beach is an essential pit stop off Highway 101 (a road trip that rivals even California’s Highway 1), and seeing the 235-foot Haystack Rock protruding out of the water is worth the drive alone.

St. Johns Bridge, Portland

Portland is another example of a big city filled with (and surrounded by) natural beauty. And although it’s a manmade structure, the St. Johns Bridge is an excellent place to soak up some of the best views in town—especially if you can swing a visit during leaf-peeping season. While walking across the bridge is well worth your time, you can also get jaw-dropping views from the balcony at Occidental Brewing Co. , best paired with sausages and pilsners.

Painted Hills

Oregon’s natural sites are as diverse as they are beautiful, as proven by the Painted Hills in the north-central region of the state, which couldn’t be more different than the forests and rocky beaches found on the western coast. The NPS-protected spot is made up of varied stripes of red, tan, orange, and black (hence the art-inspired name), plus an array of leaf fossils aging up to 39 million years old.

Yaquina Head

Jutting into the Pacific Ocean on Oregon’s central coast, Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area definitely lives up to its name. The region’s tidal pools are indeed outstanding with starfish, anemones, and sea urchins in the waters below, and seals and sea lions sunbathing up top. But the real draw here has to be the panoramic coastline view from the 1870 Yaquina Head Lighthouse.

Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve

There are only about 20 International Dark Sky Association-recognized reserves in the entire world, so it was a pretty big deal when Idaho was inducted into the prestigious list back in 2017 . The Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve is a sprawling, 1,400-acre chunk of land free from light pollution—which means visitors can view the Milky Way, planets, meteors, and even interstellar dust clouds. If you can brave the cold weather, consider a winter visit for clearer weather conditions, fewer crowds, and the opportunity to snowshoe under the stars.

Coeur d’Alene

Located in northwest Idaho, Coeur d’Alene is the lakeside retreat you’ve probably never visited—but we’re here to change that. Located on the natural lake of the same name, Coeur d’Alene has the perfect mix of natural and manmade attractions, with swimming and camping opportunities near the water, and tons of golf courses and restaurants closer to the city. The town is also home to our readers’ favorite hotel in the entire state: The Coeur d’Alene Resort , complete with a private beach and a whopping ten restaurants.

Bruneau Dunes State Park

Covering some 4,800 acres an hour south of Boise, Bruneau Dunes State Park feels a world away from civilization. The park is filled with small lakes and big dunes, including the tallest single-structured sand dune in North America (at 470 feet). Make a day and night out of your visit, starting with fishing and horseback riding and ending with some stargazing at the Bruneau Dunes Observatory.

Shoshone Falls

Dubbed the “Niagara Falls of the West,” the terraced Shoshone Falls drop 212 feet along the Snake River in southern Idaho. If you’re planning to visit, aim for the spring or summer when water levels are typically at their highest.

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• 11 of the Most Charming Small Towns to Visit in Oregon

Oregon boasts some of the most stunning outdoor scenery in the country. Its contrasting landscapes range from rugged coastlines and snow-covered mountain peaks to dramatic river canyons and lush forests. Beyond the bright lights of big cities like Portland lies laid-back towns that serve as the ideal vacation destination. Their interesting histories and unique cultures provide a fresh, off-the-beaten-path experience that will delight tourists.

From the scenic Pacific Coast to the lush Willamette Valley, these hidden hamlets are bustling with outdoor opportunities, beckoning adventures to Oregon's sprawling wilderness. They also delight in a peaceful atmosphere that is a far cry from the chaos in the larger metro areas. Whether planning a short weekend getaway or a month-long vacation, uncover the most charming small towns to visit in Oregon.

During its 19th and 20th century heyday, Baker City was known as the "Queen City of the Inland Empire," and had the stature to match modern-day Portland. Today, it is a popular tourist stop that has managed to retain its appeal through a colorful historical and cultural heritage. This is well documented at the Baker Heritage Museum, inviting guests for an insightful look into the town's past. The Leo Adler House Museum is a vivid representation of Victorian-era Baker City, hinting at the philanthropist’s lifestyle during the 19th century.

Baker City's rich heritage also comprises a bustling local art scene that connoisseurs can explore with a visit to Crossroads Carnegie Art Center. For the outdoorsy travelers, Baker City is just as impressive in the open spaces. It houses Geiser Pollman Park, which borders the Powder River and presents a cozy setting to be around nature.

Klamath Falls

A quiet escape from the turmoil and tumult in the city, Klamath Falls promises pure bliss for nature lovers and ardent outdoorsmen. It boasts a couple of beautiful nature areas calling tourists for remarkable adventures in the wilderness. At Moore Park, the tranquil lakefront setting has a magnetic effect on picnickers and nature viewers, whereas the Link River Trail makes for the ultimate hiking adventures, rewarding travelers with excellent vistas of the Link River.

When not appreciating the great outdoors, visitors with kids may want to check out the Childrens Museum of Klamath Falls, with a hands-on science experience featuring fun and interactive exhibits. Alternatively, a tour of the Klamath County Museums presents an eye-opening look into the history and culture of the area.

Rugged coastlines, exciting sand adventures, and a historic downtown district are just some of the features drawing visitors to this delightful seaside community. Walking down the quaint streets of the Historic Old Town District is a great experience for many, with a mix of galleries, museums, and shops awaiting exploration. Historical highlights include the Oregon Coast Military Museum, which exhibits several military-related artifacts. Also, the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum provides a glimpse of the Siuslaw region's past from when Indigenous tribes inhabited the territory.

The Heceta Head Lighthouse is probably the most iconic landmark in Florence . This postcard-worthy structure towers above the picturesque Oregon coast, and visiting the site guarantees breathtaking views of the ocean. Finally, one of the most fun activities for tourists involves sandboard riding dunes at Sand Master Park.

This four-season destination along the Rogue Valley boasts a cozy atmosphere with plenty of fun things to do. Ashland is known for its thriving arts community, welcoming visitors to experience its unique culture by watching stage performances at the Oregon Cabaret Theater and the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Its charming outdoors comprises a mix of sprawling vineyards, beautiful park areas, and rolling hills. In the warmer months, Lithia Park offers the perfect setting to be outside, featuring woodland trails winding past cute pools and fountains.

The Irvine & Roberts Vineyards is a great alternative for outdoor enthusiasts, with the opportunity to sample award-winning wines in a cozy natural setting. When traveling with kids, the ScienceWorks Hands-on Museum is a must-visit, promising to intrigue the young ones with over 100 interactive exhibits.

Originally named Lake City and Silver Lake, Joseph took its current name from the ruler of the Nez Perce people, Chief Joseph. The town sits on the picturesque base of the Wallowa Mountains, surrounded by beautiful lakes, rivers, and a magnificent wilderness area. Wallowa Lake State Park is among the top local attractions and serves as the ultimate escape for outdoor adventurers.

However, Joseph's vibrant downtown demonstrates there is more to the town than its irresistible outdoors. The neighborhood houses popular attractions like the Wallowology Natural History Discovery Center, which provides insight into the local geology and wildlife. Downtown is also home to a lively arts community with an impressive mix of galleries worth popping into. Enthusiasts can tour the Josephy Center for the Arts and Culture or Valley Bronze Gallery, and many more to peruse awesome pieces by local and regional artists.

Cannon Beach

An escape to the beach seems like the perfect way to spend a vacation for many, and Cannon Beach offers everything to justify this claim. With its relaxed beach atmosphere and secluded shores, the setting is just what tourists need to free up their minds and get into holiday mode. Beachgoers are spoilt for choice, with options ranging from Indian Beach to Tolovana Beach State Recreation Site. Meanwhile, Haystack Rock is a conspicuous sight in Cannon Beach and many tourists line up to experience the dramatic rocks while capturing it on their cameras.

Beyond the beautiful outdoors, the Cannon Beach History Center and Museum provides a captivating lesson on the local heritage. Furthermore, visitors can take the opportunity to meet locals and get a hands-on experience of the area's culture by attending the Cannon Beach Farmers' Market.

Astoria is a pleasant fishing village on the Columbia River , situated a short distance from the Pacific Coast. It harbors an impressive collection of historical markers offering a feel for its storied heritage. At the Columbia River Maritime Museum, guests can explore different exhibits chronicling the area's maritime history. Meanwhile, the Flavel House Museum is a gorgeous Victorian mansion and a window into 19th-century Astoria through its period furnishings and other interesting artifacts.

Guests cannot afford to miss out on the Astoria Column, an imposing historical landmark towering above the town. The structure was constructed in 1926 on a vantage point overlooking the Columbia River. However, the best way to take in all the scenic sights Astoria offers is to hop aboard the Astoria Riverfront Trolley.

If you are keen on escaping rowdy crowds during your vacation, Yachats is one of the best towns to visit in Oregon. The locale is a popular whale-watching hub during the migratory period and features a mix of secluded open spaces with breathtaking panoramas of the ocean. Thor's Well is a must-visit for first-timers in Yachats. It features a gaping sinkhole that seems to swallow the Pacific's waters. You can spend quality alone time meditating while strolling along peaceful shoreline trails at Yachats Ocean Road State Natural Site.

And when you miss human interactions, the Yachats Farmers Market allows pleasant interactions with bubbly personalities and happy faces as you shop for farm-fresh produce. Finally, do not forget to pass by Earthworks Gallery to sample the local art culture.

The quaint community of Sisters gets its name from the Three Sisters Mountains that surround it. Thanks to its alpine surroundings, it has managed to become a four-season destination, attracting both warm and cold-weather travelers. Sisters serve as an awesome getaway to the outdoors, offering access to natural wonders like Koosah Falls on the McKenzie River and the Deschutes National Forest. During the winter season, all roads lead to Hoodoo Ski Area as droves of snow enthusiasts gather at the famous ski resort to make the most of the lovely ski slopes.

But Sisters also has something for the indoor inclined to look forward to. The town center hosts a rich mix of museums, galleries, shops, and restaurants, culminating in a vibrant social atmosphere. History buffs can walk into Sisters Museum to discover local treasures as connoisseurs admire beautiful pieces at Raven Makes Gallery.

Brownsville

Small-town charm and rustic vibes reign supreme in this tiny Linn County community. Despite its modest portfolio, Brownsville impresses with rich experiences for visitors who choose to vacation there. Its small town center stands out for rows of old-fashioned storefronts, transporting you back to the bygone eras. You can head to the Linn County Historical Museum to find out what the history of the town and surrounding regions looks like. Alternatively, a tour of Living Rock Studios offers a glimpse into one of the state's pioneer families through their original artworks and artifacts.

History aside, Harpers Wine House is an excellent stop if you are a fan of wines. The establishment serves varieties from the Northwest and around the country in a laidback atmosphere, featuring specialty dinners.

Popularly known as Oregon's Garden City, Silverton is a nature lover's dream come true. The town boasts exquisite outdoor scenery, punctuated with lush spaces like the Oregon Garden. This idyllic oasis spans 80 acres of breathtaking botanical gardens with pleasant water features, presenting the perfect atmosphere to be outside. Silverton is also home to the Silver Falls State Park, which stuns visitors with its 10 magical waterfalls and 24 miles of picturesque nature trails.

While the outdoor attractions take the day in Silverton, the town has a few interesting indoor pursuits for its visitors. If you appreciate the arts, visit Lunaria Gallery to examine a modest collection of artwork. Elsewhere, the Oregon Crafters Market offers a delightful cultural experience, where tourists get to meet and interact with a vibrant community of artists, crafters, musicians, and other creatives.

From picturesque mountain villages and relaxed river settlements to cozy coastal communities, these charming towns to visit in Oregon leave a lasting impression on first-time travelers, as well as repeat visitors. They are a vivid demonstration of the state's scenic landscapes, making it one of the most popular destinations in the Pacific Northwest. Whether interested in local art scenes, curious about their historical heritage, or yearning to explore the sublime outdoors, there is always a remarkable experience awaiting all types of travelers.

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