best places to visit on north oregon coast

11 Stunning Things To Do on the North Oregon Coast

Sharing is caring!

Are you hitting up the North Oregon coastline and wondering what are the best things to do here? There are so many places to visit in the region, from beautiful state parks to charismatic towns.

Whether you want to go hiking, laze out on a beach or go back in Oregon’s fascinating history, there’s something for you here!

This blog post details all of the best things to do on the North Oregon Coast to help you plan your visit! 

Table of Contents

2. Fort Stevens State Park

4. ecola state park , 5. cannon beach, 6. hug point, 7. oswald west, 8. neahkahnie hike and beach, 10. tillamook, 11. three capes scenic loop, how to do an oregon coast day trip from portland, a legendary oregon coast road trip—35 stops & 3 itineraries, 11 most scenic oregon coast towns (and what to do there), 17 breathtaking oregon coast hikes, 19 must-visit oregon coast state parks, 11 oregon lighthouses & the adventures nearby, 23 amazing beaches in oregon and what to do nearby, things to do on the north oregon coast.

Don’t Forget This!

A lot of the best adventures around Oregon will require a Northwest Pass. You can easily get one delivered straight to your door. Grab it now before you leave !

Sprawled along the Columbia River, Astoria is one for history buffs – it’s the oldest city in the state. Enjoy this as you walk around its streets lined with period properties and take the historic trolley along the riverfront area. 

If you want to get a nature kick, try out the four-mile Airport Dike Trail, which leads to vistas of the city itself and Youngs Bay. Or, traverse the Bayfront Dike Trail, which leads through wetlands.

Another popular hike is the Cathedral Tree Trail, which leads to the Cathedral Tree itself, a Sitka spruce tree about 300 years old, as well as the famous Astoria Column!

READ MORE: 11 Adventurous Things To Do in Astoria, Oregon

A 4,300-acre state park, Fort Stevens is an easy trip from Astoria, or it’s well worth a visit in its own right. Hike, cycle or even drive the 9.1 miles of “Long Trail,” which winds through meadows of wildflowers, encompassing beautiful vistas of the ocean and the park’s lake. 

Fort Stevens State Park is renowned for its wildlife and the Peter Iredale shipwreck, an icon for the park. There’s also plenty of space to fish and camp!

READ MORE: Your Guide to Fort Stevens State Park

This Oregon settlement is right by the coast, as you’d expect from a city named “ Seaside .” The beachside town itself exudes charm, with plenty of rustic buildings and eateries to enjoy. However, there are lots of adventurous activities in the nearby area. 

Start by hiking up the nearby Saddle Mountain, a 5.2-mile journey with some incredible vistas both on the journey and at the summit. You’ll be able to see most of the peaks in this part of the state here, so it’s well worth the climb! The Tillamook Head National Recreation Trail also traverses through Ecola State Park. 

Or, if you fancy something a little more chilled, the Seaside Promenade Walk is a 1.5-mile walkway that takes in the beautiful coastline and allows relishing in the town’s atmosphere. 

READ MORE: 13 Adventurous Things to Do Around Seaside, Oregon

Ecola State Park spans nine miles of beautiful coastline, north of Cannon Beach and wrapping around Tillamook Head. One of the best things about this state park is that it’s all connected by the Discovery Trail, which takes in the entire state park and its epic views and gorgeous beaches!

Suppose you haven’t got the time to make the entire trail; there are plenty of shorter treks in the state park. Try out Clatsop Loop Trail from Indian Beach, a 2.5-mile hike with uphill climbing. Or enjoy the Crescent Beach Trail, which is 2.3 miles and leads you right down to the beautiful ocean. 

If you don’t want to hike at Ecola State Park, hang out at the beach instead! Crescent Beach is beautiful and not that touristy, or you could hang out at the coastline and look out for “Terrible Tilly,” the Tillamook Lighthouse. 

READ MORE: Your Guide to Ecola State Park on the Oregon Coast

Cannon Beach is a must-visit if you’re exploring the North Oregon coastline. Home to Haystack Rock, the sight most synonymous with the state, Cannon Beach is a wild and rugged stretch of sand. It’s perfect for walking along, photography, or even watching out for fish and other marine life. 

Get up close and personal with Haystack Rock at low tide and look out for marine life, or if you’re here around April through August, look out for the adorable puffins!

READ MORE: 14 Adventurous Things To Do in Cannon Beach

Just a short drive from Cannon Beach, Hug Point is an area that’s famous for its beautiful waterfall and sea caves. Hug Point is called this because travelers to the area had to “hug” the coastline as they descended into the caves. 

Nowadays, Hug Point is a little easier to access, but it remains just as beautiful, with views out toward Haystack Rock. Gaze at the spruce trees, explore the sea caves and traverse the beach, taking in this spectacular part of Oregon’s coastline. 

READ MORE: Your Guide to Hug Point State Recreation Site

Another wonderful state park on the northern Oregon coast is Oswald West. With many hikes, Oswald West State Park gives ample opportunities to enjoy the state’s unique coastline. 

Devil’s Cauldron is a must-visit. This out and back trail culminates in gorgeous views of a small cove with crashing waves inside just under three miles. 

READ MORE: Your Guide to Oswald West State Park

Distance: 2.8 miles Type of Trail: Out & Back Difficulty: Hard Elevation Gain: 866 ft

You can also do the Neahkahnie Mountain Hike from Oswald West State Park. It leads to a phenomenal view of this part of Oregon’s coastline and takes 1.5-2.5 hours to complete. 

Although it’s not the longest trail in the North Oregon Coast area, it’s quite strenuous and very steep – expect your calves to be burning as you reach the summit! 

While you’re in the region, don’t miss Neahkahnie Beach. As the tide rolls out every day, enjoy the epic rocks of the beach and the bottom of the mountain. 

RELATED: 17 Breathtaking Oregon Coast Hikes

Situated on the picturesque Nehalem River, this settlement was a timber boom town, and its history is evident through just a short walk around. 

Enjoy the classic frontier-style buildings adorned in flowers, hang out at the riverside docks, take in the beautiful scenery, or try your luck at fishing; the area is rich in coho salmon.

Nehalem Bay State Park is the gem of the area with a massive spit and trail to traverse and excellent camping opportunities.

RELATED: Your Guide to Nehalem Bay State Park

Situated right on the edge of the fertile Tillamook Bay, Tillamook is a gorgeous town, possibly most famous for its dairy industry. Visit here to enjoy the landscapes, but there’s much more to Tillamook when you scratch beneath the surface. 

The town has an extensive aviation history, with an aviation museum showcasing historical planes and other air vehicles. Also, enjoy the plethora of hiking trails, 800 vast miles of navigable river for kayaking and other watersports, and the incredible state forest. 

RELATED: 7 Tillamook State Forest Hikes to Tackle

For one of the most gorgeous drives in the state, check out the Three Capes Scenic Loop. This is one of the best things in Tillamook, leaving the town and traversing along the nearby sea. It goes past some of the most mesmerizing views of this area of the state. 

See the beautiful Netarts Bay (a popular location for clamming!), hike up to Cape Lookout , take in the Tillamook Coastline’s views, and travel through the historic forest. Head to Cape Meares  for the most dramatic views of the coast, a lighthouse, and more gorgeous coastal trails.

With this route, you can also check out the Sandlake Dunes and Pacific City , where you’ll be able to hike up to Cape Kiwanda and take in phenomenal vistas of Haystack Rock (not the one from Cannon Beach another one!).

READ MORE: Three Capes Scenic Route on The Oregon Coast

Breathtakingly beautiful, the northern Oregon coastline is one of the most-loved parts of the state – and it’s relatively easy to access from Portland . Whether you’re visiting on a day trip or a longer vacation, bring this list of things to do on the North Oregon Coast with you, and make sure you check off as many as possible while you’re there!

More Things to Do on The Oregon Coast

We hope this post helped you discover the North Oregon Coast! Before you go, don’t forget to check out more Oregon Coast attractions and other adventures around Oregon .

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.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• South Africa
• Czech Republic
• United Arab Emirates
• Puerto Rico
• South Dakota
• West Virginia
• Accommodation
• Travel Gear
• Itineraries
• Travel Blogging + Photography
• Where I’ve Been
• Bucket List

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

You Might Also Like

Where to Stay in Kauai: Pros + Cons of Each Area and Best Hotels (2024)

Everything You Need to Know About Staying at AutoCamp Yosemite

9 Best Hikes in Arches National Park You Can’t Miss

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!

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

2023 © Live Like It's the Weekend - All Rights Reserved

Privacy Policy • Affiliate Disclaimer • Terms of Service

25 Amazing Things To Do on the North Oregon Coast

By Visit Oregon

Sep 1, 2022 / 9:13 pm

Share this article on social media!

The Northern Oregon coast is filled with lots of exciting attractions and gorgeous natural scenery. Here are some fun things to check out on your next trip.

1. Astoria Column

The Astoria Column is a fascinating tower built back in the 1920s. It features scenes from the city’s founding engraved into the exterior and a deck at the top of the tower. You can climb to the top to catch a stunning view of both Astoria and the Columbia River. This neat little monument is part of a gorgeous city park, so plan to spend some time exploring the surrounding area.  

2. Astoria Riverfront

The whole area along the Astoria Riverfront is packed with fun things to do. You can explore this area to see a variety of fun shops, restaurants, and more. In nice weather, you can use the paved trails for walking, biking, or skating. You can also hop on the Astoria Riverfront Trolley to sit back and relax while you watch the scenery. This streetcar line runs for three miles and stops at many classic Astoria locations.  

3. Oregon Film Museum

Oregon’s coast is known for being the site of many iconic films, and this museum celebrates the state’s fascinating history. It has a lot of neat, hands-on exhibits that let you learn about the making of your favorite films. The museum hosts displays from multiple classic films, including The Goonies , Free Willy , Twilight , and National Lampoon’s Animal House . Even if you aren’t a huge film buff, this museum is worth checking out. It’s situated in the old Clatsop County Jail and lets you check out the interior of several historic jail cells.

4. Fort Clatsop

This neat monument was the winter encampment for the Lewis and Clark Expedition. It contains an on-site replica of the original log fort that you can roam through to feel like you’re an old-timey explorer yourself. The site is loaded with information for history fans, including costumed reenactors, a museum, and programs led by rangers. You can also visit the area to hike in a gorgeous Oregonian forest.

5. Astoria-Megler Bridge

While you’re in Astoria, be sure to check out the Astoria-Megler bridge. This bridge stretches from Oregon to Washington and is in record books for its unique construction. It’s the longest continuous truss bridge on the entire continent. In addition to being an architectural marvel, this bridge is a great spot for pictures. The pale green beams make a lovely backdrop for images highlighting the Columbia River’s natural beauty.

6. Fort Stevens State Park

Fort Stevens is a park with over 4,000 acres of exciting things to do. Situated at the mouth of the Columbia River, this park has a great blend of forests, plains, and beaches. It was originally a military site, so you can explore a variety of historic monuments and buildings. In modern times, it’s been converted into a great recreational area. Depending on your mood, you can visit it to swim in the freshwater lake, play disc golf, or go for a hike. The park even offers camping opportunities, and you can rent bikes and kayaks for fun adventures.

7. Flavel House Museum

The Flavel House Museum is a gorgeous Queen Anne mansion that dates back to the 1880s. Created by one of the area’s first millionaires, this massive property takes up an entire city block. Touring the museum is a great way to get a close-up look at all the intricate architectural details that are a feature of the Queen Anne style. The home is decorated with period-appropriate antiques and provides fascinating insights into how people lived in Victorian times.

8. Columbia River Maritime Museum

Much of the northern Oregon coast was originally devoted to shipping, so the Maritime Museum is a must-visit location. This building houses the largest maritime artifact collection in the Northwest, so you get a lot of interesting information on how fishing, shipping, and warfare affected the area. A tour of the museum lets you see seafaring vessels, cannons, historic diving costumes, and more.

9. Peter Iredale Shipwreck

Even if you don’t have time to check out the thousands of acres in Fort Stevens State Park, stop by to visit the wreck of the Peter Iredale . This ship is one of the most recognizable shipwrecks in the Graveyard of the Pacific. The ship was built in the 1890s and ran itself aground on the Oregon coast during a storm. The ship sank into the sand and was never removed, and now it can easily be visited without having to go out into the water.

10. Seaside Aquarium

Learn about all the interesting marine life of the Oregon coast by visiting this charming attraction. Located in a historic spa building, Seaside Aquarium is home to a variety of ocean fish, seals, and other critters. You can see everything from moray eels to octopuses at this aquarium. It also offers a lot of interesting programs that contain a mix of exciting information and hands-on activities.  

11. Seaside Turnaround

Named for the circular drive at the heart of the promenade, the Seaside Turnaround is the main attraction of this oceanside town. The Turnaround features a Lewis and Clark Statue along with a walkway along the beach. Even when it’s too cold for the beach, there are plenty of exciting things to do. You can browse the shops for a variety of things like local art or cute outfits. There’s also a playground for kids to enjoy and plenty of tasty restaurants.  

12. Tillamook Rock Lighthouse

Tillamook Rock Lighthouse is a deactivated lighthouse situated off the coast of Astoria. This lighthouse got the nickname “Terrible Tilly” for its inconvenient location perched on a tiny basalt rock in the middle of the bay. Actually accessing this lighthouse is very challenging and requires special permission and a helicopter ride. However, it’s worth checking it out even if you can’t enter. You can view it from nearby Indian Beach, and the views are especially stunning when you visit at sunset.

13. Ecola State Park

Ecola State Park is one of the most notable state parks in Oregon. This beautiful park stretches along nine miles of the Pacific coastline. Paved walking trails make it easy to view the park on a gentle hike. More adventurous visitors will enjoy climbing on the rocky beach to view tide pools or surfing at Indian Beach to the north. This park is perfect for those who enjoy untouched natural beauty. You can view vast swathes of undeveloped land filled with native trees, grasses, and even wildflowers.

14. Haystack Rock

This scenic spot is one of Oregon’s most-photographed locations. Haystack Rock is a soaring tower of basalt that was formed by waves slowly eroding solidified lava flows. This cool geological feature is incredible to experience in person. It’s the third tallest sea stack in the world, and you can walk right up to it at low tide. The whole area around the rock is a fantastic beach to explore. You can take stunning photos, explore surrounding tide pools, or enjoy a picnic while you look at all the lovely sights.

15. Hug Point State Park

Curious about how this state park got its name? It’s named after the unusual road that curves tightly around sandstone cliffs while hugging closely to the beach. Hug Point is more than just an interesting little bit of trivia though. This is the ideal spot to visit if you want a low-key park off the beaten track. At 43 acres, this park is a little smaller than some other nearby parks, so it gets fewer visitors. This is great news for those who do visit since you can enjoy the scenic beach without big crowds.  

16. Oswald West State Park

If you’re interested in checking out Oregon’s famous “temperate rainforest” climate, this is the park for you. Oswald West State Park has over 2,000 acres of land filled with hiking trails, and its campgrounds are surrounded by giant, old spruces, hemlocks, and red cedars. Its position a little south of Cannon Beach also means it gets some fantastic waves. This park is a favorite spot for surfers. Oswald West is also a marine reserve, which means it’s a great area to see wildlife.

17. Manzanita Beach

This charming little beach is nestled beneath Neahkahnie Mountain. It’s known for its smooth, golden sands and gentle, rolling waves. This is a great spot to visit if you want to go to a peaceful, beautiful beach. There’s excellent swimming during the summer, and in the colder months, it’s an ideal spot for long walks.

18. Wheeler Marina

Situated along Nehalem Bay, this marina provides access to both the Nehalem River and the nearby estuary. The marina makes it easy to rent boats, kayaks, and other equipment for enjoying the water. They also provide an area where you can quickly register for a license if you want to fish and help you stock up on bait and tackle. If you’re unfamiliar with the area, you can even sign up for a guided tour that walks you through the steps of crabbing or fishing.

19. Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad

The Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad runs between Garibaldi, Wheeler, Nehalem River, Salmonberry River, and Rockaway Beach. It can be a great way for you to travel between various vacation destinations while enjoying Oregon scenery. In addition to going through a lot of stunning natural areas, the railroad itself is a fun experience. The railroad uses historic, steam-powered locomotives and offers you the chance to enjoy food and drinks.  

20. Tillamook Cheese Factory

If you love cheese, ice cream, and other dairy-based treats, the Tillamook Creamery is an excellent option for a day trip. The company offers self-guided tours throughout the facility. You can browse through the farm and factory and learn all about the process. Once you’re done with your tour, be sure to check out the Tillamook dining hall. You can enjoy tasty cheeseburgers, grilled cheeses, ice cream, and more.

21. Tillamook Air Museum

If you love military history and technology, be sure to drop by the Tillamook Air Museum. This museum is located in an old blimp hangar on a former US Navy Air Station. The museum has a lot of interesting and informative visits. You can view a variety of fascinating aircraft, including old TWA planes and F-14 fighter aircraft. It also has a lot of artifacts related to World War II and the history of aviation. You can walk through an old air raid shelter and explore historic crashes.  

22. Oceansides Tunnel Beach

In the mood for something a little different? This beach has the sort of gorgeous geological features you can only find in Oregon. It’s situated along Maxwell Point and contains a lot of towering rocks carved into peaks by ocean waves. Along the north end of the beach, you’ll find one of the best-kept secrets of Oregon. A narrow tunnel through the cliffs leads you to an isolated beach cove. This pebbly beach is ideal for picnics, romantic dates, and photography sessions.  

23. Three Capes Scenic Loop

This drive is often called one of the most scenic trips in all of Oregon. The road starts in downtown Tillamook and travels through three different oceanside capes. The 40-mile drive is fast enough to complete in one day while long enough to ensure you get to see a lot of awesome sites. This drive lets you view everything from giant Sitka Spruces to golden sand filled with shells. It also contains a lot of awesome spots to stop along the way. You can grab lunch and a pint at the Pelican Brewery or visit the Cape Meares lighthouse.

24. Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area

The Cape Kiwanda state park is situated right next to the charming Pacific City. This spot is known for its hiking. It has towering dunes and soaring cliffs that provide stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The park is filled with trails that go through forests and eventually lead you to impressive viewpoints. It also provides access to a beach that’s ideal for fishing and flying kites.  

25. Sand Dunes at Cape Kiwanda

Unlike many Oregon beaches that are rocky, Cape Kiwanda has so much sand that towering dunes have formed. The massive sand dune arcs over the beach and provides a fun challenge for climbers. The sand dunes are constantly being re-sculpted by the wind and the waves, so every time you visit, you can enjoy something new. Traveling up the dry sand of the dune is definitely a workout, but the views are worth it. Once you get to the top, you can see for miles.

Are You Considering Relocating To Oregon?

• Visit Oregon
• September 1, 2022

Related Posts

Things To Do in Newport, Oregon

Things to do in Lincoln City, Oregon

Things to do in Astoria Oregon

Get Your Free Oregon Travel Guide

Leave a comment below, learn more about us, oregon regions, explore the site, follow us on social media.

© Copyright – Visit Oregon 2023 | Site Built By: Oregon Web Solutions | Sitemap

Northern Oregon Coast: 27 Best Things to Do

Published by sarah vaughan on october 2, 2023 october 2, 2023.

With foggy beaches, iconic sea stacks, lush forests, and plenty of tiny seaside hamlets dotting the coast, the northern Oregon Coast is an outdoor adventure lover’s dream. Keep reading for 27 of the best things to do along the northern Oregon Coast! 

About the Northern Oregon coast

Stretching from Astoria to Florence , the northern Oregon Coast is one of the most unique tourist destinations in the entire United States, with wide sandy beaches, massive sea stacks, beautiful lighthouses, world-class seafood, miles of hiking trails, and tons of other outdoor activities.

In the spring of 2023, we lived along the Oregon Coast for two months and explored as much of the area as possible. We road-tripped from north to south, hiked every trail possible , stopped at countless viewpoints, explored each seaside town , and had more than our fill of fish and chips.

The rocky coastline, powerful tides, towering cliffs, and moss-covered forests found throughout the Northern Oregon Coast totally captured our hearts!

Because there are so many things to do along the entirety of the Oregon Coast, we’ve split up our favorite things to do along the coast into two articles. This article focuses specifically on the northern section of the Oregon Coast, starting in Florence and ending in Astoria, Oregon. 

If you want to read more about things to do on the Southern Oregon Coast, check out the article below.

9 Best Hikes Near Florence, Oregon

Hiking in Florence, Oregon features a diverse assortment of landscapes, like enchanted forests, massive seaside cliffs and wide sandy beaches.

27 Best things to do on the northern Oregon coast

This list is ordered by town starting in the center of the coast and heading north.

• Visit the Heceta Head Lighthouse
• Stroll through Old Town Florence
• Hike the Hobbit Trail
• Hike at Cape Perpetua Scenic Area
• See the amazing Thor’s Well & Spouting Horn
• Eat Fish & Chips at Luna Sea
• Explore Seal Rock
• Get fresh seafood at South beach fish markeT
• Enjoy Craft Beer at Rogue
• Go whale watching
• Explore Devil’s Punchbowl
• Grab a beer and bite at the horn
• Hike God’s Thumb
• Explore the Three Capes Scenic Route
• Visit Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area
• Grab a beer at Pelican Brewing Company
• Hike to Tunnel Beach
• Hike to Short Beach
• Cape Meares Lighthouse & the Octopus Tree 
• See the famous Haystack Rock
• Hike Hug Point
• Hike to Indian Beach in Ecola State Park 
• Enjoy a beer in downtown Astoria
• Visit the Lewis and Clark National Historic Park
• Explore Fort Stevens State Park 

Map of the Best things to do on the northern oregon coast

The map below displays the location of each of the best things to do on the northern Oregon Coast that we’ll cover in this article.

• To view more details about each location, click on the marker on the map.
• To save this map for future use, click the star next to the title. From your phone, open the Google Maps app and click the “saved” tab, followed by the “Maps” icon. From your Gmail account, navigate to Maps –> “Saved” –> “My Maps” –> “Maps” tab.
• To email this map to yourself, click the three dots in the upper right corner.

Florence, Oregon is located right in the middle of the Oregon Coast and is the most northern town on our list. It’s home to a quaint downtown area and is located right along the Siuslaw River.

14 Awesome Things to do in Florence, Oregon

Where to stay in florence.

Located right on the Siuslaw River with views of the Oregon dunes and nice, clean rooms

Located a few minutes outside Florence, this cute little bungalow is walking distance to Heceta Beach

Perched on a hill overlooking Florence in a quiet location but still a short walk to Old Town

1. Visit the Heceta Head Lighthouse

Located just a few minutes north of Florence, no trip to the northern Oregon Coast is complete without a visit to the Heceta Head Lighthouse. One of the tallest and most picturesque lighthouses in Oregon, the Heceta Head Lighthouse is an iconic landmark along Highway 101. 

To get up close to the lighthouse, you will need to hike about a one mile round trip, with 130 feet of elevation gain. You can also continue a short distance along the Heceta Head Trail past the lighthouse for an amazing view looking down over the lighthouse and out at the foggy coastline below.

To capture the lighthouse from farther away, where you can see all of its majesty perched high above the powerful ocean, there is a pullout along Highway 101 just south of the lighthouse. 

2. Stroll through Old Town Florence

Florence is home to perhaps the cutest downtown area of any town along the northern Oregon Coast. Bookended by the Port of Siuslaw Marina and the Siuslaw River Bridge, Old Town Florence is home to cute stores, tasty restaurants serving fresh local seafood, coffee shops, and bars.

If you’re looking for a place to grab a bite to eat, do some shopping for souvenirs, or enjoy a cold beer, Old Town Florence is a great option. 

In particular, we highly recommend Novelli’s Crab and Seafood , which floats in the water in the marina and serves our favorite crab chowder obn the Oregon Coast. 

3. Hike the Hobbit Trail to a secluded beach

Located just north of the Heceta Head Lighthouse, the Hobbit Trail is one of our favorite short hikes along the northern Oregon Coast because it features two of Oregon’s most prominent landscapes: lush green forests and rocky shorelines!

This 1-mile round trip hike winds downhill through an enchanted, mossy forest before emerging at the secluded Hobbit Beach.

Hobbit Trail in Florence, Oregon: A Magical Forest to Beach Hike

The Hobbit Trail near Florence, Oregon winds through a dense, mossy forest before emerging at a beautiful and secluded sandy beach.

Just 25 miles north on Highway 101 from Florence, you’ll find the tiny town of Yachats (pronounced ya-hats), which is probably our favorite town along the entire northern Oregon Coast. Of course, we’re probably a bit biased but we visited Yachats a few times during our residence on the Oregon Coast and always had a wonderful time exploring the area.

20 Can’t Miss Things to do in Yachats, Oregon

A quaint little coastal town where foaming ocean waves batter the jagged coastline, there are so many great things to do in Yachats, Oregon.

where to stay in Yachats

What’s not to love about the cozy living room with A-frame style wall of windows facing the sea?!

A clean motel with views overlooking the rocky coast and turbulent waters Yachats is famous for.

Part of the Siuslaw National Forest, this campground is located right on the beach and just outside of Yachats

4. Hike at Cape Perpetua Scenic Area

The Cape Perpetua Scenic Area is located just outside of Yachats and is home to the Cape Perpetua Overlook, one of our favorite viewpoints along the northern Oregon Coast.

The viewpoint is easily accessible via a steep and windy road. Alternatively, you can take a short but very steep hike up to the viewpoint to escape the crowds and stretch your legs.

5. See the amazing Thor’s Well & the Spouting Horn

As frightening as it is beautiful, Thor’s Well is a giant hole in the volcanic rock that lines the Oregon Coast where water bulges out and then seems to disappear underground. This area of the coast is particularly turbulent, and churning swirls of salty white water bubble in and out of the seemingly bottomless pit. 

Located just next to Thor’s Well is another notable geological feature known as the Spouting Horn, a blowhole that resembles that of a geyser in Yellowstone when it “erupts”.  

Both unique features are easily accessible via a short walk from the Thor’s Well parking area .

6. Eat Fish & Chips at Luna Sea

Outside of these natural attractions, after extensive research, we have come to the conclusion that the best fish and chips on the northern Oregon Coast can be found at Luna Sea Fish House , right in the heart of Yachats!

Fresh, flaky fish that is beer-battered and fried to crispy perfection, trust us, if you are in Yachats, you have to stop at Luna Sea!

On the topic of seafood, there is no better town along the entire northern Oregon Coast for all types of fresh seafood than Newport, Oregon. 

Of course, you can find delectable seafood anywhere along the northern Oregon Coast, but in Newport, the seafood seems to be the main attraction. Having long been a hub for fishermen and seafood processing, you can see and smell each day’s catch as you walk along the main promenade in downtown Newport.

where to stay in Newport

A stylish oceanfront resort with views from every room at reasonably priced rates

A huge oceanfront beach house split into private suites that sleep 2-3 with a shared terrace and outdoor fireplace

Oceanfront and spacious condos that sleep 2-6 with full kitchens and lovely views

7. Explore Seal Rock

Located just 20 minutes north of Yachats and 15 minutes south of Newport is a beautiful area known as Seal Rock. Technically Seal Rock refers to both the tiny little coastal town here, as well as a state park recreation site featuring a huge off-shore rock formation surrounded by smaller sea stacks and tide pools.

Seal Rock itself was supposedly once home to a large population of seals, but today the marine mammals in the area are few and far between. Nonetheless, the bright teal waters and unique assortment of rock formations found at Seal Rock are quite scenic and definitely worth a visit on the northern Oregon coast.

Despite its natural beauty, Seal Rock remains a fairly quiet area off the beaten path of most Oregon coast road trippers, making it a nice spot to visit if you want to escape the bustling crowds.

8. Get fresh seafood at South beach fish markeT

South Beach Fish Market , located just outside of Newport, is an old-school fish market, hawking an impressive selection of fresh fish, clams, oysters, and crabs.

They also offer a smaller menu of cooked items in their restaurant, which is best known for their smoked salmon candy (it’s way better than it sounds!).

9. Enjoy Craft Beer at Rogue

Make sure to stop by Rogue Spirits and Ales for a craft beer before you head on to your next destination! They’ve got an assortment of tasty brews and a nice tap house located right in the harbor at Yaquina Bay.

Continuing up Highway 101, you’ll soon pass through the quaint town of Depoe Bay, Oregon, home to the affectionately classified, “ world’s smallest har bor. ”

Despite being one of the smaller towns along the northern Oregon Coast, Depoe Bay is definitely one of the our favorites – with a quaint downtown stretch lined with local vendors selling popcorn, salt water taffy, and of course, seafood.

where to stay in Depoe Bay

Away from the hustle and bustle with cute little cottages perched on the cliffside

A modern, minimalist eco-lodge featuring rooms with harbor views (and pet-friendly!)

A lovely state park campground with direct beach access about 10 minutes from Depoe Bay

10. Go whale watching

Depoe Bay is known as being one of the best areas for whale watching along the northern Oregon Coast. Several local companies offer full day whale watching tours from Depoe Bay, including Dockside Harbors and Whale’s Tail Charters .

The Whale Watching Center is also located in Depoe Bay, featuring a huge viewing deck with binoculars to help you spot whales. We didn’t manage to see any whales here, but we did see one a little further north on the coast!

11. Explore Devil’s Punchbowl

Depoe Bay is also home to the Devil’s Punch Bowl , yet another unique rock formation along the northern Oregon Coast. As you can imagine, the Devil’s Punch Bowl resembles a massive bowl that is hollowed out in the middle.

During low tide, you can climb into the “bowl” via the neighboring beach to experience the spectacle from below.

12. Grab a beer and bite at the horn

And finally, if you’re looking for a good bite to eat and cold beer, we recommend stopping at The Horn Public House and Brewery. Located right on the water, it was one of our favorite meals on the northern Oregon Coast!

Lincoln City

While the town of Lincoln City itself is nothing too special, the hike to God’s Thumb, located just north of town, is easily our favorite hike along the northern Oregon Coast!

where to stay in Lincoln City

A beautiful wood-shingled inn located right on the beach with ocean view balconies

A more budget-friendly motel without sacrificing on prime beachfront location and views

A nice and spacious beach house that sleeps up to 6 in Lincoln City

13. Hike God’s Thumb

This moderately difficult, 4.3 miles hike culminates with one of the most unique viewpoints along the northern Oregon Coast. God’s Thumb is an aptly named outcropping of rocks that stands high above the crashing waves below, providing a magnificent vantage point over the surrounding area.

Make sure to stop at the Knoll on the way back to the trailhead for one last view over Lincoln City and Wecoma Beach. If you are looking for one hike to do along the northern Oregon Coast, God’s Thumb would be our recommendation! 

Note | AllTrails says this hike is closed but based on the reviews, it seems like it is open.

God’s Thumb Hike: the Best Trail on the Oregon Coast

With unimpeded 360 degree views of sea stacks, dramatic cliffs, and the Pacific Ocean, the God’s Thumb hike is easily one of the best trails…

Pacific City

Continuing north along the northern Oregon Coast, you’ll soon reach Pacific City, another small, coastal hamlet, with laid-back beach town vibes, shingled cottages, and sand strewn streets. 

where to stay in Pacific City

Located inside Cape Kiwanda State Park, the ocean views and prime location make this a top-notch hotel

Clean, updated motel of sorts with stylish rooms, including some with full kitchens

A modern, stylish hotel featuring balconies with stunning views of Cape Kiwanda and Chief Kiwanda Rock

14. Explore the Three Capes Scenic Route

Pacific City sits just south of the Three Capes Scenic Route, a 40 mile stretch of coastal highway that includes magnificent views as it connects three separate capes – Cape Meares , Cape Lookout , and Cape Kiwanda . Explore the iconic lighthouse and octopus tree at Cape Meares or stretch your legs with a hike at Cape Lookout.

The Three Capes Scenic Loop is definitely one of the most picturesque stretches along the northern Oregon Coast and should not be missed! 

15. Visit Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area

The Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area is the southernmost point along the Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area and is located just a few hundred meters north of Pacific City. Enjoy sweeping views of the Chief Rock, a massive sea stack that is larger than the more popular Haystack Rock, from Cape Kiwanda.

The climb up the massive sand dune is short but steep and the views of Chief Kiwanda and the crashing ocean are certainly worth the effort. 

16. Grab a beer at Pelican Brewing Company

With five locations along the Oregon Coast, Pelican Brewing Company has become the face of the beer scene in the area. Their location in Pacific City is located right on the beach and includes direct views of Chief Kiwanda. Make sure you get a table outside on the patio if you can! 

Cute, little Oceanside, Oregon with its houses perched high up on the hills like a northern Oregon version of Cinque Terre in Italy, was probably the biggest surprise during all of our travels along the Oregon Coast.

We didn’t have many expectations for this tiny town but quickly fell in love with its unique charm and authentic atmosphere.

Why Oceanside, Oregon is Worth a Visit: A Hidden Gem on the Oregon Coast

Tucked up against the hillside with easy access to beautiful beaches and iconic rocky cliffs, Oceanside, Oregon is perhaps the most overlooked hidden gem along…

where to stay in Oceanside

Featuring well-appointed king rooms with huge ocean-view windows in a prime location.

Located right on the beach, you cannot beat the location of these super cute, rustic cabins in Oceanside.

This stunning oceanfront condo sleeps 6 and features a huge deck right over the beach with sea stack views

17. Hike to Tunnel Beach

Hike is a bit of a loose term here, as the journey to Tunnel Beach is really only a few hundred meters, but it’s a fun journey nonetheless. Tunnel Beach is a hidden stretch of the coast that can only be accessed via a man-made tunnel that cuts through the towering cliff just to the north of Oceanside.

Make sure you have the flashlight on your phone ready to go and watch your step as you slowly make your way through the 90 foot tunnel. Once you’re on the other side, you’ll be treated to a hidden world of tide pools, crustaceans, anemones, and views of the Three Arches National Wildlife Refuge. 

Just off the coast of Tunnel Beach sits the Three Arches National Wildlife Refuge. Designated as a national wildlife refuge in 1907 by Teddy Roosevelt, Three Arches National Wildlife Refuge is the smallest designated wilderness in the entire United States. Three Arches is a breeding area for many different types of seabirds, including puffins and it’s the only pupping area along the northern coast of Oregon for Steller Sea Lions.

Tunnel Beach in Oregon: Explore a Hidden Beach on the Oregon Coast

Tunnel Beach in Oceanside, Oregon is a unique adventure you can’t miss: walk through a narrow, rocky tunnel to a pristine secluded beach!

18. Hike to Short Beach

Nestled between Oceanside to the south and Cape Meares to the north, Short Beach is a half-mile stretch of northern Oregon coast paradise, with two waterfalls (one man-made), sea stacks, tide pools, and plenty of sea life. 

Just a short, 5-minute drive north of Oceanside, you can access the trail to Short Beach , although you might drive right past the discreet access point if you aren’t paying attention!

Parking is limited and the once-overlooked Short Beach is becoming more popular. Also, to access Short Beach, you will need to descend a series of stairs that are steep and a bit slick. Make sure to have proper footwear. 

19. cape Meares Lighthouse & the Octopus Tree 

Continuing north on the Oregon Coast from Short Beach, you’ll soon reach Cape Meares Scenic Viewpoint, home to the picturesque Cape Meares Lighthouse. With sweeping ocean views from high above the cliffs, you don’t want to miss seeing the Cape Meares Lighthouse.

Clocking in at just 38 feet tall, the Cape Meares Lighthouse is the shortest lighthouse on the entire Oregon coast. However, its location perched high on the cliffs of Cape Meares, some 200 feet above the ocean below, make it one of the prettiest lighthouses we saw in Oregon. Even more impressive is that the lighthouse has been in operation since 1890!

The paved path down to the lighthouse is just 0.2 mile and features epic views on both sides.

One of the larger and more popular towns along the northern Oregon Coast, frankly Tillamook was not one of our favorite stops along the northern Oregon Coast. That being said, if you’re driving through the Tillamook Creamery is worth a pit stop, especially if you have kiddos.

20. Taste cheese at Tillamook Creamery

The flagship location and processing hub of all Tillamook Brand dairy products is located in Tillamook, Oregon. You can take a self-guided tour or book a private tour if you’re interested. There is also a restaurant serving burgers, pizza, ice cream, and other cheesy products.

We found the Creamery to be a bit over-crowded and touristy but it’s still worth a quick stop and kids would find the self-guided tour especially interesting. And who doesn’t love some ice cream!?

Just a few miles up the northern Oregon Coast, you’ll soon find the quiet, unpretentious town of Nehalem, nestled on the shore of Nehalem Bay. While it might not seem like much, there are a few stops we’d recommend in Nehalem.

21. Go crabbing at Kelly’s Brighton Marina

Located just south of Nehalem, Kelly’s Brighton Marina is a one-stop shop for all of your seafood needs. Selling freshly caught Oregon coast classics like crab, oysters, and clams on picnic tables right along the Nehalem River, it’s hard to beat the food at Kelly’s.

However, if you’re feeling like something even fresher, you can also rent your own crab nets or boat and try your hand at catching your own dinner! We had a ton of fun sitting out on the dock, enjoying a few beers, and catching crabs.

Luckily, we were able to catch a crab for ourselves and brought it up to the restaurant to be cooked right there. From the ocean to our plates in just a few minutes! 

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is the most popular town along the entire northern Oregon Coast and for good reason. Home to a cute downtown stretch, wide sandy beaches, fun hiking trails, and of course, the towering Haystack Rock, there is no mystery why Cannon Beach is the most popular area along the northern Oregon Coast. 

where to stay in Cannon Beach

Wake up to views of the iconic Haystack Rock right from your balcony as this lovely oceanfront hotel

An inn with buildings that resemble beach houses and spacious rooms with kitchenettes

You can’t beat the wide window view from this beachfront inn in Downtown Cannon Beach

22. See the famous Haystack Rock

Standing over 250 feet tall, Haystack Rock is perhaps the single most iconic attraction along the entirety of the northern Oregon Coast and is easily the most popular sea stack anywhere in the US!

Located right on the beach in front of the downtown stretch, Haystack Rock is quite the sight! Local regulations in Cannon Beach allow for fires on the beach and we highly recommend bringing a few beach chairs and picnic and enjoying a fire on the beach as the sun sets behind Haystack Rock. 

23. Hike Hug Point

Hug Point is a short stretch of beach located just a few minutes south of Cannon Beach.

You can reach Hug Point via a short .7 mile hike . Despite its small size, we enjoyed our time exploring Hug Point and its waterfalls, sea stacks, and caves. It’s a nice quieter alternative to the crowded Cannon Beach.

24. Hike to Indian Beach in Ecola State Park 

The 3.8 mile hike to Indian Beach from Ecola State Park is one of the best hikes along the northern Oregon Coast and should not be missed!

Starting from Ecola Point, which offers sweeping views of Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock right from the parking lot, the trail to Indian Beach travels through lush, dense forest with sporadic views of Sea Lion Rock and Tillamook Lighthouse in the distance. Soon enough, the trail leads to Indian Beach, a wide stretch of sand providing a great spot to rest and enjoy a snack before the hike back!

Located at the mouth of the Columbia River, Astoria, Oregon was the first permanent settlement west of the Rocky Mountains and is the northernmost city along the Oregon Coast. With a long maritime culture and history, Astoria is now a quirky city, with a cute downtown area filled with artsy shops, breweries, coffee shops, and restaurants. 

Astoria was also the setting and filming location for the American classic film, the Goonies. You can still see many of the filming locations to this day!

where to stay in Astoria

An iconic luxury boutique hotel with balconies over the Columbia River

Bright & clean rooms in walking distance to the Riverwalk at a budget-friendly price

A massive campground in Fort Stevens State Park with nearly 500 RV and tent sites

25. Enjoy a beer in downtown Astoria

Like most cities in Oregon, Astoria is home to a number of noteworthy breweries. Our favorites are Buoy Beer Co mpany (try the Czech Style Pilsner!) and Obelisk Beer Co . 

26. Visit the Lewis and Clark National Historic Park

After reaching the Pacific Ocean in November of 1805, Lewis and Clark, the famed American frontiersmen, set up camp for the winter right outside of modern-day Astoria. Today, there is an entire park dedicated to preserving the history of their expedition and their winter at Fort Clatsop. 

27. Explore Fort Stevens State Park 

Long-serving as a military installation protecting the mouth of the Columbia River, Fort Stevens is now a multi-use state park with a lake, miles of hiking trails, camping, beaches, and bike and kayak rentals. You can also find the remains of a shipwreck from 1906 on the beach here!

Northern Oregon Coast FAQs

When is the best time to visit the northern oregon coast.

• Peak | June through August
• Shoulder | September – November, March – May
• Avoid | December through February

Temperatures along the northern Oregon coast remain stable throughout the year. It usually doesn’t dip below 40 F or rise above 80 F, making it a solid year round destination. 

That being said, the weather along the Oregon Coast is notoriously rainy, cloudy, wet, and windy year-round. So while temperatures remain fairly temperate, you should be prepared for wet and chilly conditions at any time of the year. 

Naturally, the winter months tend to be a bit colder and rainier but with fewer visitors, while summers are usually warmer and dryer but come with more tourists.

If you have the flexibility, we’d recommend visiting the northern Oregon Coast during the shoulder seasons in the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October), so you can avoid some of the crowds while hopefully still enjoying decent weather.

How do I get to the Northern Oregon Coast?

The best way to explore the Northern Oregon Coast is via a good old-fashioned road trip . Highway 101 winds along the Oregon Coast from Astoria in the northeast all the way to Brookings, in the southeastern corner of the state.

Most of the best things to do on the Northern Oregon Coast that we’ll cover on this list are located just off scenic Highway 101. To give you some sense of the distance, to drive from Florence (middle of the coast and most southern town on this list) to Astoria without stopping would take you about 4 hours and 15 minutes. 

If you’re flying into the area, you could fly into either Eugene (about 1 hour east of Florence) or Portland (about 2 hours southeast of Astoria).

More to do on the Oregon coast

Looking for more great hikes, state parks, and unique things to do on the Oregon Coast? We’ve got tons of resources to help you plan your trip!

Southern Oregon Coast

• Best Things to do on the Southern Oregon Coast

Best Oregon Coast Towns

• Oceanside, Oregon
• Yachats, Oregon
• Coos Bay, Oregon
• Bandon, Oregon

Hiking on the Oregon Coast

• Best Hikes on the Oregon Coast
• God’s Thumb Hike Guide
• Secret Beach Trail Guide
• Sunset Bay State Park Guide
• Spouting Horn in Cook’s Chasm
• Thor’s Well Trail Guide

Questions about exploring the northern Oregon Coast? Let us know in the comments section below !

Save this article on Pinterest!

Sarah Vaughan

Hello! I'm Sarah, one half of the couple behind Two Outliers! In 2023, I quit my job as a Data Scientist to travel around the world on an epic 15-month journey in search of the world's greatest hikes and outdoor adventures. Matt and I started Two Outliers in 2021 as a place for visitors to find concise, accurate, and honest information to plan their own adventures. We hope our experiences inspire you to hit the trail! Happy Hiking! Sarah

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Related posts.

Southern Oregon Coast: 20 Best Things to Do

With sandy beaches, lighthouses, rocky shores, miles of hiking trails, massive sea stacks, and fresh seafood, the southern Oregon Coast should be at the top of any traveler’s bucket list.

Tunnel Beach in Oceanside, Oregon is a unique adventure you can't miss: walk through a narrow, rocky tunnel to a pristine secluded beach!

Discover more from TWO OUTLIERS

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading

December 9, 2023

Looking for the best hiking, views, beaches and more on the Northern Oregon Coast? Read this article for the best things to do on the North Oregon Coast!

why me? Hi there! My name is Maddy, and I’m a sea kayaking guide/ outdoor writer, and this article was written by a person and wilderness sea kayaking guide! All photos are my own, and I’ve actually been to all the places I’m writing about. I’m here to help you have a great vacation and make the most of your time. Enjoy!

Best Things to Do on the North Oregon Coast

note! this article contains affiliate links. That means if you choose to make a purchase based on my recommendation, I make a small kickback at no additional cost to you.

What to pack for visiting the Northern Oregon Coast:

• A lightweight, long hiking pant. I use  this pair  from Kuhl. Want to STRONGLY recommend these! I went up two pants sizes over the winter and have been really struggling with body image issues because of it. These are the only pants I feel like look good on me. They are so flattering, the fit guide is helpful, they’re moisture wicking but also not too “hiker” if you know what I mean, and I just feel good in them. Anyways, if you too are struggling to find pants that don’t make you hate yourself, check out these. (These were gifted to me by Kuhl!)
• A fleece. Any fleece will do, but I really love my  Patagonia Synchilla
• Wool baselayers. Five years of heavy paddling and my  Smartwool baselayers  are the only wool baselayers I’ve had that have really stood the test of time. The basic REI stuff lasted about a season, my Icebreakers top also didn’t really last long. 
• Study hiking boots. I like my  Briger Mids.  Working in outdoor retail I literally never had anyone try on these shoes and not buy them. Pair with  Darn Tough  hiking socks. 
• A puffy jacket. It can be cool even in the summer along the coast, especially evenings. My partner Andy (also a wilderness guide) swears by the  Patagonia Nano Puff . I like my  Helly Hansen Liftloft . 
• A Tent:  Read my budget tent recommendations here!
• A day hiking pack: I love my  Perimeter 35L , made by local Two Harbors company Granite Gear. I was gifted this pack a few years back and it’s still my go-to day pack.
• Sleeping Bag: Check out the  Nemo Disco  down sleeping bag for the perfect comfortable set up for chilly nights. Pair with a comfortable sleeping pad .
• A raincoat. I love the  Moss Raincoat from Helly Hansen ; It’s affordable, cute, and super durable.
• A  Northwest Forest Pass  is required to hike in the National Forest, and an Oregon State Park pass in state parks.

1) Ecola State Park

Looking to visit one of the most beautiful beaches in Oregon? Head to Ecola State Park, just north of Cannon Beach. This state park features excellent hiking along the Oregon Coast Trail, with views of beaches, sea stacks and more. If you only have a few hours, check out Indian Beach and Crescent Beach, both featured in a handful of movies including Twilight and The Goonies.

Ecola State Park is one of the best places on the northern Oregon Coast for hiking and views. Click here for a map of Ecola State Park.

2) Lewis and Clark National Historic Park

Looking to learn about the history of the Northern Oregon Coast and the Columbia River? Head to the Lewis and Clark National Historic Park to check out the museum, learn more about the Lewis and Clark expedition, and experience history. You can learn more about this National Historic Park here .

3) Tillamook Lighthouse (“Terrible Tilly”)

Have you heard about the coolest, most haunted Lighthouse on the North Oregon Coast? Terrible Tilly, or Tillamook Lighthouse, is over a mile from shore on a rock in the Pacific Ocean, exposed to to full fury of winter storms on the coast. Construction began in the 1880s, and several people died during the construction of the Lighthouse. The Light remained operational for several decades before the light was destroyed by boulders hurled in a storm.

Today, the iconic ghost lighthouse can be viewed from Tillamook Head in Ecola State park. Read more about Terrible Tilly here.

4) Cannon Beach

Looking for one of the best towns (and most famous!) on the Northern Oregon Coast? Head to Cannon Beach. Here, you’ll find excellent shops, fish & chips, and so much more as well as the extremely well-known Haystack Rock.

5) Oswald West State Park

If you’re looking for the best hiking on the Northern Oregon Coast, look no further than Oswald West State Park. Oswald West State Park has miles of great hiking including the beautiful Short Sands Beach. If you’re visiting this state park, I recommend budgeting at least half a day and visiting at sunset.

Click here for a map of Oswald West State Park.

6) Devil’s Caldron and Elk Flats

For some of the most beautiful and easy hiking trails on the Oregon Coast to incredible Overlooks, visit Devil’s Caldron and the Elk Flats area of Oswald West State Park. Here, you’ll find overlooks of dramatic sea caves that look like they came straight out of Lord of the Rings!

7) Neahkahnie Viewpoint

For one of the most beautiful roadside pullouts on the Northern Oregon Coast and best sunset spots, check out the Neahkahnie Viewpoint. This easy roadside pullout looks out over the Pacific Ocean and town of Manzanita below.

8) Downtown Manzanita

Looking to beat the crowds of Cannon Beach but still want the coastal surf-town vibe? Head to Manzanita near Oswald West State Park. Manzanita is an adorable small town on the coast with great coffee shops, food, and more with a fraction of the crowds of Cannon Beach.

9) Tillamook

For one of America’s coolest small towns, head to Tillamook, OR for great cheese and shopping. This small town is full of bakeries, and check out any of the many great breweries in the area.

10) Cape Meares State Park

Looking for an Oregon Lighthouse you can easily hike to? Head to Cape Meares State Park south of Tillamook. This beautiful Cape has several short hiking trails and is considered one of the best places to whale watch in Oregon. Click here for a trail map and more information.

11) Cape Lookout State Park

For one of the best places to camp year-round on the Northern Oregon Coast, head to Cape Lookout State Park. This park has excellent hiking trails and beautiful beaches and is well away from the crowds at Cannon Beach and Ecola State Park. We stayed here in early December and it was absolutely magical. Sites are reservation only, and you can even reserve a yurt site.

Click here for the trails in the park.

How do I hike the beaches in Oregon with the tide?

One of the most important things to keep in mind when hiking on the beach in Oregon is the tide! Places that might be accessible at a low tide, will be underwater in a few hours if you plan incorrectly. As a quick rule of thumb, only beach hike when the swell is low, never during storms, and hike during a falling, or ebb tide when the water level is getting lower and not higher. Consult a tide table before embarking on your hike.

Do I need to worry about sneaker waves when hiking on the Oregon Coast?

When hiking on the beach on the Oregon Coast, it’s good to be aware that sneaker waves, or unexpectedly large waves much larger than previous sets, are an additional hazard and may knock you down or even out to sea. If you are hiking on established forest trails and not on the beach, you do not need to worry about sneaker waves. However, hiking on the beach keep sneaker waves in mind.

Sneaker waves are most common in winter months when large, off-shore storms stir up large swell. Keep especially aware of sneaker waves on rising tides. A good rule of thumb to hike safe near the coast is to never turn your back to the ocean, and keep a healthy distance between you and the water when the waves are large. If the ground is wet from previous waves, It will be wet again soon.

scenes from the Oregon Coast in the winter!

If I only have one or two days on the North Oregon Coast, what should I do?

If you’re extremely limited on time visiting Northern Oregon, I recommend focusing on Oswald West State Park. This area has some of the best viewpoints and the nearby town of Manzanita is so cute. If you’re looking to camp and emulate a more rustic experience with less driving, focus in on the Cape Lookout area instead.

Love reading about the best things to do on the North Oregon Coast? Check out these other beautiful PNW destinations…

• Visit Olympic National Park on a shoestring budget
• Read the 25 Best Things to do in the San Juan Islands
• Check out the best hiking off the Mount. Baker Highway

free resources like this one  are made possible by paying subscribers of the  Hello Stranger Newsletter .  Join the newsletter today to connect with thousands of like-minded adventurers and get gritty and honest adventure stories delivered right to your inbox (aka read my diary).

Share the best things to do on the north oregon coast on instagram, facebook, or pinterest:.

Must-see attractions in Northern Oregon Coast

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area

Northern Oregon Coast

Located 3 miles south of Yachats, this volcanic remnant was sighted and named by England's Captain James Cook in 1778. Famous for dramatic rock formations…

Oregon Coast Aquarium

The region's top attraction, this cutting-edge aquarium is especially fun if you have kids along. Marine celebrities include seals, sea otters and a giant…

Haystack Rock

Haystack Rock is Cannon Beach's iconic symbol, a beautiful hulking monolith that rises 235ft and has had cameos in several movies. It's part of the Oregon…

Ecola State Park

Located just north of town, Ecola State Park offers seclusion, various hikes and great picnicking. Short paths at Ecola Point lead over the headland to…

Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area

Stretching a mile out to sea is the popular Yaquina Head, a grassy headland just north of Newport. Short trails lead to viewing areas for shorebirds,…

Fort Stevens State Park

Ten miles west of Astoria, this park holds the historic military installation that once guarded the mouth of the Columbia River. Near the Military Museum…

Columbia River Maritime Museum

Astoria's seafaring heritage is well interpreted at this wave-shaped museum. It's hard to miss the retired Coast Guard boat, frozen mid-rescue, through a…

Sea Lion Caves

Fifteen miles south of Yachats is an enormous sea grotto that's home to hundreds of Steller sea lions. An elevator descends 208ft to a dark interpretive…

Lewis & Clark National Historical Park

Five miles south of Astoria, this historical park holds Fort Clatsop, a reconstructed fort similar to the one the Corps of Discovery occupied during their…

Hatfield Marine Science Center

This excellent science center has great exhibits, especially on wave energy and the local fishing industry. There's a touch tank and you can see the…

Seaside Aquarium

Families with kids will enjoy this aquarium on the promenade. Don't expect anything like Newport's cutting-edge version, but rather a few fish tanks, a…

Yaquina Bay State Park

Situated on a bushy bluff above the north entrance of the bay, this park is popular for beach access and views over Yaquina Bay. Visit the Yaquina Bay…

Cape Meares Lighthouse

The forested headland at Cape Meares offers good views from its lighthouse, which is 38ft tall (Oregon's shortest). Tours of the lighthouse are available…

Tillamook Forest Center

Located 22 miles east of Tillamook on Hwy 6, this excellent forest center educates the public on forest fires and the area's first white settlers. Cross a…

Pioneer Museum

This worthwhile museum has a great taxidermy room and some very interesting pioneer artifacts. There are also curiously carved Neahkahnie stones (actually…

Flavel House

The extravagant Flavel House was built by Captain George Flavel, one of Astoria's leading citizens during the 1880s. The Queen Anne house has been…

Heceta Head Lighthouse

Built in 1894 and towering precipitously above the churning ocean, this lighthouse, 13 miles south of Yachats on Hwy 101, is supremely photogenic and…

Munson Creek Falls

At Munson Creek State Natural Site, 7 miles south off US 101, an easy quarter-mile hike through old-growth spruce reaches Munson Creek Falls, the highest…

Historic Clatsop County Jail

The old county jail, featured in the movie The Goonies, is now home to the Oregon Film Museum, dedicated to made-in-Oregon movies – of which there have…

Tillamook Naval Air Museum

Aircraft lovers shouldn't miss the large collection of fighter planes and the 7-acre blimp hangar. It's 2 miles south of town; a portion of the planes …

Liberty Theater

Downtown's Liberty Theater is a landmark known for elaborate Italian Renaissance styling. It dates from 1925 and once hosted silent films and vaudeville…

Astoria Column

Rising high on Coxcomb Hill, the Astoria Column (built in 1926) is a 125ft tower painted with scenes from the westward sweep of US exploration and…

Heritage Museum

Housed in the former city hall, the Heritage Museum commemorates Astoria's various ethnic communities and early settlers. There's a lot of interactive…

Pacific Maritime & Heritage Center

This modern museum, on the bayfront, educates the public on the central Oregon coast's maritime history and fishing industry, displaying such artifacts as…

Burrows House Museum

This museum displays an impressive collection of Siletz artifacts, a rectangular grand piano and a hand-carved 'Dining Room' sign for the first resort…

Military Museum

View displays and paraphernalia from the Civil War, WWII and other conflicts at this museum within Fort Stevens State Park. Guided tours available in…

Fort Clatsop

The Corps of Discovery camped here from December 1805 to the following March. There's a replica of the original fort, a visitor center, interpretive…

Jennifer Sears Glass Art Studio

Like glassblowing? Then don't miss the Jennifer Sears Glass Art Studio where you can learn to blow your own float – or just watch someone else do it.

North Lincoln Historical Museum

This good museum highlights Lincoln City's history with Native American basketry, pioneer artifacts, glass floats and exhibits on its past industries.

Seaside Museum & Historical Society

Curious about Seaside's past? This museum displays old photos and relics; ask about Lewis and Clark's saltworks history and summer re-enactments here.

Little Log Church & Museum

In town, this museum displays historical items donated by local residents.

Whale, Sealife & Shark Museum

Wonderful if you like sea creatures and dioramas. There are also opportunities to book educational whale-watching trips with a marine biologist through…

More destinations you need to see

• The Coolest Thing Made in Oregon
• Explore Central Oregon
• Explore Columbia Gorge
• Explore Eastern Oregon
• Explore Greater Portland
• Explore Oregon Coast
• Explore Southern Oregon
• Explore Willamette Valley
• Explore Oregon
• Sponsor Content (Opens in new window)

10 overlooked attractions on the north Oregon coast

Niagara Falls is found at the end of a trail in the Siuslaw National Forest in Oregon's Coast Range. (Jamie Hale/The Oregonian)

You’ve probably been to the north Oregon coast. It’s a safe bet that you have gazed upon Haystack Rock , had ice cream at the Tillamook Creamery and have seen the Peter Iredale shipwreck up close. Cape Kiwanda is old news, isn’t it?

Those who have make a habit of traveling to the north coast can fall into a kind of rhythm, visiting the same places and doing the same things over and over again. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, but before you pack up the car for another day at Cannon Beach, consider what it would look like to break away from the main attractions.

HERE IS OREGON: HereisOregon.com | Instagram | YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok

Just in time for Oregon schools’ spring break, March 27 to 31, we’ve compiled a list of 10 of the most overlooked attractions on the north Oregon coast. Some are found just off the beach, but others are buried deep within the Coast Range forest, requiring a little more effort to see.

Exploring off the beaten path usually requires a little more leg work, but the reward is a fresh experience that might break you out of your routine and lead to a more memorable vacation. The beautiful waterfalls, big trees and beaches don’t hurt either.

For the curious explorer inside us all, here are 10 spots you might have missed:

Roosevelt elk gather in Jewell Meadows, a protected wildlife preserve in the Coast Range east of Seaside, where visitors can spy on the elk from a roadside viewpoint. (Jamie Hale/Jamie Hale/The Oregonian)

1. JEWELL MEADOWS

One of several elk viewing areas in Oregon, the Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area is found in the Coast Range off Oregon 202, about 45 minutes east of Cannon Beach. Seeing elk requires good timing and a bit of luck. Your best bet is to show up between November and April, in the early morning or just before dusk. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, which runs the wildlife preserve, offers elk feeding tours from December to February. Bring your binoculars and pack your patience.

Open 24 hours daily; 79878 Oregon 202, Seaside; 503-755-2264; ODFW parking permit required.

A massive western red cedar tree stands tall at the end of a hike in the Rockaway Beach Old Growth Cedar Preserve, found just off U.S. 101 on the north Oregon coast. (Jamie Hale/Jamie Hale/The Oregonian)

2. ROCKAWAY BIG TREE

A short, accessible boardwalk hike leads to one of the biggest trees in Oregon , a western red cedar that measures 154 feet tall and 49 feet around. That giant, colloquially known as the Rockaway Big Tree, is found inside the Rockaway Beach Old Growth Cedar Preserve, a swampy patch of land conveniently located beside U.S. 101.

Open dawn to dusk, daily; off U.S. 101, south of milepost 51.

Klootchy Creek County Park, found between Seaside and Cannon Beach on the north Oregon coast, is home to a dead Sitka spruce that was once the largest tree in Oregon. (Jamie Hale/The Oregonian)

3. BIG STUMP AT KLOOTCHY CREEK

While perhaps not as compelling as a live tree, the Sitka spruce stump at Klootchy Creek County Park was once the biggest tree in Oregon, measuring 200 feet tall with a 17-foot diameter and a circumference of 56 feet. Though a windstorm felled the tree in 2007, the stump is now an overlooked attraction off U.S. 26 just east of Cannon Beach. A quick walk from the parking lot leads to the might stump.

Open 24 hours, daily; located off U.S. 26 at milepost 2; 503-325-9306.

A boy fishes from a bridge over a pond along the Fort to Sea Trail, which runs 6.5 miles from Lewis and Clark National Historical Park to Sunset Beach on the north Oregon coast. (Jamie Hale/The Oregonian)

4. FORT TO SEA TRAIL

Hiking through the trees to the beach is one of the joys of the Oregon coast, and nowhere is that adventure bigger than at the Fort to Sea Trail . Running 6.5 miles each way from the historic Fort Clatsop site to the Pacific Ocean at Sunset Beach, the lengthy trail leads through a quiet forest, past farmland, under U.S. 101, over a lake and finally hits the sand. The trail is meant to mimic the journey undertaken by the Lewis and Clark Expedition, though the landscape naturally looks a lot different than it did 200 years ago.

Open dawn to dusk, daily; endpoints at Lewis and Clark National Historical Park and Sunset Beach State Recreation Site; 503-861-2471; parking at the historical site is $10 or free with valid public lands pass, parking at Sunset Beach is free.

Canoes are stored on display at the Chachalu Museum and Cultural Center in the winter, and taken out on the water the rest of the year. The museum is designed to teach about the culture of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, and to serve as an active center for the community. (Jamie Hale/Jamie Hale/The Oregonian)

5. CHACHALU MUSEUM

The Chachalu Museum wasn’t designed for tourists, but the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, which built the museum for its tribal community, opens the doors to all who stop by. Located off Oregon 18 just east of Neskowin, the museum and cultural center eschews informational placards for immersive displays that take you into the local environment, as well as living exhibits like the working cedar canoes that are stored in the museum over winter.

Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; 8720 Grand Ronde Road, Grand Ronde; 503-879-2226.

A walkway passes through the open meadows of Fort Yamhill State Heritage Area in Grand Ronde. (Jamie Hale/The Oregonian)

6. FORT YAMHILL

Located in the Grand Ronde Community, the Fort Yamhill State Heritage Area is the historical site of a fort built in 1856 to manage interactions between white settlers and the Indigenous peoples who were forcibly removed to a newly created reservation. Visitors won’t find many historical buildings (almost all are long gone), but an easy walk leads to sites where they once stood, with placards telling the history of the place.

Open dawn to dusk, daily; found off Oregon 22, just north of Oregon 18 in Grande Ronde.

Towering trees, massive ferns and rough-skinned newts populate the Ecola Creek Forest Reserve, a 1,040-acre community forest that protects part of the watershed in Cannon Beach on the Oregon coast. (Jamie Hale/The Oregonian)

7. ECOLA CREEK FOREST RESERVE

A small, 1,040-acre park tucked away in Cannon Beach, the Ecola Creek Forest Reserve offers a quieter excursion into nature, with a patch of old growth forest beside the charming Ecola Creek. In the rainy season, rough-skinned newts crawl across the muddy trails. Come summer, visitors can cool off in the shallows of the creek. Parking is extremely limited, so consider making the one mile walk from downtown Cannon Beach.

Open dawn to dusk, daily; found on Elk Creek Road, .4 miles east of U.S. 101.

Munson Creek Falls is a 319-foot waterfall found at a state park site in Oregon's Coast Range. (Jamie Hale/Jamie Hale/The Oregonian)

8. NORTH COAST RANGE WATERFALLS

Those who explore the depths of the north Coast Range will find all sorts of treasures to behold, including a series of spectacular waterfalls . Find Niagara Falls (no not that Niagara Falls) in the Siuslaw National Forest east of Pacific City. See towering Munson Creek Falls just off U.S. 101 south of Tillamook. The smaller Umbrella Falls, Fishhawk Falls and Youngs River Falls are all found between Astoria and Manzanita.

A misty winter morning at Lost Lake in the Clatsop State Forest, found in the north Oregon Coast Range. (Jamie Hale/Jamie Hale/The Oregonian)

9. LITTLE LAKES OF CLATSOP STATE FOREST

Those in search of quieter natural landscapes can escape to a group of little lakes in the Clatsop State Forest. While some may be amenable to kayaking, others are so shallow they’re practically marshes, best seen on a peaceful hike through the forest. There are four small lakes in all, found off U.S. 26 east of Cannon Beach: Bloom Lake , Lost Lake , Soapstone Lake and Spruce Run Lake .

A calm ocean laps against the beach at Sitka Sedge State Natural Area on the Oregon coast, with Cape Kiwanda and Pacific City's Haystack Rock in the distance. (Jamie Hale/The Oregonian)

10. SITKA SEDGE

One of the newest and most fascinating state parks in Oregon, Sitka Sedge State Natural Area north of Pacific City offers visitors a beautiful variety of natural attractions: an expansive wetland filled with birds, a dense coastal forest, and a sprawling beach on the north side of Cape Kiwanda. It tends to be less crowded than the more popular beaches nearby, making it a good plan B for your beach day.

Open dawn to dusk, daily; found on Sandlake Road, 4.5 miles north of Pacific City; 800-551-6949.

— Jamie Hale

503-294-4077; [email protected] ; @HaleJamesB

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

You May Also Like:

10 Reasons To Skip Iceland & Go To Oregon

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!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Grab a copy of MY FREE MEAL PLANNER!

Best Beaches to Visit on the Northern Oregon Coast

This post may contain affiliate links. See site Terms here.     

One of our favorite things to do in Oregon is visit the Coast. It’s one of my wonders of the world… it’s the combination of beach and rocky coast and trees and cliffs. It’s so beautiful. If you’ve never been you must add it to your travel bucket list.

In this post, I’m outlining our favorite places on the Northern Oregon Coast for you. These places are all within a 90 minute drive of downtown Portland. They make great day trips or weekend trips. They are also all great places for renting beach houses.

For each location I’ll share some photos for you, our favorite beach to visit in each town, and the pros/cons of that beach. Mostly it’s all pros 😉 But it is good to have some tips about the best beaches with bathroom access, or where to go if you want to avoid really windy spots, etc. I’ll try to lay all that out for you!

I’ll start with the Northern-most beach and head south. The beaches I’ll be covering are: Seaside, Cannon Beach, Hug Point, Rockaway Beach, Manzanita/Neahkahnie Beach, and Oceanside/Cape Meares (this last spot is also just near Tillamook Creamery, which I’ll cover too).

Seaside is the Northern-most beach I’ll cover today. It has wide open flat beaches, but fewer rocky cliffs. It is the biggest of the beach towns I’m covering, and has a much larger feel than other towns (think hotels on the beach, carnival boardwalk, etc.) I have to say, just related to the town itself, it’s not my favorite actual beach town, even though I love the beach itself. The beach itself is wide open and beautiful. The town is less small beach town and more of a larger, touristy beach town. If you have a large group and need activities for a group to do (mini golf, arcades, factory outlet shopping, golf course, aquarium, etc.), then Seaside is a great place to come.

Seaside is also a great place to come for a few activities like the arcades, shopping, go-karts, golf, etc. if you’re staying in a little beach town for the week and need some activities.

To get to my favorite area of Seaside, I like to go a little north of the city past the busy area, and to a beach that is a little quieter.

If you want to visit this quieter beach in Seaside too, here’s how to get there: Take the Oregon Coast Highway through Seaside (heading North) and turn left on 12th Avenue. At the end of the road is a public parking lot with a bathroom. It’s a great way to get to a quieter spot of the beach and still have access to a bathroom. Here is the Google Maps link to the parking lot.

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is hands down my favorite small town of the Best Beaches to Visit on the Northern Oregon Coast. If you can only go to one small beach town during your stay, you have to make a trip to Cannon Beach.

It’s quaint and charming, it has a wonderful downtown area with candy shops, local restaurants, toy shops, and more.

And the beach itself? Definitely my favorite. It’s a combination of wide open beach with beautiful haystack rock out in the ocean to the left, and then to the right evergreen covered hills and cliffs. There is a huge variety of lodging options (resorts, rental condos, airbnb homes, etc.) without giving up that tiny town feel.

I love this little town.

If you’re coming just to visit the beach, here are some of our favorite spots:

• If you have small children, there is a tributary / creek that runs through the north side of the beach. We’ve found it’s a great place to play with small children so they can play in very shallow water without being in the ocean. See the photo of it below:

• This is also a great area for photos ! Lots of pretty field brush just before the sand – see the photos below for reference.

My girlfriends from college and I did a girls’ weekend to Cannon Beach a couple years ago – it was restful and relaxing. We rented a beach house and had a wonderful time.

If there is any major con to a day trip to Cannon Beach, it’s the distance from the public bathrooms to the beach access point. This could especially be hard with little kids. When we do it, we park right by the bathrooms, use them when we get there, maybe make one bathroom run during the day, and then use them again before we drive home. ( Hug Point is a great location near Cannon if you’d like a bathroom right at the beach parking lot. See below .)

Hug point is one of my all-time favorites of the Best Beaches to Visit on the Northern Oregon Coast – it’s great if you want tons of varied, beautiful geography – cliffs, a small waterfall, caves, and of course a lovely beach. One thing I love about Hug Point is an area you can set up for the day in a little cove that shields you from the wind. The Oregon Coast can be much windier than most beaches in warm places (make sure you bring a hoodie!).

Here a pin to the parking lot at Hug Point (make sure to get there early, or it gets filled up – and if it is full, try waiting for a spot – many people come to do short hikes so cars will come and go). If not, you can park on the upper road.

And here is a pin to the spot in the cove we like to set up in . If you climb up the rocks on the side of the small waterfall, you can also hike up into the trees and get a wonderful view from the cliff. This photo below is on top of the waterfall.

Hug Point is magical! If you stay in Cannon Beach or near it, or even in Manzanita, Hug Point is a great excursion. It’s also a great day trip destination! One of our favorites.

A great day trip from Portland to the Oregon Coast includes an early stop at Tillamook Creamery and then heading to the beach. Tillamook is one of our alltime favorite places to visit as a family.

It’s a free tour of the factory (along with free cheese samples, a fun view of the factory floor, a video, and an interactive display). They also have an amazing ice cream scoop bar and a cafe.

If you want to visit Tillamook, Manzanita and Oceanside are great beaches to finish out your day – they are both just about 25 minutes from the Creamery. See more about those beaches below.

Manzanita & Neahkahanie Beach

Manzanta is another charming beach town, similar to Cannon Beach, but smaller and more off the beaten path. This is a great place for a vacation beach rental if you want to get away from crowds. We love Manzanita!

Right off the main street of the town, there is beach access here , which is great if you want to walk down from a restaurant here.

If you want a beach that’s a little less crowded, just head north of Manzanita 1 mile to Neakahanie Beach. It’s a beautiful beach nestled in a little cove – it’s a hidden gem. It is a wide sandy beach nestled in a cove. It is pretty windy though, so bring a sweatshirt!

Here is a link to a spot where you can park by the side of the road and access the beach.

Oceanside & Cape Meares

Oceanside is a less traveled beach that is usually pretty empty when we’ve been – it has huge rocky cliffs surrounding it – and even a cool cave tunnel you can walk through to a secret cove ( Tunnel Beach , below).

It’s also a great place to rent a beach house for a little less than the other more well-known towns. We went with friends and all our kids a couple years ago and got a great large house for less than smaller homes in Cannon Beach. It’s also really close to Tillamook and Cape Meares, so a great place for a weekend trip.

Here a link to the best place to park to access the Oceanside beach. There is also a little town area with a couple restaurants.

Cape Meares has a lighthouse and a beautiful and easy hike with kids to a gorgeous lookout. Here is a link to the parking lot. It also has the infamous Octopus tree! Look at the view from this Cape Meares hike! (below)

I hope this guide to the Best Beaches to Visit on the Northern Oregon Coast helps you plan your vacation or day trip. I’d be happy to answer any questions you have, if I can. Hope you love the Coast as much as we do! Tag me on Instagram @plumstreetcollective if you get to visit any of these spots.

Lincoln City & Olivia Beach

Lincoln City is a bit further south of the Tillamook/Oceanside area. The beach is beautiful but I have to say this is one of the downtown areas I like the least on the coast. It is a bit rundown in the town, but just past the town there is an amazing little neighborhood community called Olivia Beach. It’s all newer homes, Americana style – very colorful and classic – and it has wonderful amenities. In addition to a private beach access stairway, the community has a park/playground, a pool, and a sand volleyball court. It is so pleasant in this community. Our kids loved it.

One of the perks of this area is the beaches are less crowded than areas like Seaside or Cannon Beach – it’s just a smaller town. We’d definitely recommend staying in Olivia Beach if you’re looking for a great family friendly community on the coast. Here is a link to the home we rented (photo below). We loved the hot tub, rec room with air hockey and foosball, and the kids bunk room. But honestly any in this neighborhood would be great!

Olivia Beach

The beach itself is really pretty here too. Not as rocky as some of the places further north but really open, lots of tide pools, pretty cliffs. My kids loved having the beach to themselves. We built sand castles, played baseball, climbed rocks… overall it was a wonderful beach for our getaway.

No matter where you go on the Oregon Coast, the beach is always beautiful and re-energizing. Remember to take some warm coats (even in the summer it can be windy), and plan to play at the beach more than swim or be in the water (though in the summer you can definitely go in on a hot day).

I hope these tips help you for your Oregon Coast trip planning! I’m happy to answer any questions you have – just leave a comment below and I’ll respond.

Hope you love the Oregon Coast as much as we do. It’s my happy place.

Similar Posts

My Favorite Summer Reads

Easy Blueberry Galette

Food Sensitivity+ DNA Testing with Helix

My Favorite Lettering Pens

Plan a Trip to Disney World 2021

Disney Cruise on the Disney Wish

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Oregon Coast Journey

Explore the coast with me

Unforgettable Northern Oregon Coast Day Trip: A Journey Filled With Wonders

When you think of the Pacific Northwest, the first thing that likely comes to mind is Portland, Oregon. But the state has so much more to offer. Just a few hours away is the stunning Northern Oregon Coast, where visitors can experience an array of natural wonders, from lush forests and rugged cliffs to stunning beaches and crashing waves.

If you’re looking for a day trip full of adventure, beauty, and fun, a visit to the Oregon Coast is a must.

Introduction to the Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast is a stunningly beautiful stretch of coastline located on the Pacific Ocean, running from the state’s border with California in the south to the border with Washington in the north.

The Coast is full of breathtaking scenery: rugged cliffs, secluded beaches, towering sea stacks, and lush forests. It’s also home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, sea lions, whales, and a wide variety of migratory birds.

The Oregon Coast has a long and storied history. The area was first inhabited by Native Americans, who lived off the bounty of the sea. As European settlers began to arrive, the Coast became a popular destination for fishing, whaling, and logging. Today, it’s a popular tourist destination, with plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained.

Reasons to Visit the Oregon Coast

If you’re looking for a day trip full of adventure, beauty, and fun, then the Oregon Coast is the perfect destination. Here are just a few of the things you can do when you visit:

Enjoy the Stunning Views

The Oregon Coast is full of stunning views, from rugged cliffs and rocky sea stacks to secluded beaches and lush forests. It’s the perfect place to take in some of the Pacific Northwest’s most beautiful scenery.

Explore the Wildlife

The Oregon Coast is home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, sea lions, whales, and a wide variety of migratory birds. Take a walk along one of the many trails to spot some of these animals in their natural habitat.

The Oregon Coast is the perfect place to get active with its rugged coastline and plenty of trails. You can go hiking, fishing, kayaking, or take a stroll along the beach.

Experience the Culture

The Oregon Coast is home to a number of  historic towns  and fishing villages that have been around for centuries. Take a stroll through one of these quaint towns to get a taste of the local culture.

The Best Day Trip Itinerary For Northern Oregon Coast

If you’re looking for the perfect day trip on the Northern Oregon Coast, this is the itinerary for you. It’s a full day of adventure and beauty, so make sure to pack a lunch and plenty of water.

• Start off your day with a visit to  Ecola State Park . Here, you can explore the rugged coastline, with its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and its many  sea stacks . The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, from seals and sea lions to whales.
• Next, head to  Cannon Beach  and take a stroll along its secluded beach. Here, you can take in stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the iconic Haystack Rock. It’s the perfect place to take a break and enjoy a picnic lunch.
• After lunch, head to  Oswald West State Park  and explore its rugged coastline. Here, you can take a hike through the lush forests and get a glimpse of some of the local wildlife.
• Next, head to  Manzanita  and explore its quaint downtown. Here, you can get a taste of the local culture and a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants.
• Finally, end your day with a visit to  Cape Meares State Park . Here, you can take in stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and a variety of wildlife, from seals and sea lions to whales.

Where to Stay- Northern Oregon Coast

If you’re looking for the perfect place to stay on the Northern Oregon Coast, then you’re in luck. The area is full of great accommodations, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts. Here are a few of our favorite places to stay on the Northern Oregon Coast:

• Seaside Oceanfront Inn : Located in the heart of Seaside, this cozy inn offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and easy access to the beach.
• Cannon Beach Vibes : This luxurious inn is located right on the beach, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and easy access to nearby attractions.
• The Inn at Spanish Head : This historic hotel is located in the heart of Lincoln City and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and easy access to the area’s attractions.
• Play Chalet : This luxurious resort is located in the heart of Manzanita and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and easy access to the area’s attractions.

Best Restaurants on Your North Coast Oregon Day Trip

The Northern Oregon Coast is full of great restaurants, from seafood shacks to fine-dining establishments. Here are a few of our favorite places to eat on the Northern Oregon Coast:

• The Blackfish Cafe : Located in Lincoln City, The Blackfish Cafe is an upscale restaurant that serves up delicious seafood, steaks, and more.
• Bridgewater Bistro : Also located in Astoria, Bridgewater Bistro is a must-visit for its classic bistro fare and cozy atmosphere. 
• Saffron Salmon : Located in Manzanita, Saffron Salmon is a fine-dining restaurant that serves up delicious seafood and steaks.
• The Blue Heron Deli : Located in Manzanita, the Blue Heron Deli offers a variety of artisanal cheeses, sandwiches and charcuterie plates.

Northern Oregon Coast Guided Tour

If you're looking for a breathtaking and unforgettable experience on the Oregon coast, then look no further than a guided tour with Viator . This tour will take you through the most beautiful and scenic locations along the coast, from the rugged cliffs to the sandy beaches.

You'll have the opportunity to explore tide pools, search for sea creatures and take in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Your knowledgeable guide will share the history and culture of the area, and point out interesting landmarks and hidden gems along the way.

There are a number of tours that are offered these include:

• Northern Oregon Coast Day Trip
• Private Northern Oregon Coast Tour
• Full-Day Guided Oregon Coast Tour From Portland

Tips for Planning the Perfect Day Trip to the Northern Oregon Coast

Planning the perfect day trip to the Northern Oregon Coast isn’t always easy. Here are a few tips to help you plan the perfect day trip:

• Start early : The Oregon Coast is a popular destination during the summer, so it’s best to get an early start in order to beat the crowds.
• Pack a lunch : The Oregon Coast is full of great restaurants, but it’s always a good idea to pack a lunch so you can take advantage of the stunning views.
• Bring a camera : The Oregon Coast is full of stunning scenery, so make sure to bring a camera to capture all of the beauty.
• Wear comfortable shoes : The Oregon Coast is the perfect place to get active with its rugged coastline and plenty of trails. Make sure to  wear comfortable shoes .
• Pack extra layers : The Oregon Coast can get quite chilly in the evenings, so make sure to  pack some extra layers .
• Bring Water : With its rugged coastline and plenty of trails, it’s important to stay hydrated. Make sure to pack plenty of water.

If you’re looking for the perfect day trip full of adventure, beauty, and fun, then a visit to the Northern Oregon Coast is a must. From stunning views to wildlife watching and plenty of activities, the North Oregon Coast has something for everyone.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your day trip to the Northern Oregon Coast today!

Similar Posts

5 Reasons Why You Should Visit Newport Discovery Zoo

Newport Discovery Zoo is a small hometown petting zoo centered on saving animals and giving them a better place to live. This Zoo has a…

SubZero Swirlz in Newport, Oregon- Where Froyo and Mexican Snacks Combine

SubZero Swirlz–a new Mexican-themed frozen yogurt shop–is quickly gaining popularity in Newport, Oregon.  Located on Highway 101, the shop offers a variety of Authentic Mexican…

Coos Art Museum: The Heart of Art on the Coast—Exploring Its Cultural Significance

Nestled in the heart of Coos Bay, the Coos Art Museum is not just a repository of fine arts but a vibrant cultural hub that…

Top 19 Not to Miss Adventures: What Should I Not Miss on the Oregon Coast?

Discover a world of wonder and excitement on the Oregon coast! From breathtaking natural attractions to historic sites and outdoor activities, the Oregon coast is…

Discovering Lincoln City: A Guide to the Best Attractions on the Oregon Coast

Lincoln City, located on the central Oregon Coast, is a popular destination for visitors looking to experience the best of the coast. The city offers…

Personalized Oregon Coast Itinerary Planning: Discover the Best Oregon Coast Has to Offer

Embarking on a vacation should be exciting, not stressful. Let Family Go Travel assist you in creating an unforgettable journey. With our expertise in trip…

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

Similar Posts

7 Best Lighthouses on The Oregon Coast to See

13 Gems I Discovered on my First Pacific Northwest Road Trip

15 Best Things to do in Kanab Utah (Why It’s Amazing Here)

Sedona Vs Grand Canyon: Which Place is Better to See?

7 Reasons to Visit High Steel Bridge Over Vance Creek Bridge

5 Best Places to See Redwoods in Oregon

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!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

18 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do on the Oregon Coast

Written by Brad Lane Updated Sep 16, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The Oregon Coast beckons for memorable travel experiences. Highway 101, also known as the Oregon Coast Highway , spans the entire coastline. This paved route connects scenic landscapes with one charming community after another. Roadside attractions are always within a short drive, with the nearby Pacific Ocean lapping against the shore.

From Cannon Beach to the rugged and wild shoreline of the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor , the Oregon coast delivers on many unique things to see and do. Fishing, cape climbing, tide pool exploring, and simply staring in awe at the setting sun are some of the most popular activities.

For those not interested in driving a vehicle, a pedestrian option is cycling the Oregon Coast Bike Route , mainly following the shoulder of the 101. Intrepid explorers can also backpack the Oregon Coast Trail and travel for more than 370 miles on foot for a true Oregon Coast odyssey.

Whatever means of transportation you choose, be ready for the Oregon Coast to leave a lasting impression. Make the most of your traveling time with our list of the top things to do on the Oregon Coast.

1. Cannon Beach & Haystack Rock

2. columbia river maritime museum, 3. fort stevens state park, 4. seaside promenade, 5. ecola state park, 6. three capes scenic route, 7. boiler bay state scenic viewpoint, 8. devils punchbowl state natural area, 9. yaquina head outstanding natural area, 10. oregon coast aquarium, 11. cape perpetua scenic area, 12. heceta head lighthouse state scenic viewpoint, 13. old town florence, 14. oregon dunes national recreation area, 15. cape arago highway, 16. face rock state scenic viewpoint, 17. gold beach books, 18. samuel h. boardman state scenic corridor, map of attractions & things to do on the oregon coast.

Adjacent to the city and sand of Cannon Beach, Haystack Rock is perhaps one of the most iconic images of the Oregon coast. Many factors contribute to Haystack Rock's popularity, including the sheer presence of this 235-foot testament to the region's volcanic past.

One of Oregon's seven designated Marine Gardens is here, and low tide at Haystack Rock reveals a colorful world of sea anemones, urchins, and sea stars. Several species of seabirds also call Haystack Rock home, including the tufted puffin, whose bright orange beaks are seen on the north side of the rock throughout the summer.

The city of Cannon Beach itself is a very tourist-friendly community and only a two-hour drive from Portland. The downtown district of Cannon Beach epitomizes family vacations with arcade parlors, themed restaurants, and a constant lineup of events throughout the summer.

The Columbia River Maritime Museum is on the shores of the Columbia River and accessible from the scenic Astoria Riverwalk . The museum highlights the human and natural history of the nearby waterway.

Exhibits at the museum range from a decommissioned floating lighthouse open for tours to interactive displays detailing the perilous journey crossing the Columbia River Bar. The facility also houses several artifacts relating to the military history found along the coast.

An IMAX theater at the museum screens different 20-minute educational movies throughout the day. A few of the many educational programs and events at the museum include pygmy kayak building classes and family-friendly Friday Summer Plaza programs.

Address: 1792 Marine Drive, Astoria, Oregon

Official site: http://www.crmm.org

Fort Stevens State Park is another one of the top attractions of Astoria . This state park occupies the northwesternmost tip of Oregon where the Columbia River empties into the Pacific Ocean.

Fort Stevens State Park is a massive natural space with a long military history. In conjunction with two forts across the river in Washington, Fort Stevens was a key military defense unit for more than 80 years until the 1940s. Today, Fort Stevens is an exemplary state park on the Oregon coast with accessible hiking trails and a sprawling campground.

Numerous military remnants of Fort Stevens are at the Historic Military Site within the state park, including a command station, guardhouse, and multiple batteries. More than 30 stops line the Military Site's self-guided walking tour. More interpretive information and a scale-model replica of the fort are available at the park's visitor center.

The Fort Stevens campground is the largest on the coast, featuring more than 300 sites accommodating everything from RVs to hikers on the Oregon Coast Trail. Two freshwater lakes are within the confines of Fort Stevens, providing even more fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities. The park is also home to the Peter Iredale – a century-old shipwreck that makes a fun photo opportunity.

Address: 100 Peter Iredale Road, Hammond, Oregon

Next to the northern coastal Seaside Beach, the historic Promenade, better known as the Prom, has been a valued pedestrian path for more than a century. This seaside path is a great place to stroll with a great view of the ocean and the nearby Tillamook Head. And its family-friendly nature often makes it a capstone visiting experience.

At 1.5 miles long, the Prom provides an accessible concrete pathway to enjoy the ocean environment and surrounding grassy dunes. The Prom also connects many of the top sights of Seaside , including the nearly-as-old Seaside Aquarium.

A Lewis and Clark Memorial is at the center of the famous Seaside Turnaround , where the Prom meets the central street of Seaside's downtown district (Broadway Street). This historic plaque commemorates the time spent by the Corps of Discovery in the area.

Ecola State Park encompasses the forested headland of Tillamook Head , between Cannon Beach and Seaside. It offers a wide array of opportunities to enjoy the scenic landscape. Entering the park from the north end of Cannon Beach, tourists start their experience at either Crescent Beach or Indian Beach , both defined by soft, white sand and stunning rock formations.

The real excitement and scenery of Ecola State Park begins with the ascent of Tillamook Head into the densely forested headland. Nearly 10 miles of trails cross over Tillamook Head and Ecola State Park, including the Oregon Coast Trail and the Clatsop Trail Loop - the same route Lewis and Clark took in search of a beached whale and winter supplies.

Along the way, amazing ocean views are spotted through the thick coastal foliage, including a distant view of Haystack Rock on clear days. One of the best campgrounds on the Oregon coast is at the top of Tillamook Head, complete with complimentary Adirondack shelters (hike-in only). A short path from the campground leads to a cliffside view of the offshore Tillamook Rock Lighthouse.

Address: 84318 Ecola Park Road, Seaside, Cannon Beach, Oregon

Dramatic capes and headlands define much of the beauty of the Oregon coast. The best collection of these often forested and always fun to explore promontories is on the northern coast along the Three Capes Scenic Route.

Beginning from the city of Tillamook, the route deviates from the 101 to travel closer to the ocean before heading 40 miles south, taking visitors to the three capes and through a dense region of history, elevation, and natural splendor.

From Tillamook, the first cape encountered is the scenic Cape Meares , followed by the campground-dotted Cape Lookout. The third cape , Cape Kiwanda , is a unique landmark as one of the only sandstone capes on the coast.

Besides elevated views of the ocean environment, each cape along this 40-mile route contains rich natural treasures, including adventurous hiking trails, tide pools teeming with life, and remote beaches. The lively community of Pacific City, next to Cape Kiwanda, is a great vacation area for those that want to ditch the worst of the crowds.

Boiler Bay is on the northern edge of Depoe Bay , also known as the "Whale Watching Capital of Oregon," and one of the best small towns on the Oregon Coast . Boiler Bay, itself, provides an easy pull-off from the 101 and a good chance of spotting the resident wildlife.

Boiler Bay provides an expansive view at the edge of the continent. It's also a day-use area perfect for an afternoon packed lunch or a stretch of the legs. Whales, seabirds, and tourists from around the world comprise the fauna often found at Boiler Bay.

It's easy to spend an extended time at Boiler Bay. The neighboring city of Depoe Bay is also worth some attention. Here, alongside a similar edge-of-the-world view, Depoe Bay offers more things to do , like guided whale tours and chartered fishing adventures.

This unique geological feature was created by the collapse of two sea caves close to the shore. Today, it's a prominent tourist attraction north of Newport, and easily accessible with less than a mile drive from the 101.

A good time to visit is during high tide, when the incoming water rips and roars through the punch bowl to highlight the ocean's powerful force.

Low tide is also a fun time to visit as the receding water reveals rich tide pools brimming with aquatic life. Just north of the punch bowl, Otter Rock provides a popular surf break for nearly all levels of riders. Among all the other excitement, Devils Punchbowl is also a great place to see whales during the migratory season (March through June).

Location: Otter Rock, Oregon

Yaquina Head is a designated Outstanding Natural Area, located just over 10 miles south of Depoe Bay and easily accessible from the 101. While the center of attention is the historic 1872 lighthouse at the tip of the basalt head, framed by colorful wildflowers in the early spring and summer, there is much to explore on this scenic promontory.

Other fun reasons to visit include an extensive tide pool habitat, various wildlife spotted from the shore, and an interpretive center to learn more about the long history tied to the lighthouse. Tours of the lighthouse, including climbing a challenging set of stairs, are available every day in July and August. Reservations are recommended.

Address: 750 Northwest Lighthouse Drive Newport, Oregon

Official site: https://www.blm.gov/learn/interpretive-centers/yaquina

This non-profit organization is situated on 39 acres overlooking Yaquina Bay in Newport . It educates the public about the wonders of the Oregon coast and beyond. The aquarium features numerous indoor, outdoor, and underwater exhibits and provides a fun and interactive space for the whole family to enjoy,

Some of the most popular exhibits include the Secret of Shipwrecks , a Giant Pacific Octopus Cave, and a 1.3-million-gallon Passages of the Deep Aquarium. Just a few of the aquarium's resident animals include sharks, harbor seals, and tufted puffins.

Be sure to check out the daily feeding schedule before your visit. Other special events and programs at the aquarium include the chance to SCUBA dive in the water or spend the night in the underwater tunnels.

Address: 2820 Southeast Ferry Slip Road, Newport, Oregon

Official site: http://aquarium.org

Cape Perpetua is part of Siuslaw National Forest nearing the north-central region of the coast, and it provides the tallest and arguably best view accessible by vehicle. Visitors can pay to park at the top of the cape, leaving only a few short footsteps from the spectacular view.

Alternatively, several hiking trails start from the Cape Perpetua Visitor Center and head up through dense coastal vegetation to explore the rewarding environment. Other highlights along the trail network include giant spruce trees and a dynamic part of the ocean known as the Devils Churn.

Good home bases for exploring Cape Perpetua include Yachats and Florence to the north and south. The cape is an extremely popular place to visit on sunny weekends. Balmier days provide more seclusion, and the lush coastal forest is fun to explore in rainy conditions.

Heceta Head Lighthouse is south of Cape Perpetua and north of Florence and has played a prominent role for coastal visitors and seaward ships for more than a century. This illuminated landmark stands on the west side of the 1,000-foot Heceta Head, and its rotating beacon of light still guides ships today.

The aesthetically pleasing lighthouse and the surrounding coastal environment tends to draw some attention from land, too. Trails run north and south from the lighthouse, affording distant views of the shoreline and ocean horizon.

The Heceta Head Lighthouse day-use area is accessible by vehicles and a short walk from the parking area. The property includes the historic lighthouse keeper's home, which is now a renovated bed-and-breakfast known for a signature seven-course breakfast.

Address: 725 Summer Street, Florence, Oregon

Old Town Florence sits next to the Suislaw River on the Central Oregon Coast. This historic part of an already vibrant ocean town offers many ways to spend the day and enjoy the atmosphere. And with several seafood restaurants, it's an excellent place to visit for foodies and those with an appetite.

Ocean-inspired shopping also lines the streets of this historic district. From fashion to gift shops and farmers markets, it's fun window shopping and sightseeing in this part of town. A free public parking lot for Old Town is on the other side of the Siuslaw River Bridge, on the same side of the river.

When visiting Old Town, take some time to visit the Siuslaw Interpretive Center. This is a popular thing to do in Florence and includes a walkway, viewing platform, and interpretive information about the Siuslaw River Bridge. It also provides perhaps the best view of the Siuslaw River Bridge itself.

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area comprises one of the largest collections of coastal sand dunes in the world. It's part of the Siuslaw National Forest on Oregon's central coast. Riding off-highway vehicles (OHVs) is a popular recreational activity throughout this soft-sanded, hilly, and always-changing landscape,

Hiking, camping, and sand sledding down the dunes is also prevalent. Different areas within the dunes, which stretch for nearly 40 miles between North Bend and Florence, cater to specific interests.

Towards the north, including areas like the Siuslaw South Jetty, OHV motors are seen and heard scaling the dunes. Places like Tahkenitch Creek or the John Dellenback Trail, farther south, allow hikers to explore the quiet environment on their own.

The Cape Arago Highway offers a slight diversion from the 101 near Coos Bay on the Southern Oregon Coast. It's a worthy side adventure on a road trip, or a place to plan an entire vacation, with several state parks and beaches spanning its last five miles coming from Charleston.

The three state parks at the end of the Cape Arago Highway are Sunset Bay State Park , Shore Acres State Park , and Cape Arago State Park . All three offer their own unique history and reasons to visit, and all contribute to the many things to do in Coos Bay throughout the year.

Bastendorff Beach is also worth a pitstop when traveling the Cape Arago Highway. It's located just north of Sunset Bay State Park and a five-minute drive from Charleston. This quiet beach offers a scenic view of Yoakam Point to the south, and plenty of room to enjoy the sand in peace.

The southern coast of Oregon is well defined by eye-catching sea stacks onshore and offshore. And few other places exemplify this dramatic landscape better than the stretch of beach encompassing and surrounding Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint, adjacent to the city of Bandon .

The best place to start exploring the beach surrounding Face Rock is to access the sand farther north at Coquille Point and Kroneberg County Park . The view from the high vantage point of Kroneberg County Park is known to take tourists' breath away, as do the long set of stairs leading down to the beach.

Heading south from Kroneberg County Park and Coquille point, every massive and minute rock within view is part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge - a vital habitat for nesting seabirds. The views continue to astound, including the closer view of Face Rock - a massive sea stack that some say looks back at you.

Location: Bandon, Oregon

Gold Beach is home to a massive repository of new and used books on the Southern Oregon Coast. Gold Beach Books & Art Gallery is a longstanding institution in this charming coastal town and one of many fun things to do in Gold Beach .

The second floor of Gold Beach Books is where to find the largest paper and hardback selection. A general fiction category categorized alphabetically literally wraps around the entire second floor on high shelves. The rest of the interior collection includes biographies, first editions, religious texts, and the world of science fiction, among others.

The first floor of Gold Beach Books is where the coffee aroma comes from. And next to the café, the Art Gallery currently displays the largest collection of bronze sculptures on the coast. Peruse the selection here, perhaps with a cappuccino in hand, and plan on leaving with a new book to read at the beach.

Named after the first Oregon State Parks superintendent, this 12-mile linear park on the southern coast presents one postcard view after another. The state scenic corridor comprises many of the best beaches in Oregon . The Oregon Coast Highway runs right through the park, providing pull-offs and parking spots to access numerous beaches and viewpoints.

The downright dazzling views of this iconic stretch of coast make it one of the most popular, though the beaches' and sea cliffs' rugged nature still allows a sense of solitude with each visit. The best way to avoid crowds is by venturing down the steep hiking trails that parallel the highway.

Among other places of interest, Secret Beach and China Beach are two popular spots for the whole family to explore. Other places to point a camera include House Rock, Cape Ferrelo, and the beach at Lone Ranch Picnic Area.

Location: Brookings, Oregon

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Road Tripping in Oregon: Now that you have an idea of things you want to see and places you might want to stop, it's time to decide on a route. For ideas, be sure to see our guide to planning a road trip along the Oregon Coast .

Places to Stay on the Oregon Coast: Whether you like to stay in a tent or in the lap of luxury, the Oregon Coast can have you spending the night listening to the waves rocking on the shore. The best beach resorts will wash away any stress you may have accidentally packed along with your coastal vacation.

More on Oregon

Your Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip – All the Best Stops

• In the City / North America / Oregon / Oregon Coast / Outdoors / Portland / USA
• 170 Comments

Everything you need to know for an Oregon Coast Road Trip!

Last week, we did the ultimate Oregon Coast road trip with Travel Oregon – all 363 miles of it. It was epic! This year, the People’s Coast is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Oregon beach bill, which made all of the Oregon coast public. We always love a good road trip and were so happy to celebrate their anniversary by exploring the entire coast.

Thank you Travel Oregon for hosting our trip and thank you Toyota for letting us test drive the new Prius Prime . We can’t believe we only had to fill up one and a half times when we logged 1000 miles on this trip. As opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: March 17, 2024

− − Content Menu

• North Coast (from north to south)
• Central Coast (from north to south)
• South Coast (from north to south)

Best Places to Stay on the Oregon Coast

• Oregon Coast Map of Best Stop

Essential Tips for First Timers

Oregon coast itinerary, heading south you will find these posts helpful:.

• Your Ultimate California Coast Road Trip
• 15 Epic Things to Do in Redwood National Park

If this road trip is part of a larger trip, check out:

• Your Epic Eastern Oregon Road Trip Guide
• The Ultimate Oregon Bucket List

North Oregon Coast Attractions

Not only did we love their rugged coast and getting to witness the power of the Pacific ocean, but we also loved the diversity in activities. We enjoyed the beaches, tried crabbing for the first time, sandboarded where sandboarding was invented, and hiked to waterfalls. Today, we’re sharing the best things to do on the Oregon Coast and the best beaches to visit.

The North Coast has longer stretches of sandy beaches and is the most touristy part of the Oregon Coast. It’s most well known for Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock, but did you know there are three Haystack Rocks along the Oregon Coast?

See More: Your Ultimate Eastern Oregon Road Trip

Astoria – Mile 0 →

• Astoria Column
• Astoria-Megler Bridge
• Oregon Film Museum
• Columbia River Maritime Museum

See More: 15 Unique Things to Do in Astoria Oregon

Where to Stay

Cannery Pier Hotel   ( read our full review ) We loved our stay here right next to the bridge.

Warrenton – Mile 6.5

• Fort Stevens State Park  – Peter Iredale Shipwreck was nice during sunset.
• Lewis and Clark   National and State Historical Parks / Fort Clatsop  – it’s a  National Park unit .
• Sunset Beach State Recreation Site

Seaside – Mile 20

• Seaside Aquarium – feed the seals! You get a small tray of fish for $2 after entry into Aquarium.
• Seaside Promenade – this goes along the Seaside Aquarium.
• Dig for razor clams  – You can do this at the beach next to Seaside Aquarium too.
• Play at game of Fascination at the Funland Arcade

ECOLA STATE PARK – Mile 26.5

• Ecola Point to Indian Beach Hike – 1.5 mi, easy – The Indian Beach Trail and viewpoints were closed due to mudslides (April 2017). Check the conditions of the trails  before you go.
• Clatsop Loop Hike – 3 mi loop, 700 ft, easy, you’ll see the Tillamook Rock Light aka Terrible Tilly and Indian Beach.
• Crescent Beach Hike – 3.6 mi, 310 ft, easy – can see caves at Ecola Point, Sea Lion Rocks at Ecola Point, and Bird Rocks at Chapman Point.
• Tillamook Head Traverse Hike – 6.3 mi, 1350 ft, moderate –  see Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, clifftop views, strong hikers continue 1.3 mi to the Ecola State Park Trailhead then down to Cannon Beach.

CANNON BEACH – Mile 28

• Haystack Rock – You can see them from Haystack Hill State Park and Tolovana Beach State Recreation Site is just south of it. This is a great spot for sunrise and sunset. If you’re lucky, you may see some tufted puffins on Haystack Rock (April – August)
• Castaways – moderately priced Cajun-Creole food
• Cannon Beach Hardware and Public House – hardware store that serves food. Get the fish and chips.
• Public Coast Brewing   – try a flight and the burgers.
• Wayfarer Restaurant and Lounge  – Had a beautiful view of the beach, and the halibut cheek (a special) and the scallops were great.

Surfsand Resort   (mid-range – luxury) – Really popular spot and in high demand. I was so excited to see Haystack Rock from our balcony!

Local Tip: The locals usually stay in Manzanita 30 minutes south of Cannon Beach since it’s much quieter and much less touristy.

HUG POINT STATE RECREATION SITE – Mile 34

• Hug Point Hike – 0.5 mi RT, 20 ft, easy, go only at low tide (Check the tide charts here ). Hike to the caves, a seasonal waterfall, and old stage coach trail.

OSWALD WEST STATE PARK – Mile 43

• Hike to Short Sand Beach and on the way see a suspension bridge too. We got lost in the park, so we didn’t end up doing any of the official hikes.
• Neahkahnie Mountain Loop Hike – 8 mi lollipop loop, 2300 ft moderate difficulty. It has nice coastal views and you go under a natural tunnel formed by tree roots. If you just want to hike to Summit Viewpoint, it is 3 mi RT and moderate.
• Arch Cape to Short Sand Beach – 15.9 mi RT, 990 ft, difficult. If you want a longer hike and want to avoid the crowds, this is the hike for you. Arch Cape to Cape Falcon is the least traveled part of Oswald West State Park.

ROCKAWAY BEACH – Mile 50.8

• Kelly’s Brighton Marina  (Nehalem Bay) – We love it so much we’ve gone back three times. You need 1-2 hours to go crabbing, and the weather can affect the excursion. We ate some of the freshest oysters and crab. Kelly taught us so much about the art of crabbing, and his enthusiasm was contagious.
• Emily Reed Shipwreck – This is not always visible. Every so often, the sands shift and reveal the 102-year-old shipwreck.
• Pronto Pup – where the original corndog was invented. They were too salty for my taste, but hey… it’s the original!

See More: How to Treasure Hunt for the Famous Lincoln City Glass Floats

GARIBALDI – Mile 55.6

• Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad
• Pier’s End – 700-foot long pier. It’s Oregon’s longest pier.

TILLAMOOK – Mile 65

• Tillamook Cheese Factory Tour – Mmmm… cheese. Take the free and self-guided tour. Currently, only a portion of it is open. Check their site for updates.
• Cape Meares and Cape Meares Lighthouse – Oregon’s shortest lighthouse. You can also see the Octopus Tree and the Big Spruce here (Oregon’s largest Sitka spruce).
• Lost Boy Cave – You can only go at super low tide (-1.5 or lower, see tide charts here ). There are 3 points of entry. The easiest and safest is from Short Beach from the North . The other entry point is through Tunnel Beach on the South. Legend calls it Lost Boy Cave because a boy drowned here. From the cave, you can see Three Arch Rocks and Lost Boy Beach. We were bummed that we had to skip this since the tide wasn’t low enough.
• Jacobsen Salt Co. – Do a salt tasting of the salt harvested right at Netarts Bay. It’s famous for their texture, taste, and appearance and is used by chefs all over the world. You can also do a Bee Local honey tasting, their sister company.
• Cape Lookout State Park – Popular for beachcombing, glass floats, and hiking. There are more than 8 miles of trails through lush, old-growth forest. You get amazing ocean views, easy access to the beach, and you might spot whales.
• Munson Creek Falls – 0.6 mi, 95 ft, easy hike to the highest waterfall along the Oregon coast  (three-tiered 319 ft)
• Tillamook Air Museum

Local Tip: See many of the attractions via the Three Capes Scenic Loop ( map ). This 40-mile scenic byway takes you to all three Capes: Cape Meares, Cape Lookout, Cape Kiwanda. Other stops: Munson Creek Falls, Nestucca Bay, Bob Straub State Park, Clay Myers State Natural Area, and Lost Boy Cave.

Pacific City – Mile 87.4

• Cape Kiwanda  – This is where you see the second Haystack Rock. It looks similar to the one Cannon Beach, and the area doesn’t have as many tourists.
• Pelican Pub & Brewery is a craft beer industry leader. They are well known for pairing their food and beer well and have been doing it for over 20 years.
• Horseback Riding (fall and winter hours are on Friday-Saturday only)

We stayed at Inn at Cape Kiwanda (mid-range) – located just off Highway 101, in relaxed and uncomplicated Pacific City, Oregon. All 35 deluxe guest rooms feature private balconies with beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and Haystack Rock, air conditioning, cozy gas fireplaces. It also has Tripadvisor’s Certificate of Excellence.

Central Oregon Coast Attractions

The Central Coast is similar in appearance to the North Coast but has fewer sandy beaches and more sea cliffs, terraces, and bays. This is where the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area starts.

See More: Everything You Need to Know About Thor’s Well

Lincoln City – Mile 112 →

This is one of the bigger cities on the coast, which will give you more food and lodging options. Portlanders like to come here to cool off during the summer.

• Drift Creek Falls Hike – Takes you over a suspension bridge to a beautiful waterfall.
• Seven Miles of Smiles – the beaches from Roads End to Siletz Bay. This is famous for their Finder’s Keepers glass float hunt . Each year from mid-October to Memorial Day, “Float Fairies” will hide glass treasures along the Seven Miles of Smiles. We found a couple from the SW 51st Street Beach Access.
• D-River  – this river was once named the shortest in the world! It is measured to be 440 ft (130 m) and 120 ft (37 m) at extreme high tide.
• Roads End Hike   – 2.6 mi, 15 ft, easy
• Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area – quick stop and you can see it from the parking lot. It doesn’t look all that special unless you go at sunset.

Depoe Bay – Mile 128

• The Whale Watching Center at Depoe Bay

Newport – Mile 141

• Marine Discovery Cruise – the Sealife cruise takes ~2 hours, where they look for gray whales, harbor porpoise, seals, sea lions, pelicans, and bald eagles (depending on the time of year).
• Yaquina Head Lighthouse at Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area (BLM) – Oregon’s tallest lighthouse at 93 ft. The structure was completed in 1874 and is Oregon’s second-oldest continuously operating lighthouse. The area is amazing for tide pooling. I’ve never seen such a huge concentration of creatures in one spot.
• Historic Newport Bayfront – See the sea lions on the public piers and private docks. It has a nice view of the Yaquina Bay Bridge and has some nice souvenir shopping.
• Rogue Ales Brewery / Brewer’s on the Bay   – this was named one of the top 50 American breweries by Beer Advocate  and is on the Newport Historic Bayfront.
• Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site   – Not to be confused with Yaquina Head, but this also has a lighthouse, the Yaquina Bay lighthouse. You also get a nice view of Yaquina Bay Bridge from here.
• Agate Beach State Recreation Site – beachcombing is popular here. If you’re lucky, you will find an agate.
• Nye Beach – A great place to escape to. Colorful buildings fill this seaside community, and you can shop, eat, or spend time on the beach.
• Oregon Coast Aquarium – one of Oregon’s top tourist attractions. It brings in over 40,000 students each year for its excellent educational programs.
• Hatfield Marine Science Center

Sylvia Beach Hotel (luxury) – 21-room themed bed & breakfast with a homey charm. Each room is based on an author and is perfect for unplugging since there are no telephones, TVs, or wi-fi in the rooms. We stayed in the Hemingway room. 

Don’t forget to check out their Tables of Content Restaurant where it’s communal style and you get to meet the other guests. Also, say hi to Shelley the resident cat for us! Call for reservations at 541.265.5428 or Toll-Free 888.795.8422.

Yachats / Cape Perpetua Scenic Area – Mile 164.4

• Cape Perpetua Scenic Area – this is where you’ll find Thor’s Well , Spouting Horn, Devil’s Churn, and Cook’s Chasm. There are also plenty of tide pools to explore too. Be sure to check the tide charts here . Go at high tide for Thor’s Well (you will get soaked, but the photos are worth it!).
• Yachats Brewing – Located in an old bank building, it is now a center for food, beer, and culture.

Florence – Mile 190

• Heceta Head Lighthouse – This is the brightest light on the Oregon coast and the most photographed lighthouse in the state.
• Sea Lion Caves  – This is America’s largest sea cave inhabited by sea lions. Take in the sounds (and smells)! There are the most seals in the cave during Winter and Spring, they then head out for mating during the Summer, and are in and out feeding during the Fall.
• Sand Master Park – We first went sand boarding in Great Sand Dunes in Colorado, but on this trip, we met Lon Beale who invented sand boarding and made the world’s first sand board park!  If you’ve never done it before, you can also get lessons.
• Bridgewater Fish House – Sip elegant cocktails and dine on delicious seafood, steaks, pasta, and more in the heart of Florence’s Historic Old Town at this classic coastal spot.
• Guided Sand Rail Tour – ride through the amazing sand dunes on a guided tour.
• Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area – Riding Dune Buggies – Enjoy an exciting guided Sand Rail Tour or a Professionally guided Interpretive Scenic Tour on one of the famous big purple buggies driven by a skilled driver.
• Historic Old Town

Driftwood Shores Resort and Conference Center – amazing oceanfront rooms with private balconies. You can even get rooms with kitchens or fireplaces.

South Oregon Coast Attractions

The South Coast is more rugged and mountainous. It’s generally known to be warmer and sunnier than the North and Central coast (maybe because it’s closer to California). You will start seeing more redwoods, cedar, Douglas-fir forests, and plenty of sand dunes.

See More: The Ultimate Guide to Samuel H Boardman State Scenic Corridor

Reedsport – Mile 211.5

• Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area – the elk stay pretty far back. If you want a photo, bring your longest lens.

North Bend – Mile 235

• McCullough Bridge – passed by and saw it but didn’t stop
• Oregon Dunes NRA – If you didn’t get enough of the sand dunes, you can stop here for more!

Coos Bay – Mile 237.5

This is the largest city on the Oregon Coast

• Coos History Museum & Maritime Collection
• Shore Acres State Park – a great place to storm watch and see huge crashing waves.
• Cape Arago Beach Loop – includes Bastendorff Beach, Sunset Bay State Park, Cape Arago Lighthouse Viewpoint, Shore Acres State Park and Botanical Gardens, Simpson Beach, Shell Island Interpretive Stop, Cape Arago State Park
• The 7 Devils Brewing Company

Bandon – Mile 270

• Bullards Beach State Park   – Coquille Lighthouse
• Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint – great sunset or sunrise spot. Also, look for Wizard’s Hat / Howling Dog Rock.
• Washed Ashore  – trash washed ashore turned into art.
• Face Rock Creamery
• Coastal Mist Chocolates
• Stillwagon Distillery

Port Orford – Mile 301

• Cape Blanco State Park and Cape Blanco Lighthouse – Oregon’s most southern lighthouse and is the westernmost point in Oregon.
• Port O rford Heads State Park
• South Coast Tours  – adventure paddle tours! Try kayaking or SUP.

WildSpring Guest Habitat is such a cute glamping spot! It’s a small eco-friendly resort overlooking the ocean with 5 luxury cabins and beautiful grounds to enjoy.

Gold Beach – Mile 328

• Rogue Jets   – open May 1 to Oct 15
• Barnacle Bistro – great casual spot servicing fresh and local seafood and burgers.
• Arch Rock Brewing
• Turtle Rock – a rock formation just off the highway (west of the 101) that looks like a turtle. You can map to Turtle Rock Resort.
• Cape Sebastian State Scenic Corridor – just a few steps down the trail to the west, you can see Humbug Mountain. You can hike through thick Sitka Spruce rainforest to Hunters Cove (3 mi out and back).
• Meyers Creek Beach – there is a large shark fin rock formation and it a popular spot for windsurfing.

Tu Tu Tun Lodge (luxury) – This was our favorite place to stay on the Oregon coast. There are regular rooms or you can rent out one of the amazing homes. It’s such a relaxing place and a great way to end a trip. We were in the River House and didn’t want to leave! Call 1.800.864.6357 for reservations or email [email protected] .

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor + Brookings – Mile 357 →

Hiking trails connect all the viewpoints along Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, or you can hop in a car and go to the most popular viewpoints.

• Arch Rock Picnic Area – short walk to a couple viewpoints
• Natural Bridges   – viewpoint or hike down closer to the water
• Thomas Cr eek Bridge – hike down to the beach to get a view of the bridge
• Whaleshead Beach Picnic Area – quick stop and viewpoint
• House Rock Viewpoint – quick stop and viewpoint
• Thunder Rock Cove – short hike
• Secret Beach Hike + Miner Creek waterfall flows into Secret Beach – unmarked stop on the road with a short hike to the beach
• Harris Beach State Park   – south of Samuel H Boardman there is a feature that looks similar to the keyhole at Pfeiffer State Beach in Big Sur!
• Chetco Point Park

Local Tip: There’s so much to see! We recommend spending more than one day here.

• Astoria:  The Cannery Pier Hotel ( see full review here ).
• Cannon Beach: Surfsand Resort (mid-range – luxury) – most popular hotel in Cannon Beach. You can see Haystack Rock from your balcony.
• Pacific City: Inn at Cape Kiwanda (mid-range) – you can see Haystack Rock #2 from your balcony.
• Newport: Sylvia Beach Hotel (luxury) has different rooms with an author theme. We stayed in the Hemingway.
• Florence:  Driftwood Shores Resort and Conference Center (mid-range) has amazing oceanfront rooms.
• Port Orford: WildSpring Guest Habitat (mid-range) is such a cute glamping spot.
• Gold Beach: Tu Tu Tun Lodge (luxury) was our favorite place to stay on the Oregon coast.

You have Successfully Subscribed!

Oregon coast map.

• When to Go – October – May is considered rainy season. You will have the least rainy days in July and August, but the summer is also when you’ll get the crowds. September is a good month to go because it’s shoulder season. You still get a bit of the nice weather but less crowds.
• Be flexible – the weather can change dramatically day to day. Some activities will not be possible in the rain, storm, or choppy waters. Have a plan B and a plan C.
• Park Passes to Bring:  Your Oregon State Park Pass is good for Ecola State Park, Fort Stevens, Cape Lookout, Heceta Head, Shore Acres (otherwise $5 per day per park). America the Beautiful Pass  gets you into Lewis and Clark NRA, Yaquina Head, Cape Perpetua, Oregon Dunes NRA, and any other National Parks or BLM lands you may want to visit. There is also an Oregon Coast pass that gets you into any state and federal parks, but not the parks if you want to venture more inland.
• If you want to end your trip with a shorter drive back to Portland, start from South to North, which is what we will probably do next time.
• Download Alltrails+ : If you plan on doing hikes, download Alltrails+ so that you can have the trail maps offline.
• Lesson Learned – Planning your photo stops with Instagram and Pinterest is nice in theory, but we learned how many things were mislabelled. We spent a lot of time getting lost (and not in a good way since we were packing in so much to do all 363 miles of coast).

What to Pack for Your Oregon Coast Trip

• Pack a Raincoat :  We had one partly cloudy day, and all the other days were rainy and stormy.
• Clothes to Get Dirty In: Wear clothes you don’t mind getting muddy especially on hikes. It also helps if you also wear quick-dry clothes underneath your waterproof layers. It’s not necessary, but we even wore waterproof pants on one of the stormy days where it was raining sideways and we were still completely soaked. Also might not recommend going out when it’s that stormy.
• Solid Hiking Boots : We love these Danner ones because they’re so comfortable and waterproof. If you prefer sneakers, check out these to keep you dry.

Planning Checklist

• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .

Have you done an Oregon Coast road trip? Anything else we missed? What’s the last road trip you’ve been on?

Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later

SEE MORE Epic Road Trip Guides

EASTERN OREGON ROAD TRIP

CALIFORNIA COAST ROAD TRIP

SUNSHINE COAST ROAD TRIP GUIDE

ULTIMATE NEVADA ROAD TRIP

ICELAND WINTER ROAD TRIP

BIG SUR ROAD TRIP

BEST DAY TRIPS FROM REYKJAVIK

21 CLASSIC AMERICAN ROAD TRIPS

BEST WEEKEND TRIPS FROM PDX

WEEKEND TRIPS FROM LAS VEGAS

TOP WEEKEND GETAWAYS FROM LA

WEEKEND TRIPS FROM ATLANTA

RV LIFE – THE GOOD, BAD, AND UGLY

ROAD TRIP ESSENTIALS

“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

Follow on Instagram (E + J) , YouTube , TikTok , and Pinterest.

Protect Your Trip »

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

Lincoln City

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

You may be interested in.

Best Places to Visit in Maine

Best Places to Visit in California for 2024

Best California Beaches for 2024

Best Places to Visit in Georgia

Best small towns to visit in the usa.

Best Oregon Beaches

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

North America Chevron

United States Chevron

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.

Tom Vanderbilt

Alex Erdekian

Jessica Puckett

Shana Clarke

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.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• 6 Towns Perfect for Retirement in North Carolina

North Carolina might not have the same notoriety as some other destinations such as California or Florida, but this hidden gem of a state has plenty to offer. North Carolina has gained mass appeal in the last few years thanks to its low cost of living and affordable housing. Retirees have especially taken notice and are strongly considering making the move.

Hickory is a small town roughly an hour's drive north of Charlotte. Far away from the hustle and bustle of the big city, Hickory is a calm and peaceful community that makes a great place to retire for those searching for a slowing pace.

With a population of roughly 44,000 people, Hickory is outfitted with all the amenities of a city but without the stress and endless traffic . There are dozens of hospitals and well-respected doctors located in town making any medical appointments a breeze.

Hickory is only 30 minutes away from the famed Appalachian Mountains making this a great choice for any accustomed to outdoor fun. North of town is the tranquil Lake Hickory and the Lake Hickory Country Club Springs Clubhouse, a great place to play a round of golf and relax. The average home price in Hickory is $338,000.

Carolina Beach

Just south of Wilmington is the quiet town of Carolina Beach . Located right along the coast, newcomers can expect to be greeted with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean . The beachfront extends for miles making it the perfect place for long walks.

The Carolina Beach Boardwalk is outfitted with a varied selection of restaurants. Uncle Vinny's Pizzeria & Ristorante and the Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar are a few of the standout spots.

Being along the ocean, it should be no surprise that Carolina Beach has dozens of marinas and yacht clubs. If sailing is something you are already into or want to try out, this is the perfect place to do so. The average home in Carolina Beach is $699,000.

Laurinburg can be found only 45 minutes southwest of Fayetteville , just a stone's throw away from the South Carolina border. The nearby Lumber River offers ample opportunities for hiking and fishing. If the outdoors is not to your taste then there are various museums and wineries to explore as well.

There are a handful of outstanding golf courses that serve as the perfect way to get out and experience the fantastic North Carolina weather during the summer months. Day trips to the coast are not out of the question either.

The cost of living in Laurinburg is quite reasonable relative to other parts of the United States . Rent is quite affordable and buying a home will only cost an average of $210,000. With a population of only 15,000, this small town is a perfect getaway from the big city.

Reidsville can be found just a few minutes north of Greensboro . Despite having a small population, Reidsville is best known for having a robust culture and history that is spurred on by frequent street festivals and other public gatherings.

There are two fantastic public lakes and hiking trails nearby making it an attractive destination for retirees that are looking to join in on a vibrant and active lifestyle. Walking around town and exploring the various vintage homes and street murals serves as a great weekend activity.

Living in Reidsville comes at a discount as well. The average home price here is $212,000 and rent is just as affordable. If you want to retire into an upbeat and exciting small town Reidsville should certainly be taken into consideration.

Marion is located deep within the Blue Ridge Mountains that run across the eastern half of North Carolina. Residents of Marion tend to be quite active going on routine hikes and camping trips into the vast wilderness that surrounds the town.

Marion is only a few minutes away from the lovely Lake James State Park and the Pisgah National Forest . Marion is the perfect getaway for retirees who want to live their lives in the great outdoors. If you are an avid hunter, hiker, or camper, Marion was meant for you.

Housing in Marion is somewhat expensive relative to other towns in the area. However, the price is certainly worth it. The average home in Marion is going to cost around $335,000. If the price tag is not too much, Marion is a must.

Pinehurst is a great town to settle down in if you plan on spending your free time out on the golf course . There are a handful of stellar courses either within town or just a short drive away. Pinehurst Resort, Mid Pines Inn, and Pine Needles Lodge are just a few of the many great options nearby.

Pinehurst is central to many of the things that make North Carolina so attractive. Just a few hours away from the coast and the Blue Ridge Mountains, taking day trips to go see the natural beauty of the state is no hassle.

The cost of living in Pinehurst is expensive by North Carolina standards, however, if it is not out of budget, the few extra dollars that you might spend on a home here are worth every penny. A home in Pinehurst will set you back around $624,000.

North Carolina is a criminally underrated part of the United States. Home to both the tranquil Atlantic coast and the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, the small towns of North Carolina make an ideal place to retire. Especially considering how affordable housing is compared to other parts of the country.

More in Places

8 Cutest Small Towns In Mississippi To Visit In 2024

11 of the Most Charming Small Towns to Visit in Texas

6 Most Inviting Towns in North Dakota

7 Senior-Friendly Towns in South Carolina

11 of the Most Charming Small Towns to Visit in North Carolina

7 Most Inviting Towns in Delaware

8 Senior-Friendly Towns in Georgia

The Best Small Towns in Alabama for a Weekend Retreat

• Exploring The Seven Natural Wonders of Oregon as a Family

T he Pacific Northwest is home to some amazing sights. Whether you are drawn to waterfalls, canyons, the coast, mountains, or the forest, Oregon’s natural wonders provide an unforgettable backdrop for f amily adventures . 

So if you’ve been looking for a reason to spend more time in the great outdoors with your family , here it is. A road trip through Oregon will offer you some of the most breathtaking landscapes and a wide range of activity options for the whole family to enjoy.

• Best Places to Visit In Oregon as a Family

Table Of Contents

1. Columbia River Gorge

2. crater lake national park, 3. the oregon coast, 4. painted hills, 5. mt. hood , 6. the wallowa mountains, 7. smith rock state park, tips for your family trip to oregon, camping in oregon, camp cooking, ready to start planning your trip use these helpful links to book your trip.

We’ll touch on the top seven places in Oregon to visit, which many consider to be the seven natural wonders of the state. We’ll also offer some tips for making the most out of your trip to ensure the whole family stays safe and has a good time. So lace up your walking shoes and let’s get started.

In this article, I’ll be sharing picturesque places in Oregon to visit with your family. These are some of the most popular family travel destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether it’s windsurfing on the Hood River or hiking old-growth forests to exploring the wildlife in Oregon, I’ll be providing some great tips and advice for getting the most out of your outdoor experience.

Vista House on overlook of Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

No trip to Oregon is complete without driving through the gorge. It was designated as a National Scenic Area for a reason. The Columbia River Gorge truly offers some of the most impressive views in the country. 

The 80-mile-long river canyon separates Washington from Oregon, so you can technically view it from either side, depending on what you want to do. Along the gorge on each side, for example, there are numerous trails for hiking. The Crown Point is a fan favorite as it offers some of the best views of the river as it twists and turns through the Cascade mountains. 

In the summer, a trip through the gorge can take you to the Hood River Fruit Loop, which is a loop that will have you winding through scenic country roads to find the many U-pick orchards and farm stands. Hood River also has some great food options and water sports activities as well. In fact, Hood River is known as the windsurfing capital of the world.

If waterfalls are more to your liking, there are plenty hidden throughout the gorge — 90 in total! Or perhaps you want to stroll through the wildflowers at Rowena Crest or take a train ride on the Mount Hood Railroad. Whatever you desire, the gorge offers a little bit of everything. 

Crater Lake of Oregon

Oregon is in no short supply of lakes, but none are more stunning than the famous Crater Lake. Crater Lake National Park is the only national park in Oregon and is home to the deepest lake in the country (and one of the deepest on earth!). 

Over 7,000 years ago, indigenous peoples witnessed the formation of the lake when Mount Mazama collapsed as a result of a violent volcanic eruption. Aside from being so deep, Crater Lake is also known for its stunning blue color, which is the result of being purely fed by rain and snowfall. 

Activities in Crater Lake National Park are abundant. You can hike through old-growth forests, catch a show at the world-renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival, visit the Oregon caves, take a boat and trolley tour, or go cross-country skiing in the winter. Locals claim the best months to visit the lake are from July through September, when the weather is the most mild and produces little precipitation. 

Cannon Beach, Oregon Coast

Thanks to the Oregon Beach Bill, visitors can enjoy all 363 miles of stunning coastline in Oregon for free. The coast in Oregon stretches from the mouth of the Columbia River all the way down to the redwoods in California, and every inch of it offers something to captivate the family. 

You can go combing for agates, catch your own crabs, visit historic lighthouses, watch for whales, puffins, and seals, try your hand at surfing, or simply sit back and relax on the sand while the kids build castles or play in the water. 

Some of the most notable beaches include the picturesque Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock, Astoria — which is where The Goonies was filmed — Rockaway Beach, Seaside, and Cape Lookout State Park. The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is also a fun spot to visit if you want to climb some of the amazing sand dunes. 

Painted Hills, Oregon

The Painted Hills are a unique geological formation that you can’t miss out on. Traveling through the hills will offer you sights of millions of years of history, which is revealed in the rock layers of yellows, blacks, golds, and reds. These stripes of colors are how the hills get their name, and the tones and hues can actually change over time and vary depending on the time of day and the moisture levels. 

The Painted Hills are part of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument and started forming around 35 million years ago as a result of volcanic ash and pumice settling in the area after the Cascade eruptions. To get to the area, you’ll need to take the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway, which is remote and takes you through some ghost towns, but you can also stop in the town of Fossil along the way and dig for your own fossils as a souvenir. 

This year-round snow-capped mountain is Oregon’s highest mountain peak (11,239 feet!) and is actually a dormant volcano. It can easily be seen from miles away and is a favorite with Portland locals who love to ski and snowboard, with a total of six ski areas. It’s also popular among climbers.

The mountain sits within the Mt. Hood National Forest, which comprises more than one million acres of lakes, trails, and forest, making it perfect for hiking, snowsports, and numerous other recreational activities. The Historic Timberline Lodge, which was built in the 1930s, is the only place in the world that offers year-round skiing. 

Mt. Hood Meadows is a great place to explore as it offers year-round activities for the whole family. There are also a number of lakes in the area that offer some stunning views of the mountain, such as Mirror Lake, Trillium, and Lost Lake. In the spring, you’ll find valleys filled with wildflowers and again, there is also the Hood River Fruit Loop for apple and berry picking in the summer and fall. 

Wallowa Lake and Wallowa Mountains near Joseph, Oregon

While the Wallowa Mountains are a longer drive from some of the more populated cities in Oregon, many say that it is well worth the trek out there. Some have likened the mountain range to that of the Swiss Alps, arguing that it is perhaps one of the most breathtaking and majestic sights in the country. 

The mountains span 40 miles and the area offers plenty of family-friendly activities. There are cabins and camping, mini-golf, nearby art galleries and chocolatiers, trails for hiking and horseback riding, boating, and numerous other water activities . 

If you are looking to take in the views without having to hike, the family can hop aboard the Wallowa Lake Tramway, which is a gondola that transports you to the top of Mount Howard. The Eagle Cap Wilderness area is also located in the heart of the mountains, which were once popular hunting grounds for the Nez Perce Indian Tribe and later the Bannocks, Shoshone, and Cayuse.

AllTrails is a free mobile app and website with detailed, hand-curated trail maps, along with crowd-sourced reviews and photos. With 300,000+ trails, users can filter to find the route that’s right for them.

Upgrade to the PRO version for offline maps and more.

Get the App Here

Smith Rock State Park near Redmond, Oregon

Last up on our list of the seven wonders of Oregon is Smith Rock, which is frequented by rock climbers from around the world for its challenging routes. That said, even if you’re not a climber, Smith Rock offers some impressive views from the ground as you hike into the Crooked River Canyon.

In fact, there are miles and miles of hiking and biking trails in the 650-acre park with varying levels of difficulty. In addition to the breathtaking hikes, there are also numerous opportunities to spot various wildlife such as prairie falcons, golden eagles, beavers, and river otters. 

Because of its location in Central Oregon, which sees 300 days of sun a year, Smith Rock State Park is a playground for outdoor adventurers. There’s caving, golfing, paddle boarding , numerous scenic bikeways, and even skiing nearby at Mt. Bachelor. The obsidian lava flows at the nearby Newberry Crater National Volcanic Monument are also a must-see.

For more hiking trails near me in Oregon – Read more about the top Oregon hiking trails here.

Need Help Planning a Family Road Trip? Start with these family vacation planning resources:

• Travel Love Language – Help to Identify, Understand, & Plan Vacations
• How to Budget for a Cheap Road Trip in 11 Simple Steps
• 25 Healthy Road Trip Snacks to Fuel Your Next Adventure
• Essential Tips for an Enjoyable Cross-Country Road Trip with Your Family
• What You’ll Need for a Fun Family Road Trip + Weekend Packing List
• Road Trip Preparation – 12 Things To Do Before You Leave, So You Can Enjoy It
• Banish Boredom with 50 Fun Road Trip Games to Play in the Car

Abiqua Falls

There are numerous benefits that come from traveling and spending time outdoors with your family. It allows you to bond and connect more, helps your kids learn to appreciate nature, and keeps the whole family active and healthy. However, while Oregon offers some beautiful sights, it’s important to make sure you are prepared for your great outdoor adventures to ensure everyone stays safe and has a good time.

Rafting camp on Rogue River in Oregon

For example, if you plan on primitive camping — which there are plenty of opportunities for in Oregon — it’s important to make sure you are fully prepared, especially if you have younger kids. Primitive camping can be a great way for kids to learn essential wilderness skills like finding water sources, pitching a tent, gathering wood, and building a fire, but these things can also be challenging and stressful if not handled properly. 

If you plan to camp on your trip to Oregon, even if it’s not primitive camping, it’s important to make sure you pack all the essentials . Creating a packing list , in general, is a good idea to make sure you’ll have everything you’ll need for your trip, whether you plan to camp or not. 

Again, if you are camping, part of that list should include what foods you want to bring or get before or once you’re in the area. Figuring out meals can sometimes be the most time-consuming part of camping and road-tripping, so it’s helpful if you plan these things ahead of time. 

We’ve got a helpful list of no-cooking required meals that you can use to give you ideas when you start planning your trip. Some of our favorites include yogurt parfaits, bagels with cream cheese, hummus with veggies, sandwich wraps, and walking tacos . 

It’s also important to try to eat healthy when you are traveling with the family. When on the road and camping, it’s easy to reach for unhealthy options as they often seem the most accessible when you are on the go, like fast food. However, if you’re planning to have a lot of outdoor adventures, it’s important to eat healthy to keep yours and your kids’ strength and energy levels up and to support good dental health .  

Avoid sugary and acidic foods and snacks, and instead plan to eat foods that will have more nutrients like whole grains, fruits and veggies, and dairy products. These foods will keep the family healthy and feeling much better prepared to tackle your Oregon adventures. 

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t yet been to Oregon or seen any of these natural wonders, you should highly consider it. The sights in the Pacific Northwest are truly some of the best in the country and are well worth the effort to trek through Oregon to see them.

Just make sure you do your due diligence and plan ahead of time to ensure you and the family will have everything you need to face the great outdoors. 

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

• Facebook Page
• Family Adventures Facebook Group
• Easy Camp Cooking Facebook Group

Don’t forget to invite your friends to our Facebook groups! We would also love to see your vacation pictures!

For more family travel inspiration, check out our latest posts here:

• Sky-High Fun: Best Airplane Activities for Toddlers
• 18 Money-Saving Tips to Know When Planning Trip to Europe
• Tiny Town, Huge Flavors – 12 Restaurants Elkhart Lake, WI You Need to Try
• Jet Lag Distractions – What to Do in Ireland that First Day
• Steel City: 13 Things to Do in Pittsburgh for Families
• Find low fares with  airfarewatchdog , Skyscanner , and  WayAway.com .
• Get airfare deal alerts up to 90% off from Dollar Flight Club (free & paid membership options)
• Book your plane ticket with   Expedia  or  Kayak
• Book your Airport Parking Reservations and save money.
• ROAD TRIP/CAR RENTAL
• Take the scenic route and rent an RV from  RVShare
• Get packed for an  epic road trip  and don’t forget the Road Trip Games to Play in the Car Need more space? Get a rental car thru Discovercars.com .
• From hotels to private homes, find the perfect accommodation with  Hotels.com  or  booking.com.
• For camping and RV campgrounds, find the ideal location with Campspot .
• Travel in style with a suitcase, carry-on, backpack, or handbag from  Away and Eagle Creek .
• For packing cubes, we love these from Eagle Creek and these reusable silicon bags for a 3-1-1 bag from Stasher .
• TRAVEL PLANNING
• Looking to start travel hacking and want a place to keep track of it all? There’s the free TravelFreely site.
• For budgeting help, get our road trip budgeting tips here.
• ATTRACTIONS/ACTIVITIES
• Save on tickets to attractions, sightseeing tours, and more with
• Tiqets for cultural events, museums, Broadway shows, etc.
• CityPASS for multi-day attraction passes at up to 55% off in select cities
• Get Your Guide and Viator for guided tours/excursions, day trips, and activitties
• Groupon for discounted local attractions and event tickets
• Undercover Tourister for discounted theme park tickets
• Find guided outdoor activities led by local guides at 57Hours .
• Find information on local trails with the AllTrails App .
• LEARN A FOREIGN LANGUAGE
• We use and recommend Rosetta Stone to learn a new language. We bought the $179 lifetime option with unlimited access to ALL 25 of their languages.
• Need something else to plan your perfect trip? Visit my  travel resources page  for more trusted partners.

The post Exploring The Seven Natural Wonders of Oregon as a Family appeared first on Little Family Adventure .

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Watch the Eta Aquarid Meteor Shower Reach Its Peak

The event will be active when the moon is just a sliver in the sky, but it is less easy to see in the Northern Hemisphere than other meteor showers.

By Katrina Miller

Our universe might be chock-full of cosmic wonder, but you can only observe a fraction of astronomical phenomena with your naked eye. Meteor showers, natural fireworks that streak brightly across the night sky, are one of them.

The latest observable meteor shower will be the Eta Aquarids, which have been active since April 19 and are forecast to continue until May 28. They reach their peak May 4 to 5, or Saturday night into Sunday morning.

The Eta Aquarid meteor shower is known for its fast fireballs, which occur as Earth passes through the rubble left by Halley’s Comet.

Sometimes spelled Eta Aquariid, this shower is most easily seen from the southern tropics. But a lower rate of meteors will also be visible in the Northern Hemisphere close to sunrise. With the moon just a thin sliver in the sky, viewers could witness a strong show this year.

Where meteor showers come from

There is a chance you might see a meteor on any given night, but you are most likely to catch one during a shower. Meteor showers are caused by Earth passing through the rubble trailing a comet or asteroid as it swings around the sun. This debris, which can be as small as a grain of sand, leaves behind a glowing stream of light as it burns up in Earth’s atmosphere.

Meteor showers occur around the same time every year and can last for days or weeks. But there is only a small window when each shower is at its peak, which happens when Earth reaches the densest part of the cosmic debris. The peak is the best time to look for a shower. From our point of view on Earth, the meteors will appear to come from the same point in the sky.

The Perseid meteor shower , for example, peaks in mid-August from the constellation Perseus. The Geminids , which occur every December, radiate from the constellation Gemini.

Subscribe to the Times Space and Astronomy Calendar for reminders about meteor showers throughout the year.

How to watch a meteor shower

Michelle Nichols, the director of public observing at the Adler Planetarium in Chicago, recommends forgoing the use of telescopes or binoculars while watching a meteor shower.

“You just need your eyes and, ideally, a dark sky,” she said.

That’s because meteors can shoot across large swaths of the sky, so observing equipment can limit your field of view.

Some showers are strong enough to produce up to 100 streaks an hour, according to the American Meteor Society , though you likely won’t see that many.

“Almost everybody is under a light polluted sky,” Ms. Nichols said. “You may think you’re under a dark sky, but in reality, even in a small town, you can have bright lights nearby.”

Planetariums, local astronomy clubs or even maps like this one can help you figure out where to get away from excessive light. The best conditions for catching a meteor shower are a clear sky with no moon or cloud cover, at sometime between midnight and sunrise. (Moonlight affects visibility in the same way as light pollution, washing out fainter sources of light in the sky.) Make sure to give your eyes at least 30 minutes to adjust to seeing in the dark.

Ms. Nichols also recommends wearing layers, even during the summer. “You’re going to be sitting there for quite a while, watching,” she said. “It’s going to get chilly, even in August.”

Bring a cup of cocoa or tea for even more warmth. Then sit back, scan the sky and enjoy the show.

Katrina Miller is a science reporting fellow for The Times. She recently earned her Ph.D. in particle physics from the University of Chicago. More about Katrina Miller

What’s Up in Space and Astronomy

Keep track of things going on in our solar system and all around the universe..

Never miss an eclipse, a meteor shower, a rocket launch or any other 2024 event  that’s out of this world with  our space and astronomy calendar .

A celestial image, an Impressionistic swirl of color in the center of the Milky Way, represents a first step toward understanding the role of magnetic fields  in the cycle of stellar death and rebirth.

Scientists may have discovered a major flaw in their understanding of dark energy, a mysterious cosmic force . That could be good news for the fate of the universe.

A new set of computer simulations, which take into account the effects of stars moving past our solar system, has effectively made it harder to predict Earth’s future and reconstruct its past.

Dante Lauretta, the planetary scientist who led the OSIRIS-REx mission to retrieve a handful of space dust , discusses his next final frontier.

Is Pluto a planet? And what is a planet, anyway? Test your knowledge here .