The Oregon Coast is a breathtaking stretch of coastline, offering an array of stunning natural landscapes, charming small towns, and unforgettable experiences. From iconic rock formations and lush forests to historic lighthouses and scenic viewpoints, the Oregon Coast is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking adventure, beauty, and a taste of the Pacific Northwest’s unique charm. Below, we will explore the 15 best places to visit on the Oregon Coast, covering both the popular spots and some hidden gems that make this coastline truly special.
1: Cannon Beach Best Place
Cannon Beach is one of the most famous destinations on the Oregon Coast, known for its expansive sandy shores and the iconic Haystack Rock, a 235-foot-tall sea stack that rises dramatically from the ocean. This picturesque location is perfect for a leisurely beach stroll, photography, and exploring the tidal pools around the base of Haystack Rock, where you can find colorful sea anemones, starfish, and other marine life.
In addition to its natural beauty, Cannon Beach is home to a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, shops, and cafes that line the charming downtown area. The town’s laid-back atmosphere and stunning coastal views make it a perfect spot for a weekend getaway or a longer stay to fully immerse yourself in the area’s natural and cultural offerings.
2: Ecola State Park
Just north of Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park offers some of the most stunning views along the entire Oregon Coast. The park stretches for nine miles along the coastline, providing access to a variety of hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and picnic areas. One of the most popular trails in the park is the Clatsop Loop Trail, which offers panoramic views of the coastline, the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, and the surrounding forested hills.
Ecola State Park is also a great spot for whale watching, particularly during the winter and spring migrations. The combination of lush coastal forests, dramatic ocean views, and abundant wildlife makes Ecola State Park a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
3: Tillamook
Tillamook is a small town with a big reputation, thanks in large part to the famous Tillamook Cheese Factory. A visit to the factory offers a behind-the-scenes look at the cheese-making process, complete with samples of their delicious products. Beyond cheese, Tillamook is also home to the Cape Meares Lighthouse, one of the smallest but most scenic lighthouses on the Oregon Coast.
The lighthouse is located within the Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, where you can enjoy stunning views of the ocean, the Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge, and the surrounding coastal landscape. The area also features short hiking trails that lead to viewpoints and through coastal forests, making it a great spot for a relaxing day trip.
4: Depoe Bay
Known as the “Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coast,” Depoe Bay is a must-visit for anyone interested in marine life. This small coastal town offers some of the best opportunities for spotting gray whales, which can be seen year-round from the town’s seawall or on one of the many whale-watching boat tours that depart from the harbor.
Depoe Bay is also home to the world’s smallest navigable harbor, adding to the town’s unique charm. In addition to whale watching, visitors can explore the local shops and restaurants, or take a short drive to nearby attractions like the Otter Crest Loop, which offers stunning views of the coastline and the Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area.
5: Newport
Newport is a vibrant coastal town with something for everyone, from historic sites and cultural attractions to outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. One of the town’s most popular destinations is the Oregon Coast Aquarium, where visitors can get up close and personal with a wide variety of marine life, including sea otters, sharks, and jellyfish.
The historic Bayfront area is another must-see, offering a glimpse into Newport’s maritime heritage with its working docks, seafood restaurants, and unique shops. While in Newport, be sure to visit the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse, one of the oldest structures on the Oregon Coast, as well as the nearby Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, where you can explore tidal pools, hike along the cliffs, and visit the Yaquina Head Lighthouse.
6: Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area
Just north of Newport, the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area is a stunning coastal preserve that offers some of the best views and wildlife experiences on the Oregon Coast. The area’s centerpiece is the Yaquina Head Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in Oregon, which has been guiding ships since 1873.
Visitors can explore the tide pools at Cobble Beach, where you’ll find an array of marine life, including starfish, sea urchins, and crabs. The area is also a great spot for birdwatching, with many seabirds nesting on the nearby cliffs. For those interested in geology, the basalt headland and the beach’s unique cobblestone formations offer a fascinating glimpse into the natural history of the Oregon Coast.
7: Florence
Florence is a charming town located along the central Oregon Coast, known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. One of the town’s top attractions is the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, where visitors can explore the largest expanse of coastal sand dunes in North America. Whether you choose to hike, rent an ATV, or simply enjoy the views, the dunes are a must-see for anyone visiting Florence.
Another popular attraction is the Sea Lion Caves, the largest sea cave in the United States and home to a large colony of wild Steller sea lions. The caves are accessible via an elevator that takes visitors down to a viewing area where you can observe the sea lions in their natural habitat. Florence’s historic Old Town, with its quaint shops, galleries, and restaurants, is also worth a visit, offering a taste of small-town coastal charm.
8: Heceta Head Lighthouse
The Heceta Head Lighthouse is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the United States, and for good reason. Perched on a scenic bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the lighthouse offers breathtaking views and a rich history that dates back to its construction in 1894.
Visitors can tour the lighthouse and learn about its history, or explore the surrounding trails that wind through coastal forests and offer panoramic views of the ocean and coastline. The nearby Heceta Head Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast, located in the former keeper’s quarters, provides a unique opportunity to stay overnight in this historic and scenic location.
9: Cape Perpetua Scenic Area
Cape Perpetua Scenic Area is one of the most diverse and dramatic natural areas on the Oregon Coast. Located just south of Yachats, this 2,700-acre coastal headland offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and picnicking to tide pooling and whale watching.
One of the area’s most famous features is Thor’s Well, a natural sinkhole that appears to drain the ocean, creating a dramatic spectacle during high tide. Nearby, you’ll find the Devil’s Churn, a narrow inlet where the ocean crashes against the rocks, creating powerful waves and spray. For those seeking panoramic views, the Cape Perpetua Overlook, located at the highest point on the Oregon Coast, offers stunning vistas of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean.
10: Yachats
Yachats is a small, picturesque town that has earned a reputation as one of the most beautiful places on the Oregon Coast. Known for its rugged coastline, lush forests, and friendly community, Yachats is the perfect destination for those looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the coast.
The town’s scenic 804 Trail follows the coastline and offers stunning views of the ocean, rocky cliffs, and tide pools. Yachats is also a great base for exploring nearby attractions like the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area and the Heceta Head Lighthouse. With its charming downtown, featuring local shops, art galleries, and restaurants, Yachats is a hidden gem on the Oregon Coast that shouldn’t be missed.
11: Exploring the Southern Oregon Coast
While the northern and central parts of the Oregon Coast are well-known for their scenic beauty, the southern coast offers a more rugged and less crowded experience, with dramatic landscapes and unique attractions that are well worth the journey.
12: Bandon
Bandon is a small coastal town that offers some of the most spectacular scenery on the southern Oregon Coast. The town’s beaches are famous for their dramatic rock formations, including Face Rock, a massive sea stack that, according to Native American legend, resembles the face of a woman gazing up at the sky.
Bandon Beach is a great spot for beachcombing, photography, and exploring the tide pools. The town’s Old Town district is also worth a visit, with its historic buildings, art galleries, and local shops. For golf enthusiasts, Bandon is home to Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, one of the top golf destinations in the world, offering stunning ocean views and challenging courses.
13: Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint
Located just south of Bandon, Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint offers some of the most iconic views on the Oregon Coast. The viewpoint overlooks the dramatic sea stacks and rugged coastline, providing a perfect spot for photography, birdwatching, or simply taking in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.
The area is also home to several short trails that lead down to the beach, where you can explore the tide pools and get a closer look at the impressive rock formations. The viewpoint is especially popular at sunset, when the golden light casts a warm glow over the landscape, creating a truly magical experience.
14: Port Orford
Port Orford is the oldest town on the Oregon Coast and offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and outdoor recreation. One of the town’s top attractions is the Cape Blanco Lighthouse, the westernmost lighthouse in the contiguous United States. The lighthouse offers guided tours and stunning views of the coastline and ocean.
Another must-visit spot in Port Orford is the Port Orford Heads State Park, where you can explore the remnants of a historic Coast Guard Lifeboat Station and enjoy panoramic views from the park’s hiking trails. The town’s small but vibrant arts community is also worth exploring, with several galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists.
15: Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
The Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is a 12-mile stretch of coastline that offers some of the most dramatic and unspoiled scenery on the Oregon Coast. This area is known for its rugged cliffs, secluded beaches, and natural arches, making it a paradise for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers.
One of the most famous spots in the corridor is the Natural Bridges, a series of rock formations that create natural arches over the ocean. The area also features several short trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints, secluded coves, and hidden beaches. Whether you’re looking for a scenic drive, a challenging hike, or a peaceful spot to enjoy the beauty of the coast, the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor has something for everyone.
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Experiencing Oregon Coast Culture
The culture of the Oregon Coast is as diverse and vibrant as its landscapes, with a rich history, thriving arts communities, and unique coastal towns that each offer their own character and charm. Exploring the culture of the Oregon Coast is an essential part of any visit, providing a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage and the people who call it home.
Coastal Towns and Communities
The towns along the Oregon Coast each have their own distinct personality, from the artsy vibe of Cannon Beach and the historic charm of Newport to the rugged beauty of Port Orford and the small-town feel of Yachats. These towns are great places to explore local shops, galleries, and restaurants, and to experience the friendly and welcoming atmosphere that defines the Oregon Coast.
In addition to their unique characteristics, many of these towns host festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from local seafood and arts to maritime heritage and holiday traditions. Attending one of these events is a great way to connect with the local community and experience the culture of the Oregon Coast firsthand.
Oregon Coast History
The history of the Oregon Coast is deeply tied to its maritime heritage, with lighthouses, historic sites, and museums that tell the story of the region’s past. From the early Native American inhabitants to the European explorers, settlers, and fishermen who shaped the coast, the history of the Oregon Coast is rich and varied.
Some of the best places to explore this history include the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse in Newport, the Tillamook Air Museum, and the many historic districts found in towns like Astoria, Newport, and Florence. Whether you’re interested in maritime history, aviation, or local legends, the Oregon Coast offers plenty of opportunities to delve into the past and learn about the people and events that have shaped this unique region.
