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Solo Female Travel

2-Day Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

This corner of the country is home to some of the most incredible coastlines in the world! While you could easily do this drive in a single afternoon, it would be a shame not to stop and take it all in. Here’s my 2-Day Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary!

Starting your trip

You’ll want to start your journey in Portland, OR and make the drive out to the top NW corner of the state. Portland (PDX) is an easy airport to fly in and out of. It is a major hub for Alaska Airlines and you can find flights on every major airline. During our Oregon Coast Road Trip, we started in Portland and made the 1.5 hour drive out to Cannon Beach for our left turn down the coast. You could also make the 2 hour drive a little further north to Astoria if you want to see the entire coast. Both are great options and you cannot go wrong with either!

Buckle up, it’s time to hit the road! Get on the road as early as you can so you can maximize daylight. In the mornings, the PNW fog can be real, but as soon as the sun comes out it burns off pretty quickly. Stock up on snacks and drinks at a grocery store and let’s start your Oregon coast road trip!

Cannon Beach

Whether you are starting your trip down the coast here or you drove down from Astoria, it’s worthy of a visit! Here you’ll find the iconic Haystack Rock and a big wide beach to explore. If you’re thinking this beach looks familiar, it’s because The Goonies was filmed here! Spend some time walking through the town and grabbing some saltwater taffy to snack on during the ride.

Cape Meares and Cape Kiwanda

Continue to cruise down Highway 101, passing through small seaside towns. Don’t miss a detour into Cape Meares for views of the iconic lighthouse , Octopus tree , and incredible cliffs ! When Highway 101 starts to twist inland, turn off and make your way toward the Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area . This would be a great place to break out your packed lunch and have a picnic.

From there, make your way down to Florence, OR where you will crash for the night. Stop at the Sea Lion Caves for an opportunity to see these spectacular animals in their natural habitat! You get access into a cave that literally hundreds of sea lions live in. You’ll hear them barking and watch the waves pour in. It’s amazing!

Goooood morning! It’s time to get back on the road! Even though you have a lot less ground to cover today, you will still want to take it slow and enjoy the scenery. Some of the best is yet to come! Gas up, grab your snacks, and let’s cruise.

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is a perfect start to your day. Walk among the massive dunes and watch the sea crash beneath you. Don’t be tempted to walk down them at low tide. I did, and some locals told me how incredibly dangerous it is. Oops! If you’re looking for a thrill, there are several companies that offer ATV or sandboard rentals and tours. Go for it!

Yoakam Point State Park

After a morning on the dunes, make sure you stop at Yoakam Point State Park . It’s a large cove surrounded by cliffs, and when the tide is right you can see urchins and barnacles in the pools. When you feel like you need a little civilization, drive through the town of Bandon on Beach Loop Road . Stop at the Face Rock Viewpoint , or just enjoy the small-beach-town vibes that Bandon has to offer.

Samuel H. Boardman State Park

The highlight of your day however, will no doubt be the Samuel H. Boardman State Park . The views here will truly take your breath away, and were some of my favorites along the drive. Arch Rock and the Natural Bridges are spectacular wonders. They jolt out of the bright blue sea and the dense green pines surround it like it’s straight out of a picture book. There’s plenty of hiking trails that will offer stellar views.

Ending your journey

All good things must come to an end. After your second day of driving, you’ve successfully completed your Oregon coast road trip! Congratulations! The tricky part about ending your journey is choosing where to actually – end your journey. Medford International Airport in Medford, OR is about a 2.5 hour drive, or Redding International Airport is about 4 hours. You can also choose to end in Crescent City, CA where a regional airport is located. If you’re craving more (like we were), check out my Ultimate 9-Day Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itinerary! You can continue on to the Redwoods, Napa Valley, San Francisco, and more!

Traveling soon? Check out my  Travel Tips  page to help you score good deals on flights, packing tips, tools to help you plan, and more!

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From Seattle: A 2-Day Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

I glanced in the rearview mirror one last time as I watched the tall skyscrapers of Seattle get smaller and smaller until they finally disappeared.  I was leaving behind Seattle for a road trip south, down the Oregon coast.  My Oregon coast road trip itinerary essentially consisted of having no plans.  I had no hotel and no idea how long I would be gone.  With an overnight suitcase, a book, no expectations, and hopes to make it to Cannon Beach I blasted Taylor Swift and drove down the interstate until I came to the most beautiful coastal views I have ever seen.  As it turns out, my Oregon coast road trip was exactly what I needed to get away from Seattle for a couple of days and cure my itchy feet.

This post will tell you everything you need to know about traveling from Seattle to Oregon for the ultimate 2-day road trip along the Oregon Coast.

Are you planning a road trip?  Before starting make sure to check out:

• 6 Solo Road Trip Tips – How to Have An Epic Road Trip When You’re Alone

From Seattle to Oregon – The Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary

Oregon Coast Highlights Day 1:  Astoria, Fort Stevens State Park, Arch Cape, Cannon Beach

Oregon Coast Highlights Day 2:  Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park

NEED A CAR RENTAL TO DRIVE FROM WASHINGTON TO OREGON?  BOOK ONE HERE !

Stop 1:  astoria, oregon.

From Seattle heading south to Oregon, it takes about 3-hours to cross state lines.  I chose to start in Astoria and make my way south from there.  Founded in 1811, Astoria is a small town located on the northwestern tip of Oregon.  It was the first city that was settled in the west of the Rocky Mountains and comes from a past filled with a dark history of violence and crime.  Astoria has now overcome those things and to this day is a charming beach town worthy of a stop.  It’s also recognized for being the location where The Goonies was filmed.

Astoria sits on the south shore of the Columbia River and looks across the river at Washington.  Before 1966 when the Astoria-Megler Bridge was finished a passenger ferry operated between Oregon and Washington to get people from state to state.  As you drive towards Oregon opt for the route that will take you across the bridge into Astoria.  It feels like quite a drive to cross the Columbia River but the scene in front of you as you cross into Oregon is well worth it.

While you’re in Astoria make time to slow down and some of the Oregon coast attractions.  After driving across the Astoria-Megler Bridge, head to the Astoria Column.  Built-in 1926, this concrete column overlooks the entirety of Astoria.  Only $5 to access, it’s great for getting out of your car and stretching your legs as you climb the 164 stairs to the top.  If you have time and you’re a movie buff, don’t miss the Oregon Film Museum (I’m not much of a movie buff so the movie references were lost on me).  Based in an old jail, the film museum is a small and cheesy display of movies that have been made in Oregon.  Entrance for adults is $6, kids $2.

Stop 2:  Fort Stevens State Park

Next on the Oregon coast itinerary is Fort Stevens State Park.  From Astoria drive 11-miles to the very northwest tip of Oregon to find this park.  Once a military installation during the Civil War, it’s now a public park where you can hike, bike, lay on the beach, and even whale watching!  While I was there I chose to visit the Wreck of the Peter Iredale .  It’s a skeleton of a boat that ran ashore and was abandoned in 1906.  The entrance to the park costs a small fee ( look here for information on which ticket will best suit you), the park is well signed, and there are parking lots located throughout.

Stop 3:  Arch Cape

Before stopping at Cannon Beach for the night, drive just 10-minutes south of Cannon Beach to check out Arch Cape.  I like this stretch of beach because its much less touristy than the beach area near the famous Haystack Rock so its a bit more peaceful.  By heading to Hug Point State Recreation Site in Arch Cape you’ll find sea caves and waterfalls.  At low tide, you can walk along the beach but at high tide prepare to swim.  There is a free parking lot located within walking distance from Hug Point.

Stop 4:  Cannon Beach

After spending time in northern Oregon, its finally time to stop and rest at the beautiful Cannon Beach.  From Arch Cape, Cannon Beach is located directly north, 6-miles.  I checked into my hotel, Hallmark Resort Hotel & Spa , and headed straight for Haystack Rock, a 235-foot sea stack.  At low tide, you can walk out to Haystack Rock; but be mindful of the tides.  During the spring to mid-summer Tufted Puffins can be observed on Haystack Rock.

Practical Information About Cannon Beach

One of the best places to visit on the Oregon coast is Cannon Beach.  It’s known for its beautiful sandy beaches sea stacks lined along the ocean shore, laid back vibe, and quaint downtown.  Aside from the outdoor aspect of Cannon Beach where you’ll find beaches and state parks aplenty, downtown also offers an array of things to do.  If you venture downtown you’ll find coffee shops, restaurants, bars, boutiques, and galleries.  There’s a multitude of reasons to head to Cannon Beach from Seattle.  It being a low key getaway destination and easy to get to is what prompted me to venture south in the first place.  The rest of what I did and found along the way was just icing on the cake!

Where to Stay in Cannon Beach:  Hallmark Resort Hotel & Spa

Located near Haystack Rock, Hallmark Resort is an ideal hotel based on location and amenities.  Not only is the hotel on the beach, but its also walking distance to downtown Cannon Beach.  The beach is easily accessed by a set of stairs taking you from the hotel down to the sand where you’ll find lounge chairs accessible to guests of the hotel.  You can also rent firewood and s’mores baskets for a fire by the beach.  If you find that the weather isn’t accommodating for outdoor activities, the hotel also has an indoor pool, hot tub, and full-service spa.

If the Hallmark Resort doesn’t pique your interest, instead check out Surfsand Resort .

BOOK YOUR STAY IN CANNON BEACH HERE !

Getting around cannon beach.

A walkable town, Cannon Beach doesn’t have much to offer in terms of ride-sharing.  Sure, you can drive your car and there is plenty of parking located downtown but know that both Uber and Lyft do not operate in Cannon Beach.  If you’re staying at the Hallmark Resort , parking is included in the room price.

The Best Restaurants and Bars in Cannon Beach

Castaways Global Cuisine :  An eclectic restaurant serving Caribbean style food.

Cannon Beach Smokehouse :  A small and cozy meat restaurant with an epic charcuterie plate.

The Wayfarer Restaurant and Lounge :  A seafood restaurant located on the beach with great views of the sea stacks.  I only thought that this restaurant was mediocre and would not return.

Insomnia Coffee Co :  For your morning coffee or afternoon pick me up.

Stop 1:  Cannon Beach/Downtown Cannon Beach

Before heading back to Seattle, spend some time walking the beach at sunrise and going for a morning coffee at Insomnia Coffee Co.  If you get up early enough, I recommend walking Cannon Beach before it becomes too crowded with tourists.  Aside from sunset, this is my second favorite time to be on the beach and near Haystack Rock.

Stop 2:  Ecola State Park

Before heading back north to Seattle, make the 5-minute drive north from Cannon Beach to Ecola State Park.  This is the perfect way to end your road trip and get some exercise before getting back in the car.

Ecola State Park is known for hiking, sightseeing, and viewpoints .  The two of the most popular hikes to do at this park is to Crescent Beach or Indian Beach.  To access Ecola State Park a permit is required – $5 – and can be purchased at the fee station at the park’s entrance.

Once you’ve finished exploring the park, make your way back to Seattle.

Renting a Car in Seattle to Drive to Oregon

If you need to rent a car to drive down the Oregon Coast, there are plenty of agencies to choose from!  I like to use Discover Cars to compare prices across multiple different platforms.

Below are the most frequently asked questions for people planning a road trip from Seattle down the Oregon Coast.  If you have any other questions, make sure to leave a comment!

Q:  “How long does it take to drive from Seattle to Oregon?”

• A:  Astoria is Oregon’s northernmost city and it takes about three hours to drive from Seattle to Astoria.  If you go further south into Oregon, your drive will be longer.

Q:  “How far is Cannon Beach from Seattle?”

• A:  Cannon Beach is nearly 200 miles southwest from Seattle.  Without stopping, its about a 3.5 hour drive.

Q:  “What’s the distance from Astoria to Cannon Beach?”

• A:  The distance from Astoria to Cannon Beach is only 26 miles and takes about 40-minutes to drive there.

Q:  “How many days should I spend on the Oregon Coast?”

• A:  The Oregon Coast is absolutely stunning!  I would recommend a minimum of two days but you could easily spend a week seeing the entire coast.

After spending two days driving the peaceful coast of Oregon I was reminded what makes travel so special. It’s the eye-opening experience of seeing other towns, other places.  Talking to new people and hopefully making a new friend along the way.  The Oregon Coast cities are quaint, filled with things to do, and have the most friendly people.  The next time I visit Oregon I plan to have an even more robust Oregon Coast road trip itinerary.  After all, there are endless things to see and do along the coast.

Oregon Essentials – What You Need & Need to Know About Visiting Oregon

Traveling to/through oregon.

• For car rentals in Oregon, I recommend Discover Cars
• To book a flight to Oregon, I recommend Expedia or Skyscanner to compare options

ACCOMODATION IN OREGON

• For booking hotels in Oregon, I recommend using Booking.com or Expedia
• For rentals in Oregon, I recommend VRBO

TOURS IN OREGON

• For tours and activities in Oregon, I recommend using Viator

WHAT TO BRING TO OREGON

• Don’t forget a Oregon guide book to help plan your travels
• I recommend bringing a reusable water bottle to cut down on plastic waste
• Oregon can be rainy at times, I recommend traveling with an umbrella , rain boots , and a raincoat just in case

For more day trip ideas from Seattle, check out these posts:

• Deception Pass State Park + Hiking Oyster Dome
• Woodinville
• Victoria, BC
• Lena Lake + Hama Hama Oyster + Bainbridge Island
• Leavenworth

For more information on the Oregon Coast and ideas on things to see and do, check out my Instagram page/highlight reel “Oregon Coast”.  Or search the hashtag #ppinoregon

Disclosure:  This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to purchase through my link, at no cost to you.  Passports and Preemies is also a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees.

Kylee is a NICU nurse passionate about making travel affordable and accessible to nurses. Inspiring nurses to travel both near and far, Kylee began Passports and Preemies in 2017 while volunteering in Skopje, North Macedonia as a way to reach nurses and advocate for the prevention of nurse burnout by traveling. Kylee has been a NICU nurse for 9 years and a travel nurse for 7 years. Since starting her career in travel nursing, she’s worked in six different states, 10 different hospitals, volunteered as a nurse in North Macedonia, worked as a nurse in Saudi Arabia, and has traveled to 45+ countries. Her favorite travel nurse assignment was in Seattle and her favorite destination is Georgia (the country). Kylee is the original creator of the “8 Day Vacay” – a vacation geared towards nurses who aim to take advantage of the potentially 8 days off between work weeks with no need to use PTO.

Find me on: Web | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

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Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip (+ Free Map!)

Home » Blog » U.S.A. » Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip (+ Free Map!)

Dotted with charming fishing towns and ruggedly beautiful beaches, the Oregon Coast is one of the best places in the USA to take a road trip. We’ve put together a detailed guide filled with things to do, where to eat, and driving times so you can plan the perfect Oregon Coast road trip itinerary. We even have a free map just for you!

With 363 miles of coastline, it should come as no surprise that one of the quintessential things to do in Oregon is to  take a road trip  on the coast. The iconic Highway 101 hugs the shoreline and quaint fishing towns dot the ocean’s edge.

Some of my fondest memories as a kid were traveling on a classic West Coast road trip through Washington, Oregon and California with my family. And as an adult, I’ve got Ben hooked on this region too. In a span of just a few years, we’ve taken two Oregon coast road trips, and they sure as hell won’t be our last!

This detailed guide has everything you’ll need to plan the perfect Oregon coast road trip!

Whether you’re  traveling around Oregon  for the first time or you’ve lived in the state all your life, there are sure to be some tips in this article for everyone!

In this article you’ll find:

• We’re sharing the best stops along the Oregon coast, from north to south.  Some stops are towns while others are state parks or landmarks.
• We’ll describe what makes each place unique, as well as our  honest  opinion of whether it’s worth the stop.
• We’ve got all sorts of tips on  what to do and where to eat.
• Between each destination,  we have the driving time listed  so you can plan your route accordingly.
• Near the bottom of this article,  we have some sample Oregon coast itineraries  with different amounts of time so the hard work is done for you!

Oregon Coast Road Trip Guide

Oregon coast overview, tips & things to know about the oregon coast, oregon coast road trip map, oregon coast road trip stops.

• Oregon Coast itinerary
• Transportation
• What to pack
• Where to stay

Note:  We’ve included plenty of tips for vanlife travelers in this article. If you’re curious about vanlife and want to test it out, here are some resources that will be super helpful:

• This guide to the best  campervan rental companies in the US  includes  exclusive discounts for our readers.
• If you’re starting your trip in Portland, this guide details the best  campervan rentals in Portland  specifically.

Ultimate PNW Bucket List!

Traveling around the Pacific Northwest? We have just what you need!

We’ve created the  ultimate PNW Bucket List , filled with fun and unique adventures. From epic outdoor escapes to off-the-beaten-path foodie experiences, we have a little something for every type of traveler!

Go ahead and grab your copy now.  It’s free , so what do you have to lose?!

The Oregon coast is full of cute fishing towns, amazing fresh seafood, driftwood-strewn beaches, winding roads with epic viewpoints, and picturesque picnic spots. The only other place we know of like this in the world is the  South African Garden Route . 

There’s so much to do and see that it can be a little overwhelming to figure out where to start and what stops to make along the way.

We’re going over all the top places to see on an Oregon coast road trip to help you plan the perfect route, no matter how much (or how little!) time you have.

We’re sharing our honest opinions of some of the most popular coastal towns in Oregon so we can help you decide which ones to put on your road trip itinerary and which ones to skip.  Spoiler Alert:   Some of the most popular towns are ones we’d give a miss!

First things first, we have some important advice to share with you before you hop in your car and head to the coast.

Don’t make these common mistakes on your Oregon Coast road trip

There are some common mistakes people make, and we want you to be prepared!

• The weather can change drastically.  It’s not uncommon for it to shift from fog and wind to cloudless sunny skies to rain all in one day.
• Don’t plan on your trip being filled with sun-soaked beach days.  (You may want to go to southern California for that!) But if you get a beautiful sunny day or two, stop everything and rejoice because you’re lucky!
• Understand the Marine Layer.  If you’re not already familiar, this phenomenon occurs in many coastal areas and makes for thick fog, cooler temperatures, and overall gloomy conditions. (See the picture below!) Sometimes it can last all day, while other times the sun will burn it off mid-morning and you’ll be rewarded with blue skies. Even if the marine layer is thick, you can often head inland just a bit and find very different weather, blue skies and all!
• Put on sunscreen, even if it’s cloudy.  Don’t be deceived, you  can  get burned through the marine layer (and also through clouds!).
• Insider Tip: Download offline version of Google Maps and AllTrails because there will likely be times when you’re without service on the Oregon coast. 
• If you’re  traveling in a campervan ,  pay careful attention to signage for overnight parking.

Tips for enjoying your Oregon Coast road trip

• Mo’s Seafood & Chowder is a staple chain that you’ll see all over the coast, but the original location is in Newport.
• Psst! This article is packed full of food suggestions, so be sure to take notes!
• Good hotels book up well in advance,  especially in the summertime and even more so on the weekends. Same goes for campgrounds and Airbnbs, so book in advance if possible.

Where can you camp overnight in your campervan?  You can’t park just anywhere, after all… Our advice is to download The Dyrt, an app that’ll take your campervan game to the next level.  Use this link  to get 30 days of the Pro Membership totally free (no strings attached). We’ve also got a whole article all about  ways to find free camping  if you want more info!

• The road along the coast (Highway 101) is windy and narrow in parts.  Drive carefully.
• Plan to have picnics on your Oregon coast road trip.  There are many perfect opportunities, so pack your favorite picnic foods, utensils, and a blanket so you’re prepared. 
• This website is a good resource for tide tables.

• Weekends in the summer can get crazy busy.  Everyone from Portland migrates to the coast on the weekends…  or so it seems.  Be prepared.
• Tip: Check out all the best  Oregon Coast hikes  to plan your hikes before you arrive and get to the trailheads early!
• An Oregon State Park Pass is good to have  and will likely save you money in the long run!
• Be prepared for wind!  Some beaches and lookout points can get incredibly windy. Like, sand whipping in your eyes, windy! You’ve been warned.

• You can have bonfires on the beach.  There are places all along the coast that sell firewood for $5 a bundle.
• Tillamook and Siletz
• Find more info here
• Catch as many sunsets as you can!  You’re on the West Coast after all, and there are some spectacular opportunities for watching the sun sink into the deep blue oblivion of the ocean. 

Whew, that was a lot! But we hope this helps get you prepared for an epic trip. Now let’s move on to the fun stuff… the planning!

Ecola State Park

Cannon beach, oswald west state park, neahkahnie beach viewpoint, kelly’s brighton marina, rockaway beach, tillamook creamery, netarts bay, three capes scenic route, pacific city, lincoln city, thor’s well, heceta head lighthouse, sea lion cave, shore acres state park, samuel h. boardman state scenic corridor.

At a Glance:  Harbor town with history & a good food and beer scene

Driving to Astoria from Portland:  98 miles / 1 hour 50 minutes

This quaint riverside town on the very northern edge of the Oregon coast has a special, unpretentious kind of charm. We’ve heard people describe it as a “small San Francisco”. 

Both are harbor towns with a strong tie to fishing. Both have (steep!) hills and green space. And while Astoria lacks San Francisco’s diversity and lively nightlife, it has an undeniable allure that we think you’ll dig.

With a pretty decent food and brewery scene, as well as lots of things to do, Astoria makes a great first stop on your Oregon coast road trip (especially if you’re coming from  Portland , as it’s not a long drive).

Things to do in Astoria

We have a big ol’ guide of the  best things to do in Astoria , so definitely check that out before planning your trip. But here’s a glance at some of the highlights:

• Climb to the top of the Astoria Column. Towering at 125 feet tall, this column is a town icon and offers unrivaled views of the Columbia River below. 
• Walk the Cathedral Tree Trail: Take a 1.5-mile out-and-back walk through a forested trail that passes a giant sitka spruce tree.
• Fort Stevens State Park: Just about 20 minutes from town, this state park is known for its wide sandy beaches and a shipwreck, the Peter Iredale. 
• Astoria Museums: If you’re into museums (or are just looking for a way to spend a rainy day), there are several museums in the town of Astoria.
• Sample local craft beer: If you’re a beer-lover, you’ll have no shortage of options in Astoria. There are tons to choose from! 

Food & drink in Astoria

For tons of food and drink suggestions, check out our  Astoria, Oregon guide !

Where to stay in Astoria

Airbnb Suite with River View – This cozy guest suite comes complete with a claw foot soaking tub and sauna! The one bedroom space sleeps 4 comfortably and offers views of the Columbia River Basin from its central Astoria location.

Driving from Astoria to Seaside:  17 miles / 30 minutes

At a glance:  Popular beachside town with a large resort feel

I’m going to be blunt right off the bat:  We didn’t love Seaside.

But it’s one of the most popular towns on the Oregon coast, so we couldn’t very well leave it off this list. Keep reading to see if it’s a place you’d enjoy…

My dad put a photo lab in Seaside back in the 70’s (yep, he traveled around the US and helped set up photo labs!) and said at that time it was a really cool little beach town.  Well, fast-forward to today and it almost has a mini Atlantic City vibe.

There are some diner-style restaurants, an arcade, and cheesy souvenir shops with graphic tees sporting phrases like “I pooped today” printed across the chest (yep, that gem of a shirt was on display when we walked through town). And to top it off, there’s a towering timeshare resort that’s kind of an eyesore right along the beach. 

I think I would have liked this town back in the day… But in my opinion, there are many other towns I prefer along the Oregon coast.

Our opinion on Seaside:  There’s no hiding how we felt about Seaside. But here’s the thing… some people must love it because it was packed with families and teenagers who looked super stoked to be there. So if you’re in the area and have time to check it out, don’t let our opinion dissuade you. But if you’re pressed for time, this is one city that could be given a miss (in our opinion, of course).

Things to do in Seaside

• Sunset at the beach:  The sunset at Seaside is pretty wonderful. But it’s also wonderful all along the coast, so Seaside isn’t necessarily a stand-out in any way. But if you’re there in the evening don’t miss the sunset. M‘kay?
• Psst! If you like cheesecake, I’d highly recommend the cheesecake flavored gelato (paired with a berry flavor, perhaps?!). It tasted like a cheesecake was frozen and made into ice cream. Yum!
• Go Hiking in Ecola State Park:  We’ll dive a little deeper into this state park in the next section, but if you’re big on hiking, there is access to a pretty sweet trail (Tillamook Head) from the southern limit of Seaside.
• Walk the “Prom”  (aka the 1.5-mile long promenade that borders the ocean). Lined with beachgrass and sandy dunes, this walk is a good place to people-watch or just get a morning jog in. Along the Prom, you’ll spot a monument dedicated to Lewis and Clark, as this was a place the expedition group supposedly made salt with which they preserved their meat.

Driving from Seaside to Cannon Beach:  9 miles / 15 minutes

Sprawling along 9 miles of coastline between Seaside and Cannon Beach sits Ecola State Park, and it is well worth a stop on your road trip.

With cliffside lookouts, secluded beaches, clusters of sea stacks, and thick old growth forest, Ecola State Park is a coastal gem.

Points of interest in Ecola State Park

• Indian Beach:  Beautiful beach for surfing, or relaxing (and watching the surfers!). There are also tide pools on this beach.
• Clatsop Loop Trail:  This 2.5-mile hike follows a historical interpretive route.
• Feeling adventurous?!  You have the option of spending the night at one of the 3 huts at Hikers Camp. Each cabin is equipped with 4 basic wooden bunk beds and a canvas door. There is also a fire pit, bundles of firewood for sale, and a covered picnic area. This is a free spot to camp, but make sure you are packing everything you bring out with you and carefully following the  Leave No Trace principles .

Cost:  $5 per car to enter (or free with an Oregon State Parks Pass)

At a Glance:  Charming beach town with iconic sea stack formations and tide pools

Unlike it’s larger neighbor 7 miles to the north (aka Seaside), Cannon Beach still retains some small town charm despite it also being a very touristy town.

The shops and houses all have the cedar shingles and white shutter combo that are ubiquitous in upscale ocean towns. The attraction for which Cannon Beach is most well known is the iconic Haystack rock formation that sits just off the beach.

Things to do in Cannon Beach, Oregon

• Responsible Travel Tip: Be careful of where you step so you don’t crush any living rock clams. Only step on solid rock or sand, and watch when the tide starts to come back in.
• Explore Ecola State Park.  See some recommended trails in the section above.
• Have a bonfire on the beach.  Bring snacks, music and blankets (it can get cold and windy at night!) and enjoy an unparalleled view of Haystack Rock.
• Explore Hug Point  and walk to the waterfall on the beach. (More info in the section below.)
• Spend the afternoon at Arcadia Beach.

Check out our  complete guide to Cannon Beach  for all the information you need to plan a trip here.

Food & drink in Cannon Beach

• signature lemon poppyseed cake with layers of yummy lemon zest frosting
• savory scone… bacon, bleu cheese and chives, can I get a  hell yeah?!
• Another good spot for a caffeine fix is  Insomnia Coffee Co.  With a cozy feel, friendly staff and strong coffee, we sure didn’t have any complaints.
• Grab happy hour at  Driftwood Restaurant  – Get there for happy hour from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. daily for $6 Chowder Bread Bowls and $6 glasses of wine to enjoy around an outdoor fire pit.
• Sample local beer at Pelican Brewing.  ‘Nuff said.

Where to stay in Cannon Beach

Airbnb: Comfy Guest Room in Cannon Beach – Rent a guest room in this recently renovated inn, complete with a rose garden courtyard for relaxing. The room features a kitchenette, making it the perfect base for a couple exploring Cannon Beach.

Driving from Cannon Beach to Hug Point:  4.5 miles / 6 minutes

At a glance:  Beach with an oceanside waterfall and cave

As you drive south of Cannon Beach, keep your eyes peeled because it can be easy to miss the small parking area. If you’re there on a weekend (like we were), you might notice cars clustered along the side of the highway before you even get to the turnout, signaling that the parking lot is likely full.

The beach itself isn’t all that large, but the thing that makes this beach special is the small waterfall that spills out onto the beach and flows into the Pacific. Next to it is a shallow cave that provides a nice spot of shade for those wanting to get out of the sun. 

Fun Fact:  Apparently this area got its name in the late 19th century before Highway 101 was constructed. At the time, the only way for those on the Oregon Trail to travel along the coast was along the beach. On this narrow section of coastline, the settlers had to wait for low tide before driving their stagecoaches… being sure to  hug  the point. We didn’t see it, but supposedly, you can still see some stagecoach tracks that had been carved in the rocks along the shore.

Driving from Hug Point to Oswald West:  5 miles / 6 minutes

At a glance:  State park with secluded sandy beaches and old growth forests

Located just 9.6 miles south of Cannon Beach, stopping at this state park should definitely be on your itinerary!

A short and easy hike through an old growth forest will bring you to an idyllic beach, bordered by towering trees, strewn with smooth rocks and driftwood, and dotted with surfers trying to catch a wave.

This was one of our favorite beaches along the Oregon coast!

Good to know:  If you visit on a sunny Saturday in July (like we did!), you might barely find a spot to park. But even on the most crowded of days, a visit to this gem of a state park is well worth your time.

Driving from Oswald West to Manzanita:  5 miles / 8 minutes

At a glance:  Stunning viewpoint that overlooks the beach below

If we were going to share all the stunning viewpoints along the Oregon coast, this article would never end.  Seriously.

There are countless viewpoints along Highway 101, and we’d encourage you to pull over whenever you get the urge — as long as there’s a safe pull-out spot, of course! It can be quite difficult in some areas to turn around and go back to a viewpoint you missed, so if you see a pretty spot, slow down.

Part of the fun of an Oregon coast road trip is discovering hidden viewpoints and pulling over just for the hell of it. You can find some serious gems this way! But we are sharing this particular viewpoint because it’s quite special.

Keep an eye on your map so that you have time to pull over. There are a few different pull-out points, and the vantage point from the cliffside overlooking a long stretch of sandy beach is absolutely breathtaking, especially on a sunny day when the water shimmers with turquoise hues, almost resembling a tropical destination.

Have some extra time?  There are some epic hikes on the Neahkahnie Mountain, overlooking the beach below.

At a glance:  Artsy little town with a low-key vibe

Flanked on one side by pine forests and the ocean on the other, this tiny town is less crowded than many of its busier neighbors.

Manzanita is essentially comprised of a cluster of small shops lining one main street that follows the coastline, but the town is undeniably charming.

Things to do in Manzanita

• Browse the shops:  Pop into the boutiques lining the street as you make your way down to the ocean.
• Get a sandwich to go!  If you’re hungry, grab a sandwich at Manzanita Grocery & Deli and bring it down to the beach to enjoy with a view. Just be warned that this stretch can get particularly windy!  
• The Winery at Manzanita  is a great spot for relaxing with a glass of pinot noir and enjoying a beautiful rooftop view. When it’s cool outside, they turn on the outdoor fire pits and even offer all the fixings for s’mores.
• MacGregor’s Whisky Bar:  With beautiful charcuterie boards, whiskey tastings and handcrafted cocktails, this quaint little bar is not to be missed if you’re in town during the evening.
• Shop the Farmers Market.  Open seasonally on Friday evenings, you’ll find fresh produce, artisan goods and live music.
• Wanda’s Cafe + Bakery:  Great pasties and breakfast offerings in a friendly, casual atmosphere (just outside Manzanita).
• Rising Star Cafe  in the nearby town of Wheeler looks fantastic if you want a nicer dining experience. Be sure to check out their website, as they are only open seasonally.
• Explore Nehalem Bay State Park:  With trails and sand dunes, this is a beautiful place to wander.

Where to stay in Manzanita

Airbnb: Whispering Pines Modern Home – This beautiful modern 3 bedroom home is full of natural light and just a short walk from the shops, restaurants and beach in Manzanita.

Camping:  Nehalem Bay State Park has a large campground with lots of amenities, and even yurts you can stay in.

Driving from Manzanita to Kelly’s Brighton Marina:  8 miles / 13 minutes

At a glance:  Marina with a casual seafood restaurant, cheap beer, outdoor seating, and camping

This is less of a restaurant than it is a  destination.

This marina-restaurant-campground-bait shop is the perfect blend of everything we love about the Oregon coast. There’s a fun, laidback vibe, reasonably-priced seafood, and a postcard-worthy view (especially if you’re there on a sunny day!). 

If you’re limited on time, you can choose to order a seafood meal and enjoy it at a dockside table. But on the flip side, you can make a day of hanging at the marina…

Grab your camping chairs and bring them out to the dock to try your hand at crabbing! It’s pretty simple, really. You’ll be given a crab ring (essentially a ring the size of a small hula hoop with a rope netting around it and bait inside). You’ll toss it out into the water and wait 10-15 minutes before pulling it in. 

You’re only allowed to keep male crabs, so the females can continue to reproduce more (delicious) crabs! And they must be over a certain size. Chances are you’ll have to throw many back into the water, but cross your fingers that you get one big enough to keep. If you do, Kelly’s will cook it for you for free. That’s right, FREE!

Insider Tip:  the best crabbing happens in the morning when the tide is coming in (bringing crabs right to you!). We went two times: Once earlier in the day and once later, and the morning was far superior. 

Rental costs:

• $15 for a crab ring and bait (aka a fish head)
• $3.50 for a bucket and crab measuring tool

Also, if you’re up for it, pop into the convenience shop and pick up a beer (or two!). At around $3.50 per can of craft beer, they’re very reasonably priced.

Camping?  Kelly’s offers camping packages that are actually quite a good deal. Looking for a free spot to stealth camp? Head onto Rockaway Beach and read our tip below…

Driving from Kelly’s Brighton Marina to Rockaway Beach:  4 miles / 6 minutes

At a glance:  Town with lots of vacation rentals situated along a very long beach

Another cutie, the town of Rockaway Beach is more or less concentrated right around Highway 101, which hugs the ocean. The town is  long , and there’s not exactly a main walking street, as you’ll find in many other coastal towns.

While not as polished as Cannon Beach or as picturesque as Oceanside, Rockaway Beach makes a great stop as there are a lot of vacation rentals in this town, and a large beach to be explored.

Things to do in Rockaway Beach

• Photograph Twin Rocks.  These iconic sea stacks lie just off shore, and one has an archway that you can see through.
• Hike to the Rockaway Big Tree.  Just off Highway 101 is a trailhead that leads to this massive Western Red Cedar tree. Towering at 154 feet tall and just under 50 feet in circumference around the base, this tree is well worth the .5-mile walk to see. The newly constructed boardwalk makes getting there easy for travelers of all abilities.
• Wander around the peculiar Troxell’s Rock Garden.  This quirky “garden” is full of all sorts of rocks, fossils and art, and is free to visit. If you find a rock you’d like to keep as a souvenir, you pay what you think is fair. And if you’re into mini golf, there’s a course that is $3 per person for unlimited play.
• Walk along Manhattan Beach.  Just north of Rockaway, this beach is quiet and beautiful.

Food & drink in Rockaway Beach

• Offshore Grill and Coffee House:  Sandwiches, salads, coffee and baked goods in a cozy space
• New Taste of India Food Truck:  If you’re craving something other than seafood, this food truck is said to have amazing food
• Old Oregon Smoke House:  This town staple is the place to come for seafood
• Littoral Bar:  Excellent cocktails as well as eclectic paninis and soups in a cozy setting with an outdoor deck

Where to stay in Rockaway Beach

Airbnb: Storybook Beach Cottage – This adorable 3 bedroom cottage is just steps away from Twin Rocks Beach. Cozy up in front of the wood burning fireplace, or relax in the sun on the front porch.

Camping:  If you’re in a campervan, there’s a parking lot right on the beach where to you can stay overnight for free. There aren’t any parking restrictions and there’s  a public restroom nearby. This place get bonus points because there’s a shop serving big scoops of Tillamook ice cream right across the street!

Driving from Rockaway Beach to Garibaldi:  5 miles / 9 minutes

At a glance:  Fishing village with a pretty marina

If you’re into fishing villages and  not  into the touristy thing, Garibadi will be your jam. It’s cute. It’s not crowded or packed with selfie sticks. It’s a real, true fishing town.

While there’s not a ton to do in the town itself, it’s worth getting out of your car and stretching your legs, if only just to glimpse the picturesque marina.

Things to do in Garibaldi

• Cost: $22 for adults
• Photograph the marina.  It’s beautiful!
• Check out Fishpeople Seafood.  Find fresh catches of the day, packaged items, and merch in this sustainable fish market.
• Try your hand at fishing!  Whether you’re new to fishing or are an expert angler,  Lewis and Clark guide service  can cater a fishing trip to you. Fish for salmon or halibut, and cross your fingers that you catch something for dinner!
• Eat some fresh fish & chips.  Sea Baron Fish & Chips is a food truck in Garibaldi that’s known for serving up some tasty (and super fresh!) fish.

Driving from Garibaldi to Oceanside:  19 miles / 30 minutes

At a glance:  Famous Oregon creamery that offers tours

This farmer-owned creamery is a state institution and a must-visit on your Oregon coast road trip.

If you’re not from Oregon and haven’t tried Tillamook ice cream or cheese, you’re in for a real treat. And if you’re an Oregonian through and through you already know the magic we’re talking about… Where better to indulge than at the source?!

Visit the Tillamook Creamery and take a self-guided tour of the newly-constructed facility and learn all about how your favorite dairy items are made.

Once you’ve seen the process, it’s time to give these dangerously delicious dairy creations a taste! Order from the dairy-heavy menu (would you expect anything less?!) at the onsite restaurant.

With items like gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, cheese curds, mac ’n cheese, and of course, their famed ice cream, you’re sure to find something that strikes your fancy… unless you’re lactose intolerant, of course. In that case, I’m very sorry!

Other things to do in Tillamook

While visiting the creamery is the biggest draw of this town for most outside visitors, there are other things to do in town that don’t involve dairy!

• Go kayaking!   Kayak Tillamook  offers tours that run along 100 miles of waterways in the area. Choose from scenic trips to moonlight tours, or learn how to dig for clams from a kayak!
• Stock up on picnic supplies.  Blue Heron is a shop nearby where you can pick up cheeses, salads, or even a Tillamook ice cream cone. It’s an alright alternative if you’re needing some dairy and can’t make it to the Tillamook Creamery.
• Wander around downtown Tillamook.  In addition to the creamery, downtown Tillamook is pretty cute, so give it a gander if you have the time.
• Grab a beer at Pelican Brewery.
• Enjoy fresh oysters and wine at JAndy Oyster Co.

At a glance:  Quaint cliffside town with a unique beach

This is one of the most picturesque towns on the Oregon coast (in my humble opinion).

With cliffs dotted with cedar-shingled houses that jut up from the ocean, sea stacks just off shore, and far fewer tourists than many other coastal towns, Oceanside kind of feels like a hidden gem.

First things first… this town is  very  small. There are only a couple cafes in town, and not much going on. If you’re looking for lots of things to keep you busy, Oceanside won’t be the best base.

But if you’re looking for a romantic getaway at the ocean, there are few places better suited. Rent a cute Airbnb ( like this one! ) and wake up on  vacation  time.

Things to do in Oceanside

• Sea Stacks:  There are sea stacks just off the shore that you’ll see as you drive into town. One of the rock formations has an arch!
• Tunnel beach:  This is kind of just what it sounds like… a tunnel that leads to a “hidden” beach! Compared to many beaches on the Oregon coast, this one tends to be less crowded and is a good place to spot mussels, starfish and cool rocks. Plus, from this beach, you’ll see even more sea stacks off in the distance.
• Cape Meares Lighthouse:  Just north of town, you can visit this beautiful lighthouse.
• See the Octopus Tree!  This  massive spruce tree  appears to have many trunks, making it look like an octopus! Located near the Cape Meares Lighthouse, stop by the tree while you’re in the area.
• Blue Agate Café: excellent breakfast and lunch with a focus on fresh seafood.
• Rosemary’s: Breakfast, lunch and dinner with an ocean view.

Good to know:  We got very patchy cell service in Oceanside, and it seemed kind of like a dead spot (at least for Verizon), so just be prepared!

Where to stay in Oceanside

Airbnb: Little Luxe Retreat – This one bedroom home is ideally located in Oceanside, just a few minutes walk from restaurants and the beach. Enjoy the sweeping ocean views from your private wraparound deck (complete with hot tub!).

Driving from Oceanside to Netarts Bay:  2.6 miles / 6 minutes

At a glance:  Best place for fresh oysters

The small town of Netarts is situated at the north end of the bay after which it takes its name. This is one of the lesser-developed ares along the coast, and as you drive the road along the bay, the marshy wetlands may make you forget for a moment that you’re on the ocean.

If you like fresh oysters, you’ll be in heaven as this is one of the best places along the coast to enjoy your favorite shellfish. Just be sure to look up the hours of the establishments in the area, as they are only open for the afternoon.

• Insider Tip:  Their house-smoked oysters are fantastic!
• Nevor Shellfish Farm:  Another place to enjoy oysters in a no-frills setting is at Nevor. We met a girl from Portland who is obsessed with oysters (she even has an oyster tattoo!) and comes here weekly to get her fix to-go, then she enjoys them on the bay.
• Jacobsens Salt:  This bay is known for its high salinity and is a perfect place for harvesting sea salt. You can see how its made and buy some of their gourmet sea salt products. I actually saw an interview with the owner on an international flight and have been intrigued ever since! Sadly, this locally-famous establishment was closed at the time we visited, but next time we’re on the coast we’re determined to get here. 

This scenic drive starts just north of Oceanside and ends at Pacific City. It passes by — you guessed it! — three scenic capes along the way (they didn’t get very creative with naming the route!).

• Cape Meares:  Just north of Oceanside, this steep bluff is great for spotting whales during migration season. Also, Cape Meares has two extremes — the largest Sitka Spruce in Oregon as well as the shortest lighthouse in Oregon.
• Cape Lookout:  This day use area is popular with families and has lots of excellent picnicking areas, walking trails and secluded beaches.
• Cape Kiwanda:  The smallest of the three capes, this area just north of Pacific City is known for some epic waves! There are also some nice hiking trails in the area.

For this section of your road trip, you’ll want to veer off Highway 101, which takes a more inland route at this point. Instead, you’ll hug the shoreline.

Driving from Cape Meares to Cape Kiwanda:  29 miles / 45 minutes (though that’s without any stops, and you’ll definitely want to make some!)

At a glance:  Popular surf town with a sandy dune

We were there on a weekend day and holy crap, it was BUSY! There were no parking spots in town whatsoever. We ended up parking on the highway in a kind of sketchy spot and walking to town. Yikes.

So, is it worth it?  I suppose it depends.

In our experience (on a crazy-busy-sunny-summer-weekend!), we didn’t  love  it. But that is mostly because of how crowded it was when we visited. Had we gone at a less busy time, our feelings may be different.

Pacific City is really popular with surfers. And to us, it felt like the closest thing to southern California that you’ll find on the Oregon coast. So if that’s the vibe you’re after, you may love it.

What’s there to do in Pacific City?

• The original Pelican Brewing  (a coast favorite!) is right on the beach, so that’s a must for all beer lovers like us.
• Go surfing!  If you’re up for it, Pacific City has great waves.
• Cape Kiwanda  is one of the three scenic capes in the area and is worth exploring!
• The Great Dune  is just off the main beach in Pacific City, and can be climbed to the top for a great view and a fun place to hang out for a bit.

Driving from Pacific City to Lincoln City:  22 miles / 30 minutes

At a glance:  Larger coastal town with 7 miles of beach to explore (more than any other city on the Oregon coast)

One of the bigger towns on the coast, Lincoln City is known for their bi-annual kite festivals, glass blowing community, and like just about every other coastal town, fresh seafood!

As we approached Lincoln City on Highway 101, the strip malls and chain stores made me question how much I’d like this town… but it turns out once you get off the highway, it get progressively more charming.

While not as quaint as many of the smaller and less commercialized towns on the Oregon coast, Lincoln City has a relatively large and spacious beach as well as a bourgeoning foodie scene, making it a good place to add to your Oregon coast itinerary if you have the time.

Things to do in Lincoln City

• Good to know: This place is cash only (but there is an ATM on site)
• Search for blown glass on the beach.  Finders Keepers is a program where local artisans hide blown glass “floats” on the 7-mile stretch of beach from Siletz Bay (south) to Roads End (north). Each year, there are 3,000 glass floats that are up for grabs. And as the old saying goes…  finders keepers!  I so wish we would have known about this cool program before our visit. Read up on the details of the program  here  so you don’t miss out.
• Make or design your own blown glass creation.  Whether you didn’t get lucky enough to find a glass float on the beach or you want to awaken your inner artist, Lincoln City is a great place to learn the art of glass blowing. Check out the  Lincoln City Glass Center’s website  to see their current offerings or visit  AlderHouse  where you can have their resident artists customize a piece for you.
• Good to know: Beware that this trail can get very muddy, so come prepared and look up trail conditions before you begin the hike.
• Photograph the creepy “ghost forest beach”.  Neskowin Beach is just north of Lincoln City, and if you hit it at the right time of day (aka low tide), you’ll see an eerie sight… tree stumps sticking up in the sand. These are the remains of 2,000-year-old Sitka spruce trees that once populated a forest towering 200 feet tall. Plan your visit around low tide, because you won’t be able to see them during high tide (we made that mistake!). Another feature of Neskowin Beach is a sea stack called Proposal Rock, which you can’t miss!
• Enjoy a splurge-worthy meal at The Bay House:  This award-winning restaurant offers 3- or 5-course tasting menus that rotate with what’s seasonally available as well as menu items a la carte. It is said to be excellent (though we can’t speak from experience), and looks to be a memorable dining experience.
• Entry is free (though donations are appreciated), and the garden is open daily from dawn ’til dusk.

Where to stay in Lincoln City

Airbnb: The Starfish – This one bedroom condo features a private balcony with ocean views to watch the sunset each night. Beach access, a gas fireplace, and a fully equipped kitchen make this the perfect home base in Lincoln City.

Driving from Lincoln City to Depoe Bay:  12 miles / 19 minutes

At a glance:  Whale watching capital of Oregon

Depoe Bay has traded the expansive sandy beach you’ll find in neighboring Lincoln City for a rugged coastline dotted with whitecaps and… resident whales!

Often touted as the “whale watching capital of Oregon”, Depoe Bay is the best place to try your luck at spotting these gentle giants on the Oregon coast.

Fun Fact:  Apparently Depoe Bay has the world’s smallest harbor!

Things to do in Depoe Bay

• Insider Tip: If you want a close up view of the whales, you might want to book a whale watching tour. There are several operators in town. According to them, the best time for whale watching is between July and September.
• Wander the main strip  and pop into one of the many boutiques.
• Grab coffee  at Pirate Coffee Company or LEFT COAST Coffee Co. and stroll along the oceanfront walkway. (Be sure to look to the water for whales!)
• Enjoy breakfast and a harbor view at Whale Bites Cafe.
• Visit Devil’s Punchbowl.  This formation was created by erosion, and it makes for a pretty cool stop, especially at low tide when it’s possible to go down into it. Be warned that it can get extremely (like, EXTREMELY!) windy here! If you need something to warm you up, there’s a Mo’s Chowder just beside the viewpoint.

Where to stay in Depoe Bay

SCP Hotel Depoe Bay  is a sustainability-focused hotel that is beautifully designed with reasonable rates. The onsite restaurant offer healthy, locally sourced dishes you can enjoy on the outdoor deck overlooking the marina.

Driving from Depoe Bay to Newport:  13 miles / 19 minutes

At a glance:  Bustling coastal city with a busy fishing port

This town is pretty big (one of the larger cities on the coast), and is complete with a Ripley’s Believe It or Not museum… My childhood self would have been stoked, but adult me rolls my eyes when I see a Ripley’s. However, no matter your stance on Ripley’s, there is more to Newport than oddities in a museum.

The town is split in two sections — north of the river and south of the river.

You’ll smell the port before you see it… and if you’re there at the right time, you might  see  what you’re smelling as they transport it from the docks to the processing center.

Things to do in Newport

• Yaquina Head Lighthouse  is well worth a visit. Just north of town, this lighthouse is stunning and the rocks just offshore are perfect for birdwatching. I felt like we had been transported to Iceland for a minute!
• Walk onto the jetty and (hopefully!) spot sea lions.  On both the north and south side of the river, a jetty stretches out into the ocean and you can walk pretty far along the rocky structure. We were told by a local that the north jetty is an excellent spot for viewing sea lions, but on the day we went it was so foggy that we couldn’t see more than 10 feet in front of us. So maybe the sea lions were there, but we didn’t see them! The sandy dunes in the Yakina Bay recreation area were pretty cool to see and we watched a few surfers ride into the mist!
• Wander the historic Nye Beach neighborhood.  If you work up an appetite, there are plenty of great restaurant options to choose from in this area.
• Newport Brewing
• Bier One Brewing
• The Science Center is part of Oregon State University, and offers educational tours.
• The Oregon Coast Aquarium was once home to Keiko, the orca that starred in  Free Willy , and today it is one of of the most famous aquariums in the US. We aren’t big fans of aquariums or zoos, so we chose to pass on this.
• South Beach Fish Market:  Get your fish and chips fix here!
• Mo’s Seafood:  This popular coastal chain was started in Newport (established in 1946). Visit the original location and get a bowl of their signature chowder.

Local Oceans Seafood

This restaurant gets its own little section because we think it’s well worth adding to your itinerary if you can.

If you’ve got the budget for a nice seafood dinner on your trip, we’d highly recommend dining at Local Ocean’s Seafood in Newport. They call their restaurant concept “dock to table”, and you dine with a view of the dock where the catch is brought in daily. Can’t get much fresher than that!

Their dishes feature locally caught seafood in classic preparations (like crab cakes and fish and chips) as well as some inventive fusion styles (like salmon bruschetta and a tuna Rueben).

Okay, now the fun part; I’m going to tell you what we ordered! 

• Grilled Calamari Salad:  We ordered this dish as an appetizer and it was fantastic. I’m usually a huge fan of the fried version (with yummy dipping sauces!), but this version was so fresh and had been grilled over charcoal and it beats the deep-fried stuff any day. Served as a “salad” with roasted fennel, nicoise olives, poblano peppers, orange, shiitake mushrooms, and queso fresco, it’s a combination that I never would have come up with, but damn, it was fabulous.
• Crab Po’ Boy:  While the sandwich seemed a bit small at first, it was loaded with fresh crab! And of course, it was served with a generous portion of fries.
• Moqueca:  This was the star of the show! If you order just one of these suggestions, let this be it. This seafood stew apparently has origins in Brazil, and has a light coconut milk base. It is absolutely stuffed with giant prawns, rockfish and piles of fresh Dungeness crab. Oh, and then there’s some veggies (tomato, bell pepper and mushroom) to balance it out. So, sooooo good.

Total Bill:  We both ordered a drink, an appetizer, two entrees, and with gratuity, our total bill was just shy of $100. It’s not exactly cheap, but the food was of the highest quality and the portions were large. It was a fun “splurge” meal.

Where to stay in Newport

Airbnb: King Ocean View – This room in a boutique hotel in Newport is perfect for a couple exploring the coast together. Guests of the hotel appreciate the ideal location and amenities like the indoor pool, spa and sauna.

Driving between Newport & Seal Rock:  11 miles / 15 minutes 

At a glance:  Long beach with rock formations and tide pools

Unlike the name suggests, you aren’t likely to find seals here. Apparently one of the large rock formations resembles a seal… but I didn’t really see it.

Don’t be disappointed though. This beach is well worth a stroll and is a fantastic spot for seeing tide pools filled with little creatures.

Driving from Seal Rock to Yachats:  14 miles / 18 minutes

At a glance:  Sleepy town set on a stretch of beautifully rugged coast

Instead of sandy beaches, you’ll see waves crashing against rugged black basalt rock, for a very different vibe than some of the more northern coastal towns.

Yachats (pronounced  ya-hots…  yep, I was saying it wrong too!) is home to fewer than 700 people and the center is just a few blocks. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in charm. It is said that Arthur Frommer (yes, of  that  Frommer’s), once  listed Yachats  as one of his top 10 destinations in the world.

Things to do in Yachats:

• Grab a coffee and stroll by the ocean.  Green Salmon Coffee Company is an eco-friendly coffeehouse that serves up fair trade brews. Double bonus!
• Browse rocks and fossils at Planet Yachats.  This cute little rock store has good prices, and if you’re a rock nerd (like me!), you’ll probably find a few souvenirs! (Open Friday – Monday)
• Satisfy your sweet tooth with a pastry at Bread & Roses Bakery.  (Only open on the weekends)
• Enjoy live music and seafood at Luna Sea Fish House.  This casual town staple is known for their scratch-made menu featuring only the freshest seafood.
• Cheers with a local craft brew at Yachats Brewing + Farmstore.  With a menu focused on farm-to-table fare and an inviting atmosphere with lots of plants (yay!), this is a great stop for both beer and food.
• Explore Cape Perpetua and visit Thor’s Well.  More info on that below!

Psst! Check out our guide to  Yachats, Oregon  for more recommendations!

Where to stay in Yachats

Airbnb: Ocean Way Cottage – If you’ve ever wanted to try out living in a tiny home, this is your chance. This centrally located cottage is perfect for a quiet romantic getaway in Yachats.

At a glance:  Naturally formed rock hole near the ocean that creates a cool illusion

Right about smack dab in the center of the Oregon coast lies the natural wonder known as Thor’s Well. You’ll want to be sure to stop here to get a glimpse of this phenomenon!

Located just 3 miles south of Yachats in the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, a short walk toward the sea will bring you to what has been nicknamed the “drainpipe of the Pacific” and even the “gate to hell”.  Yikes!

The volcanic rock that lines the shores has a gaping hole that fills with water each time a wave comes in. Just as quickly as it fills, it drains away, appearing to be sucked down into the center of the earth (hence those intense nicknames!).

While it’s sometimes referred to as a “sink hole”, experts believe that Thor’s Well likely began as a sea cave. Over time the roof collapsed, leaving us what we see today. Though it appears to be bottomless, it’s actually only around 20 feet deep. But don’t dangle anything valuable above it because there’s no way you’re getting it back!

High tide and low tide look different… If you have time, try to see both. But overall, high tide is more impressive, so plan your visit accordingly if possible.

Good to know:  Photos of the hole can be a bit misleading… we were expecting something much larger, but when we arrived we realized it is just about 10 feet across at the widest part. That said, it’s still impressive and worth seeing.

Thor’s Well is the most famous attraction on Cape Perpetua, but there are other “blow holes” (is that a real term?) where you can see more activity. Devil’s Churn and Spouting Horn are two that you’ll find nearby.

How to get to Thor’s Well:  We’d recommend parking at the Cape Perpetua Visitors Center and taking the easy and well-marked 10 to 15-minute walk down toward the ocean. Check out this  guide to visiting Thor’s Well Oregon  for all the information you need!

Fee:  A National Forest pass or day use fee is required for parking (an interagency pass, like  America the Beautiful , works as well).

Driving between Thor’s Well & Heceta Head:  11 miles / 14 minutes 

At a glance:  Postcard worthy lighthouse requiring a short hike

I have a thing for lighthouses. My parents both really love them, and we’d always visit them on family trips, touring the living quarters and hearing scary stories about storms and shipwreck.  Why am I so intrigued by creepy things?!

Anyway, I’ve always had a fascination with lighthouses and find myself dragging Ben to them all around the world.

If you visit one lighthouse on the Oregon coast, Heceta Head should be it.

From the parking lot ($5 day use fee or state park pass required), you’ll follow a forested trail for a half-mile, passing the lighthouse keeper’s residence just before you reach the lighthouse.

Insider Tip:  While it’s stunning to see it up close, we recommend taking the path to the right of the trail just before you reach the lighthouse. It’s a short hike up, but you’ll get views from the top overlooking the lighthouse with the ocean in the background. You can turn around and head back down the way you came, or you can continue on the trail which leads to Hobbit Beach.

The state park offers tours of the lighthouse and property between the hours of 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. (summer) and 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. (winter).

Looking for a splurge?  If you’re into lighthouses and have the budget for it, you can  rent out a room in the lightkeeper’s house  at Heceta Head and let your imagination run wild. Starting at $250 for the cheapest room, it’s not a very budget-friendly accommodation, but it’s sure to be one of the most unique stays on your trip!  

Driving time between Heceta Head & Sea Lion Cave:  1.5 miles / 4 minutes 

At a glance:  Sea lion conservation and observation

This was something we were really skeptical about.

• For starters, we are always really wary of any “animal attraction” because often times these attractions are not ethical or created with the animals’ best interests in mind.
• Secondly – I hope this doesn’t sound snobby – but the branding and signage at the Sea Lion Caves just seemed… dated and cheesy.
• And lastly, we’ve never needed to pay to see wild sea lions. Usually we just park, walk, and  look  at them. So we were wondering why there was an admission fee in the first place.

Essentially, we were picturing an overpriced kiddie attraction where they were gouging tourists with an unnecessary admission fee.

Buuuut, admittedly sometimes we’re wrong. And this was one of those times.

When we arrived at 11 a.m. it was busy and a line stretched along the highway. It ended up taking 45 minutes before we got inside.

Good to know:  Be very cautious when crossing the road from the parking lot to the entrance because it is a super dangerous stretch and we saw one too many close calls!

After paying the entrance fee, we walked down to an outdoor viewpoint where there were about 150 sea lions (pretty far away!) just chillin’ in the sun on some rocks. I was still a little hesitant because, well, we had just paid a fee to look at sea lions in the distance. But the next stop got better.

We took an elevator down where we were able to enter the main attraction:  America’s Largest Sea Cave.

This naturally-formed cave is on private land that the owners have passed down through generations. At 12 stories tall and the length of a football field, the cave itself is pretty massive and was formed by a combination of volcanic activity and water erosion.

Inside the cave, there are some informational plaques, a short video, small exhibits and views of Heceta Head Lighthouse in the distance. But the main draw, of course, is being able to view the playful and noisy sea lions from an observation “window” that is quite a distance from the animals themselves, so as to not disturb their habitat.

During our visit there were about 50 sea lions in the cave, but supposedly more seek shelter inside during the winter months. The northern Steller sea lions are found along the west coast as well as in Alaska, and they are completely wild.

Entrance fee:  $14 adults, $13 seniors, $8 kids 

Driving time between Sea Lion Caves & Florence:  10.5 miles / 14 minutes 

At a glance:  Cute “Old Town” with sand dunes just beyond the city center

We both studied abroad in Florence, Italy, and let’s just say there’s not much these two towns have in common other than their name…

That said,  this  Florence is ah-freaking-dorable (the Old Town section, at least) and has some adventurous things to do to top it off.

Situated near the mouth of the Siuslaw River, the center of Florence actually has a river view instead of looking out into the ocean, making it feel a bit different from many of the other towns on the Oregon coast. The combination of river + ocean + sand dunes makes this town pretty unique.

While Italy will always have my heart and be my number one, Florence, Oregon is pretty damn cool in its own right.

Things to do in Florence (Oregon!)

• Insider Tip:  There are two laundromats in town that have showers (yipee!), which was super helpful since we were traveling in our campervan. (We showered  at this one .)
• Pop into the many antique shops, art galleries, boutiques and book stores.
• Enjoy a coffee with views of the Siuslaw River bridge. Old Town Coffee Roasters & River Roasters both serve fantastic brews.
• And when you get hungry, you’ll have the difficult job of deciding between one of the floating seafood restaurants or cute cafes.
• If you’re visiting Florence on a weekend in the summer, check out the Boardwalk Farmers Market.
• Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park (this is where we went sandboarding!)
• Tahkenitch Dunes & Three Mile Lake
• Go horseback riding on the beach.  And while you’re at it, pretend you’re acting out a scene from a nineties rom-com. We passed by  C&M Stables  and also saw a few people on guided rides, and I’ve gotta say I was pretty jealous. Being that Ben is somewhat scared of horses (don’t tell him I told you!), he takes a lot of convincing when it comes to horseback riding. Next time we’re in the area, you better believe I’m going to twist his arm and get him on a horse because there are seldom more picturesque places to ride than on a rugged Oregon beach.
• Insider Tips: If you’re able, try to plan your hike at low tide. Also, download the  AllTrails map for this hike  ahead of time because there is limited cell service in the area.
• Siltcoos Lake Trail:  While not as popular as the Hobbit Trail, this 3.5-mile loop brings you through thick PNW forests and culminates at the lake the trail is named after. [ AllTrails Map & Notes ]
• Woahink Lakeside Trail:  This 2-mile out and back hike in Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park ends with nice lake views. [ AllTrails Map & Notes ]
• Visit Heceta Head Lighthouse.  It’s like something out of a postcard. (Look at the section above for more info!)
• Visit the Sea Lion Caves.  Again, we’ve got a whole section dedicated to this attraction, so scroll up to get more information about visiting.

Food & drink in Florence, Oregon

• Homegrown Public House & Brewery:  We came for the beer and clam steamers and left super satisfied.
• Mo’s Chowder:  One of the many locations of this famous coastal chain is located on the water in downtown Florence.
• Bridgewater Fish House & Zebra Bar:  Cute restaurant in the heart of Old Town serving fresh seafood.
• Lovejoy’s Tea Room:  This British tea room serves up favorites like sticky toffee pudding , Scotch eggs and of course a proper pot of tea. Lovejoys also serves high tea and has Indian Dinner nights.
• Old Town Coffee Roasters & River Roasters:  Both of these coffeeshops in Old Town are cute and serve excellent coffee as well as baked goods.

Where to stay in Florence, Oregon

Airbnb: Glamping in the “Chicken Coop” – This unique Airbnb stay is an affordable little gem in central Florence. Stay in a converted chicken coop turned bedroom, with a shared and well groomed yard space including a fire pit. A complementary bottle of wine and fresh chicken eggs make this a worthwhile stay for an adventurous couple on a budget!

Driving time between Florence & Shore Acres:  58 miles / 1.5 hours 

At a glance:  Impressive array of gardens and ocean viewpoints that are all free to explore

Before we set off on our trip, we got recommendations from at least two different people to make sure we stopped at this state park, just north of Bandon. And we’re glad we heeded their advice.

There are viewpoints and hiking trails, but Shore Acres is most well-known for its botanical gardens that are free to the public as long as you have a state park pass (or pay the $5 day use fee).

We’re huge fans of Japan  and everything associated with the country and its culture, so exploring the Japanese zen garden — complete with a lily pond — was a highlight for us. There is also a rose garden and a large English-style garden as well.

The gardens are open year round, and you’ll find it changes with the seasons (even in the winter!). In fact, between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve, there is a holiday lights display that looks pretty cool.

While you’re in the area, we’d recommend stopping at Simpson Reef Overlook. While it’s not anything entirely special, you can see sea lions on a large rock offshore. And at the next viewpoint, Cape Arago, a couple waved us down and pointed out some whales in the distance. Try your luck, and pack binoculars if you have them!

Additional Stop:  The Umpqua River Lighthouse is located between Florence and Bandon (north of Shore Acres), and if you’re really into lighthouses it may be worth the stop (at least to stretch your legs!). The lighthouse tours are $8 and supposed to be pretty good, as is the small onsite museum. There are also yurts you can rent for the night in the adjacent state park. However, if you’re short on time this lighthouse isn’t nearly as scenic as others in the area, like Heceta Head.

Driving time between Shore Acres & Bandon:  25.5 miles / 35 minutes 

At a glance:  Quaint town known for seafood and interesting art

With just over 3,000 residents, this small oceanside town is a picturesque and laid-back place to stop during a road trip along Oregon’s coast.

Wander past cute shops on the main street, enjoy amazing seafood, dig your toes in the sand, and see a unique art exhibit that will both disgust and inspire you. (We’ll explain in a minute!)

Things to do in Bandon

• Explore Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint.  Discover tide pools at low tide or watch the sunset behind these beautiful sea stack rock formations.
• See the disgustingly cool art at Washed Ashore.  With the tag line “art to save the sea”,  Washed Ashore  builds and exhibits artwork made from trash that has washed up on the beach. Their intention is to educate the public about plastic pollution in our oceans and inspire people to make positive changes.  How cool it that?!  Check their website to see if they’re open during your visit. And if not, you can at least see a few of their pieces just outside the gallery.

• Cost:  It is free to walk the path, but donations are greatly appreciated.
• When can you see Circles in the Sand?  We spoke with the coordinators of this project, and they said they create sand labyrinths around 50 times per year (more frequently in the summer months). Check  their website  or  Facebook page  for their updated schedule.
• Want to help create the sand art?  Circles in the Sand accepts volunteers to help with their creations. In order to partake, message them  via email  or through Facebook Messenger.
• Watch the sunset with the Coquille River Lighthouse in the backdrop.  It’s a stunner.
• Go exploring in Floras Lake State Natural Area.  This undeveloped section of the coast is the perfect place to escape the crowds. You can walk down to the beach and most likely enjoy the views in solitude. While in the area, be sure to make it down to Blacklock Point for some dramatic views of the stunning sandstone cliffs. The  trail to get there  is 4.2 miles out and back, but it’s well worth the effort.

Food & drink in Bandon

• Tony’s Crab Shack:  We ordered a crab sandwich, clam chowder and steamer clams in a butter, garlic, and white wine broth at Tony’s and thoroughly enjoyed our meal, though the portions were a bit small in our opinion.
• Bandon Fish Market:  We had clam chowder, fish and chips, and a crab sandwich. Portions were larger, but it seemed like there were fewer fresh items on the menu than at Tony’s (heavier on the deep-fried dishes).
• Edgewaters is a good spot for a nicer sit down dinner. 
• Grab a local brew at Bandon Brewery.  We enjoyed the beer, pizza and live music at this cozy joint a couple years ago, but have seen some negative review about their customer service and handling of Covid lately.
• Face Rock Creamery  for all your ice cream and cheese cravings!
• Bandon Coffee Company  has good brews and delicious breakfast sandwiches.

Where to stay in Bandon

Airbnb: Bandon Beach Shack – Stay in this classic A-frame beach house that has been completely remodeled with modern comforts. Two bedrooms sleep a family of 4 comfortably just across from the beach.

Driving time between Bandon & Gold Beach:  55 miles / 1 hour

At a glance:   One of the southernmost towns on the Oregon coast

While not the cutest costal town on this list, Gold Beach still has its allure. Situated at the mouth of the Rogue River and bordered by the Siskiyou National Forest, Gold Beach can be a good hopping off point for many adventures.

Things to do in Gold Beach

• Do a Jet Boat tour on the Rogue River.  If you want to see the nearby Rogue River in a unique way and get a little adrenaline rush while you’re at it, book a tour with  Jerry’s Rogue Jets . They run jet boat trips daily from May 1st through October 15th. Choose from a calm 64-mile trip on the river or a longer whitewater trip that traverses whitewater rapids through the deep river canyons into the wilderness. (We’d definitely opt for the latter!)
• Spot a shipwreck!  The wreck of the Mary D. Hume is just off shore at the mouth of the Rogue River and much of it is still exposed, so it’s cool to see while you’re in Gold Beach. The ship was built in 1881 in Gold Beach and was used commercially for 97 years before being retired and later sunk.
• Hike around Otter Point.  Just north of town, this state recreation site has lots of trails and cool sandstone rock formations.
• Get lost in a book.  Whether you want to kill some time on a dreary day or you love a good indie bookstore, Gold Beach Books will check both boxes.
• Cape Sebastian State Scenic Corridor:  Lovely trail through cliffside forests and down to a secluded beach.
• Pistol River State Scenic Viewpoint:  Just a bit past Cape Sebastian, this scenic viewpoint features small sandy dunes and cool rock formations just offshore.
• Woggy’s Fish & Chips:  Open seasonally, this is  the  place in Gold Beach to get a casual seafood dinner.
• Barnacle Bistro:  This casual seafood joint is set in a yurt-style building and is a local favorite. They’re known for fresh seafood, reasonable prices and insanely good garlic fries!
• Arch Rock Brewing:  This is a small tasting room, but worth a stop if you like beer. Just as a heads up, they have a limited selection of just 3 beers: a lager, a pale ale, and a porter.

Where to stay in Gold Beach

Airbnb: The Bluebird House – This unique Airbnb stay is in an actual tree house! The cozy house features modern comforts and comfortably sleeps 3. The private deck offers sweeping views of the Oregon Coastline.

Driving time between Gold Beach & SHB State Scenic Corridor:  13 miles / 15 minutes 

At a glance:  Park on the rugged coastline of southern Oregon with secluded beaches & stunning viewpoints

At the very southern tip of the Oregon coast lies one of the most beautiful spots along this journey… Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor.

While this is a bit out of the way – unless you’re heading to or from California, of course – it is  well  worth adding it to your road trip itinerary if you have the time.

With interesting sea stack rock formations and hiking trails, you can easily spend a day (or three!) getting lost in the beauty before your eyes.

There are many turnouts that are worth stopping at for epic views. And you’ll also find some nice hikes along the way.

Hikes and Points of interest in Samuel H. Boardman

• The Natural Bridges  is a short hike with some pretty spectacular views. (Note: These are the iconic views you typically see of Samuel H. Boardman.)
• Secret Beach  is a short hike down to the sandy beach when there is low tide. The trailhead for this is just north of Miller Creek on Highway 101. 
• Indian Sands trail  is known for wildflowers (during some parts of the year) and has some cool sand dunes to explore. Beware that the trail can be hard to see at times.
• Whaleshead Beach  is another beautiful beach to check out. There is a picnic area near the beach, which is really nice!

Oregon Coast road trip itinerary

First things first:  How long do you have for your Oregon coast road trip?

This road trip itinerary can be adjusted to pretty much any length of time, but it’s best to start with a number of days in mind so you know how much you’ll be able to fit in. 

Also, really think about what type of trip you want this to be…

• Do you want to do short stops in many places and pack in as much as possible?
• Or would you prefer staying in a couple of towns for longer periods of time? 

Short on time?  This is just our opinion, but our favorite towns are  south  of Seaside. If you’re limited on time, we’d recommend heading straight to Cannon Beach (or further south, depending on where exactly you want to explore). 

Have extra time?  If you have the luxury of extra time, be sure to stretch your route down to Samuel H. Boardman, because it is absolutely spectacular.

• Insider Tip!  If you like cheese, there’s a little goat cheese stand just off Highway 6 on your route back called Fraga and they have goats on site!
• 5 Days:  Astoria, Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park, Hugs Beach, Oswald West State Park, Oceanside, Tillamook, God’s Thumb (Lincoln City)
• 7 Days:  Astoria, Seaside, Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park, Hugs Beach, Oswald West State Park, Oceanside, Tillamook, Lincoln City, Depoe Bay, Yaquina Head Lighthouse, Newport.
• 10 Days:  Astoria, Seaside, Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park, Hugs Beach, Oswald West State Park, Oceanside, Tillamook, Lincoln City, Depoe Bay, Yaquina Head Lighthouse, Newport, Seal Rock State Park, Yachats, Thor’s Well and Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, Heceta Head Lighthouse, Sea Lion Caves, Sandboarding in Florence.
• 14 Days:   Instead of repeating ourselves, start with the 10-day Itinerary above and then include:  Shore Acres State Park, Bandon, Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, and then continue to California or then travel back up I-5 to Portland.

Note:  Are you staying in Airbnbs and hotels along the way, or are you driving a campervan? You may want to shape your itinerary around lodging. If you’re planning to camp, check out this article which explains  how we find free camping !

Oregon Coast road trip highlights

Here are the highlights from our trip on the Oregon coast. We hope this helps you as you create your itinerary!

• Craft Beers in Astoria
• Hiking in Ecola State Park
• Bonfire near Haystack rock on Cannon Beach
• Walking to the waterfall at Hug Point
• Oswald West Beach
• View from Neahkahnie Viewpoint
• Wandering around the cute towns of Manzanita and Oceanside
• Crabbing at Kelly’s Brighton Marina
• Tillamook ice cream and cheese at the creamery
• Fresh Oysters and wine in Netarts Bay
• Local Oceans Seafood Dinner in Newport
• Exploring tide pools at Seal Rock
• Seeing Thor’s Well “erupt”
• Wandering the “Old Town” in Florence
• Observing sea lions at the Sea Lion Caves near Florence
• Going sandboarding in Florence
• Wandering the Shore Acres Botanical Garden
• Bandon in general: the seafood, the town, the sand labyrinth
• The freaking-incredible views at Samuel H. Boardman state park

Places we thought were overrated

I want to start by saying that our expectations and timing come into play here. However, we know how helpful it is when planning a trip to know where we can cut if needed. Two towns that were weren’t so stoked on are:

• Seaside:  Felt kind of like a mini Atlantic City (in our opinions), and the large time share resort was kind of an eyesore.
• Pacific City:  It was just too busy when we visited for us to really enjoy.

Transportation for your Oregon Coast road trip

Most people will use their everyday car as the vehicle for their Oregon road trip. And that’s a great choice; however, there are other options to consider. Especially if you will be flying in from out of state. 

Campervan rental

It’s no secret we are big fans of #vanlife. If you want to give it a test drive, we’ve got tons of resources for you! 

Check out our list of top companies for  USA Campervan Rentals , from budget to bougie, including exclusive discounts for our readers.

Related:  If you already know you’re flying in and out of Portland, we also have a guide to the  best campervan rentals in Portland  specifically.

One company we’d recommend looking into is  Escape Campervans . They have 12 different locations across North America (including Portland, making it a great choice for an Oregon road trip). They come fully loaded with all the gear you need for an epic road trip, and they are a good budget option.

BONUS: We’ve partnered with them to give you a 10% off discount when you use our  link !

Rental cars

Renting a car is a great option for your road trip if you don’t want to put extra miles on your own vehicle, or are flying in from out of state. 

Personally, for road trips in the USA, we’ve had good experiences with  Booking.com  (formerly RentalCars.com). We’ve booked through them several times and have found some really great deals. For example, we rented a small SUV for a  road trip in Washington State  and paid less than $30 per day, and in  Tucson, Arizona  we paid just $17 a day. Heck yes!

Prices vary depending on your location, number of days, season, and type of car. Our advice is to compare Booking.com to other platforms with your specifics so you can be sure you’re getting the best deal.

Search & Compare Rental Car Prices

• Discover Cars : We personally use this aggregate site to compare rental car prices from all the big name companies and get the best price possible. 
• Booking.com :  We’ve had good experiences finding rental cars with this site (formerly RentalCars.com) in the past. 

What to pack for an Oregon Coast road trip

• State Park pass:  There are tons of state parks listed on this itinerary, and having a pass will save you money along the way (as well as the headache of having to pay at each individual point). Buy an annual pass for $30 at the first state park you stop at.
• raincoat  and/or umbrella
• battery pack
• layers: The coast can be notoriously chilly even in the height of summer. Bring warmer clothes than you think you’ll need.
• we usually pack  Chacos  as well as a pair of closed toe shoes
• Camera  &  tripod
• motion sickness remedies
• light hiking gear
• picnic blanket
• We spotted some with our naked eyes, but they were quite far away. So if you have binoculars, you may want to pack them!

Ultimate Road Trip Packing List!

Be sure to download our  ultimate road trip packing list !  It’s packed with good suggestions and insider tips to help plan your next road trip. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

Coolest places to stay on the Oregon Coast

Below is a round up of our top hotel and camping recommendations for your Oregon Coast road trip.

Camping on the Oregon Coast

If you’re traveling in a campervan or simply hoping to save money on your Oregon Coast road trip by camping along the way, we have a deal for you!

The Dyrt  is our favorite campsite locating app with the largest database of campgrounds (44,000+ campsites and counting!) and over 1 million user-submitted reviews.

Plus, it’s super user-friendly, and has some pretty cool features, like outdoor gear contests and forums to connect and seek advice from fellow campers, that you won’t find on any other camping app.

Try their Pro Membership for FREE  for 30 days and gain access to the offline version of the the app, utilize their trip planning feature AND get exclusive discounts on campsites and gear!

Psst! We’ve taken the guesswork out of camping for you and put together a list of the best  Oregon Coast campgrounds  over on our sister site. Split up be region, this list features campgrounds and their facilities plus advice to help you plan your camping trip.

Best Oregon Coast hotels

SCP Hotel Depoe Bay is a sustainability-focused hotel that is beautifully designed with reasonable rates. The onsite restaurant offer healthy, locally sourced dishes you can enjoy on the outdoor deck overlooking the marina.

CHECK AVAILABILITY

Arch Cape Inn is a unique European inspired retreat located on the Oregon coast between Cannon Beach and Manzanita near Hug Point. The beautiful boutique inn offer many activities to plan the perfect coastal getaway.

Whale Cove Inn is one of the most exclusive luxury boutique inns on the Oregon coast, located in Depoe Bay. With jaw-dropping views, onsite dining and activities, you’ll have everything you need to plan a luxury vacation.

Located slightly inland on the Rogue River, Tu Tu’ Tun Lodge is a magical place to immerse yourself in nature. They offer rooms, suites and houses to accommodate groups of many sizes. Plus plenty of activities to enjoy during your stay.

Stay in a Yurt by the beach!

The Oregon State Parks program has a handful of yurts that are available for rent along the coast:

• Beverly Beach State Park
• Umpqua Lighthouse State Park
• Devil’s Lake (near Lincoln City)
• Fort Stevens State Park

For more information,  check out this brochure .

Are you planning a trip to Oregon?

Being that Oregon is our home state, we have TONS of content to help you plan your trip. Start with our  Oregon Homepage  and be sure to check out the articles below. Leave us a comment if you have any more questions!

• Check out all the  weirdly awesome things to do in Portland .
• You’ll wanna keep this guide handy if you’re passing through  Astoria, Oregon .
• Read up on all the fun  things to do in Cannon Beach .
• Read this if you’ll be making your way through  Yachats, Oregon .
• You’ll want to keep this  road trip planning guide  handy.
• Just in case, here’s an itinerary for an epic  Oregon road trip . 
• And you’ll want to hang on to this list of our favorite  things to do in Oregon .

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We want to hear from you!

Are you planning an Oregon coast road trip? What areas sound most appealing to you? What questions do you still have? Comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you! 

Comments (21) on “ Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip (+ Free Map!) ”

I travel solo since my husband passed away and most of the time in Europe. I would like to do a road trip by myself and have always wanted to drive along the Oregon Coast and thinking of doing it this coming August. Would this be a good time to do it? How many days would it take to see everything? Thank you so much for sharing your awesome pictures and information and ideas about the Oregon Coast. I would appreciate any advice.

My mom lived in the Willamette Valley for a period of time as a kid. She loves Oregon and has gone often, but not in 30+ years. We vacationed there when I was 14 and 18, then once Mr. T. and I took my mom and grandmother when Josh was about 4 months old (he went too). The itinerary was always the same, fly into Portland, drive up to Mount Hood and see it, stay at that Dam Hotel while look at the Dalles, then through the mountains and Salem down to Eugene to cut over to the coast arriving in Florence and staying at the Driftwood Hotel. No reservations after that as we worked our way up the coast (finding hotels as we went) stopping at Newport Beach, Devil’s Punchbowl, Devil’s Elbow, etc. up to Tillamook and then back to Portland to fly home. It is beautiful. So.. now I am thinking about it. I think I would change it up to where it was primarily the coast maybe getting a vacation rental midway between Florence and Tillamook or similar or two vacation rental destinations and satellite out of those versus the find a hotel along the way concept. I need to confirm the weather for the window we are considering. Mr. T. states he knows I’d love it, he thinks if my mom could go anywhere in the world, that is where she would choose and that we can’t go without taking my parents. BUT unless things have changed in the last 30+ years, not sure it is an option as I don’t know mobility and access wise that it works for my parents. And I’d hate for her to be upset that we went without her. Thoughts on how if this would be a good or bad plan to take my parents? They are in their 80s, they can do some walking, but it would be somewhat limited. Also thoughts on a mid-point (or 2 points) to satellite out of it? Thanks so much!

I just wanted to say thank you for this very detailed post. I used so many of your suggestions on our family’s first trip to Oregon’s northern coast last summer. I am back again to look at your ideas for the southern coast this time!

I’ve been absent for some time, but now I remember why I used to love this web site. Thank you, I will try and check back more often. How frequently you update your website?

Hello friends, thanks for this very informative article. We’re going to put it to good use. But we need advice. We will be taking a road trip from Seattle to California on the Oregon coast, we want to make a detour and visit Portland for a few days but looking at the map we realize we might miss the northern part of the coast. Where would you recommend we turn inland and where to rejoin the beach on the way back from Portland. Thank you for your time it is greatly appreciated

Hello! I’m surprising my husband for his birthday by taking him on a road trip on the Oregon Coast. We live in Auburn, CA and plan on driving up to Portland and then over to the coast. I’m looking for a trip planning guide of cool spots. I love your blog and would love to have a print out of the best spots to stop. We will have 5 days to explore the coast. Any ideas? Thanks!

We are planning a last minute spring break trip with two boys (10 and 12) from Portland to SF for a 5 day trip, not sure where to book the hotel (what location) if we are driving on Thursday morning from Astoria towards SF to get there on Sunday morning., Can you please help?

Great Blog! I am planning a trip along the Oregon Coast this Sept. Staying for a few days in Astoria. From there visit Fort Clapsop (sp), driving to Seaside (maybe) and Cannon Beach from Astoria. Then off to Tillmook, Lebanon and then Bend and finally back home in Seattle. Since I am driving what do you suggest to get my car in order for the drive. Any information for the areas I mentioned on COVID status. Besides staying away from people and wearing a mask. I would need to eat 3 meals out every day on my trip. I can’t download anything these days so could you send anything to my email please.

Will be visiting Oregon for the first time this July. How do I receive the free map? I am a little overwhelmed, there are soooo many beautiful sights that I am interested in seeing. We will have 4 days on the coast and then down to the tip of California to the Redwoods and then up to Crater Lake.

Just say no to Oregon. Too cold on the beach, too hot in the high desert. Too many druggies, too many liberals. And a governor who’s nuts.

This is amazing y’all! I am a traveling nurse staying in Boise, Idaho at the moment. I’m driving to the Cannon Beach area tomorrow, Friday, September 3 and am staying through Monday, September 6. I have a yurt in that area for the entire length of the stay but would like to drive up and down the coast to see as much as possible in those three days. Is there a specific route y’all would suggest I take? I’m trying to time it as best I can to see as much as I can. I was thinking of starting on a northern end and making my way down. What do you think? I will have Friday afternoon, all of Saturday and Sunday, and a small portion of Monday morning. Any advice is so appreciated. Thank you so much!!!

Being off and on an Oregon Coast Resident (Grew up in Tillamook, worked for Lincoln City and Coos Bay, Lived in Newport) and worked for Oregon State Parks, i thought I could offer some tips. In most of the cities (they may be small, but still a city) deal with things on the right side of 101 as you go through town, then turn around and go back and do the same. It is a lot easier than trying to cross the highway on foot.

Lay over on summer weekends and stay off 101. It is just a parking lot anyway, and your time is better spent looking at something interesting.

Astoria, Newport, Florence, Coos Bay, Bandon, and Brookings have good things off the road and worth exploring. Bandon’s Golf Course is world famous. Cranberry Bogs are along the southern coast. Gold Beach had gold rush. Fort Stevens on the north coast was fired on by the Japanese in WWII. More symbolic than damaging. A fire balloon landed east of Brookings in WWII. Inspect the Blimp hangers at Tillamook. One of 6 such installations in the United States. Sized to house 6 inflated US Navy blimps. Largest wood framed buildings in world when constructed. A small air plane has flown through one. Lewis and Clark wintered over just south of Astoria. A trail connects that site to Fort Stevens. Look at Bay Ocean, a town that washed away into the Pacific.

Great post but wish you wouldn’t promote crab catching. Very abusive. Also you seem bent on sustainable things so why fish or eat fish?

Great blog! My husband and I heading out from Portland tomorrow. Even though we’re both native Oregonians, we haven’t seen many of the places you mention. I do have to say you missed a gem in Florence though. The Waterfront Depot is great, we’ve had the crab encrusted halibut (yum) and arroz con marisco bowl. Both are excellent dishes!

Wow! This post is absolutely packed full of anything anyone might want to know about an Oregon Coast road trip. So well done!!! Thank you for taking the time.

Wooow, such detailed and informative post and so many stunning landscape pictures. I´m also getting hungry now haha, cause the food looks amazing as well. To be honest I had no clue this part of the West coast is so nice?! Looks like an awesome road trip 🙂

It was an awesome road trip! The Oregon Coast is so nice to visit. Sorry (but not really 😉 to make you hungry, the food was just too good not to share!

wowo, what a comprehensive article with so many details and great tips! Even for me who calls Portland her home for 15 months still lots of new places to discover. 😉

I know what you mean! There is so much to see and do on the Oregon Coast! We’ve been living in Oregon for 12 months and I feel like our list just keeps growing!

Tillamook Ice Cream is the absolute greatest! Best tip ever to grab some in Oregon!

Yes! Just thinking about it makes my mouth water! SO GOOD!

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Best of the Oregon Coast in 2 Days with a Family

Oregon Coast in 2 days: surfing beach, historic coastal city, sea lions, Corps of Discovery Expedition, puffins nests and amazing sunset at the Pacific

• Post author By Mrs. Grazy Goat
• Post date May 24, 2019
• Post last updated date Last Updated: November 2, 2021
• No Comments on Best of the Oregon Coast in 2 Days with a Family

Craving for the sounds of crashing ocean waves, bustling marine life, and short on time? It is possible to explore the Oregon coast in 2 days, as a lot of “must-see” places located very close to each other.

Bring your little ones, as Oregon Coast is very family-friendly!

Oregon Coast – what so special about it?!

While sharing the same shore with Washington (in the north) and California (in the south), Oregon Coast is genuinely different . It’s much more impressive, lush, and diverse than California’s coastline, yet less known and underrated, wild and rugged.

We knew nothing about it until we moved to the West Coast. All we knew about Oregon was Portland :).

Oregon Coast in 2 days

Important notes.

1. Hours, current conditions, might change during Covid-19. Please verify all the essential information for the destinations before you go.

2. Keep in mind Oregon Coast is pretty long: roughly 363 miles and full of natural wonders. We made 5 trips there in 3 years and still didn’t see all. There are so many beautiful and unique things to see and do that you’ll have to give up on some.

1. Best of Oregon: historic coastal city of Astoria

Time to explore: from a brief visit to a full day. Driving time : from Seattle: 3 hours; from Portland: 2 hours.

Astoria is a great starting point on the way to explore Oregon Coast. Many people skip it, heading to the popular towns like Seaside or Cannon Beach, but it has a lot to offer. Hundreds of California sea lions, underground tour, microbreweries, etc… We made a separate post about Astoria adventures.

2. Seaside: bonfire and seals

Seaside is known as Oregon’s Coney Island : it has an amusement park, indoor carousel mall, promenade, and dozens of souvenir shops.

Now, forget it all: the best-kept secrets of Seaside are bonfires at the beach at night and feeding seals at the local aquarium . Sitting at the bonfire at night, with the sounds of ocean waves crashing nearby is pure magic! You can get firewood at the stores nearby Seaside Beach Oregon.

Feeding seals at Seaside Aquarium was supposed to be an activity for kids but all of us were happy to interact with those guys:

The aquarium is small but nice. The top thing is definitely watching and feeding the seals. Highly recommend!

3. Ecola State Park: best panoramic views

If you looking for an iconic picture of the Pacific Ocean and Oregon Coast, go to the Ecola state park . The views are vast and dramatic:

Ecola park is easy to explore: no need to hike at all if you don’t want to . Beautiful views open up after just a couple of minutes of walking from the parking lot. Restrooms and picnic tables are available on-site:

Indian Beach , part of Ecola State Park, is great for exploring sea life creatures during low tide, and our next destination in Oregon.

4. Cannon Beach

Time to explore : from a couple of hours to a full day. Driving: 7 min from Ecola State Park, 1.5 hours from Portland. Cannon Beach is the most famous spot on Oregon Coast. We love this place for multiple reasons, and one of them … – puffins ! Lots and lots of tufted puffins could be found at Haystack Rock from April to August. Come during low tide and don’t forget binoculars .

There are so many things to do in Cannon Beach, we made a separate post . It is a wonderful, full of life in any season, small coastal town.

Puffins nest on the grassy meadow on the north face of the Haystack Rock, the right, flat, an upper side of the rock, in the picture below:

5. Oregon Coast in 2 Days. Hug Point: picturesque cliffs, waterfall, and caves.

Time to explore: from a brief visit to a couple of hours. Location: 10 min drive from Cannon Beach. Hug Point is one of the best beaches along the Oregon Coast. It has everything travelers could ask for: an easy, short trail to the secluded beach, the waterfall you can climb on (during low tide), and multiple caves along the way.

Hug Point is great for tide pooling (during low tide as well), watching the sunset, playing in the sand. Kids and we, adults, were squealing with excitement when we discovered this place:

6. Short Sand Beach, top surfing spot

Time to explore : from a brief visit to a couple of hours. Driving time: 6 min from Hug Point State Recreational Site. Short Sand Beach at Oswald West State Park is one of the most popular spots for surfing in Oregon, but also great for visiting with a family. Short Sands trail, an easy 0.5 miles hike leads through the beautiful rainforest to the Smugglers Cove. In the picture below surfers walking at the beach during sunset:

The long Short Sand beach is perfect to watch the sunset, explore piles of driftwood, and a nice place for tide pooling during low tides. There are picnic tables right in front of the ocean, you can have a great lunch if the weather is good. In the pic below views of the Oswald West State Park from the top:

Best of the Oregon Coast in 2 Days. Essentials

Oregon Coast is popular to visit year-round. Summers might be hot or might be as fall, winter, and spring: mild, wet, and windy.

• Appropriate jackets, shoes are essential, as well as changes of clothes for kids. Being swept by the icy-cold waters despite a calm-looking ocean is very possible.
• Check the tide schedule before tide-pooling, puffin-watching, and other low-tide related activities
• Never turn your back to the ocean.
• Bring binoculars . And a kite (we have this one , in the pic below). Oregon Coast is kite’s flyers paradise!

Oregon Coast in 2 days on My Maps

Where to stay during Oregon Coast trip in 2 Days

Cannon Beach is the most popular place for short stays on the Oregon Coast. Hotel rates are better at Seaside, it’s only 13 minutes drive away. We enjoyed River Inn at Seaside and were staying there 3 years in a row. Usually, we book through Priceline .

Renting a house overlooking the Pacific is in high demand year-round:

You can rent one through Airbnb . Cannon Beach is a tempting place to stay, and available houses disappear very quickly. Book as far in advance as you can , especially for the best rates.

Portland, Oregon : how to make the most out of your visit

Oregon Coast road trip: the ultimate guide and 18 amazing places to visit . 19 top things to do on Oregon Coast

Alaska road trip : planning the trip. Budget, accommodation, the best time to visit. Yellowstone’s top pros and cons. Banff NP : Canadian beauty

Thank you for reading, friends! Have fun and enjoy the Oregon Coast!

• Tags beaches , coast , coastal towns , en , Oregon , road trip

By Mrs. Grazy Goat

I am Ira, the author behind Grazy Goat. My husband and I run this blog and share our experiences about thrilling places and cultures. Our son Artem recently joined us and helps with editing.

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The Best Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

An Oregon Coast Road Trip is the best way to experience the Pacific Coastline in the northwestern United States! Characterized by dramatic cliffs and long stretches of sand, the Oregon Coast is absolutely stunning.

Epic lighthouses, beautiful nature trails and incredible viewpoints are top Highway 101 Oregon attractions. We include them all (and more) in our Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary!

Planning an Oregon Coast Road Trip

There are hundreds of things to do along the Oregon Coast – which can make it extremely overwhelming to plan an Oregon Coast Trip.

We have driven the coast on numerous occasions in various seasons. Our Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip includes all the top attractions. Plus, for each day of our Oregon Coast Itinerary, we detail the best stops, where to stay and what to eat. 

However, because some US road trippers may have various timeframes or different interests than what’s on our Oregon Coast driving itinerary, we also share tips for alternate stops along the same route.

Furthermore, we understand that there is a lot more to planning the best PNW road trip than deciding which things to see along the Oregon Coast.

Therefore, in our Oregon Coast trip planner, you will also find our recommended accommodations, and packing tips. Additionally, we provide an Oregon coast road trip map and useful Highway 101 Oregon road trip tips.

With our Oregon Coast drive itinerary, you do not need to stress about planning your trip – we’ve already done all the hard work for you! 

Oregon Coast Trip Planning Organization

Planning an Oregon Coast Itinerary will still require some organization. In order to keep track of all the details, use our Trip Planning Printables ! 

Oregon Coast Highway 101 Road Trip Itinerary FAQs

Before we jump into the details of what to see along the Oregon Coast, let’s review a few of the frequently asked questions.

What is the Best Place to Visit on the Oregon Coast?

In our opinion, there isn’t just one best place to visit on the coastline. That is why we are detailing an Oregon Coast drive that will take you to several of the most beautiful places along the shoreline!

Throughout our itinerary, we highlight the best stops and top things to do along the 101 in Oregon from the North to Central Coast. Additionally, we provide tips to extend your trip down the coast of California at the end of the article.

How Many Days for a Coastal Oregon Itinerary? 

For this Oregon Coast scenic drive, we are detailing a 3-night, 4-day Oregon road trip. That said, this Oregon 101 road trip can easily be modified for more (or less) time with just a few adjustments.

How Long is the Oregon Coast Trip from Portland?

Our Oregon road trip is designed in a loop that begins and ends in Portland. The total distance is about 400 miles. How long the Oregon Coastal drive will take depends on a multitude of factors – including your interests, number of stops and traffic. 

What Vehicle to use on a Road Trip to The Oregon Coast?

In our opinion, a mid-size SUV is the best car for your Oregon Coast driving tour. In addition to the extra comfort, sitting higher off the road you will have a better view of the incredible Pacific shoreline. Read our top tips for finding the best rate , then hop online  to book your car rental.

Where are the Overnight Oregon Coast Road Trip Stops?

One of the biggest questions when planning a coastal vacation is, Where should I stay on the Oregon Coast Road Trip?

Our Oregon Coast Itinerary 4 Days Route includes 3 overnight stays – Cannon Beach, Pacific City and Florence. We carefully chose these specific Oregon Coast cities for their location along the route, places to eat and things to do. 

When is the Best Time to Travel the Oregon Coast?

Every season has pros and cons for an Oregon Coast road trip. Below, we cover some of those based on our experiences.

Summer and Autumn Oregon Coast Travel

We believe the best time of year to take a Pacific Northwest Coast road trip is in the summer or autumn. Oregon Coast weather is typically cool throughout the summer and tends to be dry and very pleasant. Longer summer days are also perfect for enjoying the outdoor Oregon Coast attractions.

Of course, summer is the busiest time on the Oregon coastal road. The heavy crowds can cause road delays, stressful sightseeing and more expensive accommodations. 

Winter and Spring Oregon Coastline Road Trip

These seasons tend to be rainy and windy, making an Oregon winter road trip less favorable weather-wise. Furthermore, the winter Oregon Coast sunset time will likely limit your exploration.

The upside is that the crowds are gone and accommodations are cheaper. While not our personal favorite time to make the drive, traveling the Oregon Coast in spring and winter can still be enjoyable.

Which Direction is Best on an Oregon Coastal Road Trip?

Our 4-Day Oregon Coast road trip is from north to south – which is the best direction, in our opinion. 

Oregon Coast North to South

There are two reasons why we planned the road trip from Portland north to the south. First, we prefer driving along the ocean so that we have a full view of the coast (rather than looking across traffic). The second reason is that it allows drivers easy access to the numerous scenic roadside overlooks and Oregon Coast viewpoints. 

Oregon Coast Road Trip South to North

Of course, it’s not bad to plan a trip to the Oregon Coast in the opposite direction. To do so, simply reverse our outlined Best Oregon Coast Road Trip Plan!

Oregon Coastal Road Trip Day-by-Day Itinerary

Our Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary is packed with detailed information so that you can easily plan your adventure. Organized to be completed over 4 days, our Oregon Coastal road trip planner includes the best attractions, some short hikes and all the outstanding Oregon Coast views!

 Save, Bookmark or Pin our Oregon Coast Itinerary for planning your trip!

Day 1: Portland, Oregon Road Trip to Cannon Beach

Route : Portland to Cannon Beach; US Highway 26 west to Highway 101, then south to Cannon Beach. Distance : 80 miles. Time : 1 hour and 20 minutes. Map ( Map with Stops). 

Embark on your Oregon Coast road trip from Portland early in the day. The drive from Portland to the Oregon Coast leaves the city behind, weaves into forests and crosses over the Coastal Mountain Range.

A good mid-way stopping point to stretch your legs (or hop on a bicycle if you have one) is near Buxton on the Banks-Vernonia State Trail. The paved path was formerly railroad tracks that connected the cities of Banks and Vernonia and was used to haul timber. The trail extends 21 miles, has multiple trailheads and can be used by hikers, bikers and horseback riders.

For lunch, stop at Camp 18 Restaurant. The log cabin eatery is decorated in classic mountain motif. Offering hearty home cooked meals and huge cinnamon rolls, there’s also an on-site museum that details the logging history of the region.

Cannon Beach: An Oregon Coast Must-See

Named for a cannon that floated onto the shore in the mid-1800s, Cannon Beach is a top Oregon Coast destination. The small beach town is highlighted by locally owned shops and restaurants and is one of the best stops on any Oregon Coast road trip.

The iconic Haystack Rock, a sea stack monolith that rises 235-feet-high, sits at the south end of the flat, wide beach.

North Oregon Coast Travel Tips and Sightseeing

Sights near Cannon Beach include Ecola State Park (hiking trails and viewpoints), Seaside (a cute touristic town) and Neahkahnie Mountain (a challenging summit trail with amazing views south of Cannon Beach).

Fun Fact : Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock have been featured in numerous movies, including The Goonies, Twilight and Point Break. 

Where To Stay in Cannon Beach, Oregon

We think the best place to stay is at Hallmark Resort, which faces the ocean and offers impeccable views of Haystack Rock. In addition to multiple pools, the resort also has an on-site spa and fitness center, free movies and popcorn along with fresh cookies in the lobby. Check rates and availability!

If the Hallmark Resort is unavailable, you can also check out Schooner’s Cove Inn and The Waves , which are both on the water and get rave reviews.

Alternate Oregon Road Trip Ideas for Day 1

While Hwy 26 is our preferred method of driving from Portland to the coast, it is not the only route. In fact, there are two other popular roads that can be used for trips to Oregon Coast from Portland.

Highway 30 via Astoria

Also called the Columbia River Highway, Hwy 30 leaves Portland to the north and follows the Columbia River west to Astoria, where it meets up with Highway 101.

Travelers who want to take a coastal Oregon road trip that covers the entire length of the state should take this route. 

The distance to Cannon Beach using Hwy 30 is 120 miles and takes about 2.5 hours. We do recommend stopping in Astoria to see some of the top sights. These include the shipwreck at Fort Stevens State Park, the fort at Lewis and Clark National Historical Park, the famed Astoria Column and the impressive Astoria-Megler Bridge (connecting Oregon to Washington).

Highway 6 through Tillamook

Another route to the coast from Portland is to take Hwy 26 to Hwy 6. This direction meets the coast south of Cannon Beach at Tillamook. Those taking a day trip from Portland could use this route to shave some time off the drive.

2-Day Northern Oregon Coast Itinerary

For a quick 2-Day Oregon Coastal Itinerary of the North Coast, you could take Highway 30 to Astoria, then stay the night in Cannon Beach. On Day 2, drive south to Tillamook and use Hwy 26 and 6 to complete your loop back to Portland.

Day 2: North-Central Oregon Coast

Route : Cannon Beach to Pacific City; Highway 101 South and the Three Capes Scenic Route. Distance : 65 miles. Time : 1 hour and 30 minutes. Map ( Map with Stops). 

After a leisurely breakfast, depart Cannon Beach and continue on your Oregon trip itinerary by traveling south on Highway 101.

If you are up for a big trek (and didn’t do it the day before), stop at Neahkahnie Mountain to hike the trail to the summit. Otherwise, make your way leisurely down the coast through the towns of Manzanita and Rockaway Beach to Tillamook Bay.

For lunch, stop at Tillamook Creamery – one of the best stops while driving the Oregon Coast. The local creamery is a cheese factory, museum and restaurant all in one. Take a self-guided tour of the facility, then tuck into a cheesy lunch…but definitely save room for an ice cream dessert!

Day 2 Road Trip Oregon Coast Highlight: Three Capes Scenic Drive

Just south of the Tillamook Creamery, detour off the 101 onto the Three Capes Scenic Route. One of the Oregon Coast highlights, the route includes Cape Meares, Cape Lookout and Cape Kiwanda.

Stop at the Cape Meares Lighthouse, which was built in the 1890s, and if time permits join one of the free lighthouse tours. Other attractions at the lighthouse include super ocean viewpoints (look for whales and seals), walking trails and the famous “Octopus Tree.”

Continue your Oregon Coast sightseeing drive around Cape Meares to the Netarts Bay Shellfish Preserve along Whiskey Creek Road – then on to Cape Lookout State Park.

Make this one of your Oregon Coast stops and hike the length of the Cape Lookout Trail. The trek features a lush forest lining the top of the Oregon Coast cliffs. The trail leads to spectacular viewpoints – and, in our opinion, is an Oregon Coast road trip must-see!

Pacific City: An Oregon Road Trip Destination

A laid-back beach town, Pacific City is a perfect place for a relaxing night on the coast. It’s one of our favorite Oregon road trip stops.

Highlights of the area are the gigantic haystack rock (named Chief Kiwanda Rock), a 240-foot sand dune on Cape Kiwanda and the local beachfront brewery.

Pacific City Travel Tips and Sightseeing

After getting settled into your accommodations, head straight for the Cape Kiwanda Beach. Fly a kite, sink your feet in the sand or start a beach bonfire and enjoy the Pacific Ocean view and the sound of the waves.

When you have worked up a thirst and appetite, head into the Pelican Brewing Company oceanfront taproom for refreshing craft beers and satisfying eats. If fermented grapes are your preference, unwind with a glass of Oregon wine at PC Pour or Twist Wine Company.

Where To Stay in Pacific City

When we visit Pacific City, we stay at the Inn at Cape Kiwanda – and couldn’t imagine staying anywhere else!

The ocean view boutique hotel is just across the street from the Pacific City Beach and Pelican Brewery. It’s just mere steps from the Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area. The large, clean rooms have comfortable beds with a cozy fireplace. They also offer other amenities; like on-site bike rentals, a spa and the Stimulus Coffee + Bakery to jump-start your day!

Alternate Oregon Coastal Road Trip Itineraries for Day 2

The Three Capes Scenic Route is one of the best spots on the Oregon Coast – so we do not recommend skipping it!

Plan a Longer Oregon Coast Driving Tour

In fact, we like the Three Capes region so much that if you are planning a longer Oregon Coast 101 Road Trip, we suggest spending an additional night in the area. Perhaps stay two nights in Pacific City or one night in Cape Meares and one night in Pacific City.

A Shorter Road Trip along Oregon Coast

On the other hand, if you really need to shorten your trip, eliminate the overnight stay in Pacific City. If you get an early start from Cannon Beach, you should still have time for the sights along the Three Capes Scenic Loop. Then drive on to Florence.

Day 3: Central Oregon Coast

Route : Pacific City to Florence; Highway 101 South. Distance : 96 miles. Time : 2 hours and 10 minutes. Map ( Map with Stops).

In the morning, make the tough climb up the Cape Kiwanda sand dune for a solid morning workout. Pick up some delicious baked goods from Grateful Bread Bakery on your way out of town and start driving south on the 101 Oregon Coast.

Pacific City to Yaquina, OR

The road winds through forests slightly inland until Devils Lake, where it meets back up with coastline. The scenery along this section is utterly beautiful; consider making one or more stops.

Day 3 Road Trip: Oregon Coast Stops

Roads End State Recreation Site is a good place to stop for a picnic. Fogarty Creek State Scenic Area is well known for its tide pools. Depoe Bay is an ideal Oregon Coast whale watching spot. Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area features a collapsed sea cave (and is a popular place for experienced surfers).

Yaquina Lighthouse

Ranking as the tallest lighthouse in Oregon at 93 feet, Yaquina Lighthouse has been in operation since 1873. It still utilizes the original lens and is open for tours (hours vary, so check ahead).

Newport, Oregon

Make the short drive south to Newport, where there are a handful of sights. Popular choices include the Oregon Coast Aquarium, the Hatfield Marine Science Center and the funky shops at Aquarium Village. Newport is also a good spot to stretch your legs on Nye Beach or South Beach State Park. In fact, if you are planning an Oregon Coast family road trip, Newport is a top destination!

For lunch, dine at Rogue Ale & Spirits on the south side of the arched Yaquina Bay Bridge. It’s one of our favorite eateries on our Oregon Coast road trip! Patrons can sign up for a brewery tour, top up a growler to take with you or feast from a full menu of pub grub.

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area

After lunch, continue south on your Oregon Coastal road trip to Yachats. This cute town for a quick stretch of the legs and then drive onwards to Cape Perpetua. The cape itself offers stunning shoreline views and trails, but the nearby attractions are worth stopping by as well.

Top area sights are Devil’s Churn (an inlet that sprays when waves crash into the shore), Thor’s Well (a unique rock formation that appears to be draining the ocean at high tide), and Sprouting Horn (an ocean geyser that launches misty water into the air).

Heceta Head

An absolute must-see stop for your Oregon Coast road trip planner is the Heceta Head Lighthouse. One of the most beautiful lighthouses on the Pacific Coast, Heceta Head cannot be missed on a Oregon road trip down the coast!

Visitors can park at Cape Cove, where there is plenty of parking (but a fee is required). If it is low tide, spend some time exploring the tidal pools before making the walk to the lighthouse.

Top   Tip:  Beyond the lighthouse a trail crosses over the Heceta Headland through a mossy forest and leads to a hidden beach. It’s one of our favorite hikes on the Oregon Coast! We share the complete details in our article: Hikes Near Florence, OR .

Sea Lions and Scenic Viewpoints

The distance from Heceta Head to Florence is about 20 miles – and there are a few stops you might want to make along this stretch as well.

Shortly after leaving the lighthouse parking lot, pull into the small scenic overlook offering the best view of Heceta Lighthouse. Keep an eye on the sea, we’ve often spotted sea lions and whales just offshore!

Just beyond the viewpoint is the Sea Lions Cave, which is a very popular (yet smelly and noisy) coastal Oregon attraction.

Just as Hwy 101 begins to descend inland towards Florence, there are a few pullouts for phenomenal viewpoints that look directly south over Heceta Beach. After making these great Oregon Coast scenic stops, complete the day’s drive to Florence Old Town.

Florence: A Gem Along Oregon Coast

Old Town Florence, Oregon is nestled along the Siuslaw River. It’s a bit easy to miss if you don’t follow the signs before crossing over the Siuslaw Bridge.

The charming town has a long history as a fishing village but is now more of a quaint tourist destination. The main drag, Bay Street, runs parallel to the river and features souvenir shops, a variety of restaurants and fun bars and cafes.

After three amazing days on the best Oregon Coast road trip, spend your time in Florence strolling along Bay, Laurel and Maple Streets and popping into the local shops.

For dinner, eat at the delightful Waterfront Depot (make reservations in advance). Order their signature dish, Crab-Encrusted Halibut (believe us, it’s divine! ).

Pro Tip: Florence is a fabulous spot to spend a day – or longer – checking out the immediate area. For more, use our complete guide to the Best Things To Do in Florence !

Where To Stay in Florence, OR

There are numerous, mostly uninspiring, motels along Highway 101 in Florence. Don’t panic, we know the best place to stay in Florence is right in the heart of the Old Town. The River House Inn has a prime waterfront location right on Bay Street.

If a beach stay is more your style, check out Driftwood Shores Resort , which is a short drive from the Old Town. The classic beach hotel offers direct Heceta Beach access and excellent Pacific Ocean views.

Alternate Oregon Coast Road Trip Ideas for Day 3

Because we think the Central Oregon Coast is the most beautiful section of the drive, we include a lot of stops in Day 3 of our itinerary. 

Add an Overnight Stay in Newport to your Oregon Coast Vacation Itinerary

If you have time to plan a 5-Day Oregon Coast road trip, we recommend stopping and spending the night in Newport. This will break up your Oregon coast drive time into two days of Highway 101 sightseeing on the Central Coast for a more leisurely pace.

Day 4: Oregon Coast Back To Portland

Route : Florence to Portland; Highway 126 east, 569 Beltline to bypass Eugene and Interstate 5 north to Portland. Distance : 162 miles. Time : 3 hours. Map ( Map with Stops).

The final day of your Oregon Coast vacation itinerary is spent making the long drive back to Portland. Grab coffee and a pastry at the always delicious River Roasters, then breathe in the fresh sea air with a brisk morning walk along the Florence Harbor or at North Jetty.

Waterfall Hike

When you are ready to complete the loop of your Portland-Oregon Coast road trip, take Highway 126 east to Mapleton. After making the righthand turn to stay on 126, consider detouring to the Sweet Creek Falls trail (another one of our favorite Oregon Hikes ).

Drive through the Coastal Range toward Eugene and I-5

Hop back on 126 and start the climb over the mountains. Stop by the Gingerbread Village Restaurant for a tasty home-cooked lunch and super friendly service. Afterwards, continue driving east towards Eugene.

If you are interested in visiting Eugene , it’s a fun university city with a few museums, lots of bars and a working class yet youthful vibe.

Otherwise, veer north onto the 569 Beltline to I-5 and make the relatively flat and boring drive back to Portland. Or…

Columbia River Gorge

If you’re an early riser and ambitious driver, make a detour to the Columbia River Gorge. Just east of Portland, the scenic drive through the gorge features spectacular waterfalls and beautiful landscapes. 

Use our guide for details about the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Drive !

Portland, Oregon

Hopefully you’ve left time for some sightseeing in Portland, too. Explore the Pearl District and Chinatown before stopping into a local craft brewery – like Deschutes Public House – for good eats and local beers.

Check out our guide, The Best Things To Do in Portland for more tips and attractions. 

Pro Tip: Vancouver, Washington – just north of Portland – is a fun city to visit or base yourself in, as well! Much smaller and easier to navigate than Portland, Vancouver is steeped in history and boasts a phenomenal craft beer scene . Use our guide to Visiting Vancouver, WA for tips on what to do and see!

Alternate Plans for Day 4 of Your Oregon Coast Driving Trip

Most of the final day of our 4 Day Oregon Coast Road Trip is spent on the road. While it is the direct way to get back to Portland, we do have a few alternate route suggestions if time permits.

Complete the Oregon Coastal Drive in Reverse

If the fast-yet-dull route back to Portland is not enticing, consider backtracking and doing the complete Oregon Highway 101 road trip in reverse!

The northbound drive – without stops and traffic – could take as little as 4 hours. When completing this Oregon Coast travel itinerary in reverse, we recommend using Highway 18 from Lincoln City to get back to Portland, rather than traveling all the way north to Cannon Beach. 

The Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum – home to the famed  Spruce Goose – is on Highway 18 and makes an interesting place to stop. You may even have time to see any Oregon Coast sights that you might have missed traveling south.

Plan a One-Way Oregon Coast Travel Itinerary

We organized our Oregon coastline drive as a loop that begins and ends in Portland – but it doesn’t have to be done that way. 

Instead, book your flights into Portland and out of Eugene for a one-way trip. To save money, try to find a rental car company that will allow you to pick up in Portland and drop off in Eugene without extra fees. 

Extend Your Oregon Road Trip Itinerary

If time allows, extend your Oregon Coast 4-Day Itinerary into a longer trip! We provide tips below for an extended Southern Oregon Coast Itinerary that dips into California. 

Alternatively, you could plan an longer Oregon Itinerary that includes top inland destinations. Before making your way back to Portland, we suggest checking out What To Do and See in Bend !

Oregon Road Trip Planner Map

This Oregon Coast Map features the recommended stops on our Highway 101 Road Trip. Use this Google Map for an interactive Oregon Coast road map that shows detailed information. 

Prefer a hard copy? This Highway 101 Map by National Geographic is an excellent Coastal Oregon Map that is both waterproof and tear resistant. 

More Oregon Coast Road Trips

We have designed the ultimate Oregon Coast road trip from Portland. That said, there are an endless number of routes that explore the West Coast.

We are highlighting a few of the top Oregon Coast trip ideas that we did not include in our itinerary 4 Days.

Portland to Southern Oregon Coast Road Trip

The Southern Coast can easily be added to your Oregon trip planner by adding 1, 2, or 3 days to your trip plan. Very different from the central and northern coastlines, the Southern Oregon Coast features more rugged nature, secluded beaches and fewer crowds.

From Florence, travelers can continue driving south on Hwy 101 on a Southern Oregon Road Trip to Coos Bay. The route passes through the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area (a popular spot for ATV riding and challenging sand dune hikes). 

While Highway 101 turns inland at Coos Bay, we recommend following Cape Arago Highway to the coast. There, three state parks – Sunset Bay State Park, Shore Acres State Park and Cape Arago State Park – are nestled along the shoreline and connected by a system of hiking trails.  

Consider staying the night in the Coos Bay area – or continue heading south on Highway 101 until it meets back up with the coast at Port Orford. 

Port Orford

The small town of Port Orford has two big claims. It ranks as the oldest town on the Oregon Coast and holds the title as the most westerly town in the Lower 48. Although a sleepy little stop, the viewpoint from Battle Rock of the rock strewn sea is stunning. 

Cape Sebastian State Scenic Corridor

Highlighted by a spectacular viewpoint – aptly named the Cape Sebastian Viewpoint – the Cape Sebastian State Scenic Corridor is a fantastic place to stop for a picnic lunch. Gold Beach, Kissing Rock and Myers Creek Beach Viewpoint also offer excellent vantage points. 

Experienced hikers will want to lace up their boots and set off on the Cape Sebastian Trail that ends at the beach. Allow for a couple of hours to complete this hike.

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

The drive through Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is one of the most stunning stretches of the entire Oregon Coast. 

Visitors should plan on making stops at the Arch Rock Picnic Area (which has multiple scenic viewpoints) and Natural Bridge (which features a viewing platform and an incredible hiking trail that puts you right on top of the natural rock bridge). 

The Thomas Creek Bridge – which ranks as the tallest bridge in Oregon – is an interesting man-made marvel along the corridor, as well. Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint is another gorgeous place to stop – especially on clear days. 

Crescent City, California

We know this is an Oregon Road Trip Itinerary, but Crescent City, California is just 20 miles south of the state line and well worth visiting! If you plan on discovering Southern Oregon, we highly recommend extending your Oregon Coast highway road trip into Northern California.

The small town has a handful of attractions; a beautiful offshore lighthouse and a lively brewery among them. However, the top reason to make the trip to Crescent City is to visit Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. 

The park is home to some of the most incredible redwood groves in the world. Hiking, rafting and a scenic drive through the forest are popular activities.

Find out more in our guide of Things To Do in Crescent City !

Oregon to California Road Trip

On an ideal 10-day to two-week West Coast road trip, visitors can make their way from Portland to San Francisco. Depending on your pace, it’s possible to reach Los Angeles or even San Diego.

What To See on an Oregon to California Coast Road Trip

To create your ideal California-Oregon Road Trip Itinerary on the Coast, use our outlined Oregon Coast Road Trip, including the additional southern section. Then continue driving south on the 101 from Crescent City.

Northern California

On this section of the Oregon to San Francisco road trip along the coast, highlights include the town of Eureka, Redwood National and State Parks (and the famed Avenue of the Giants), Mendocino County (and Fort Bragg) and California wine country. Consider overnight stays in Eureka and Mendocino before arriving in San Francisco.

San Francisco

If you’re going to San Francisco…use our  San Francisco Itinerary for tips on what to see and where to stay in SF! We highlight for you the best San Francisco sights – and recommend staying at least two days to really experience the city.

Southern California

To plan the rest of your trip on the coastline to Los Angeles, Malibu or San Diego use our detailed California Highway 1 Itinerary . It’s the perfect Cali West Coast road trip planner! 

Pro Tip: If you are planning an Oregon Coast road trip from California, simply flip our itinerary around. Make a stop in Crescent City and then drive up the Oregon Coast!

Oregon to Washington Coast Road Trip

Planning a Pacific Northwest coastal road trip that includes both Oregon and Washington is a fabulous idea!

Highway 101 crosses the Columbia River (and state border) at Astoria, making a Washington-Oregon road trip fairly easy to plan. Again, we recommend driving south, so a good route would be a Seattle to Oregon Coast Road Trip. Use our tips on the Best Things To Do in Seattle before starting your drive.

On an Oregon Coast Road trip from Seattle, drivers start at Olympic National Park, wind around North Bay and Willapa Bay to the Columbia River. Once crossing into Oregon, continue to Cannon Beach.

Travelers could easily spend a week or longer on an Oregon-Washington Coast road trip. Creating a longer road trip around Washington State? We recommend adding Spokane to your journey! 

Oregon Coast Tours

While road trips allow for freedom to explore, they also require an attentive and careful driver. Rather than coming up with Oregon Coast vacation ideas on your own and sitting behind the wheel, leave the details to a pro and join an Oregon Coast tour!

Oregon Coast Tours from Portland

Those who would rather leave the driving to someone else can join an organized, small-group, day tour from Portland. This Oregon Coast day trip itinerary includes stops at Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park and Oswald West State Park. Reserve your spot!

Oregon Coast Package Tours from Eugene

From Eugene, join an Oregon Coast travel guide for a full day tour. This coastal Oregon trip itinerary includes visiting Yachats, Heceta Lighthouse and Florence – three of the must see destinations. Get the details!

What You Need for an Oregon Coast Road Trip

Before setting off, we have a few hacks for what to pack for the Oregon Coast. Be sure to check out all our packing tips  and grab your FREE Checklist , too!

Weather Appropriate Apparel 

Oregon Coast weather will be unpredictable – and the coastal air is often cooler than anticipated. Therefore, we recommend packing clothing that can be layered. It is also a good idea to bring a packable raincoat , as well as a wide-brimmed travel hat for sunny days! 

Hiking Boots

Anyone planning a trip to Oregon will likely want to hit a few nature trails. Most of the Oregon Coast trails we recommend are easy to moderate hikes. Even so, it is always best to hike with proper footwear  – so you may want to add hiking boots to your packing list for the Oregon Coast.

Binoculars 

The amazing viewpoints are one of the best things about the Oregon Coast! To get a better look at the vistas on the Oregon Coast, we suggest carrying a good pair of binoculars . They are great for spotting whales and other wildlife, too!

Day Pack 

Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase for your Oregon Coast drive itinerary, we highly recommend using a day pack for your daily adventures. A great day bag will help to organize all of your necessities and other everyday travel items .

Travel Camera 

More and more people are relying on their phones to take pictures. However, a good travel camera with a zoom lens is necessary to truly capture the scenes during your road trip on the Oregon Coast.

We shoot with a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens . We believe this is an excellent set-up and use it for all our travels. Best of all, the it comes bundled with a complete accessory kit – which also makes for a great budget camera for beginner photographers!

Playlist for an Oregon Coast Drive

The best road trips in Oregon are accompanied by great music! Before you set off to the Coast, create an epic playlist.

Some of the tunes we recommend for road trips from Portland to the coast are “Where the Streets Have No Name” by U2 and “Lumberjack” by Johnny Cash. We love folk music for road trip playlists, and would also add these songs from Oregon bands. “Furr” by Blitzen Trapper, “Half Moon” by Blind Pilot and “Down by the Water” by The Decemberists.

Start planning your trip to Oregon ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

More Top USA Destinations

Have a look at our complete guides to numerous hot US Travel Spots and a few of our hand-picked suggestions below!

Looking for more Epic Road Trips in America? Check out our guide to the Best Montana Road Trip and all the Great Things To See in Ohio !

Planning to visit the Best US Cities? Use our detailed guides to Phoenix , Philly , Washington DC ,   Chicago , Boston , NYC and Denver !

Need a Weekend Escape? Find our Top Picks for US Weekend Trips – like Indy , New Orleans , Vegas , Nashville  and Austin!

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

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When You Wander

Travel tips, van life, the great outdoors, the perfect oregon coast road trip itinerary, november 5, 2018 liana safian, where to stay, where to eat, and what to do on the oregon coast in a week.

After Descending on Bend with a bunch of other rad van lifers and hanging with our amazing friends and family in Portland, we ended our time in Oregon by doing something we’ve long wanted to do—going on an epic Oregon coast road trip down HWY 101.

Whether you’re a Pacific Northwest local or just visiting, a road trip down the Oregon coast is one of the best ways to take in the unique beauty and culture of the area. Rugged cliffs rise high above tumultuous waves and lush green forests meet the sandy shores of the ocean. You’ll find history, hikes, treasure hunts, shipwrecks, whales spouting, seals and sea lions singing (the “singing” part may be debatable, but you’ll certainly hear them), and of course loads of fresh seafood…and cheese (oh yes, there will be cheese).

Our original itinerary included 95 stops (not joking). That was a bit overambitious. Needless to say, we’ve trimmed this Oregon coast road trip itinerary down to the best stops, sights, sounds, and of course eats on HWY 101.

Here’s a short highlight reel of our Oregon coast road trip.

Budget Travel Tip: The Oregon Pacific Coast Passport is only $10 and gains you entry to the state parks and national lands in this itinerary for 5 days. You can buy the pass twice to visit all the parks in a week. Another budget tip is to stay at state park campgrounds the entire trip and forgo the multi-day pass completely. A state park camping receipt allows entry to all state parks until 10 pm on the departure day. Just display it on your dash like any other pass.

Top 5 Road Trip Essentials Make sure you have everything you need for your Oregon coast road trip. Here are the top 5 items we find most useful when travelling long-term (aka living) on the road. 1. Leatherman Multi-tool  We use our Leatherman for just about everything…even opening a bottle of wine in a pinch. 2. Sunglasses: If you’re lucky, you’ll need these on your Oregon coast road trip. We love budget friendly and “me proof” (aka can be dropped 10 times a day without breaking) sunglasses like these . 3. Headlamps  If you want to make it back to your campsite or hotel after the coastal sunsets, be sure to pack some headlamps. 4. First Aid Kit  Hopefully you won’t need this, but if you slip opening that bottle of wine with your Leatherman, you might need a bandage. Disclaimer: we don’t recommend using a Leatherman to open a bottle of wine (learn from our mistakes friends). 5. Emergency Kit  This is another thing you hopefully won’t need, but we all too often do. See the full Essential Road Trip Checklist here to make sure your vehicle is road trip ready.

Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: astoria > cannon beach, astoria area.

Columbia River Maritime Museum: Tour a floating lighthouse and learn about the natural and seafaring history of the area.

Lewis & Clark National and State Historical Parks (Fort Clatsop): Located in the lush PNW forest, this park has hiking and history. You can visit a replica of Fort Clatsop—where Lewis and Clark spent the winter at the end of their great voyage west.

Fort Stevens State Park: This historic fort guarded the mouth of Colombia River from the Civil War through World War II. This park is also home to the Peter Iredale shipwreck—one of the most accessible wrecks in the “Graveyard of the Pacific”.

Sunset Beach State Rec Site: This is a relatively flat sandy beach with hills in the misty distance. It’s also the west trailhead of the 6.5-mile Fort-to-Sea Trail connecting Fort Clatsop to the ocean along the route of Lewis and Clark and the Corps of Discovery.

Where to eat in Astoria

Buoy Brewery

Seaside Area

Promenade and Downtown: Walk along the 1920’s boardwalk with the ocean on one side and coastal architecture on the other. At the Lewis and Clark statue you can veer into the downtown area where you’ll find the Funland Arcade and a plethora of shops and restaurants.

Go Fly a Kite: Unlike telling someone to “Go take a hike” saying “Go fly a kite” is perfectly acceptable in Seaside. If it’s windy out, grab some gear at one of the local kite shops and hit the beach.

Where to eat in Seaside

Dooger’s Seafood & Grill

Cannon Beach Area

Where to stay in cannon beach.

Campground: Wright’s for Camping Hotel: Surfsand Resort

Where to eat in Cannon Beach

Driftwood Restaurant and Lounge and Wayfarer Restaurant

Day 2: Cannon Beach > Tillamook

Ecola State Park: Expansive views of the shorelines and haystack rock.

Haystack Rock: At low tide this is a great spot for tidepooling. See tons of multicolored starfish, sea anemones, and other ocean critters. Park at Tolovana Beach State Recreation Site or Haystack Hill State Park and walk down the beach to the imposing formation (you can’t miss it).

Hug Point State Rec Site Hike: This was one of our favorite hikes on the entire Oregon coast road trip. It’s a short stroll along the coast to a waterfall flowing onto the beach. A little further you’ll find sea caves carved into the sandstone cliffs. If you venture around the rocky “point” you’ll see another pristine beach. Just be sure to watch the tide as you may not be able to get around the point at high tide.

Oswald West State Park: This is a park we’ve visited a few times. It has secluded ocean shores edged by the lush rainforest. The Oregon Coast Trail runs through the park for 13 miles so it’s a good place to go take a hike (not to be confused with go fly a kite).

Rockaway Beach Area

Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad: Keep an eye out for the steam engine that runs along the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad. You can purchase tickets to ride in the caboose from Rockaway Beach to Garibaldi in summer months.

Garibaldi Area

Pier’s End: Visit Oregon’s longest pier—all 700 feet of it. You’ll find folks fishing along the pier and a historic Coast Guard boathouse near the end. You might even spot a bald eagle diving for dinner.

Where to eat in Garibaldi

Tillamook area, where to stay in tillamook.

Campground: Cape Lookout State Park Hotel: Ashley Inn of Tillamook

Where to eat in Tillamook

Old Oregon Smokehouse and Five Rivers Coffee Roasters

Day 3: Tillamook > Lincoln City

Tillamook Creamery: I promised cheese on this Oregon coast road trip, and cheese you’ll find plenty of here! The Tillamook Creamery has free cheese tasting, a self-guided factory tour, a restaurant, and of course the ice cream counter. We recommend the Oregon Hazelnut Salted Caramel…ice cream that is, not cheese…although now I’m imagining what salted caramel nut cheese might taste like…hmmmm. Don’t judge.

Three Capes Scenic Route: Take this detour off HWY 101 following the signs for the Three Capes Scenic Route. It’s a lovely drive that weaves through dense forests and out to cliff edges with majestic coastal views. Not for those with a fear of heights or prone to car sickness though.

Cape Meares State Park: Two short strolls through this park will take you to the shortest lighthouse on the Oregon coast and the mysterious octopus tree.

Cape Lookout State Park: 8+ miles of hiking trails with expansive ocean views. The beach here is a good place to hunt for glass floats.

Pacific City Area

Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area: This is the home of the second Haystack rock on the Oregon coast. It’s actually taller than the one in Cannon in Beach. This is a popular spot for surfers and the cape features sandstone cliffs and sea caves.

Where to eat in Pacific City

Pelican Brewery

Lincoln City Area

Where to stay in lincoln city.

Campground: Devil’s Lake State Rec Area Hotel: Coho Oceanfront Lodge

Where to eat in Lincoln City

Wildflower Grill and  Pig ‘N Pancake

Day 4: Lincoln City > Newport

Seven Miles of Smiles Glass Float Treasure Hunt: Start your day with a morning walk along this 7-mile stretch of beach looking for treasure. You might not find any buried chests of gold, but you could find beautiful glass floats created by local artists. New floats are placed on the beach between Roads End in the north and Siletz Bay in the south every day. Check out the Explore Lincoln City website for more details.

Barnacle Bill’s: This is a great place to pick-up some fresh or smoked seafood. If you’re wondering, smoked jerky and cheese make a delightful (albeit pungent) road trip snack. They also offer fried fish-n-chips at certain times of the year.

Depoe Bay Area

Whale watching: Our campsite host at Devil’s Lake assured us that we’d see whales here and she was right! Swing into one of the pull-offs in downtown next to HWY 101 and get out your binoculars.

Devils Punchbowl State Natural Area: Thought to be two collapsed sea caves, this is now a giant formation shaped like…can you guess? A punchbowl. The ocean water enters through an open arch, then swirls and froths over the rocky bottom.

Doctor Who TARDIS and Buoy Tree: On your way out of the park don’t miss these two road side stops. They’ll be on your left just after the park entrance.

Where to eat in Depoe Bay

Gracie’s Sea Hag

Newport Area

Yaquina Head Lighthouse: Go on the guided tour and climb the stairs of Oregon’s tallest lighthouse.

Agate Beach State Recreation Site: You can end your day with another treasure hunt—as the name implies this is one of the best beaches for finding agates. It’s also a popular spot to dig for razor clams.

Where to stay in Newport

Campground: South Beach State Park Hotel: Sylvia Beach Hotel

Where to eat in Newport

Ove Northwest and Café Mundo

Day 5: Newport > Florence

Oregon Coast Aquarium: Spend the morning learning about the marine creatures that live in the different ocean habitats. Make sure to visit the impressive aviary as it’s the largest outdoor seabird aviary in North America.

Seal Rock State Rec Site: Seals and sea lions are often hanging out in the rock formations here. Even if you don’t see seals, the walk around the beach and rock stacks is stunning.

Cape Perpetua Area

Cape Perpetua Overlook:  A good place to take in the expansive views of this beautiful Oregon coast road trip.

Devil’s Churn:  This was one of our favorite stops. Walk the half mile loop trail to get a close look (but not too close, these waves are intense) at the churning waters in the coastal crevasse and feel the thunderous explosion of waves pelting the rocky shore.

Thor’s Well: Another impressive formation, another collapsed sea cave. Déjà vu anyone? The ocean fills and drains endlessly in this cavernous hole that is a favorite of photographers.

Florence Area

Where to stay in florence.

Campground: Carl G. Washburne Memorial State Park Hotel: Driftwood Shores Resort & Conference Center

Where to eat in Florence

The Waterfront Depot and Big Dog Donuts & Deli

Day 6: Florence > Bandon

Heceta Head Lighthouse: Here you can see not only the lighthouse, but the caretaker’s home from the late 1800’s which is now a Bed and Breakfast. The views from this lighthouse are particularly magnificent as it overlooks Cape Cove with the Cape Creek bridge rising high above in the misty distance.

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area: This site spans a large area from Florence to North Bend. It’s a surreal place where lush forests meet vast pale dunes and tumultuous ocean shores.

Sandboarding: If you’re feeling adventurous try your hand (well, feet I guess) at sandboarding. You can rent gear from the Sand Master Park in Florence and ride their course, or venture out on your own at one of the many sandboarding locations in the area including Jessie M Honeyman Memorial State Park.

Coos Bay Area

Sunset Bay State Park: Primarily a campground and day use area there is an inlet beach nestled between tree covered rocky cliffs. It’s a nice place to relax and have lunch.

Shore Acres State Park: Punctuate the natural wilderness with this stop. The former estate of a timber baron, this park features manicured grounds including Japanese and Rose gardens.

Simpson Reef Lookout: This is the best place we found to see (and hear) seals and sea lions. They were literally piled all over the rocks just off the shoreline.

Where to eat in Coos Bay

7 Devils Brewing Company

Bandon Area

Where to stay in bandon.

Campground: Bullards Beach State Park Hotel: Lamplighter Inn

Where to eat in Bandon

Edgewaters and The Rolling Pin Bake & Brew

Day 7: Bandon > Brookings

Historic Old Town Bandon: 10 blocks of shops, art galleries, and plenty of tasty eats. Spend an hour or half a day strolling around this historic district.

Devils Kitchen – Oregon State Parks Vista Point: Here you’ll find the third and last Haystack rock on your Oregon Coast road trip. Take the trail from the parking lot down to the beach and turn right. There are multiple rock stacks here. One of the unique things about this area is the accessibility of the formations. They’re just along the shoreline and you can easily walk right up to them for a closer look at the unique habitats that these rocks create for ocean life.

Cape Blanco State Park: Take a tour of the Cape Blanco Lighthouse and the historic Hughes house which used to be part of a large ranch and dairy operation. If you happened to have brought a horse with you on your road trip, this is the place to ride it. There are 7 miles of horse trails in the park as well as hiking trails.

Humbug Mountain State Park: Here you’ll find black sand beaches and views of the dark rugged cliffs that make up Humbug Mountain.

Cape Sebastian State Scenic Corridor: Get panoramic views of the area from the parking lots along this scenic corridor.

Samuel H Boardman State Scenic Corridor: This is a long scenic drive with 12 miles of rock formations, bluffs, and sparkling sea. There are multiple pullouts and viewpoints with short hikes to overlooks and shore access.

Brookings Area

Harris Beach State Park: Here you’ll find the largest island off the Oregon Coast. It’s a National Wildlife Sanctuary and breeding ground for rare birds like the tufted puffin. The sunsets at Harris Beach are particularly lovely and the perfect way to end your Oregon coast road trip.

Where to stay in Brookings

Campground: Harris Beach State Park Hotel: Ocean Suites Motel

Where to eat in Brookings

Oxenfrē Public House and Mattie’s Pancake House

Oregon Coast Road Trip Map

All the places included in the Oregon coast road trip can be found this map.

Here’s a re-cap of where to stay and where to eat on your Oregon coast road trip.

Where to Stay on the Oregon Coast

If you’re camping for this trip—which we highly recommend (shocking right?)—check out our top outdoor gear guide that includes all our favorite and most indestructible outdoor equipment.

Where to Eat on the Oregon Coast

Have you ever taken a coastal road trip? Where did you go and what was your favorite thing to do? Let us know in the comments below.

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4 thoughts on “ The Perfect Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary ”

Thanks for sharing! We loved seeing the pics of what you did after Descend!

Thanks, Emma! We had a great time in Oregon. It was so great to meet you and Manny at Descend. I hope we can meet up again!!!

Would you recommend north to south or is it just as beautiful south to north. Could you do less nights and do in 2 days? Or 4 even? Or is it best to give 6 days?

Which direction you travel doesn’t really matter as the coast is stunning and you’ll get great views either way. While the drive is totally doable in 2 days, that wouldn’t give you much time to stop and see/do anything along the way. I’d recommend at least 3-4 days so you can take in a good amount of scenery, hikes, and culture. I’m sure you’ll have a wonderful time! The OR coast is one of my very favorite places. Enjoy!

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Oregon Coast Road Trip: Most Beautiful Oregon Beaches and Lighthouses

By: Author Rob Taylor

Posted on Published: March 16, 2021  - Last updated: April 13, 2022

There is nothing like an Oregon Coast road trip. With beautiful sights, unique things to do and epic views, the drive along the Oregon Coast highway from Portland to Brookings (nearly California) is an unforgettable adventure, perfect for families, couples or to do on your own.

Have you done the Oregon Coast Highway 101 with kids? How about a solo road trip to visit lighthouses and sand dunes? Here’s how you do an Oregon Coast road trip that everyone will enjoy no matter the season.

Complete Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Like with any itinerary, take this one with a grain of salt and update it for your own travel style. We like to visit the Oregon beaches, breweries and lighthouses, so this Oregon Coast road trip itinerary has a healthy mixture of nature and culture.

And like any jaunt through small town America, you’ll be tempted to stop in places we don’t mention and to find your own foodie spots. Go for it! Road tripping is all about fun and new experiences and the Oregon Coast is no exception! You’ll find the the Oregon Coast highway goes through many small towns and communities, so build time into your daily drive to enjoy unplanned stops and epic views.

We recommend the Oregon Coast road trip down highway 101 to be a 3 day itinerary, but if you don’t go all the way or only make some stops, it could be done in 2 days. If you’re into slower travel, make all of the stops on our Oregon Coast road trip map for a 7 day itinerary from tip to tip.

Portland, Oregon to start the road trip

In the last few years Portland, Oregon has really grown in popularity. Is it the food or the beer or the wine or the hipsters?  I don’t know, but we love it for lots of reasons. Portland is an ideal place to start your Oregon Coast road trip. Before you head out to the beaches, spend a day or two exploring the city and enjoying Portland’s food scene. FYI, there’s more to Portland than Voodoo Doughnuts.

If you’re all about the city, Portland’s downtown has a nice shopping core and lots of great dining ( loved Bamboo Sushi ), but the neighborhoods is where it’s at! Check out northeast Portland for more great food, neighborhoods you can stroll through and even book a spa day at the local Finnish spa (without kids though).

Find a Portland hotel here!

Family friendly Portland activities include the Oregon Zoo and Portland Children’s Museum (right next to each other), exploring the Pearl District and markets in Old Town, and hiking in MacLeahey Park.  

Hiking idea :  The Witch’s Castle hike is really fun and beautiful and it’s just outside of downtown.  Easy 1.5 miles round trip and full of moss, streams and the ruins of what looks like a forgotten fortress.  Trail-head is in Macleay Park from the UPPER trail area. Hiking in Portland is a great start to your road trip, and actually one of our favorite things to do in there.

Note : you don’t see us recommend a lot of zoos because many are not up to date and have exhibits that don’t give the animals much space. The Oregon Zoo has made many improvements over the years, including a lot of construction right now, and boasts some of the best habitats we’ve seen in any zoo.  Also, the Oregon Zoo is a part of several conservation programs, including the California Condor breeding program and the Pond Turtle release program, both of which are a huge part of re-establishing species back into their native territory.

There’s more to Portland, but these ideas will get your Oregon Coast road trip off to a great start!

Find a great short term rental in Portland!

Bonus plan :  for some extra time and beauty in the Portland area, do the Columbia Gorge Waterfall Area . This mini-road trip takes you along historic Route 30 and and is full of waterfalls, including Multnomah Falls, and lots of great hikes.

Exploring the Northern Oregon Coast

For this Oregon Coast road trip itinerary we’re cutting over to the northernmost tip where you join highway 101, but you can also alter our route and head directly west to Cannon Beach through the Willamette Valley wine country instead of visiting Astoria , Lewis and Clark National Historic Park or Seaside, Oregon . We prefer to hit the Oregon Coast highway from Astoria for a great reason: there are some great spots to stop for getting your  Goonies fix and enjoying the sleepy side of the coast.

Astoria: Goonies, shipwrecks and Oregon beaches

Leaving Portland, you’ll come to Astoria and it’ll look really familiar.  Goonies, Kindergarten Cop and other films have used the town as their backdrop. A combination of shipping and timber history means there are some gorgeous Victorian homes and a fun feel to the town. Highlights in Astoria include the Oregon Film Museum, Flavel House, and having a seafood lunch on the Astoria riverfront.

From there, hit up Fort Stevens State Park and Fort Clatsop in Lewis and Clark National Park to add an extra dash of history (and costumes at Fort Clatsop). Fort Stevens has some wonderful dunes to hike and it’s also got one of the Oregon beaches you can drive on.  Check out our full article about Oregon Coast camping at KOA Astoria !

Day in Seaside, Oregon: the Coney Island of the west

Continuing the Oregon Coast road trip down highway 101, the town of Seaside is just what you’d expect of a west coast beach town: lots of seafood, pizza, carnival games and expansive Oregon beaches for relaxing. Parking can be a bit tight in Seaside, Oregon so plan to either park a ways away from the beach or get there early.

Highlights in Seaside include the best Bloody Mary in Oregon at Big Kahuna Pub and Grill, the Fascination ball game shop (one of the best things to do on the Oregon Coast!), and of course the beach. The town of Seaside reminds me of Ocean Shores or Westport, WA , but it’s got its own flare.

Famous Views in Cannon Beach, Oregon

We always think of Cannon Beach as the place where One Eyed Willy’s boat set sail at the end of the Goonies , so naturally that’s where we started.   Ecola State Park is just north of downtown Cannon Beach. It’s a must-visit.  

In addition to the beautiful view of the sea stacks off Cannon Beach and beyond (epic sea mist for photos), there are some awesome hikes and beautiful beaches. While the weather erosion on the point at Ecola State Park has damaged many of the trails to the end, there are still hiking opportunities out of the Indian Beach area. And Indian Beach is actually our first beach stop on our Oregon Coast road trip.

Beach stop :  Indian Beach at Ecola State Park in Cannon Beach is at the end of a two mile winding road through the coastal forest. You can hike the trails to other beaches or just head down the boardwalk trail to the beach. It’s full of driftwood, shells and a few streams, so it’s beautiful and perfect Oregon Coast. The sand is gorgeous and the cove makes for a great kid-friendly beach.

Indian Beach is a ways off the Oregon Coast Highway, but it’s worth the winding drive. A visit here is one of the best things to do in Cannon Beach, particularly because there are fewer people here.-

Note :  if you see what looks like thousands of plastic pieces on the beaches of Oregon and Washington, know that they are actually dead jellyfish, not trash. They will sometimes swarm and get washed ashore, drying up and dying. It’s gross and cool at the same time.

We recommend staying in Cannon Beach or Seaside for your first night on the Oregon Coast. If you’re doing the 3 day itinerary, you’ll be staying here, Florence, and Bandon. With Cannon Beach being your first over-night, you’ll be perfectly paced for the rest of your road trip down Highway 101.

Views not to miss :  from the main viewpoint area at Ecola State Park watch the sunset facing south to see the shadows the sea stacks cast. Also from the same area, veer to the north a few hundred yards and sneak a view of the Tillamook Head Lighthouse 1.2 miles off shore (sorry, you can’t visit it).

Public Coast Brewing in Cannon Beach

Every town in Oregon has a brewery, I swear, and some have ten.  Our pick for great micro brews in Cannon Beach is Public Coast Brewing . It’s just outside of the main touristy area of Cannon Beach, but not too far. Walk the block and a half to enjoy their IPAs and burgers.

FYI, dining in Cannon Beach is more expensive than you expect because it’s the closest beach town to Portland, but most places will make sure the value matches the cost.  At Public Coast Brewing we had $13 hamburgers that came with nothing but the burger on its own was worth every penny.

Recommendation :  the Sitka Burger and an Imperial IPA. Delicious combo and a perfect example of Oregon Coast brew houses.

Visit the Cape Meares Lighthouse

Heading south out of Cannon Beach on our Oregon Coast road trip, our next stop is the Cape Meares Lighthouse .  If you’re looking at lighthouse stats and features comparing them all around the USA, you’ll not think twice about visiting Cape Meares Lighthouse.  

Here’s why you need to make the stop: you can get right up close to the beautiful, intricate first order Fresnel lens. It’s awesome, especially with kids that like to see how things work. And the view of the Oregon beaches from the lighthouse is awesome. Getting to visit lighthouses on the Oregon Coast is one of the best things to do and it gives such a wonderful insight into local history.

Also to check out : the tiny town of Garibaldi has some great little seafood shops and places for nautical knickknacks.

Local activity :  whale watching out of Garibaldi is ideal in the spring and fall when the grey whales are going past. If you’re lucky, you might get to see minke whales, transient orcas or even the random blue whale (with crazy good luck!).

Stop at the Tillamook Cheese Factory

Find me somebody that grew up on the West Coast and you can bet they’ve been to the Tillamook Cheese Factory . Tillamook Cheese and ice cream and butter and everything else are staples in West Coast homes. They are delicious and pretty darn wholesome.  And you can visit the factory for bottomless samples! This is one of the best things to do (and eat) on the Oregon Coast!

Our favorite thing to try and buy (every time) are the cheddar cheese curds.  When we went to Wisconsin the cheese curds were always fried and served with dipping sauces. On the Oregon Coast (and up in Washington too) we like our curds fresh, squeaky and cold. Delicious.  On our most recent trip we got to try a new cheese, the first new cheese offering from Tillamook in many years: Cape Meares Cheddar. It was like a tangy Gruyere and for a cheese lover, it was to die for.

Note : there is an updated visitors center at the Tillamook Cheese Factory. You NEED TO VISIT to see how it all works and… because cheese.

Pacific City: the gem of the Oregon Coast road trip

Once upon a time in my teens I thought it would be cool to take a little detour on my own crazy Oregon Coast road trip and drive on the beach when I got to Pacific City. It was perfect! Designated areas for driving, very flat beach area, gorgeous view to enjoy… and then the tide came in and I sank and had to wait, full of anxiety, as the winch truck drove from an hour away to rescue me… as the waves lapped at my Blazer’s tires. Everything turned out okay, but I ended up staying in Pacific City.

That’s how I first fell in love with Pacific City, Oregon!

Fast forward twenty years and Pacific City is the perfect Oregon Coast destination with kids! Since highway 101 goes through the town and it’s full of things to do, Pacific City is a great place to stay the night. We like to break up our road trips with downtime and having a home base, so Pacific City served for that on our most recent Oregon Coast road trip. We rented a VRBO right downtown and enjoyed beach time, tide pools, kite flying, and sunsets.

Cape Kiwanda and picturesque Oregon Coast views

Pacific City is located just to the south of Cape Kiwanda, a breathtaking cape jutting out into the Pacific Ocean. It is a protected area, but you can climb its dunes, hike its trails and explore the tide pools all around the base.   These are some of the first dunes you can access along highway 101.

The best time to sit and appreciate this perfect site is at sunrise. With the sun coming up behind you, Cape Kiwanda glows orange unlike any other piece of coast we’ve seen. It’s beautiful and romantic (if you’re into that). And flying a kite here is one of the best things to do on the Oregon Coast. Visit the kite shop across the highway to get outfitted if you don’t have your own just yet!

Craft Brews at the Beach in Pacific City

Of course we’ve enjoyed the local brewery in Pacific City (many times!). Our favorite vacation rental was less than a block from the Pelican Brewery so we take full advantage of it for our weekends of relaxation. With more than 15 beers under their label, Pelican Brewing Co has some great standards and seasonal options at all times.  The Umbrella IPA is our standard favorite.

Tip :  if you stop at a brewery you love, get a growler of your favorite beer on tap to enjoy at your place or the beach (confirm open container laws before drinking in public).  You can reuse your growler as you continue on your Oregon Coast road trip! NEVER DRINK AND DRIVE .

Central Oregon Coast Road Trip highlights

You’re now at what we think of as Oregon’s Central Coast. Here is a perfect mix of lighthouses, Oregon beaches, hiking and fishing villages. If you’re flying into Eugene, OR, this is the part of the coast that’s easiest to get to and also makes for a great home base if you want to stay one place for several days.

Climb the Yaquina Head Lighthouse

As you leave Pacific City you start to head down into the more rugged parts of the Oregon Coast.  The Yaquina Head Lighthouse is a state protected area inclusive of hiking trails, cliffs, tide pools, an interpretive center and, of course, the tallest lighthouse in Oregon.

A stop into the visitors center is required to get the lowdown on Oregon’s lighthouse history as well as to learn about the wildlife of the area, including the migrating whales.

Tip :  you MUST stop into the visitors center if you want to get onto one of the lighthouse tours. The Yaquina Head Lighthouse is only open to the public via tour . They do have a height restriction of 42” to participate (small kids can’t go up). This is common with tall lighthouses (check out our visit to the St Augustine Lighthouse ).

Even without going up into the lighthouse, stopping at Yaquina Head is a really interesting thing to do. Watching for whales, visiting the tide pools and observing the harbor seal colony below all make it a great stop with kids. Make sure you bring your binoculars to spy whales both up close and on the horizon.

One Day in Newport, Oregon

Newport is one of the largest towns along the Oregon Coast highway 101. Newport has a cute bayfront area to explore and great nearby beaches. It’s another great option for a homebase on your Oregon Coast road trip (but we prefer Florence, see below) as it’s close to beaches, shopping, lots of dining, the Oregon Coast Aquarium, the Undersea Gardens, a few tourist traps (Hello, Ripley’s…), and it’s own lighthouse.

If you’re into festivals, Seafood Fest takes place in February each year and is the place to experience Oregon Coastal Cuisine, Oregon wine, and more.  Newport also tends to have a bit better weather than some of its northern neighbors, so plan on hitting the beach and festivals with your classiest Oregon summer fashion (aka socks and sandals) and sunblock .

Stop at the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse

It’s easy to miss the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse if you’re just driving right through Newport on your Oregon Coast road trip, but stopping is actually a great use of time. Built in 1871, the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse is cute, wheelchair accessible (around the grounds) and not far off your course.  It is open to the public most days, but you’ll want to confirm online or locally before making it a part of your primary road trip plan.

Oregon’s Epic Coastline: Cape Perpetua, Thor’s Well and Devil’s Churn

After leaving Newport on the Highway 101 drive, the Oregon coastline gets pretty rugged. There are many things to do in this natural area, so be ready with some good hiking shoes!

Rock formations and crashing waves are a big part of what an Oregon Coast road trip is all about. Driving south on Highway 101 from Newport you’ll notice that the road starts to swerve and wind.  That’s because the coastline went from jagged mixed with sandy beaches, to rocky and untamed. If you’re easily distracted have somebody else drive so you can enjoy the views.

THE stop you have to make in this stretch of the drive is at Cape Perpetua . Part of Oregon State Parks, you have a few ways to enjoy the area. If you head up the hill you have several hiking options to get breathtaking views up and down the coast. Pulling into the Devil’s Churn area, you can see some intense coastal water features including the churn, more tide pools, Thor’s Well (a hike around two points) and even a spout/blowhole.

Tip :  to see the spout you don’t have to do the big hike to Thor’s Well, but can simply head down the trail to the tide pool area and watch across the cove. A big wave will make a burst of water across the way just like a whale spout.

Haceta Head and the best view on the Oregon Coast

We’re suckers for beautiful views. I mean, who isn’t? Just past Cape Perpetua there are several pull out areas to admire the picturesque Haceta Head Lighthouse and beach below. Really, it’s the most beautiful view on the whole Oregon Coast and one of the best things to do.  Be sure to stop along highway 101 and enjoy the crashing waves and sea lions below. Whether you enjoy from above or head down to sea level, you’ll enjoy your time in this magical spot!

Enjoying the Haceta Head Lighthouse

There are two ways to enjoy a stop at the Haceta Head Lighthouse : 1.) relax in the beautiful cove area and have a beach/tide pool day OR 2.) do the ~0.5 mile hike up the hill to the actual Haceta Head Lighthouse and check it out up close. You can even stay in the keepers quarters at the lighthouse. This is one of the most beautiful Oregon beaches on a sunny day!

Tip : if you do want to stay in the keepers quarters at the Haceta Head Lighthouse , be sure to make the inquiry and reserve it the second you know you’re interested. Such cool and unusual accommodations book very far in advance.

Florence: perfect Central Oregon Coast Getaway

Upon first approach or even driving through, Florence doesn’t seem like the dream Oregon Coast road trip stop or home base. Rethink that right now!

The town of Florence is set directly between the most jagged and beautiful parts of the Oregon Coast. It’s directly adjacent to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area and Florence has an adorable Old Town area that has lots of cute shops and some great dining options.

We stayed at the Old Town Inn just off Highway 101 and it was great for our family of four. It was clean and quiet and located right next to the Old Town area and riverfront. Really, staying someplace small and unique made for a different travel experience and it felt good to support a small business.

Tip : the Oregon Coast, including Florence, doesn’t have many well known or top rated hotel brands. That said, “Inns” and seaside motels are actually quite nice sometimes and most are family run. READ REVIEWS of lodging before booking, but feel confident going off-brand for your road trip.

And like every tourist area along the Oregon Coast, Florence is starting to get some wonderful vacation rentals and AirBNBs.

Easy road trip stop : going between Florence and the southern beaches off the Oregon Coast highway 101, make a stop in Reedsport and check out the U mpqua River Lighthouse . It’s your stereotypical lighthouse, set nicely at the mouth of the Umpqua River and looks both charming and extra historic when it’s the afternoon golden hour (perfect for photo ops).

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area Near Florence

We really had a great time all around Florence, Oregon. We took advantage of the town’s close proximity to beaches for fun relaxation in the sun paired with beach combing. We also had a great time kayaking the freshwater lakes and hiking the dunes at Honeyman State Park … and then the dune buggies! There are several tour operators around Florence to take guests out on the epic sand dunes (we had a great time with Sand Dunes Frontier ).

And if dune buggies aren’t your thing, there is also the option to ride horses through the dunes and to the beach. Due to weather and our littlest’s age, we just stuck around C&M Stables for a fun cow poke ride but there was another crew totally excited to head out for a full ride, no matter the weather. The Oregon Dunes stretch for 50 miles or so, so you’ll no doubt find yourself enjoying them at some point!

Visiting Sea Lion Cave

One last spot that’s pretty cool and worth checking out if you’re interested is Sea Lion Caves . The largest sea cave in North America, it’s the go-to spot to observe hundreds of sea lions and beautiful sea birds. There is an admission fee per person, so families will have to fork out around $50 or so (depending on group size) and it really is pretty neat, but if you are doing your Oregon Coast road trip on a budget, you can observe sea lions lots of other places along the coast.

Southern Oregon Coast Road Trip: quiet towns, jagged cliffs

This part of the Oregon Coast is really special, and it seems to be the least well known or visited. Since highway 101 stays inland for a good portion of this stretch of the drive, you’ll find that some of the best things to do are off the beaten path.

Over the years the Southern Oregon Coast has seen industry come and go, so what’s left behind are some awesome quiet towns full of personality. And some FAR OUT THERE gorgeous Oregon beaches. This part of the road trip is where you get to experience enormous crashing waves and then chill out with some fish ‘n chips.

Coos Bay for epic coastlines and Lighthouse views

If you’re driving Highway 101 down the Oregon Coast you’ll have to go through Coos Bay. Upon first look, it might seem like a quiet logging town without much going on, but it’s actually a bustling place. Between some of the cool art deco buildings and the coastal themed street art, Coos Bay is a great stop for lunch or dinner as you continue on your road trip.

Coos Bay is also the gateway to some of the most aggressive waves and breathtaking strips of coast.

Trek to Cape Arago and Shore Acres State Park

To get to Sunset Bay and Shore Acres State Park, follow the signs to the Cape Arago Highway and head to the beach… or the cliffs. Sunset Bay is a great cove/beach area for picnicking and playing in the water. There’s a stream the kids can play in too, and even some tide pools at low tide. It’s quiet and beautiful, one of the best beaches to relax in the summer, for sure.

Moving along the rural coastal road, Shore Acres State Park is perhaps the most fascinating place on the coast. This is truly one of the off the beaten path things to do. The erosion of the coastline over time has formed some interesting features, not to mention that the luxury estate that was once there can still be seen falling into the sea. Also, you can visit the botanic gardens within the park, which do some really cool light displays during the holidays (or so we’re told).

Tip : due to its remote location, the State Park entrance fee machines in the area only take cash, so be prepared with some fives or ones, cuz that’s cheaper than a citation.

How to see the Cape Arago Lighthouse

The Cape Arago Lighthouse is out in the middle of the water, about three hundred yards off the shore. You cannot access it unless you’re doing something coast guard-ish, but you can see it and dream about being an old-timey lighthouse keeper (because that’s one of my three wishes in the event I meet a genie). So, how do you see the Cape Arago Lighthouse?

• At Sunset Bay, skirt along the base of the cliffs at low tide until you get to the mouth of the bay and can see the lighthouse (slippery tide pool warning)
• Pull over when driving between Sunset Beach and Shore Acres and walk down the clearly marked trail to the viewpoint

It really is a beautiful lighthouse and is my favorite to spy on the Oregon Coast road trip route, so take a few minutes to enjoy it.

Bonus Road Trip Stop: Charleston Marine Life Center

A great addition to any road trip is a good museum or science center stop, and the Oregon Coast has just that! West of Coos Bay is the small town of Charleston, OR.

Here, the University of Oregon has a research and public education facility: the Charleston Marine Life Center . This is a great spot for some hands-on learning, particularly for checking out marine specimens up close! We could’ve spent all day here.   Take a look at our full Southern Oregon Road Trip plan for more great learning opportunities.

Relax in Bandon, Oregon

Not Brandon; Bandon. Bandon, Oregon is another town that makes for a good homebase while you’re doing an Oregon Coast road trip. There are many small inns and even a couple resorts (with world class golf, if that’s your thing) that serve for an overnight or two.

Located on a small bay, Bandon has a cute little old town area similar to Florence. Restaurants, galleries and maritime shops dot the area so it’s perfect for an afternoon or evening stroll.  There are also plenty of beaches on either side of the town, so if the plan is just to relax for a few days, this is the spot.

Tip :  there are several options for whale watching out of Bandon, Oregon along the marina if you’d like to plan or go for an impromptu jaunt (depending on the season). Whale season tends to be April through September , so add that to your coastal travel plans if you can.

The southern Oregon Coast is the perfect place to rejuvenate. We loved stopping at places like Bandon and Seal Rock to explore the long beaches, tide pools, or just listen to the waves crash. I think we got the best sleep we’d had in months from the fresh air and long walks. I highly recommend finding your perfect Oregon beach, and Bandon is the place for it.

Spend an Afternoon at the Coquille River Lighthouse

A highlight for us in Bandon was the Coquille River Lighthouse . This lighthouse is particularly interesting because it’s located ON the Coquille River instead of on a head or rock.  No longer in operation, but still open for tours, the Coquille River Lighthouse is colorful and unique, surrounded by dunes and beaches. It is located within Bullards Beach State Park, so there are plenty of day use sites for picnicking or beach access.

Tip : plan a visit to Coquille River Lighthouse in the late morning so you can grab a picnic table or good beach spot for lunch. For as remote as Bandon is, this state park gets busy on weekends and during the summer.

Also, if your Oregon Coast road trip is going to be a camping trip, Bullards Beach State Park has a fair number of campsites.  This is a great way to be close to Bandon without staying directly in the town.

Gold Beach, Oregon for relaxing to the max

Gold Beach, Oregon is almost to the California border, but not quite. It’s a quiet town, very similar to Rockaway Beach, OR or Ocean Shores, WA, so its population and popularity changes with the good weather. While there isn’t a ton to do in Gold Beach specifically (except relax and fly kites), there are some cool sites to make for fun day trips. Gold Beach is one of the least crowded Oregon beaches, so it’s extra chill year round (IMO).

If you want to stay here instead of Bandon, we loved the Pacific Reef Hotel . Condo style rooms and direct beach access make it a great final night on an Oregon Coast road trip.

Cape Blanco Lighthouse is just to the north of Gold Beach. It’s a pretty tall lighthouse and there are fun beach activities nearby if you’d like to make a day of it.  Also a short drive (about 1.5 hours) from Gold Beach is Oregon Caves National Monument . It’s a really cool cave system to go through with an awesome National Park lodge, the Oregon Caves Chateau , where you can have a nice lunch or dinner in the hills.

Last Oregon Coast Road Trip Stop: Brookings, OR

I can’t believe we’re at the end!

Brookings is just north of the California border and where our road trip itinerary ends. The town itself is cute with some cool coastal tourist attractions, including the Ship Ashore Museum and Gift Shop… which is now just a roadside attraction.

The highlight of Brookings though is Harris Beach State Park . If you missed the sea stacks up in Cannon Beach you’ll find more here! The landscape at Harris Beach is what you hope for with all Oregon beaches. Perfect for having a beach day or doing some easy hiking. 

Tip : if you want to continue your Oregon Coast road trip all the way into California, check out our itinerary for a full  California Coast Road Trip  covering everything from the southern Oregon coast to San Francisco (and actually to the Mexican border).

Packing for an Oregon Coast road trip

The Oregon Coast is gorgeous… even in the foggy rain which you might experience any time of year. When you’re packing for an Oregon Coast road trip be sure to plan for hot sun as well as chilling wet.  As a rule when we’re touring around Western Washington or Oregon we always pack equally for rain or sun, erroring on the side of the time of year. This includes activities we bring with us. Here’s what our Oregon Coast road trip packing list looks like (clothing is per person).

The logical clothing packing list for the Oregon Coast year-round:

• T-shirts and tanks (3:1 ratio)
• Swim shorts and hiking shorts
• Sandals AND shoes

Equipment you need for a family Oregon Coast road trip (some affiliate links if you want to buy anything):

• Beach gear (including boogie board in summer)
• Seat back covers – kick-gaurds – WE HAVE THESE ONES
• Cribbage, dominoes and Yahtzee
• Camera gear – LOVE this waterproof camera for beach days – HAVE THIS IN YELLOW
• Polaroid or Instax Camera – perfect for making vintage memories – WE HAVE THIS IN GREEN
• Portable vacuum (the Oregon Coast is sandy and you’ll thank us later) – WE HAVE THIS ONE
• Portable outlet / power inverter – THIS ONE IS OURS

You know your own travel style and crew, but having done the Oregon Coast road trip thing eight times now, I can confidently say that this list is what will keep you happy and sane all along the coast.

Are you ready to plan and enjoy your full Oregon Coast road trip?!? We could do this route any time of year and have a blast, but late spring or September are the best times to go.

If you have any questions or recommendations, don’t hesitate to ask or tell us.  Leave a comment below or email us !

Want to pin this for planning your own Oregon Coast road trip? Go for it!!!

Thursday 6th of April 2023

My mom lived in the Willamette Valley for a period of time as a kid. She loves Oregon and has gone often, but not in 30+ years. We vacationed there when I was 14 and 18, then once Mr. T. and I took my mom and grandmother when Josh was about 4 months old (he went too). The itinerary was always the same, fly into Portland, drive up to Mount Hood and see it, stay at that Dam Hotel while look at the Dalles, then through the mountains and Salem down to Eugene to cut over to the coast arriving in Florence and staying at the Driftwood Hotel. No reservations after that as we worked our way up the coast (finding hotels as we went) stopping at Newport Beach, Devil’s Punchbowl, Devil’s Elbow, etc. up to Tillamook and then back to Portland to fly home. It is beautiful. So.. now I am thinking about it. I think I would change it up to where it was primarily the coast maybe getting a vacation rental midway between Florence and Tillamook or similar or two vacation rental destinations and satellite out of those versus the find a hotel along the way concept. I need to confirm the weather for the window we are considering. Mr. T. states he knows I’d love it, he thinks if my mom could go anywhere in the world, that is where she would choose and that we can’t go without taking my parents. BUT unless things have changed in the last 30+ years, not sure it is an option as I don’t know mobility and access wise that it works for my parents. And I’d hate for her to be upset that we went without her. Thoughts on how if this would be a good or bad plan to take my parents? They are in their 80s, they can do some walking, but it would be somewhat limited. Also thoughts on a mid-point (or 2 points) to satellite out of it? Thanks so much!

Saturday 15th of April 2023

Ooh, I think there are some wonderful viewpoints and certain towns are very mobile friendly/accessible. Oregon has done a lot of work to be a more accessible state, and the Oregon Coast has been a focus of that. I think for people in their 80s it can be wonderful still, as long as their expectations aren't to be out hiking the coast trails. :)

Sunday 11th of September 2022

What is the best places to visit at night? like for example after a conference and I have a free time at night what is the best place to visit during night time?

That depends on where you conference is... Florence is great in the evening along the river in the historic area, Coos Bay is hoppin' on the weekend nights and during summer nights. Pacific City is great for sunset and beers...

Shani Stolero

Thursday 6th of May 2021

Hi! It will be my first time along Oregon coast and probably not the last (since there are too many things to do and not enough days). Thanks for the information and the love of lighthouses (I love them since I was a child).

Saturday 8th of May 2021

You'll love it! And if you love lighthouses, there are some gorgeous ones. I recommended seeing if the Haceta Head keepers quarters is available to rent for one of your nights. For being such a beautiful, unique place to stay, it's also a pretty good deal considering how special of a place it is.

Saturday 20th of March 2021

This is fabulous Rob, exactly what we were looking for in trying to narrow down stops on the Oregon leg of our US trip - and very happy you added some brewery and meal stops!

Yay!!! I'll be honest, and I said this in the article, my absolute favorite spot is Pacific City, and then the Florence area next. Really the best of the Oregon Coast!

Sunday 26th of January 2020

Thanks for the great trip report! What towns did you stop and stay overnight?

Monday 27th of January 2020

We've done the trip several times, so have stayed in Warrenton, Seaside, Tillamook, Florence, Pacific City, Gold Beach, Brookings and even Cave Junctions. Bandon has many small hotels and vacation rentals, so is actually a great home base for doing the southern half.

A Spectacular Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

An Oregon Coast road trip is one of the most beautiful drives in the U.S and an absolutely unforgettable trip!

With so many places to hike, beachcomb, and be completely wowed by the rugged coastal scenery, it can be hard to plan your itinerary!

So, in this mega-Oregon Coast drive guide, you’ll find:

• my itinerary for driving the Oregon coast,
• a coastal map,
• planning tips,
• suggestions about where to stay along the route,
• additional itinerary ideas,
• driving tips, as well as,
• practical information about when to go and what to pack.

Ready to plan your drive down the Oregon Coast?

Oregon Coastal Road Trip Planning

As you start your Oregon trip planning, there are a few things you need to decide first.

• How many days do you have for the road trip?
• Which airport(s) are you flying in and out of?
• Do you have any activities, like a full-day hike that will use up a big chunk of time, on your to-do list?

A 1-week Oregon coast road trip is the sweet spot. This gives you a lot of flexibility. You can decide to spend the entire week on the Oregon Coast. There’s plenty to see and do. But you can also tweak it based on what makes sense for your travel plans.

If you’re flying into the Oregon area, the airports you fly in and out of will definitely shape your itinerary. Unless you’re focusing only on northern and central Oregon, flying in and out of a city like Portland will likely cost you time on the return. After all, the Oregon Coast is a north-to-south (or vice versa) route, not a loop like a Colorado road trip.

Instead, try to fly into 1 airport and out of another based on the beginning and ending points of your Oregon Coast road trip itinerary.

Oregon Coastal Map with Towns

The Oregon Coast Highway is Route 101. This road is also part of the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway which continues north into Washington State and south into California.

Highway 101 in Oregon runs 363 miles along the coast, from Astoria to Brookings. If you were to drive this nonstop from start to finish, it would take roughly 7-8 hours.

The map of the Oregon coastline below shows some of the most popular towns along the route. If you zoom in, more Oregon coastal towns will fill in.

My Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

First, I’ve shared this Oregon coast drive the way I did it. Down below, you’ll also find some more ideas about how you can customize this itinerary to fit your own travel plans.

You’ll notice that I began my Oregon road trip further north in Seattle. This is because of the flight deal I got to Seattle instead of Portland, and also because I liked the idea of doing a little Seattle sightseeing.

As an alternative, you could also fly into Portland, which is in Oregon already. In this case, you’d likely skip Seattle for logistical sense.

But you could also focus specifically on driving the Oregon Coast and spending more time on outdoor pursuits like hiking or boating or exploring in a place like Astoria or Brookings.

Are you ready to start planning your Oregon coast trip? Let’s go!

Days 1-2: Start in Seattle.

Seattle can be a logical and fun place to begin your Oregon coast road trip…even though the city is in Washington State!

It’s only a couple of hours’ drive from the Oregon coastline. Numerous flights arrive at Seattle’s international airport from around the country every day. American, Delta, United, Alaska, JetBlue, and Southwest Airlines all operate flights to Seattle. And you can rent a car easily from the airport.

There are plenty of things to do in Seattle. But with just 1-2 days, depending on what time you arrive, you’ll want to prioritize visiting the top sights.

Pike Place Market

This market is an absolute must while in Seattle. Officially opened in 1907, it’s the oldest continuously operating farmers market in the U.S. Over the years, it’s grown from a place where farmers came to sell their goods out of the back of their wagons to an indoor/outdoor market and dining hub in a historic district of the city overlooking Puget Sound. Today, Pike’s Place Market is one of the most visited places in the world. 

The Pike Place Fish Market draws a lot of attention as the fish are tossed around to prep them for sale. But, the best part of the market is the time spent nibbling. You’re in an absolute foodie paradise, complete with everything from baked goods to the freshest fish sandwich!

You can graze independently or  go with a chef on a tasting adventure through the market.  When you can’t take another bite(!), savor the one-of-a-kind crafts in the hundreds of artist stalls.

Seattle Underground Tour

This will be one of the coolest and most interesting tours you take anywhere. Seattle’s history includes a fire at the end of the 1800s and the need to rebuild. In Pioneer Square, what was once at street level was built over with raised streets and the eventual structures on top of them. Today, the tunnels and passageways beneath the modern-day streets lead straight into a fascinating story of early Seattle.

The  Underground Walking Tour  lasts for an hour so it’s easy to include other sights and activities on your day’s itinerary. For reference, the meeting point for the tour is about a 10-minute walk from Pikes Place Market and a couple of blocks off the Seattle waterfront.

Space Needle

Seattle’s iconic Space Needle is an unmissable landmark in the city’s skyline. It stands at 605 feet tall with 360° panoramic views over the city and Puget Sound. On clear days, it’s possible to see Mount Ranier and the Olympic and Cascade Mountains in the not-too-far-off distance. The Space Needle even has a glass floor experience to see the view just below!

The Space Needle is open every day. Save time and  get your entry tickets in advance . If you purchased a  Seattle CityPASS , entry to the Space Needle is included with your bundled ticket.

Chihuly Garden and Glass

You can’t help but be in awe over artist Dale Chihuly’s designs of glass! There are 8 galleries and a gorgeous, outdoor garden displaying the artist’s colorful glass pieces and sculptures. You can also watch glass-blowing demonstrations to see how the artist worked.

The exhibition is next to the Space Needle and from inside the signature glasshouse, you can capture the bright glass designs and Seattle’s instantly-recognizable landmark, the Space Needle, towering overhead. Entry to the art exhibit and garden is included with the bundled  Seattle CityPASS .

Or you can book a combo ticket for the Space Needle and the Chihuly Gardens .

Enjoy the Pacific Northwest Outdoors

One of the biggest attractions of Seattle is its proximity to incredible natural landscapes and the outdoors lifestyle. Within 2 hours driving of Seattle, there are 3 National Parks and countless other outdoor areas where you can hike, walk, bike, and paddle.

For example, you could drive to Mount Rainier National Park or  take a guided day trip  there.

You could also get out onto  Seattle’s harbor and Elliot Bay,  which is part of Puget Sound. It’s a great way to combine Seattle history and sightseeing the beauty of the water and the Olympic and Cascade Mountains looming in the distance.

If you plan to spend 2 days in Seattle, you could plan one of these day trips. You can also enjoy a full day in Seattle and then head to the spectacular Oregon Coast.

1 Day Seattle to Cannon Beach

Make an early start and head south on I-5 from Seattle. The drive today is roughly 200 miles but nearly all of that is along this major interstate without sightseeing stops until Astoria, Oregon.

Astoria is just near the northern tip of the Oregon coast, making it a perfect spot to begin an Oregon Coast road trip. If the town of Astoria is ringing some bells in your memory, you’re probably familiar with the fan-favorite 80s movie, Goonies, which was mostly filmed in Astoria. 

Along with familiar Goonie filming locations, this small historic city blends seaside and artsy vibes for a one-of-a-kind spot for local shops, restaurants, and breweries. It’s a fun spot to get out of the car, grab a bite, and stretch your legs.

Things to Do in Astoria, Oregon

The  Astoria Column , situated on Coxcomb Hill, is on the National Register of Historic Places. Built during the mid-1920s, the paintings on the outside tell the story of Astoria and Oregon’s history.

Loosen up those road trip legs while climbing the column’s 164 steps to the observation deck. From the top, you’ll be able to see the place where the mighty Columbia River empties into the ocean.

Take a moment to enjoy the views overlooking the city and the Astoria-Megler Bridge, a giant truss bridge that spans the Columbia River and connects Washington and Oregon.

The Astoria Column itself is free to climb. There is a small fee for parking.

ProTip: From the Astoria Column parking area, you can hike the trail up to Cathedral Tree . This Sitka Spruce is thought to be 300+ years old. The hike is an out-and-back trail that takes less than an hour to complete.

If you’d like to spend more time in Astoria, here are a few more things to do in the area. Keep in mind the rest of the day’s activities. If you spend more time in Astoria, for example, you may want to make Seaside a quicker stop.

The  Astoria Riverfront Trolley  is a great way to see popular sights along the waterfront and hop-on-hop-off along the 3-mile route. It’ll also give you close-up views of the Astoria-Megler Bridge.

The Oregon Film Museum is the place to get your Goonies fix. This museum is housed in a historic landmark jail and is in honor of movies that have been filmed in Oregon. However, it’s primarily focused on the Goonies so it’s best for die-hard Goonie fans.

Fort Stevens State Park is a bit off-the-beaten-path but has no shortage of trails and sandy beaches to comb. History buffs will love knowing that Fort Stevens was a military outpost for over 80 years. There’s also the Iredale shipwreck to see, which ran aground in 1906.

Lastly, the Fort Clatsop National Memorial is the site of a replica Lewis & Clark Fort. In 1805, the pair spent the winter here as part of their historical westward trip. I highly recommend listening to one of the site’s historians tell about the site. They really know how to bring the location’s history to life!

Seaside, Oregon and Ecola State Park

When you’re ready, get back in the car and head south about 16 miles on US-101 to  Seaside, Oregon  and its  seaside  promenade. This 1.5-mile walk along a paved walkway is parallel to the Pacific Ocean.

“The Prom” for short is lined with a historic Seaside Aquarium, a Lewis and Clark statue at Turnaround Point where the 2 men completed their westward exploration, and gorgeous ocean views. It’s the kind of place just to stroll, take in the salty air, and let the ocean waves carry your worries out to sea.

If you haven’t eaten yet, there are plenty of choices along Highway-101 and in and around the streets near Broadway.

With the laid-back vibes of the Oregon Coast beginning to settle in, continue on about 8 miles south on Highway-101 to  Ecola State Park . This is where you’ll get your first true look at the stunning rocks that jut out of the Pacific Ocean along the Oregon Coast.

The park’s entrance road is a vibrant green characteristic of the ocean forests that line the Oregon Coast. Picture tall spruce tree groves with low-lying shrubs along a winding road that rewards you with an open overlook to Cannon Beach and its iconic sea stacks that stand majestically among the ocean waves.

For the best views, follow the road to the Indian Beach parking area. Then, follow the short trail from the parking lot to the scenic point. This is also where you should park for access to Indian Beach where you can walk on the sand, explore the tide pools at low tide, and possibly even spot some wildlife like elk or whales!

If you’re up for a hike, don’t miss the park favorite,  Clatsop Loop Trail!  It’s a moderate loop hike about 2.8 miles round trip. The trailhead is accessed from the Indian Beach parking area. Depending on the time of year you visit, be prepared with hiking boots that have good traction in muddy terrain.

The ocean views along the trail’s westside are breathtaking (especially on sunny days!) and not visible from other points in the park. 

At the end of the day, make your way from Ecola State Park a couple of miles south to Cannon Beach, Oregon. The small, coastal town is the perfect spot to land, with  plenty of places to stay , eat, and refresh yourself after a fantastic first day on the Oregon Coast!

Where to stay in Cannon Beach, Oregon

The Ocean Lodge  has ocean-front real estate, with views of Haystack Rock. Free breakfast is included in the nightly rate and each room comes with a fireplace. If you’re road-tripping with a furry family member, as I sometimes do, you’ll be glad to know The Ocean Lodge is pet-friendly. 

The Inn at Cannon Beach  is tucked away, surrounded by the greenery of the Oregon Coast. The hotel’s buildings look (and feel!) more like homes, with spacious pet-friendly rooms also equipped with fireplaces. After enjoying the free breakfast, you can access the beach with just a short walk from the property.

The Hallmark Resort and Spa  sits along the beach, just steps from Haystack Rock. Choose from a range of room types that include fireplaces, kitchenettes, and jacuzzi tubs. Your fur-baby can enjoy the panoramic ocean views, not to mention beautiful ocean sunsets!

1 Day Cannon Beach to Newport

Ready for another beautiful day on the Oregon Coast? Today’s drive south on Highway-101 is half the drive from yesterday but still packed with some of the best Oregon Coast highlights!

Starting your day off in Cannon Beach, be sure to visit the beachfront in town. Haystack Rock is probably the MOST famous sea stack along the Oregon Coast. At low tide, Cannon Beach gives you the opportunity to get within steps of this 235-foot giant.

Cannon Beach has been named as one of the 100 most beautiful places on Earth by National Geographic. So, whether you arrived in town early enough yesterday to see the sunset or you spend time in the morning walking the beach to admire the sea stacks,  Cannon Beach is a can’t miss spot for all Oregon Coast road trip itineraries.

Just 5 miles south of Cannon Beach, you’ll arrive at  Hug Point State Recreation Site.  There, you’ll find the beautiful and easy Hug Point Trail.

It’s a 1.2-mile out-and-back walk that gives you the chance to walk on a cove beach, explore caves and tide pools, and savor the ocean views. Haystack Rock will be visible to the north.

The safest and best time to visit is during low tide so be sure to  check the tide tables .  It is possible to get stuck while on your walk if the tide comes in so don’t risk it if you are cutting it close to high tide. Either way, plan 30-60 minutes to explore before continuing south on the Oregon Coast.

ProTip: The Neahkahnie Beach Viewpoint in between Hug Point and Tillamook is the epitome of amazing Oregon Coast scenery. Take a moment to enjoy the spectacular views from the overlook.

There’s nothing like the salty air for stirring up an appetite. So, if you’re feeling snacky, you’re in luck because you’re about to land in Tillamook, home to the famous Tillamook Creamery . Whether you’re in the mood for ice cream or a cheesy favorite like mac and cheese, you don’t want to miss any of this creamy goodness. 

If the weather is not ideal for the outdoors, take a self-guided tour to learn more about dairy farming and watch as the workers process millions of pounds of milk every day to make blocks of cheddar, which are then aged to perfect deliciousness!

Three Capes Scenic Loop

From Tillamook, you’ll want to continue along the Three Capes Scenic Loop . It’s a 40-mile scenic drive along some of the prettiest sections of the Oregon Coast. The three capes scenic route include Cape Meares, Cape Kiawanda, and Cape Lookout.

Cape Meares State Park

From Route 131 in downtown Tillamook, you’ll actually head northwest onto Bayocean Road. The Tillamook Bay coastline will be on your right. Follow the signs for the Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint and Cape Meares Lighthouse .

From the parking area, there are short paths that lead to the historic lighthouse, scenic viewpoints, and the famous Octopus Tree.

The sweeping views from the Cape Meares pathways are breathtaking. Depending on the time of year you visit, you may even get lucky and spot a whale or a napping sea lion. Don’t forget the binoculars ! 

Cape Lookout State Park

Continue south in the direction of Cape Lookout State Park, the next cape on this scenic stretch of coastline. If you’re eager to get out of the car and explore on foot, Cape Lookout is the perfect place to do so today. 

The Cape Trail is a 5-mile, moderate, round trip out and back hike that takes you into a classic Oregon Coast forest, with Sitka Spruce trees and lush, dewy ferns that blanket the forest floor.

On blue-sky days, the Cape Lookout viewpoint affords views up to 40 miles to the north and Tillamook Head to Cape Foulweather nearly 40 miles in the opposite direction. Allow about 2 hours to complete this hike.

Cape Lookout State Park also has 3 miles of easily accessed beach. So you’re in luck if you’ve been hoping to feel the sand between your toes! 

Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area

Cape Kiwanda is the smallest of the 3 capes along this scenic route. There’s beach access (beware cars are no longer allowed on the beach) and scenic viewpoints.

The beach is marked with a single sea stack that juts from the ocean waves. The wind along this part of the coast brings with it fabulous waves and perfect kite-flying conditions.

Beware of any signage directing you to stay away from specific areas, like the cliffs. They can be dangerous if you get too close to the edge!

ProTip: You can also enjoy a local brew and take in the views of the sea stack at Cape Kiwanda from The Pelican Brewery and Tap Room . It is the only brewery on the Oregon Coast with beachfront seating. 

Otter Crest Loop

On the way to your final spot for the day, Newport Oregon, there are a couple of scenic spots you won’t want to miss. Drive south from Cape Kiwanda and Pacific City on U.S. Highway 101 until just past Rocky Creek State Scenic Viewpoint.

From this point, watch for signs for the Otter Crest Loop and continue south along this road. This road is closer to the coastline than U.S. Highway 101 and gives better access to a couple of scenic stops.

At Otter Crest State Scenic Viewpoint , you get a sweeping vista of ocean views and coastline from 500 feet up. The view is absolutely gorgeous and offers the best spot to glimpse Cape Foulweather.

Devil’s Punchbowl

Just 15 minutes before you arrive in Newport and at the end of the Otter Crest Loop road, stop to check out the Devil’s Punchbowl. There are sea caves, 2 of which are collapsed, leaving a giant opening in the roof. During high tide, you can watch the waves fill the open cave, swirling and churning within the rock’s opening.

If you are lucky to time your arrival at low tide, you can explore the cave itself and the tide pools left behind by the crashing waters.

Finish the day’s drive and adventures in Newport, Oregon .

This classic fishing community is complete with boats bobbing in the harbor, delicious seafood spots like Local Ocean Seafood and Georgie’s Beachside Grill, and resident sea lions who lounge on the docks. (If you stay close to where they lounge, they’ll even let you know when the morning’s first light is shining!)

Where to stay in Newport, Oregon

The  Hallmark Resort  is a beautiful oceanfront property offering spacious rooms that can accommodate couples, families, and four-legged fur babies. The balcony or patio from your room is the perfect spot to watch the fishing boats move in and out of the harbor and the breathtaking sunset views over the Pacific Ocean.

The  Inn at Nye Beach  has direct beach access and gorgeous ocean views. This boutique hotel offers spa services including in-room massage. There are a variety of room types, including family suites equipped with a kitchenette. 

Elizabeth Oceanfront Suites  sit overlooking the Oregon coast and the calming waves of the Pacific Ocean. Aside from the incredible views, the hotel offers free breakfast, rooms with fireplaces and balconies, and fresh-baked cookies in the evenings.

1 Day Newport to Florence (or Coos Bay)

Before continuing your Oregon Coast road trip, take some time to explore Newport and the surrounding area.

The Yaquina Head Lighthouse and Natural Area is just 3 miles to the north of Newport. It’s the tallest lighthouse on the Oregon Coast and, at low tide, the area has some of the best tide pools on the Oregon Coast.

Be sure to walk along Newport’s Historic Bayfront . It’s a working fishing port, where sea lions laze away the day and local fisherman haul in their latest catch. Among the sights and smells of the seaport, you’ll find art galleries, restaurants, and gift shops.

The Newport Aquarium has interactive exhibits, deep-sea tunnels, and outdoor exhibits, perfect for anyone with children who needs a morning break from the car and/or the hiking trail. 

You could easily begin the day by visiting Yaquina Head. After that, circle back to Newport to explore the waterfront and enjoy a seafood sandwich before continuing south to Cape Perpetua.

Cape Perpetua

The Cape Perpetua Scenic Area , located in the Siuslaw National Forest, is the highest point on the Oregon coast and an absolute can’t-miss stop on your Oregon Coast drive!

Ascending 800 feet, Cape Perpetua affords panoramic ocean views with the ability to see for miles to the north or south, as well as an opportunity to spot whales swimming near the rocky coastline. 

This coastal region is also home to a temperate rainforest with towering spruce trees and 26 miles of hiking trails. While it’s considered to be a moderate-difficult hike, the St. Perpetua Trail is worth your time and effort!

It’s a 2.7-mile out-and-back hike so distance isn’t what adds to the difficulty. It’s the elevation climb. There are switchbacks but by the end of the hike, you’ll have climbed 700 feet.

The wildflowers and Sitka Spruce are second only to the heart-pumping exhilaration of reaching the viewpoint over the Pacific Ocean! On a blue-sky day, the ocean and horizon are only separated by a couple of shades of blue. 

Plan about 2 hours to take photos, finish the hike, and enjoy this gorgeous spot on the Oregon Coast.

ProTip:  The return trip will be entirely downhill. Your knees will thank you for bringing along trekking poles or even a sturdy walking stick. 

If the St. Perpetua trail isn’t for you, consider  another of the area’s hikes.  There’s also the Cape Perpetua Lookout close to the parking area and a perfect spot to capture some Christmas-card-worthy family photos.

Thor’s Well

The Cape Perpetua area also has a lot of scenic spots and pull-offs. If you continue south on U.S. Highway 101, a mile from Cape Perpetua, you’ll come to Thor’s Well.

It’s a popular spot to watch the salty waves crash and spill into what some have called “the drain of the Pacific.” Take extra care at high tide not to get too close.

Heceta Head Lighthouse & the Sea Lion Caves

As you drive south along the Oregon Coast towards the town of Florence, the Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint and the Sea Lion Caves are fun, family-friendly stops.

Heceta Head Lighthouse is one of the most popular lighthouses on the Oregon Coast. Use the parking area within the State Park and take the 1/2 mile path from the parking area to the lighthouse and the viewpoint.

The  Sea Lion Caves  is a wildlife preserve that offers tours. Keep in mind the animals are wild and so free to come and go as they wish. The number of sea lions in the caves varies depending on the time of year.

Finish the day in Florence, Oregon. This cute coastal town has some of the better hotel accommodations than in other nearby places like Coos Bay. Florence also has plenty of delicious food choices as you settle in for a satisfying dinner and stroll through Old Town.

If you arrive in Florence before the end of the day or plan to stay in this area of the Oregon Coast for a longer time, the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is only a half-hour away. Hike in the Recreation Area, get adventurous on the sand in an ATV, or plan a dune picnic!

Where to stay in Florence, Oregon

The  Old Town Inn  is near the Siuslaw River and has a fantastic location, just a few minutes walking to the shops and restaurants in Old Town. This Inn gets high praise for cleanliness. Rooms come with 1 or 2 beds, which works for both couples and families.

The  River House Inn  is also located along the Siuslaw River. Old Town is only a couple of minutes away on foot. The rooms have been recently remodeled and come with a refrigerator and microwave. The hotel offers free continental breakfast.

The  Best Western Pier Point Inn  is on the opposite side of the Siuslaw River from Florence. A walk across the bridge will bring you into Old Town Florence. This hotel comes with free breakfast and rooms can be standard or suites. As with the above hotels, beaches and the Dunes Recreation Area are within easy reach.

ProTip:  If you’re looking for a more unique stay, you might consider finishing your day in Coos Bay instead of Florence. While Florence is a more charming town, Coos Bay is home to a great glamping option at  Bay Point Landing . Choose to stay in a luxury cabin or an airstream suite in a secluded spot along a private beach area. 

1 Day Florence to Brookings, Oregon/Crescent City, CA

Today’s drive explores some of the best places on the southern Oregon coastline, and if you follow my itinerary, takes you just over the border into northern California. Although you could also choose to stop in Brookings, Oregon, at the very southern end of the coast.

From Florence to Crescent City, California is roughly 3 1/2 hours of driving, which of course will be broken up with Oregon coast stops along the way. In fact, this stretch of coastlines has some of the prettiest spots yet!

Shore Acres State Park

Coming from Florence, Shore Acres State Park is 80 minutes south. (If you stayed in Coos Bay instead, you’re just 20 minutes from this state park.)

This park has beautiful botanical gardens that are particularly vibrant in spring and summer. There’s a pretty Japanese-style garden and rose gardens where you can walk to admire the flowers in bloom. To be honest, this was an unexpected and lovely sight along the Oregon coast and in total contrast to the beach-y, coastal scenery along the drive.

Not far from the gardens, though, trails lead away from the serenity and down to Simpson Beach and along the seaside cliffs.

I highly recommend walking along the cliffs! The waves crash along the rocky coastline in dramatic fashion! These were some of the biggest waves I’d seen along the road trip and their power was thrilling.

Face Rock State Scenic Area

As you make your way south for about 40 minutes, you’ll pass through the town of Bandon before reaching Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint.

As you go through Bandon, stop in town to pick up snacks and sandwiches for a picnic at one of the next few stops.

If you time it right (I didn’t), you might want to make a quick stop at the volunteer-run Washed Ashore Gallery . They feature sculptures that have been made using trash that’s washed up from the ocean in an effort to bring awareness to the pollution in the oceans.

Face Rock is famous for its sea stacks, which you can see from up above the beach. But you can also use the staircase to see them and enjoy the spectacular scenery at beach level.

Timing is everything here, too. If it’s low tide, be sure to check out the tidepools around the beach and at the base of the sea stacks for creature sightings. Also, this is where you might come upon a Circles in the Sand Labyrinth . The artists create a labyrinth piece of art in the sand on specific days and times depending on the tides.

Unfortunately, I missed this!

Otter Point State Recreation Site

There is a beautiful overlook where you can view the curve of the coastline and the beach below. Trails lead onto the beach if you’d like to get a closer look. This pretty spot is a bit of a hidden gem. If you drive the Oregon coast in summer, the beaches here are a great way to escape the crowds.

The town of Gold Beach is less than 10 minutes from Otter Point. You’ll cross the Rogue River Bridge as you enter town. If you didn’t pick up any food for a picnic, you could do that at the market here or stop at one of the restaurants here for a quick bite.

Kissing Rock is south of the Gold Beach Visitor Center. The rock formation sits on miles of wide beach that you might just have (almost) to yourself. There are short trails that lead you to this secluded section of beach in just a few minutes’ time.

ProTip: If you’re short on time, Otter Point and Gold Beach can be at most quick stops. You want to make sure you have enough time to visit the next stop, perhaps the most beautiful spot on the entire Oregon Coast!

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

If ever a road trip had a dramatic and memorable finish, this would have to be it!

The Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is an absolute must-visit on your Oregon coast road trip! Even if you have limited time and need to pick and choose your stops, this spectacular natural area should make the cut.

Situated between Gold Beach and Brookings, there are numerous scenic overlooks, pull-offs, and trails. I stopped nearly every mile with my camera in tow!

And if you wanted to make the other stops today as quick as can be so you’re able to spend as much time here as possible, no one could argue with that! There’s plenty to see, do, and savor.

Unless you’re planning to focus on a longer hike, you should stop at as many of the turnoffs as you can. Each one has its own views and trails to explore and ooh and ahh over! They also connect to an 18-mile swath of the Oregon Coast Trail.

Natural Bridge Viewpoint is the park’s most famous spot. The short trail from the parking lot brings you to the viewpoint. It’s possible to continue down the steep trail to get a closer look at the natural bridges but not necessary and can be dangerous especially if the ground is muddy.

From the Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint parking area, there’s a 1-mile grassy trail that circles around and back from the scenic overlook. Aside from the picturesque rocky coastline that spans from north to south, have your binoculars ready to look for whales! If you’re looking for a fantastic short hike, this is it!

ProTip: For a longer 4-mile hike, head north from the Cape Ferrelo area until you reach House Rock Viewpoint . Along the way, you may even discover some small beaches hidden by the old spruce trees around the path.

Hike the 3/4 mile trail to Secret Beach . Use the Thunder Rock Cove parking area to find the trailhead. You can see the cove from the viewpoint up above but trekking down leads you to a pretty tucked-away beach, best explored at low tide.

Follow the path at Arch Rock for views of a cluster of gorgeous sea stacks.

Where to stay in Crescent City, CA (or Brookings, OR)

Finish the day just over the Oregon border in Crescent City, California. You could also choose to finish your drive just before the border in Brookings, OR.

I stayed in Crescent City. There are 2 reasons for this.

First, and honestly, I didn’t like the hotel options available in Brookings for my dates. And while searching, many times I was directed to hotels 8, 10, and 20+ miles from Brookings and towards Crescent City. Here’s where I found more hotel options so that’s where I stayed.

I explain the 2nd reason in fuller detail below but Crescent City was also an ideal location for getting to the airport to return home.

The Best Western Plus Northwoods Inn is near the marina and the Crescent City waterfront. Room rates include a full free breakfast. Plus, you can earn Best Western points to redeem for a future stay or redeem previously earned points to book this as an award night.

However, I had also been looking at the Beachfront Inn in Brookings but there was no availability. This beachfront hotel is perfect if you want one last walk on the beach before returning home. It’s also ideally located to walk to nearby restaurants.

Additional Oregon Coast Itineraries

From my itinerary above, you can see that I drove the entire length of the coast. I also focused on shorter hikes and scenic overlooks, with only a few exceptions. Here are a few suggestions if you want to tweak the above itinerary.

To include more hikes and other activities, you could focus your trip solely on the Oregon coastal highway and skip Seattle. This means flying into Portland, instead.

As a result of doing this, you could potentially slow down in 2 places. Instead of going from Cannon Beach to Newport in a day, you could stop somewhere between Rockaway Beach and Pacific City. This will allow more time to hike in and explore the Cape Meares and Cape Kiawanda areas.

Another option for slowing down would be to give the area in between Bandon and Brookings its own day. The Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor is definitely worth extra time if you have it.

Lastly, and for a total curveball, you could skip Seattle, keep my itinerary the same, and use a 1-2 days to explore a bit of northern California. The Redwood National and State Park area begins just a few minutes’ drive from Crescent City, CA.

Oregon Coast 3 Day Itinerary

Sometimes time is short and/or you’re combining driving the Oregon Coast with other areas of the Pacific Northwest. If this is the case for you, I still recommend driving the entire coast! It’s too pretty to only see a small section of it.

You’ll just make fewer stops and focus on the many scenic points. Go from Astoria to Newport, Newport to Bandon, and then Bandon to Brookings. You can use the above itinerary to pick which Oregon Coast things to do most sound right for you. I would recommend definitely stopping at:

• Cannon Beach
• Ecola State Park
• Cape Meares
• Cape Kiawanda
• Cape Perpetua Lookout
• Devil’s Punchbowl
• Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor

More than 1 Week

If you have 10 days to drive the Oregon Coast, you could shorten your drives each day, as well as add multiple hikes and activities to suit your interests. Undoubtedly, you’ll soak up more of the local vibe and move at a more relaxed pace.

You could also spend 1 week driving the Oregon Coast, slowing down as I suggested above to allow more time in the central and southern areas of the coast. Then, I’d suggest using a couple of days to go just over the border into California to Redwoods National Park.

Admittedly, I’m a National Park lover and I can’t resist visiting if I’m so close. But seeing the mighty Redwoods is an unforgettable experience that would absolutely be the icing on the cake after the spectacular Oregon Coast.

Similarly, you could start in Seattle as I did, but use the extra days to explore any of the 3 National Parks not far from Seattle. They are Olympic, Mount Rainier, and North Cascades National Parks.

Oregon Coast Road Trip Airports

As mentioned earlier in this guide, the Seattle Airport makes the best starting point for this itinerary. Portland can be used as an alternative but only if you intend to skip Seattle altogether, as the airport is nearly 3 hours south of the city.

Rogue Valley International-Medford airport

At the end of your Oregon road trip, you could continue heading south down the west coast into Northern California.

But if time is short, you can circle back from Crescent City to Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport in southern Oregon. It’s a 2-hour drive from Crescent City.

In case you’re wondering why head into California at all if your road trip is ending here, it’s because the road has to cut through Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest to get to the airport in Medford.

Even if you choose to stop in Brookings, Oregon instead of Crescent City, CA, you’ll need to head south into northern California before heading northeast towards Medford Airport.

The airport in Medford has connections to major hubs in the area like Portland, Seattle, Denver, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Phoenix on the 3 domestic legacy carriers, American, United, and Delta. So, wherever home is for you, it’s possible to connect through one of these cities to reach your home airport.

Eugene Airport

As an alternative, you could also return to Eugene Airport in central Oregon. However, it means backtracking 4+ hours to Florence, before heading a bit inland to reach the airport. However, if you aren’t driving the entire Oregon coast, this airport might make a lot of logistical sense for your itinerary.

United, Delta, Southwest, American, Alaska, and Allegiant Airlines all fly domestic routes from here.

When to Do an Oregon Coast Scenic Drive

Summer is the busiest time to drive the Oregon Coast but that’s because summer brings more pleasant temperatures and dry(ish) days. If you have the flexibility to visit after Labor Day until mid-October, you’ll be rewarded with enjoyable weather and quieter roads.

What to Bring

The weather along the Oregon Coastline can be bright and sunny with blue skies but it can also be overcast, foggy, and wet. We visited at the very end of August and into September and most days had bright sunshine. However, the breeze coming off the water made it feel much cooler.

I often had a zipper hoodie ready to throw on at scenic overlooks and for walking on the beach. What to wear for hiking is different than if you’re simply enjoying the views from scenic overlooks. The Oregon State Parks along this route are well-maintained, however, you always want to be dressed right for a hike.

Oregon Coast packing essentials include:

• water-repellant or waterproof sneakers or hiking shoes
• trekking poles (if planning on a lot of hikes)
• paper map of Oregon
• battery pack
• sun protection (i.e. sunscreen, sunglasses , sun-protective clothes )

I’ve also gotten good use out of these hiking essentials for hikes on the Oregon Coast but also during many other outdoor travels.

Preparing for a road trip also includes making sure your car is ready and everyone in it is comfortable. I’ve done countless road trips in the U.S. and internationally and have made my fair share of road trip mistakes …so you don’t have to!

I’ve also put together a comprehensive road trip packing list based on things I’ve found useful in my travels.

If you’re renting a car , be sure there’s plenty of space for everyone to be comfortable, and perhaps try one of these rental car hacks to save some money. For the Oregon Coast from late spring to early fall, you won’t need anything over and above a typical vehicle.

Oregon Coast Road Tripping Tips

The great thing about road trips is you have total control over where to go, how long to stay, and what to do along the way. But there are some things you’ll want to keep in mind as you plan your Oregon coast itinerary.

1. Book hotels as far in advance as possible.

This is especially the case if you’re visiting in summer. These seaside towns are small and only have so many places to stay. Once you’ve ironed out a route and know where you’ll be landing at the end of each day, book your hotel.

2. Respect the weather.

You’re likely to encounter a little bit of everything as you travel the Oregon Coast. Sun, wind, rain, fog, mist, and everything in between are all part of the experience.

To still make the most of your trip, drive carefully, be prepared with the right clothes and gear, and above all else, remember that Mother Nature always has the right of way.

3. Add the phrase “marine layer” to your vocabulary.

This is not exactly the same thing as fog. It’s more of an air mass that can trap parcels of different temperature air creating what appears to be an ultra-thick blanket of fog. This happens typically near large bodies of water.

Although a marine layer does typically burn off or at least dissipate as the day goes on, it can last for longer amounts of time. You’ll want to take extra care driving and being on beaches since visibility can drop to 0.

4. Be ready to turn into a viewpoint parking area.

The Oregon Coast Highway-101 is a winding road with hardly any places to make a U-turn. If you see a scenic overlook or a stop that looks unmissable, don’t hesitate. Turn into the area.

Better to investigate once you’re there and decide to continue rather than trying to turn around or missing the stop altogether.

5. Cell phones are great…when they have a signal.

I made this mistake on a Utah road trip . I relied on my Google Maps app for navigation which was fine until I was in a remote corner where there was no signal.

For this reason, I always advise anyone who’s planning a road trip to get a paper map . And although driving the Oregon Coast is just straight down the coast, you don’t want to find yourself stuck without a signal and not knowing how to get to your next stop.

6. Get the right park pass for your needs.

Whenever you’re visiting National Parks or State Parks, you typically have to pay an entry and/or parking fee. This is true for places along the Oregon Coast.

The Oregon States Park Pass costs $30 and includes entry to 26 Oregon State Parks, several of which are included in this itinerary.

The America the Beautiful Pass is typically associated with National Parks. However, it also covers entry to National Forests and National Monuments, some of which are along the coast of Oregon. The pass is good for a year and can be used an unlimited number of times at more than 2,000 National Park Service sites across the U.S.

7. Know the times for high and low tides.

The Pacific Ocean and its waves are to be respected. There are many beaches and places along the Oregon coast that can’t be accessed at high tide or, even worse, can cut off the way back along a beach trail.

Look at the tide timetable and pay attention to any posted signs and their warnings.

Unforgettable Oregon Coast Road Trip

Whether you have a few days or more than a week, visit the Oregon Coast’s beaches, hike its trails, and marvel over the incredible sea stacks.

This coastal slice of the Pacific Northwest will take your breath away. It’s an absolute must-do American road trip!

What are your questions about road-tripping along the Oregon Coast?

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Exactly How to Plan an Incredible Oregon Coast Road Trip

Looking to plan a road trip down the Oregon Coast? You’re in the right place! We’ve done this drive three or four times now (Matt’s family lives in Seattle, Alysha’s lives in California, and we drive the coast to avoid the snow in the Siskyous), and seem to discover something new on each foray down the wild stretch of coast that calls Oregon home. And we’re here to do our best to help you plan an amazing Oregon Coast road trip!

The Oregon Coast is one of the most gorgeous pieces of the Pacific Northwest, and that’s saying something considering the Northwest is full of incredible natural beauty. Huge groves of towering sitka spruce trees, a coastline of beaches that oscillate between wide and sandy and rocky and full of sea stacks, and plenty of great food and hiking along the way.

Basically, a drive down the Oregon Coast has everything we love on a road trip. 

Despite being sandwiched between our two home states of Washington and California, Oregon was a place that largely remained a mystery to us outside of Portland, which has been in the pantheon of our favorite cities in the world for many years now.

That is, until we had to reevaluate our travel plans in early 2020 (when we had concocted an entire year of international travel that we got six weeks into before having to cancel everything). 

The Oregon Coast was our first destination on our on-and-off two year US road trip, and we ended up spending a leisurely two weeks in the early summer camping our way up the Oregon Coast from the south end, which we absolutely fell in love with, all the way up to Astoria at the northern tip of Oregon.

Over the past few years, we’ve also made an annual Seattle to San Francisco road trip to get between our families, and we drive some portion of the Oregon Coast to do it.

On our last trip – right before we made the move to Oregon – we spent another two weeks on the Oregon Coast, this time in the winter, making our way north to south. 

In this (very long) guide, we’re going to do our best to give you everything – and we do mean everything – we think you’ll need to plan an amazing Oregon Coast road trip. From the best stops to make and what to do and see at each stop, to where to stay and how to put it all together, we’ve compiled everything we know about driving the Oregon Coast in this guide. 

Ready to get planning? Let’s do it!

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

How Many Days Do You Need / Have on the Oregon Coast?

On both of our trips up and down the Oregon Coast, we’ve spent more than 10 days, taking it slow and soaking it all in.

However, we recognize that not everyone has the luxury of time, which is why we’re going to give you a day-by-day itinerary for different shorter time frames below the main guide to help you plan out a shorter trip if you have less time. 

Here’s a high-level overview of what we’d do with three, five, and seven days or more on the Oregon Coast. For more detail, scroll down to the section below the best stops to see exactly how we’d plan a trip of various lengths. 

With 3 Days

With three days, you really don’t have the time to drive the Oregon Coast in its entirety. 

HOWEVER, you can do a pretty sweet road trip starting and ending in Portland that heads out to the northern Oregon Coast and takes in Astoria, Cannon Beach, and Tillamook before making your way back to Portland. 

That’s how we’d spend your time, and you have the luxury of either choosing one home base (if you go that route, we’d stay in Astoria or Cannon Beach ) or making your way from town to town. 

With 5 Days

With five days, you really still only have time for the northern half of the Oregon Coast. Keep in mind, the drive from Brookings, the last town at the southern end of the coast, back to Portland will take you about six hours, give or take a half hour.

However, we think you have enough time to do the stretch from Astoria down to Newport, though it won’t be as slow-going as if you had more time. 

If you’re looking for a slower pace, stake a home base in Cannon Beach or Tillamook and explore the stretch from Astoria to Lincoln City from there. 

With 7 Days or More

If you have a week or more, you can probably do the whole coast (though with seven days, you’ll have to do some picking and choosing what exactly you want to see).

Start in Astoria and make your way all the way to Brookings, but make sure to plan for an extra day to get back to Portland from there!

In general, the northern Oregon Coast (roughly Astoria to Newport) is more developed and, for lack of a better word, “touristy,” while the southern Oregon Coast is more wild and rugged. 

Where to Start and End Your Road Trip

The answer to this question depends on where you’re coming from, but for most people the answer is Portland, Oregon . 

Portland is by far the easiest city to fly into in Oregon – Portland International Airport (PDX) is also known for being one of the most pleasant airports in the country – has the best rental car options and prices, and is a lovey place to spend some time on either end of your road trip (read our guide to a weekend in Portland , or one day in Portland for our take on the best way to spend your time). 

Now, Portland isn’t technically on the Oregon Coast – it’s about two hours away. The Oregon Coast runs from Astoria at the northwestern tip of Oregon just across the Columbia River from my home state of Washington, down to Brookings at the California border (Alysha’s home state).

Tips for Driving the Oregon Coast

Here are a few things to know about the Oregon Coast before we get into the specifics. 

There’s No Doubt About it – You Need a Car

Spoiler: you’ll need a car to do this road trip. If you’re flying in, you’ll have to rent a car in Portland when you arrive. 

There’s no great way to use public transportation to get from the airport to the Oregon Coast, and there’s even fewer options connecting the various towns and parks once you’re actually on the coast. 

You need to rent a car (or bring your own). The end. 

Do Your Oregon Coast Road Trip North to South (If You Have the Choice)

We’ve done this road trip from north to south and south to north, and starting at the northern end and making your way south is undoubtedly easier because all of the coastal stops will be on the right hand side of the road, which means you don’t have to cross traffic to get to them. 

That being said, it’s not a deal breaker – we went in the opposite direction on our first trip and it was barely noticeable. However, it is a consideration, and it’s why we organized this Oregon Coast itinerary from north to south. 

Try to Stay in Places for Multiple Nights (If You Can)

We think you should – as much as your itinerary allows it – choose a home base for a few days and use it to explore a part of the coast rather than trying to stay in a different place each night, which is exhausting. 

Plus, it’s easier to not have to juggle check-in times. 

For example, on the northern Oregon Coast we’d recommend spending two nights in Cannon Beach and using them to visit Cannon Beach, Oswald West State Park, Ecola State Park, and even Astoria before moving south. 

Passes and Permits for Driving the Oregon Coast

There are a couple of passes and permits you’ll need to park at various spots on the coast. 

If you’re not an Oregon or Washington resident, then the best bet is to grab an Oregon Pacific Coast Passport , which covers a bunch of the stops on this list (you can see what is included on this page ). It’s $10 for a 5 day pass, or $35 for an annual pass (if you’re going to be on the coast for more than 5 days, buy the annual pass). 

You can purchase them at all Oregon State Parks and National Forest Service offices on the coast. 

If you’re an Oregon resident, an Oregon State Parks Pass and a Northwest Forest Pass (or an America the Beautiful Pass ) will get you into most of the spots here, and are good for the rest of the state / region too. 

We have an Oregon State Parks Pass and have an America the Beautiful Interagency Pass, and those were perfect. 

Prepare for Picnic Lunches with Staggering Ocean Views

We like the flexibility of packing a picnic lunch for the road and finding a random beach or scenic pullout to stop at and enjoy a sandwich with a view.

That way, you can spend more time exploring, and less time wondering where you’re going to eat lunch. 

The Best Stops to Make on an Oregon Coast Road Trip

We’re going to organize this from north to south, because if you follow our advice and start and end in Portland, then that’s the easiest way to do it. 

Doing it that way means you’ll have a short drive at the beginning to get to the starting point, but it also means that you’ll have a hefty drive back to Portland on your hands at the end if you do the entire thing. 

We’d recommend heading out to the I-5 corridor from the southern coast and spending the night in Ashland or Eugene on the way back. 

In the guide below, we’ll give you our favorite stops from north to south. Some of those stops – like Astoria and Newport – are worth at least one overnight depending on the amount of time you have. For those, you’ll find two subsections – what to do and where to stay. 

Some stops are more of a stopover on the way to your next stop, and for those you’ll just find a section on things to do. 

Anyway, here is our take on the best stops to make when you’re driving the Oregon Coast, from north to south. 

Astoria is a charming, somewhat sleepy little town at the northwestern corner of the state of Oregon. A surprising amount of history – both American and Oregonian – happened here, including the end of the Lewis and Clark expedition and the only attack on a mainland US military base since the war of 1812. 

At one point, the Astor family (who named Astoria, clearly) had big, big plans for Astoria. Originally, because of its location at the mouth of the Columbia River where it meets the Pacific Ocean, it was thought that Astoria might become the New York City of the west. Which, obviously, didn’t quite come to be. 

Today, Astoria is a great place to begin your journey down the Oregon Coast. There are a couple of wonderful parks, a stunning view from the Astoria Column, and some of the best breweries in Oregon. 

Things to Do in Astoria

Here are some of our favorite things to do in Astoria , whether you’re planning on spending a couple of hours, or a couple of days in town. 

The Astoria Column: The Astoria Column is perched up on the hill above Astoria, and has sweeping views of the town, the river, and the Astoria-Megler Bridge from the top. On the outside, there is a continuous mural depicting major events in the history of Oregon, which is pretty cool but hard to really take in without getting dizzy. Lucky for you, you can see it online here , complete with helpful historical context about what the images mean. Climbing the column is free, but it does cost $5 to park in the lot at the base of the column. 

The Astoria Riverfront Walk: The riverfront in Astoria is full of history, and the official trail stretches 6.4 miles from the trailhead on the eastern end ( here on Google Maps), heads under the Astoria-Megler Bridge, and ends at a point on the other side of town. Keep in mind that it’s nearly 13 miles to do it out-and-back. Our recommendation would be to do a portion of it – the portion from the Columbia River Maritime Museum out to the Astoria-Megler Bridge . It’s a nice walk past old cannery buildings, Buoy Beer, and out to a pretty stellar view of the bridge. Along the way, you’re likely to see (or at the very least, hear) sea lions!

Breweries Galore: Most people talk about San Diego and Portland as the places with the most breweries per capita, but given Astoria’s small population and relatively large number of breweries, I feel like it has to be up there. Here are a few of them: 

• Fort George , which has a huge taproom taking up most of an entire city block with multiple levels – including an open-air rooftop – is our top pick. They have a rotating selection of their beers on tap, along with a cider or two and (usually) gluten free beer in cans (which I very much appreciate, as someone with Celiac Disease who can’t have regular beer).
• Buoy Beer is the other popular spot right on the water, though they were closed when we were in town last and have a more underwhelming non-beer selection.
• The OG brewery in Astoria is Astoria Brewing Company , who started brewing beer in 1997 and has a nice industrial space on the riverfront walk. 

Lewis and Clark National Historical Park: Astoria was first put on a map (by the United States government, anyway) by the famous explorers Lewis and Clark, who were commissioned by Thomas Jefferson to find the Northwest Passage that would connect them to the Pacific Ocean for direct trading routes. At the time, it wasn’t called Astoria, but Fort Clatsop, and it was about five miles southwest of the city as we know it today where the expedition spent three (miserable, it sounds like) months experiencing a very wet Pacific Northwest winter in 1806 before triumphantly returning to St. Louis, their mission complete. We’d focus your time on two pieces of living history: Fort Clatsop and the Fort-to-Sea Trail . It’s $10, or free if you have an America the Beautiful Pass or an Oregon Pacific Coast Passport. 

Fort Stevens State Park: Fort Stevens State Park occupies some prime real estate at the northwestern corner of Oregon, where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean. The fort was constructed at the tail end of the Civil War to prevent enemy ships from gaining access to the Columbia River, and remained in operation until the 1940’s. There are two places in particular that we’d encourage you to visit as you do some exploring. 

• The Peter Iredale Shipwreck : Probably the most famous piece of the park, the Peter Iredale ran ashore in 1906 as it was trying to navigate the famously treacherous waters of the mouth of the Columbia River and has been there since. It’s right on a long, sandy stretch of beach – which is a welcome change from the rocky beaches we have up in Washington – and it’s a lovely place to spend a sunset.
• The Northwest Corner of Oregon : Up to the north, you’ll find Clatsop Spit, which marks the northwestern-most point in the state of Oregon. There are a couple of parking areas up on the spit, and we thought parking lot C ( here on Google Maps) was the best because of the view of the beach and coast to the south from the tower near the parking lot. 

For more on what to do and see in Astoria, make sure to read our more detailed guide to the best things to do in Astoria !

Places to Stay in Astoria

Astoria has a surprising number of cool places to stay. We’re going to break them down into two categories. These categories aren’t really that mutually exclusive – you’ll be able to walk downtown from the waterfront hotels, and vice versa – but we think they’re a useful way to decide where to stay. 

First are the waterfront hotels where you’ll be perched on the shore of the Columbia River as it flows west towards the Pacific Ocean. If that sounds like something you’re into, stay at the Bowline Hotel . We spent one afternoon strolling the path that the Astoria Riverfront Trolley (which was sadly closed when we were there) would take and were enamored with the Bowline when we walked by it. 

It’s right on the water, next door to Buoy Beer Company, and about five minutes from most things in Astoria. Sure enough, I looked it up when we got back to our hotel (we’ll get to that) and it looks exactly like the kind of place we’d like.

It’s modern, stylish, the rooms are big and comfortable, and if you book a riverview room, you’ll have a nice patio looking out at the river where you can relax with a beer and watch the huge container ships float by. 

The second category are the hotels in the center of town , where you’ll be walkable to the food, drinks, and shops of downtown Astoria.  

We stayed at the Norblad Hotel , which is a hip hotel with super friendly staff in a perfect location and has rooms for a variety of budgets.

We knew we’d be doing some work from the hotel, so we chose a Queen Suite (which was perfect!), but they also have smaller rooms with shared bathrooms (single occupancy) that are perfect if you’re on a budget. 

The last option is camping at Fort Stevens State Park . We have tried to get a reservation here and failed in the past. It’s competitive, so you’ll want to book early, particularly if you happen to be on the coast over a weekend. 

Ecola State Park

We had never been to Ecola State Park until our fifth trip out to the coast – though we’d wanted to each of the four previous times.

The reason? Storm damage has had it closed since early 2020! 

But if that road out to the park is open for your trip, you definitely should for the incredible views out over Cannon Beach, with its crashing waves and towering sea stacks. 

The park covers the area around Tillamook Head, which the Lewis and Clark expedition famously climbed, later writing about the panoramic coastal views (and the really, really hard climb).

Here are Clark’s words about the views, in case you’re not sure if you should make the stop or not: “… the grandest and most pleasing prospects which my eyes ever surveyed.”

We love Indian Beach, and have spent a sunny day there escaping the 100+ heat in Portland with friends. Highly recommended if it’s brutally hot in the city – it’s a solid 20+ degrees cooler near the ocean!

There are a couple of notable hikes to tackle while you’re here.

Clatsop Loop and Indian Beach : First is the Clatsop Loop Trail , which leaves from Indian Beach (another spot worth exploring) and heads north along the coast towards Tillamook Head with some nice views along the way. 

Crescent Beach : Accessible via a mile-long trail (one way) from the main parking lot ( here on Google Maps), this hike takes you down to a nice, secluded beach on the south end of the park. 

You can check the current park conditions here .

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is perhaps the most famous of the northern Oregon Coast towns, primarily for two reasons. Its proximity to Portland is the first. At just over 90 minutes away, it’s a perfect day trip from Portland if you’re looking for some beach action.

Second is Haystack Rock, which is featured prominently in every Pacific Northwest photographer’s Instagram and portfolio. 

The town of Cannon Beach is charming and a little bit cheesy, but is an excellent stop on your road trip as a home base for exploring the state parks immediately north and south of town. 

If you’re familiar with the Oregon Coast at all, you’ll notice that we completely skipped Seaside . After poking around Seaside for an afternoon, we decided that basically anything you can find in Seaside you can find in other places on this itinerary. And by and large, whatever “things” we’re talking about are generally done better elsewhere on the coast. 

For example, the aquarium. The Seaside Aquarium is tiny. If you’re in the mood for an aquarium and you’re making it down to Newport, hold out for the Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport, which rivals the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California for the best we’ve ever been to. 

We do like the idea of the Funland Arcade and the bumper cars across the street, though. But overall, we think your precious time is better spent elsewhere. Some people probably love Seaside (especially if you have kids), but it wasn’t our thing. 

Anyway, back to Cannon Beach, which is a similar idea to Seaside in that it’s a coastal resort town whose population balloons in the summer as people escape to the coast, but is much, much more inviting and charming. 

Things to Do in Cannon Beach

Here’s what we’d do in and around Cannon Beach.

Public Coast Brewing : Local beer, and gluten free fish and chips (though you’d never know it!) at the northern end of town near the entrance for Ecola State Park. A perfect post-hike refuel stop!

Haystack Rock : Perhaps the most famous scenery on the entire Oregon Coast, Haystack Rock is a giant sea stack just off of the coast on Cannon Beach that towers over the surrounding area. It’s an excellent sunset location! There’s also a puffin colony that calls the rock home, which is fun to learn about from the rangers on the beach.

Good Coffee : If you’re in the mood for some good coffee, head to either Insomnia Coffee Co. or Sea Level Bakery + Coffee . Insomnia is right in town, Sea Level is about ten minutes south on the way to Oswald West State Park.

Hug Point : First of all, this is only a low tide place to visit, because when the tide is out, this is a huge stretch of beach with all sorts of fun tide pools that is really only accessible at low tide. Check tides here . The parking lot is small, which means you’ll want to either get here early in the morning (again, depending on tides!) or be prepared to wait for a parking spot if you’re here on the weekend.

Places to Stay in Cannon Beach

We stayed at the Inn at Haystack Rock , and realized that we had unintentionally booked a stay in the perfect location. It’s walkable to the main downtown area of Cannon Beach, and it’s a block away from the beach itself, and a 10-15 minute walk away from Haystack Rock.

The rooms could use a few updates, but they have rooms with kitchens, which is something we wanted, and our particular cottage was nice and cozy, with an electric fireplace in the bedroom. 

If you want to actually stay on the beach, which is something we wanted but couldn’t find a place with kitchen facilities (Matt has Celiac Disease, which means he has to eat 100% gluten free and we generally cook a lot on the road). 

If that hadn’t been a consideration, we’d have stayed at either the Schooner’s Cove Inn , which is right in the middle of the action on the downtown strip, or Surfsand Resort , which is right on the beach and has rooms with views of Haystack Rock. 

Oswald West State Park

Short Sand Beach: Heaven for surfers, this beach is super popular with the surfing community in Oregon, and even on a rainy, stormy day you’re bound to find at least a couple of dedicated surfers sitting in the water. 

The Cape Falcon Trail: The muddiest hike we’ve ever done, this hike takes you out around the cape on the right side of Short Sand Beach to a great view. It’s relatively easy, but I’m not joking when I say that it’s one of the muddiest hikes we’ve ever had the privilege of doing. Be prepared. More trail information here . 

The Neahkahnie Mountain Trail: This is probably our favorite of the hikes in Oswald West State Park. And it’s really just because of the vista at the top, which includes a view of Manzanita Beach stretching endlessly south. There are multiple ways to do this hike, and the most popular version is to start from the northern trailhead , which is right off of 101. This is also the longer, harder version of the hike. The alternate option is to go from the south trailhead , which is a half mile off of 101 up a narrow forest road, which cuts the distance to 2.6 miles and 850 feet of elevation gain. 

The town of Tillamook itself is fine, but the real beauty of Tillamook is the wealth of incredible nature that is accessible within 30 minutes or so. If you’re short on time, driving the Three Capes Scenic Route is a must-do (and you could do it as a one-way drive on your way south). 

Oh, and the cheese. There’s not one but TWO places to get amazing cheese in Tillamook (more on that in a second). 

Things to Do in Tillamook

Here are a few things to do in Tillamook that should keep you busy for a day or two.

Devour Delicious Cheese! There are two great places to get farm-fresh cheese in Tillamook. The most famous (and our personal preference) is Tillamook . Whether or not you’re familiar with the Pacific Northwest, you’ve likely had Tillamook cheese before. But I’m not sure how many people have had the pleasure of tasting their ice cream, which is some of the creamiest ice cream we’ve ever had. It’s not gluten free, but Alysha loves it (their chocolate peanut butter ice cream is legendary). At their factory, they have an ice cream bar with all sorts of different unique flavors, along with some unique cheeses that you can’t really find elsewhere. Plus, cheese curds! Blue Heron is just down the road, and specializes in French cheeses (think Brie) – we loved their herb brie. 

Drive the Three Capes Scenic Route: This drive takes in, you guessed it, three different capes. You’ll start at Cape Meares, make your way south to Cape Lookout, and then head down to Cape Kiwanda. Here are more details on those stops.

• Cape Meares : You’re mostly here for the lighthouse, which is hard to photograph, but the walk up to the so-called “Octopus Tree” is also worth the quick detour. Throughout the park you have really nice rugged coastal views.
• Cape Lookout : Probably our favorite of the three capes, there are two main things to check out here. First is the beach, which is accessed by parking at the lot here . Second is the Cape Lookout Trail , which takes you out to the end of the Cape (through a nice temperate rainforest, I might add) where amazing coastal views are waiting for you.  
• Cape Kiwanda : Furthest south, Cape Kiwanda is another great surfing spot, and you’ll routinely find many, many surfers out in the water. You can also drive out onto the beach here, which is fun (though we didn’t dare in our minivan). The highlight here is the hike up on the sandy headland on the right (that’s north) side of the beach. There are great views of Cape Kiwanda from the top, but there are also some nice views back to the north on the other side. It’s also worth stopping for food or coffee at Stimulus Coffee & Bakery , which is across the street from the main parking lot. The coffee is excellent, and though I can’t speak to the baked goods (I have Celiac Disease), the line tells me they’re probably pretty good. 

Places to Stay near Tillamook

We stayed at Sheltered Nook , which is a little collection of tiny houses just north of town. We really enjoyed it, and they’re small, but surprisingly comfortable!

There’s an electric fireplace, a nice kitchen with everything you need to cook a meal (or just seven bags of cheese curds, your choice, I guess), and it’s dark and quiet so you’ll get a great night of sleep. Plus a nice common area in between the houses with fire pits, picnic tables, and barbecues. 

We have also camped at Cape Lookout State Park , which is a super nice campground right on the beach at Cape Lookout. If you’re up for camping, you can’t go wrong there. 

Lincoln City

Lincoln City is on this list because it’s home to not one, but TWO of our favorite hikes on the Oregon Coast .

It’s a sleepy resort town about 45 minutes south of Tillamook, and other than these two hikes there’s not really that much to do or see nearby. There’s a wide, sandy beach, which is nice, but to be honest, there’s a lot of those on the Oregon Coast. 

For us, it’s all about the hikes. And it would make a fantastic stop to break up the drive between Tillamook and Newport, your next main stop. 

Option 1: Cascade Head: The first is Cascade Head (from the lower trailhead), which takes you up a steep set of stairs and through a dense forest before emerging onto a headland with spectacular coastal views. Continue climbing past a lower viewpoint up the ridge to the upper viewpoint for even better views, which you might not believe is even possible. We did this hike on a very stormy, windy day in February, and we still enjoyed it! There are a couple of ways to do this hike, and the easiest and most direct is to drive most of the way up to the upper trailhead , which results in a shorter, easier hike .

Option 2: God’s Thumb: The second hike here is God’s Thumb , which takes you out to a cool, for lack of a better word, natural terrace with great ocean views. The last part of this trail gets a little sketchy, as you’re climbing on a narrow trail with steep drop offs to reach God’s Thumb. Only do what you’re comfortable with, and be careful when it has been raining and this part of the trail is muddy. From the top of the Thumb, you have pretty spectacular coastal views awaiting you. This would be an excellent sunset hike, where you’ll be awash in a soft golden glow as the sun sets over the Pacific to the west. 

To us, Newport very much feels like a midpoint on the Oregon Coast. Both in terms of geography – it’s right around the middle of the trip down the coast – but also in terms of vibes.

It’s the last bigger city (town?) on the coast if you’re heading south, and there’s a surprising amount of bars, restaurants, shops, and other amenities that you might find in a city. 

But you get outside of town to the south and it very quickly becomes the rugged, wild southern Oregon coast as you make your way towards Cape Perpetua. 

Newport is worth an overnight stop, since you’ll have a drive of a couple of hours coming from Tillamook, and another couple of hours before you reach your next stop after you pass through Newport. Plus, it’s a nice place to hang out, and it’s worth spending an afternoon and evening exploring the Bayfront, where you’ll find a fun stretch of bars, breweries, and restaurants to peruse. 

Things to Do in Newport

Newport is one of the biggest towns / cities on the Oregon Coast, so it has a lot going on.

Yaquina Head Lighthouse: A must-stop just north of Newport, this is a beautiful lighthouse perched on a head at the northern mouth of Yaquina Bay. It’s a short walk out to the lighthouse from the parking area, but you should also try to walk down to the beach on the north side (both Cobble Beach and Quarry Cove). There’s an extensive visitor center here too.

Nye Beach: The best beach in Newport! Splurge on a dinner at Zach’s Bistro if you have the chance (they have plenty of gluten free options!). Agate Beach – which Matt learned is not pronounced “Ah-gah-tay” but “Agitt” – is another good one, just north of town. 

The Oregon Coast Aquarium: This is probably the best aquarium on the west coast aside from the Monterey Bay Aquarium. We had every single intention of going here. Until, that is, we showed up on a weekend afternoon and realized that it was the busiest time possible, with hordes of screaming kids making their way towards the entrance. So we decided to skip it. But that doesn’t mean you should! It’s a little expensive at $25 per adult, but if you’re interested in the marine life on the coast, it’s worth it. If you want to see what you’re getting yourself into, they have a bunch of live cams where you can see the enclosures for the otters, sea lions, etc. More information here .

Food and Drinks in Newport: A couple of notable spots are Mo’s Seafood and Chowder (for the, well, seafood and chowder), Clearwater (for a nice dinner with views of the Yaquina Bay Bridge), and if you’re looking for a drink, Newport Brewing Co .

Places to Stay in Newport

There is exactly one place we wanted to stay in Newport, and it didn’t quite work out on our latest trip because it was a weekend and we were booking relatively late. Bummer. So we actually continued on south all the way to Coos Bay for the night. 

That place is the Inn at Nye Beach . 

It’s right on the beach, the rooms are gigantic – for hotel room standards – and you can choose between a city and ocean view. The gas fireplaces are a nice touch for winter and spring trips. 

Cape Perpetua & Heceta Head Lighthouse

The stretch from Cape Perpetua to Heceta Head Lighthouse is probably our favorite part of the Oregon Coast, and reminds us of the drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles through Big Sur.

It’s a big bluff that rises almost 1,000 feet out of the ocean below, which means from the scenic viewpoint at the top, you have an incredible view of the never ending coast to the south. 

While technically Cape Perpetua Scenic Area refers to a relatively small piece of the coast south of Yachats, we’re going to include the entire stretch of coast between Cape Perpetua and Heceta Head Lighthouse in this section. 

It’s worth stopping by the Cape Perpetua Visitor Center ( here on Google Maps) to get your bearings, check out some maps, and talk to a ranger to see what’s happening at the moment. 

Here are some must-stop places along this stretch of the Oregon Coast, from north to south. 

Devil’s Churn: A short stop where you’ll hike down to an overlook with a view of an inlet that is partially covered at the end. Which means at high tide, if you’re lucky, the waves coming in will meet the waves going out and create an explosion of water.  

Cape Perpetua Lookout: This lookout ( here on Google Maps, pictured above) is the best view on the Oregon Coast. In our opinion, anyway. For some reason, the first time we drove the Oregon Coast, we thought you had to hike here to get this view via the Saint Perpetua Trail . Imagine our disappointment when we realized upon arrival at the top that you could just drive here (the trail is still a good workout, though we’d probably just drive next time). Anyway, from the top, you get a nice view of the rolling waves and coastline below, and we definitely think it’s worth the stop. 

Thor’s Well: This is a cool spot just south of the access road up to the viewpoint. You’ll take a short walk out to the shore, where you’ll find Thor’s Well. What, exactly, is Thor’s Well? The current thinking is that it’s a collapsed sea cave, but nobody really knows. What we do know is that it’s worth the short detour to see the “well” fill up as the waves come crashing over the shore, and then slowly drain through a hole in the sea-facing wall. You should know that there’s really nothing to see here at low tide – we’re speaking from experience – the best time to visit is right before or after high tide, when the water comes up over the edge of the well and drains when the tide recedes. Check tides here . For photography purposes, you’ll need very specific conditions to get the perfect shot – I liked this guide , though sadly we didn’t get a good shot of our own because of the tides.

Heceta Head Lighthouse: We’ve now officially left Cape Perpetua, and are now about 15 minutes south. This is one of the best lighthouses on the Oregon Coast (it’s about even with Yaquina Head in Newport, we think), sitting hundreds of feet above the ocean looking out from its perch on Heceta Head. It was built in 1894, and still operates today (though it’s automated). You’ll need to either pay $5 or have an Oregon State Parks Pass to park at the lot, then it’s a nice walk up to the lighthouse’s perch. Today, there’s even a bed and breakfast at the historic keeper’s quarters! You can also hike from the lighthouse to Hobbit Beach – more information here . 

Sea Lion Caves: Look, we drove past this place on our first trip, saw a line out the door of a tiny little touristy-looking hut, and said “look at those suckers!” Then we learned what it actually was later on, and were at least a little bit disappointed that we didn’t stop in. If you want to see sea lions, this is the place to do it. That hut sits over an elevator that takes you down hundreds of feet to the water level, where there’s a sea cave – America’s largest, in fact – filled to the brim with barking sea lions. Skeptical? Here’s the webcam where you can see for yourself. They’re open 9:00 am – 4:00 pm 363 days a year, and it costs $16 for adults, $10 for kids (under 4 are free!), making it a little bit pricey. 

The Oregon Dunes

Continuing south from the sea lion caves, you’ll pass through the small town of Florence before hitting the most unique stretch of the Oregon Coast, the Oregon Dunes. Stop by River Roasters for some good coffee in town, and then head out to the dunes. 

The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is a huge stretch of coast covering 31,500 acres along the coast between Florence and North Bend. 

Driving along the road is a weird experience, because for large stretches you actually can’t see the dunes. You might start to notice the sand along the sides of the road, but you’ll essentially have forest on one side, and a string of lakes on the other, with exactly zero dunes in sight. 

What you can’t see is on the other side of that forest, there’s a huge swath of land that is basically just a bunch of rolling hills of sand that take you all the way to the ocean. 

You should know that OHVs are legal on the dunes, which means you’re very likely to hear the humming of engines revving as you try to enjoy your peace and solitude.  

There is one place we think you shouldn’t miss – though there are obviously tons and tons of things to do and see here. We’re not into OHVs, so it’s not really our thing. But if you are, then you can rent one or join a guided tour at Spinreel in North Bend. 

The John Dellenback Dunes Trail (5.5 miles RT)

This is the best hike to experience the dunes, we think. You’ll start in the forest, though you’re walking on sand as you make your way to the edge of the trees, where you’ll come face-to-face with the sprawling dunes stretching out for miles.

The coolest part is the islands of trees that somehow exist smack dab in the middle of the dunes.

You’ll snake your way across the dunes – remember, hiking on sand is HARD – before briefly re-entering a different forest and emerging out onto a neverending wide sandy beach, where you’re likely to be one of just a few people out there.

Bring plenty of water and snacks – this hike is probably going to take you longer than you think.

More trail information, including recent trail reports, here . 

The Tahkenitch Dunes Trail is a good alternative, but we prefer the John Dellenback version. 

Coos Bay & Bandon

The towns of Coos Bay and Bandon, which are about 30 minutes apart, form a nice stretch of coast ranging from rocky and rugged places like Cape Arago, to wide sandy beaches like the ones near Bandon. 

The town of Coos Bay isn’t really worthy of too much of your time – but the stretch of state parks to the west between Sunset Bay State Park and Cape Arago is great – and Bandon is definitely worth a stop. B

andon is a sleepy little beach town, with a brewery and cidery, and two pretty spectacular beaches that have to be among the best on the entire coast. 

Things to Do in Coos Bay and Bandon

Here are a few things to add to your itinerary between Coos Bay and Bandon.

Sunset Bay State Park : The beach is the highlight here, and it’s a nice protected cove safe from the crashing waves that exist just outside the walls of the cove. This is also the starting point of an 8.5 mile hike along the coast (part of the Oregon Coast Trail) connecting Sunset Bay with Shore Acres and Cape Arago – more information here . 

Shore Acres State Park: The highlight here is the garden, which includes an impressive rose garden.

Cape Arago State Park : Another cape? How many capes are there on the Oregon Coast? Apparently there are 11 named capes , and probably countless unnamed ones. Anyway, Cape Arago State Park is the end of the road out here west of Coos Bay, and is a place to see sea lions and other sea life from an overlook that sits above a particular set of rocks that they seem to love. It’s rugged and rocky, and on stormy days it’s a cool place to go watch the huge waves crashing onto the rocks below. 

Bandon Beach & Bullards Beach : Bandon’s two main beaches are on either side of the inlet of the Coquille River. As you come to the beach, you’ll notice the sandy beaches of the northern and central coast are starting to give way to the rocky, rugged beaches with picturesque sea stacks that you’ll find on the southern coast, particularly in the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor (your next stop). Because they’re separated by the river, it’s actually not that easy to get from one to the other – it takes 15 minutes to drive between them. If we have to choose, we choose Bandon. Don’t miss Face Rock Scenic Viewpoint (and Devil’s Kitchen , which is 5-7 minutes south by car). 

Bandon Rain: Bandon Rain is the local cider company in Bandon! Their cider is good, and you can only get it on tap at their taproom or on tap at a very select few places in Oregon. 

Places to Stay near Coos Bay

We absolutely love the modern cabins at Bay Point Landing , where we spent a few nights of stormy winter weather on our latest drive down the Oregon Coast. They’re a little on the pricey side, but we think the waterfront views, comfortable beds, and modern amenities (they have a bocce ball court!) make it worth it. 

They also have Airstreams and RV sites, though we can’t imagine the RV sites are particularly nice given that it was constantly windy. Like, really windy. 

It’s just outside of Coos Bay, along the same road that takes you to Sunset Bay State Park. 

If you’re not into that idea, then you should stay in Bandon. There are a bunch of highly rated hotels in Bandon , but we think the Lamplighter Inn looks really nice. The Table Rock Motel also looks great, and it’s walkable to Bandon Beach. 

Port Orford to Gold Beach

For this stretch, we’re going to cover a huge swath of coastline in one section. Sure, we could break it up and make each town into its own section, but there would only be a couple of sentences on each place, which doesn’t feel like the right way to do it.

Instead, we’re going to give you our favorite stops from Cape Blanco State Park to the northern end of Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, in the order in which you’ll encounter them on your road trip. 

Blacklock Point: It might feel like you’re not going the right way at the beginning of his hike, as you’re walking along a barbed wire fence next to an airport, but as soon as you get out to Blacklock Point and you find the stunning rocky beach that you have all to yourself, you’ll understand why we included this stop. You can continue on to Floras Lake , but we think the best part is the beach at Blacklock Point. More trail information, including recent trail reports, here . 

Cape Blanco State Park: Just south of the trailhead for Blacklock Point you’ll find Cape Blanco State Park . This is another of the Oregon Coast’s best lighthouses. You can drive basically right up to the parking lot, so there’s not a whole lot of hiking or exploring to do here, but it’s worth a stop. If you want to get out to the beach on the south end of the lighthouse, there’s a short trail that leaves from the parking lot heading south. 

Port Orford Heads State Park: Worth a quick stop in Port Orford to walk the short trail with great coastal views. 

Humbug Mountain State Park: Another amazing Oregon State Park! Two things here. First is the tough climb up to the summit of Humbug Mountain (trail guide here ), which is hard but worth it for the views at the top. After your hike, head under the highway to the other side to get out to this beach (we can’t find a name for it!), which is accessible from a trail at the western end of the campground. It’s a great beach! We camped at Humbug Mountain on our first trip up the coast, and spent a beautiful sunset out there.

The Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor

This is, without a doubt, our favorite stretch on the entire Oregon Coast. At least when it’s not stormy and quite literally raining sideways with thick coastal fog, which were the conditions on our latest trip in the dead of winter (cool in a different way, I guess). 

The Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor runs from the town of Gold Beach at the north end to the town of Brookings, which is essentially on Oregon’s southern border with California.

It’s named after the first superintendent of the Oregon State Parks system – Samuel H. Boardman – who was almost single handedly responsible for acquiring the land for this stretch of protected coast. 

His pitch for a national park on the Oregon Coast was shot down by the powers that be, but he got a deal done for this piece under the state parks system. 

It’s everything we like about the southern Oregon coast (and the northern California coast, for that matter) encapsulated in one hour-long stretch of driving. Not including stops, and there will be a bunch!

Here are our favorite stops, again organized from north to south. Most of these are either very, very short hikes, or hikes that are three miles or less. You can easily get a few of them under your belt without doing too much hiking. Here’s a nice map and brochure with more information. 

Cape Sebastian: This was the first hike we ever did on the Oregon Coast, and what an introduction it was! This hike has everything that we love about the Oregon Coast – huge groves of sitka spruce trees, rugged, rocky coastline, and fresh sea air. It’s an easy 2.7 mile hike , but you hike downhill on the way out, which means an uphill climb on the way back (which includes a not insignificant number of switchbacks). 

Secret Beach: The best beach on the Oregon Coast? But it’s not quite those big sandy beaches you find at places like Cannon Beach and Fort Stevens State Park. Instead, it’s a short little hike off the side of the highway that takes you down to a, well, secret beach that is best explored at low tide (check them here ). 

Natural Bridges: Not very far down the road is another great viewpoint. We’ve seen people hike all the way down to stand out on the natural bridge, which is insane and you definitely shouldn’t do that. Instead, admire the view from the viewpoint, and if you’re feeling adventurous, take the established trail down and to the right from the parking lot, which takes you down to a great view of the rock formations. It’s a little slick after rain, so make sure you have proper footwear. 

Indian Sands: A short and sweet loop that includes some climbing on sand, cool coastal views, and should only take about half an hour or so. 

Whaleshead Beach: Just south of the Indian Sands trailhead, this beach has a rough road leading to it, so if you’re concerned about clearance, you can walk down in 10-15 minutes. At low tide, there are some cool tidepools that form in the rocks with all sorts of sea life. 

Cape Ferrelo: The end of this hike , which takes you out to the tip of Cape Ferrelo, is pretty cool. It’s short, and well worth the stop for, you guessed it, more amazing coastal views out over Lone Ranch Beach. You can also hike up to the head from the beach, which is actually what we did. Park here and walk up the trail on the hill to the right (or to the north). 

What to Do with Even More Time on Your Oregon Coast Itinerary

But Matt and Alysha, I have than seven days, what should I do?

First, lucky you! Second, great question! With more than a week, we’d add time in places you’re already staying, and use that as a home base for exploring (rather than adding brand new places to stay).

We have some ideas because of course we do. Here are three places we’d add more time. 

Cannon Beach : There are so many great hikes around Cannon Beach that we, being big hikers, would be happy with 2-3 days around Cannon Beach. If you’re not into hiking, then 1-2 is probably enough. 

Newport : Newport is the biggest town on the central / southern Oregon Coast, and has some great breweries, restaurants, and stuff like that to occupy your time. Plus, the entire stretch of coast from Depoe Bay down to Cape Perpetua is downright gorgeous, and deserves more than just a drive by. Don’t miss the Hobbit Trail and Heceta Head Lighthouse just south of Newport!

Gold Beach / Port Orford : The southern coast is amazing, with sunny skies (or, more accurately, sunnier skies) and warmer temperatures than the northern part of the coast, but it’s a little harder logistically. It’s worth a solid 2-3 days if you have it to do some of the great hikes, drive Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor (more than once, if possible), and let yourself be lulled into the slower pace of life down south. 

It’s also worth spending the night in Brookings or across the California border in Crescent City to set yourself up for the big drive the next day.

The easiest way to get back to, well, anywhere really, is to head out to I-5 from the coast on 199, which takes you to Grants Pass. 

The Best Time to Take an Oregon Coast Road Trip

The Oregon Coast is accessible year round, but your experience is going to vary wildly across the different seasons. 

It’s also worth considering that the southern Oregon coast, known as the banana belt, is going to be significantly warmer and drier than the northern coast, which gets up into temperate rainforest territory. 

We’ve been in the summer and the dead of winter, and they were both enjoyable, but different. 

Summer brings the best weather on the coast. It will be sunny and warm compared to other parts of the year, but you may run into thick coastal fog in the earlier summer, which is pretty typical.

The downside of summer is the crowds – everyone and their mother comes to the Oregon Coast from all over to experience its beauty, and as a result trailheads are packed, campgrounds are competitive, and you’ll want to book accommodations well in advance. 

Spring and fall are fairly similar. They’re going to be a little cooler and grayer than summer, and the weather will be more unpredictable.

Expect some days of sun and blue skies, and some days of driving rain and wind. Crowds are thinner, camping is less competitive (also less enjoyable), and it’s a little cheaper. 

Winter is all about the stormy vibes, perfect for sitting next to a fireplace and listening to the rain careen off the roof.

You’ll get some nice sunny days, but they’ll be biting cold (it was below freezing last time we were on the coast, but the sun was out!).

The majority of the time, though, it will be gray and drizzly. Sometimes, it will be windy and raining sideways, which is by far our least favorite form of weather. Plan to be wet when you’re hiking, and expect deep mud on basically every trail. 

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Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary (2023)

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An Oregon Coast road trip is an fun and adventurous mix of rugged coastlines, crashing waves, endless hiking trails, delicious seafood and beautiful beach towns. We started our journey from Portland and absolutely loved our time exploring the Oregon Coast.

From hiking to beach walks and stunning viewpoints, there’s something for everyone on an Oregon Coast road trip – we were blown away by the variety of sights and scenery.

To help with your Oregon Coast road trip planning, we’ve put together our ultimate Oregon Coast Road trip itinerary: from its unmissable sights to the best places to stay, this itinerary will help you make the most of your journey along the Oregon Coast!

Table of Contents

Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary Route

Route: Portland – Seaside/Cannon Beach – Newport – Coos Bay – Brookings (Samuel H Boardman)

Our recommended route for the Oregon Coast starts in Portland and ends at the incredible Samuel H Boardman scenic corridor. The ideal length of time for this route is 14 days (which is how long the route took us), but it is possible to do it and see all the sights in 10 days.

Our route includes all the main sights and stops along the Oregon Coast and some of the lesser-known spots that are definitely worth a stop. The Oregon Coast is a spectacular part of the USA and is packed with lots of things to see and do.

Renting a Car in Oregon

If you are flying in then renting a car is the best way to explore the Oregon Coast. Having your own car gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and make stops at all the wonderful sights along the coast. We loved having our rental car in Oregon as it gave us the flexibility to see everything we wanted to, at a pace that suited us.

We’re huge fans of road trips and have driven rental cars in almost 50 countries so we have a lot of experience renting cars in foreign countries. We recommend using RentalCars.com  to reserve your car. They have the best selection and prices that we’ve found –  check prices here!

Book your car now with RentalCars.com

Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

1 | portland – 2 to 3 days.

Most Oregon Coast road trips begin from Portland, Oregon’s largest city. A fun and quirky city, Portland is renowned for its thriving food and drinks scene, its beautiful parks, colorful street art, fascinating museums and stunning waterfalls.

Where to Stay in Portland

Exploring Portland is a lot of fun and worth having a nice hotel to relax in after a long day of adventures. We recommend the following hotels for your stay in Portland:

Inn at Northrup Station  – colourful, quirky and well located for exploring Portland. The suite style rooms are huge and come with fully equipped kitchens –  check prices now!

Mark Spencer Hotel –  perfectly located hotel in the Pearl District and one of the most popular hotels in town. Definitely check it out –   check prices now!

Book your stay in Portland now!

Explore Portland

There are so many fun and unique things to do in Portland . We love spending a few days exploring Portland and indulging in its awesome food (check out Vodoo Donuts, the food hall at Pine Street Market, the city’s food trucks, Salt and Straw Ice Cream… I could go on and on!). There are many beautiful parks and gardens to visit: our favorites are the Chinese, Japanese and the International Rose Test gardens and Washington Park.

Other unmissable sights include Powell’s City of Books, the world’s largest independent book store, and the colorful and thought-provoking murals dotted across the city. Pittock Mansion and its views of Mount St Helens are wonderful and you also need to stop by the neon lights of the retro White Stag sign which welcomes visitors to Portland.

Outside of the city, make sure to check out the Columbia Gorge waterfalls, dotted along the Historic Columbia River Highway. This set of waterfalls includes the beautiful Multnomah Falls, and are some of the best waterfalls in Portland . There are also some amazing day trips from Portland that you can incorporate into your itinerary.

2 | Seaside/Cannon Beach (3 days)

After leaving Portland it’s time to start your Oregon Coast adventure with Astoria, Seaside and Cannon Beach among the first stops on our Oregon Coast road trip. Both Seaside and Cannon Beach are excellent bases for exploring this section of the Oregon Coast and allow easy access to all of the amazing sights and coastline.

Where to stay at Cannon Beach

For this part of the trip we recommend staying in either Seaside or Cannon Beach. Seaside is a boardwalk beach town with a retro feel while Cannon Beach, just 15 minutes south of Seaside, is quieter and less commercial. Accommodation tends to be more expensive in Cannon Beach and some places can require a 2 night minimum stay.

Ashore Hotel (Seaside): we stayed at the awesome Ashore Hotel, a modern hotel with 22 retro decorated rooms located just seconds from the prom. There’s a rustic reception area with a fire pit, a small indoor pool and bikes to explore the town – check prices now!

Lanai Cove (Seaside): family-friendly hotel located at the south end of Seaside beach and offers panoramic views of the ocean and Seaside itself – check prices now!

Ocean Lodge (Cannon Beach): ocean front hotel overlooking Haystack Rock. Rooms are well equipped with kitchenettes and treats include lobby cookies evening wine receptions – check prices now!

Inn at Cannon Beach : located at the quieter south end of the beach, the Inn is well equipped and homely. It’s just a short walk to Haystack Rock – check prices now!

Book your stay at Seaside now

Oregon Coast itinerary tip: We love both towns – we recommend Seaside if you like old school beach towns with independent hotels/motels and Cannon Beach if you want a quieter area with larger hotels.

Day Trip to Astoria and Fort Stevens State Park

Drive time: 45 minutes from Seaside – Astoria – Fort Stevens State Park or 60 minutes from Cannon Beach

Fort Stevens State Park : Fort Stevens State Park has 6 miles of hiking trails, 9 miles of paved bicycles trails, freshwater lake swimming and a shipwreck, the Peter Iredale which ran aground in 1906. Day Pass: $5

Astoria : A short drive north of Seaside is the small town of Astoria on the banks of the Columbia River. Despite its size, there are lots of  things to do in Astoria : the Astoria Column ( Parking: $5) has beautiful views over the city and Astoria has been the location for some epic movies over the years. Many of the most recognizable  Goonies filming locations  were shot in Astoria including the jail and the legendary Goonies House. Other movies filmed in Astoria include Kindergarten Cop and Free Willy!

Spend a day exploring Cannon Beach, Seaside and Ecola State Park

Cannon Beach : Haystack Rock is the star attraction of Cannon Beach. It is designated as a National Wildlife Refuge and its tide pools are often full to the brim with marine life. At dusk the beach lights up with bonfires and, provided you follow the Cannon Beach fire rules, you can pick up a bonfire pack if you want to take part. Movie fans may recognize the beach from scenes in The Goonies and Point Break. 

Cannon Beach town is located alongside the beach and is packed with cute galleries, shops and restaurants which are fun to explore. Pelican Brewing is a fantastic spot for a craft beer or try the Cannon Beach Distillery if you prefer a craft spirit. For a sweet treat Bruce’s Candy Kitchen is fantastic.

Ecola State Park: located just north of Cannon Beach, the picturesque Ecola State Park reaches out into the Pacific Ocean on Tillamook Head. Day Pass: $5, overnight parking prohibited.

Popular trails in the park include the relatively easy short hikes from Ecola Point to Indian Beach or the Tillamook Lighthouse Trail. For the more adventurous check out the Clatsop Loop Trail which begins at the Indian Beach parking lot and offers stunning views of the Oregon Coast.

Seaside: A bustling beach town, Seaside is one of our favorite Oregon Coast towns. From sunset beach walks, retro arcades and awesome seafood and ice cream, there are some fun things to do in Seaside itself.

Spend a day exploring the surrounding area

There are some awesome things to do in Cannon Beach and Seaside and, if you have the time, you should definitely consider including these in your Oregon Coast itinerary

Stop by Hug Point State Recreation Site to check out the beach, sea caves, tide pools and a seasonal waterfall that spills onto the beach after heavy rain. It’s amazing to imagine the stagecoaches which used to travel along the beach before the highway was built.

Oregon Coast Road Trip itinerary: make sure to check the tide schedule before walking on the beach. It is only safe at low tide.

The four-mile stretch of coastline at Oswald West State Park is another lovely stop and is home to some lovely trails, including the short hike to Devil’s Cauldron .

There is a lovely half-mile trail through the woods to Short Sand beach and there are lovely views of  Elk Flats, Devil’s Cauldron and Neahkahnie Mountain. Don’t miss the short 0.1 mile trail to Devil’s Cauldron where the powerful Pacific Ocean waves crash into a small cove.

Further South, make a quick stop at the Neahkahnie Viewpoints: there are two viewpoints, the Neahkahnie Viewpoint and the Neahkahnie South Viewpoint. Our favorite is the South as there is a better view of the beach.

On the way to Newport

On the way to Newport there are two great food stops: the hole in the wall Old Oregon Smokehouse and the Tillamook Creamery . The Old Oregon Smokehouse is a casual and rustic roadside diner which serves amazing chowder, fish and chips and crab cakes. The Tillamook Creamery is a cheese factory with a museum, a cafe serving Tillamook food and ice cream, a viewing mezzanine overlooking the cheese factory floor and a gift shop.

Drive the Three Capes Scenic Route, a 40 mile journey which takes in Cape Meares, Cape Lookout and Cape Kiwana.

Cape Meares is the most northerly of the three Capes forms a high, steep bluff on the south end of Tillamook Bay. There are beautiful views from the Cape Meares Scenic Viewpoint and the Cape Meares Lighthouse.

One of the highlights of Cape Meares is the massive Sitka spruce tree close to the Lighthouse: the 300-year-old tree has sprawling trunks which are similar to an octopuses tentacles, hence the name Octopus Tree ! The shape of the tree has been attributed to either natural elements or through its origins as a sacred tree belonging to the Native Americans who inhabited the area at the time.

The second Cape, Cape Lookout is located on a sand spit between Netarts Bay and the Pacific Ocean and is a popular camping spot. If you’re stopping then hike a portion of the Netarts Spit Trail, a lovely beach walk that covers 10.5 miles out and back.

The final Cape, Cape Kiwanda , is a sandstone headland and the tough climb to the top rewards with dramatic ocean views. Grab some clam chowder and cold beers at the adjacent Pelican Brewing and enjoy an evening by the beach. We had such a fun time we decided to stay over at the Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa right next to the beach and brewery – check prices here!

If you are passing at low tide then make sure to stop at the Neskowin Ghost Forest . The Ghost Forest is a graveyard for Sitka spruce and cedar trees that are thought to date back almost 2,000 years. The forest was submerged under the ocean during a powerful earthquake and, at low tide, their stumps emerge from the sand creating the ghost forest.

3 | Newport (3 days)

Drive time: 3 hours from Seaside to Newport/ 2 hours 45 minutes from Cannon Beach to Newport

With its historic bay front and the beautiful beaches, state parks and natural attractions nearby, the coastal town of Newport is a great base for the next few days of this Oregon Coast itinerary.

Where to stay in Newport

Elizabeth Oceanfront Suites: we love staying at this beachfront hotel with ocean view balconies, an indoor pool and fire pits on the terrace – check prices now!

Book your hotel in Newport here!

Spend a day exploring Newport and the surrounds

Explore Newport: Newport’s historic bay front is a lively dock side area with art galleries souvenir stores, great restarants and resident sea lions at the Sea Lion Docks. Stop by the Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site and check out the beautiful views of Yaquina Bay, the art deco Yaquina Bay Bridge and the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse. The historic neighborhood of Nye Beach, on the north side, is home to the city’s thriving art scene and the beach itself offers beautiful sunset views – while you are there, make sure to stop into Chowder Bowl and Panini Bakery for some delicious treats.

Oregon Coast Aquarium : one of Newport’s, and the Oregon Coast’s, most popular attractions, the Oregon Coast Aquarium has incredible marine exhibits. Highlights include a stroll through the Passages of the Deep marine tunnel and exhibits dedicated to the Pacific Octopus, sea otters and sea lions. Make sure to check out the South Beach Fish Market while you’re over by the Oregon Coast Aquarium – this old school seafood shack is a real treat and just a 2 minute drive away.

North of Newport

Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area : home to a remarkable rock formation shaped like a punch bowl – at low tide it is possible to hike into the bowl (make sure you are certain of the tide times and that conditions are calm) but we prefer to visit at high tide when the Pacific Ocean slams and swirls into nature’s cauldron. Keep watch for sea lions, seals and even Grey Whales, all of which can be spotted on this part of the coast.

Yaquina Head Lighthouse : built in the 19th Century, the Yaquina Head Lighthouse is the tallest on the Oregon coast. It is part of the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Beauty Area. Entry: $7 (tours of lighthouse are currently suspended)

South of Newport

Seal Rock State Park: large rock formations provide habitat for marine life including seals, sea lions and sea birds. Kids will love the tide pools on the beach.

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area : with its lush towering forest, rugged coastline and crashing waves, the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area is exactly how we imagined the Oregon Coast. The Cape Perpetua Lookout is the highest viewpoint accessible by car on the Oregon Coast and has incredible views of the ocean and the winding Oregon Coast road. Other highlights in the area include:

Thor’s Well and Cooks Chasm: Thor’s Well is a a gaping hole on the edge of the Pacific Ocean which appears to swallow the ocean and powerfully shoot it back out over the surrounding rocks.

Devils Churn:  located just north of Thor’s Well. Waves come crashing into the narrow inlet and churn up water and spray over the surrounding rocks.

Sprouting Horn: natural ocean blowhole is located just south of Thor’s Well. The incoming waves crash into an underwater cave forcing seawater and spray out the sprout of Spouting Horn launching water and spray into the air. 

On the Drive to Coos Bay

With its rolling sand dunes and sandy beaches, the charming coastal town of Florence is a magnet for adventure seekers.

The beautiful Heceta Head Lighthouse , perched at 1000 feet atop Heceta Head, is located just north of Florence and is accessible via a half-mile trail at the Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint.

The lighthouse can also be accessed from the nearby Hobbit Trail Trailhead which connects Heceta Head Lighthouse with Hobbit Beach. It’s a lovely hike through lush forest to Hobbit Beach and, after exploring the beach, you can hike up the hill to the Heceta Head Lighthouse. It took us around 2 hours to hike the trail.

Oregon Coast road trip tip: parking for the Hobbit Trail is located in a small gravel lot along Highway 101 just north of Heceta Head State Park and is marked by a hiking sign. Be extremely careful as you need to cross the Highway to reach the trailhead.

The Sea Lion Caves are an awesome stop 11 miles north of Florence. The cave is home to the Stellar Sea Lion and is America’s largest sea cave. As well as the sea lions, the area is home to a variety of sea birds and sometimes grey whales make an appearance. An elevator transports visitors dee into the cave – note, there are stairs to navigate inside the cave and sloping hills on the outside trails.

Oregon Coast road tip tip: the best time to see the sea lions in the cave is typically during the winter months. During the spring and summer months the sea lions tend to move to the rocks in front of the cave.

Stretching for over 40 miles between Florence and Coos Bay, the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is one of the most beautiful sights on the coast. The sand dunes, shaped by nature, tower over 500 feet above the surrounding lakes and ocean and make up the largest expanse of coastal sand dunes in North America.

The Oregon Dunes Overlook is a great spot from which to gaze upon the dunes. There is a half-mile trail with viewing platforms or a three-mile trail that leads to the beach.

If you are in search of an adrenaline rush then you might want to try experiencing the dunes in an ATV or dune buggy or even sandboarding. Fishing, canoeing and boating are popular in the 32 lakes that make up the recreation area.

The final stop en route to Coos Bay is the Dean Creek Elk viewing area for the chance to watch a herd of over 50 Roosevelt Elk who reside in the pastures.

4 | Coos Bay (2 days)

Drive time: 2 hours 15 minutes from Newport to Coos Bay

Coos Bay is the next stop on our Oregon Coast road trip itinerary. Halfway between Newport and the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor, Coos Bay is located next to a trio of stunning Oregon State Parks.

Where to stay in Coos Bay

Bay Point Landing : one of our Oregon Coast favorites, Bay Point Landing is a fabulous camping destination with Scandinavian style cabins, iconic Airstreams and RV sites. We stayed in a stunning cabin overlooking the water. Facilities include an indoor saltwater pool, a fitness center, activity room and kids den – check prices here!

Vacation Rentals: – there are a number of great vacation rentals in Coos Bay. Our favorites are Seagate Cottage and Forest Ridge Retreat

Spend a day exploring Coos Bay and the surrounds

Visit a trio of state parks : hiking trails connect Shore Acres State Park , Cape Arago State Park and Sunset Bay State Park along a 3 mile stretch of the Oregon Coast just South of Coos Bay. The rugged coastline and Japanese Gardens are a highlight of Shore Acres while the sandy beaches and magnificent sunset views from Sunset Bay State Park are a real treat. If you are fortunate, you might spot some whales in the sea below the jutting headland at Cape Arago.

Coos Bay: take a stroll along the Coos Bay Boardwalk, grab some food at Sharkbites where locally sourced food and casual dining is on offer, check out the mural dedicated to Steve Prefontaine, a Coos Bay local, on South Broadway Street and catch a movie at the beautiful Egyptian Theater.

Bandon, Devils Kitchen and Face Rock: A quintessential Oregon Coast beach town, Bandon is close to both Devil’s Kitchen, a stretch of beach with jutting rocks, and Face Rock, famous for both the viewpoint overlooking a face in the rock and the Circles in the Sand Festival. Bandon’s Coquille Point is a beautiful viewpoint and showcases the rock formations and sea stacks.

On the way to Brookings/Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor

Prehistoric Gardens : one of our kids’ favorite stops, the Prehistoric Gardens is a small, rainforest-style garden with huge dinosaur models. It’s a short trail through lush greenery, hanging ferns and over a creek stopping to check out the huge dinosaurs en route.

Cape Sebastian Viewpoint : a panoramic viewpoint with a 200 feet above sea level vantage point. The views stretch for almost 50 miles both north and south. There’s a 1.5 mile forest trail that descends towards the beach and a roped section for those who want to make it onto the beach. If you visit between December and February or March and May you might catch a glimpse of bi-annual migration of the grey whales who pass by Cape Sebastian on their migratory route.

Further South, the Arch Rock Picnic Area is one of the most memorable picnic stops on the Oregon Coast. Overlooking an impressive Arch Rock, a natural rock arch just off the coast along the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor.

As you continue towards Brooking you will pass the Thomas Creek Bridge which is the highest bridge in Oregon.

5 | Brookings (1 day) – Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor

Drive time: 2 hours 15 minutes from Coos Bay to Brookings

Brookings is a great place to stop if you want to spend a day exploring the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor, a beautiful stretch of coastline on the Oregon Coast.

Where to stay in Brookings

Taylor Creek Lodge: located just north in Gold Beach, we found this lodge a perfect base for exploring the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor. If you’re up early the local deer sometimes visit the garden in the mornings. – check prices now

Beachfront Inn: a beach front hotel with clean and comfortable rooms, ocean view balconies and an outdoor pool – check prices here!

Tanbark Shores Guest Suite : one bedroom apartment with beach views and a garden. Located just a few minutes drive from the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor – check prices here!

Book your hotel in Brookings now!

Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor

The Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor, named in honor of the first Oregon Parks superintendent, is a State Park located on a 12 mile stretch of coastline between Brookings and Gold Beach in south west Oregon.

The most popular stops are:

Natural Bridges: the Natural Bridges are a series of 7 arch rocks and blowholes in the Samuel H Boardman scenic corridor. The stop is well signposted and a short trail 0.5 mile trail leads to viewpoints.

Arch Rock: viewpoint which overlooks a magnificent natural rock arch in the ocean. Accessed by an easy 0.2 mile loop.

Secret Beach: the beautiful Secret Beach is not really a secret but it can be a little hard to find! You can take the 0.75 mile trail from Thunder Rock Cove Parking Lot down to Secret Beach.

Other amazing stops include the Indian Sands Trail, the Whaleshead Beach and Viewpoint, House Rock Viewpoint, Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint and the beachfront Lone Ranch Beach picnic area.

Where to after the Oregon Coast?

California: on our most recent Oregon Coast road trip we continued South on our journey towards San Francisco, and eventually, the Florida Keys! We loved exploring the magnificent California Redwood Coast and wine country as we drove down the coast: our favorite stops included the Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Redwoods National Park, Glass Beach, Napa Valley and having some fun at the three drive through redwoods in northern California.

Oregon loop: if you are returning to Portland then this is the perfect opportunity to do a loop of the state. Head east to Crater Lake National Park where a collapsed volcano created a clear blue lake which is the deepest in the US. Then it’s north up to Bend where you can check out the views of the 3 Sister Volcano Peaks and, later, Oregon’s stunning Painted Hills. On the way back to Oregon spend a few nights exploring the Mount Hood Region: Oregon’s tallest peak for some outdoor adventures.

Have fun on your Oregon Coast Road Trip

There is so much to see and do on the Oregon Coast that it can be difficult to choose where to spend your time. We hope our itinerary helps with your planning and let us know if you have any questions in the comments.

3 thoughts on “Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary (2023)”

This looks like an awesome trip! We took a trip similar to this in 2007 and moved to Eugene, OR in 2009 and have been here ever since. We lived in Sarasota Florida for years and exported the keys too. It sounds like you really know how to plan a great trip. Happy trails!

Thank you for sharing this. It has helped me so much making our itinerary. We live in Maryland and have never been any further west than Kentucky. We plan to make another trip starting in Portland, thru Columbia River, McKenzie/Sister to Crater Lake after this trip.

That sounds awesome Lona

We’re back on the west coast next month and I can’t wait! Hope you have a fab trip.

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45 Amazing Oregon Coast Road Trip Stops (+ 4 Itineraries For You!)

Post Summary: Everything To See On An Oregon Coast Road Trip

The Oregon Coast! Famous for its stunning beaches, jaw-dropping sea stacks, and endless opportunities for coastal adventures.

From the temperate rainforests around Lincoln City to the sand dunes of the Central Oregon Coast, there seems to be an adventure fit for everyone.

There are so many things to do on the Oregon coast, and we’re here to share the best of the best in this post.

Below, you can expect a full list of the best stops on the Oregon coast, hiking suggestions, example road trip routes, helpful driving tips, and so much more.

Let’s get started!

The Ultimate Guide To The Perfect Oregon Coast Road Trip

This is a HUGE post , including everything from the best stops, accommodations, the best Oregon coast beaches , attractions, and even a packing list!

How To Get Around The Oregon Coast (Our Favorite Driving Resources)

The easiest way to get around the Oregon Coast is certainly by car. If you are flying in from outside of Oregon, we highly recommend renting a campervan from Outdoorsy ! This of it like Airbnb but for campervans. They’ve got tons to choose from – anything from vintage VW Westfalias, tricked-out sprinter vans, and even towable Airstreams!

Are you on a travel budget , looking for campgrounds along your route? Make sure to also download The Dyrt , the #1 rated camping app and website! Pro users can use their road trip planner, which allows you to route your trip with waypoints, to find the best campgrounds along the way.

This app is an absolute road trip essential for us! They gave us a discount code for you to try the pro membership – use code MANDAGIES for a 30-day free trial and to unlock all the offline features like campground searches, maps, and even gear discounts!

More Driving Resources For The Oregon Coast Highway:

• 15 Essential Road Trip Apps For Route Planning
• How To Plan A Trip To The Pacific Northwest
• 10 Insanely Easy Camping Meals To Make On The Road

Oregon Coast Destinations (From North To South)

There are so many amazing places to see on the Oregon coast! We are sharing our favorites for an Oregon coast road trip from north to south.

If you are planning an Oregon coast road trip from Seattle , read this post from top to bottom. However, if you are coming from San Francisco to the Oregon Coast , consider starting this post and the bottom and working your way back up, to plan your stops accordingly.

 North Oregon Coast Destinations

Astoria, Oregon

If you’re starting from Pacific Northwest destinations like Portland or Seattle and you want to see the entire Oregon Coast, you will likely start in Astoria for your Oregon Coast itinerary. From Seattle, Astoria is a 3-hour drive  and 181 miles. From Portland, Astoria is a 1-hour 52-minute drive and 97 miles.

Astoria, Oregon is the perfect place to begin your Oregon road trip. Here, you can experience the perfect combination of coastal vibes and eclectic city living. Astoria is known for its local brews, nearby forest hikes, and quirky culture.

We suggest taking a full day to explore this city just south of the Columbia River. Spend some time digging for treasure at antique stores like Garbo’s downtown, and finish the day off with a cold one at a Buoy Beer Company . Buoy Beer Company even has a glass floor to peek at the lazy seals below on the boardwalk!

Memorable Locations and Beautiful Hikes In Astoria:

• Hike To Cathedral Tree (1.5-mile hike, but the tree is at the .5 mile marker)
• See The Peter Iredale Shipwreck at Fort Stevens State Park
• Take a Goonies Film Location Tour
• See The Astoria Column

The Best Astoria Restaurants and Cafes To Try:

• Street 14 Cafe (city cafe vibes with casual breakfast)
• Baked Alaska (upscale restaurant with river views)
• Astoria Coffeehouse and Bistro (eclectic and local)

Fort Stevens State Park

Fort Stevens State Park is a 4,300-acre park – one of the largest in the entire state! Fort Stevens (northwest of Astoria and Warrenton) is most well known for its military displays, specifically inside the military museum and numerous buildings around the park. You are able to take a guided tour of an artillery battery , which served as a command center in World War II.

Here at Fort Stevens, you can go camping in their generously sized campgrounds (there are nearly 500 sites!), swimming in a freshwater lake (Coffenbury Lake), kayaking, wildlife viewing, and even pop into the city for a bite to eat.

During sunset, the coolest part of this park is the Peter Iredale Shipwreck . Perfectly accessible during low tide, you can get up close to this historic shipwreck! The vessel ran ashore in October 1906 and was abandoned at the stop. The crew actually had plans to pull it back out to sea, but it embedded itself in the sand too deep – perfect for you or me who want to visit it today!

Seaside, Oregon

Seaside is a can’t-miss location on your Oregon Coast road trip! This adorable town is one of the most popular oceanfront locations on the coast, and for good reason. There are so many family-friendly Oregon coast attractions here, with  activities for people of all ages .

One of the most popular attractions in Seaside, Oregon is the Seaside Aquarium . The aquarium is one of the oldest on the entire West Coast. Here, you can discover the marine life that lives on the Oregon coast, as well as feed the seals that live there!

Spend some time also walking on 1.5-mile long Ocean Promenade , which has panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean the entire way. The Seaside Promenade is a popular activity for families – you can stop at any point and run to the ocean, or find a beach swing to take a break!

This is a perfect place to get out of the car on your Oregon coast road trip, stretch your legs, and soak in the liquid sunshine at Seaside!

Ecola State Park

Ecola State Park is a protected area with 9-miles of Oregon coastline between Cannon Beach and Seaside, Oregon, and a definite highlight to any Oregon coast road trip!

This state park is commonly used for sightseeing, wildlife viewing, exploring iconic coastal tide pools , and (if you dare) surfing in the cold Pacific Ocean. The best part is, you don’t have to drive very far to start getting these incredible Oregon coast views!

Immediately on the winding drive-in, you’ll pass through a thick canopy of Sitka spruce trees , covered in moss and surrounded by ferns.

The drive is half the fun – but be careful because there are some pretty gnarly potholes in the road.

One of the best views of Cannon Beach and the Oregon Coast is right off of the Indian Beach parking lot in Ecola State Park.

Park as close to the ocean as you can, and take the south trail for just a few minutes until Cannon Beach and its sea stacks come into view.

On a clear day, you are able to see the waves crash on Cannon beach, and the town shimmer on the coastline!

For hidden views of the Oregon Coast, we suggest taking Clatsop Loop Trail , a 2.8-mile moderately difficult hike that brings you to hidden beaches, stunning coastal views, and moody PNW trails.

Park Tip:  Ecola State Park requires a $5.00 day use fee , or you can purchase a one-year unlimited pass for $30.

Ecola State Park is a hidden gem on any Oregon coast road trip!

Discover Another Nearby Washington Park: Cape Disappointment State Park

• Cannon Beach

If you’re into long walks on the beach, this area of the North Oregon Coast is a must-see! Cannon Beach is one of the most popular and family-friendly beaches on the Oregon Coast . It’s also one of the best Oregon coast towns to visit if you are just coming for a day trip from Portland .

On any given day of the year, you can expect families making sandcastles, people gathered around beach bonfires in Oregon , and happy dogs playing fetch through the water.

Cannon Beach is easily recognizable by its large sea stack , with a few smaller rocks at the base. The sea stacks are very close to the beach, which means during low tide you can get pretty close to them!

Again, this is the most popular and well-known stop on any Oregon Coast road trip. While there may be crowds , don’t let that deter you from putting it on your Oregon road trip itinerary! Because of the popularity of Cannon Beach, there are quite a few amenities here to cater to everyone’s needs.

You can easily find and book Oregon coast accommodations, Airbnbs, and find everything you need for the rest of your Oregon Coast road trip.

At Cannon Beach, you can eat incredible food that’s freshly caught from local sources!  Here are some of our recommended coffee shops and restaurants to try at Cannon Beach, Oregon:

Driftwood Inn – Reasonable lunch prices and classic diner food with a seaside twist. Wayfarer Restaurant – Fresh, local cuisine, upscale eating with sea stack views. Mo’s Seafood and Chowder – Casual dining with eclectic gifts and seaside views. Sleepy Monk Coffee Roasters   – Quirky, local cafe with pastries and good coffee. Insomnia Coffee Company  – Cozy place with lots of windows, great location to meet with friends.

Hug Point State Recreation Area is a 10-minute drive south from Cannon Beach , with significantly fewer crowds and tons of things to do. Hug Point is one of the most easily accessible Oregon Coast beaches , and a must-visit for your Oregon Coast road trip.

Here, there are coves to explore, and seasonal Oregon waterfalls to discover. We suggest taking the Hug Point Trail , a 1.2-mile out and back hike that wraps around the cove to reveal tide pools, caves, and beautiful coves. Come during low tide to gain full access to this beach!

Be aware: It’s possible to get stuck or stranded in certain areas of Hug Point if the tide rises while you explore! Make sure to read these tide charts before you plan your trip beyond the main parking lot area.

More PNW Beaches: Hiking At Rialto Beach In Washington State

Oswald West State Park

Oswald West State Park is the best-kept secret of any good Oregon coast road trip. With miles and miles of trail through the dense western hemlock and Sitka spruce trees, you can stay here all day and still find new trails to explore.

To reach one of many trailheads, there are a few parking lots to choose from right off of Oregon’s Highway 101. The trails intertwine with one another for endless combinations, so snap a quick picture of the map on your phone to keep track of where you are.

At the end of all the trails will be a popular surfing beach called Short Sand Beach. This area is only a half-mile walk through the woods and the perfect place to bring a picnic and watch the waves crash as you eat your lunch.

Oswald West State Park is probably the most overlooked location on any Oregon Coast road trip itinerary! Make sure to put this as an afternoon stop for yet another beautiful Oregon beach on your way down the coast.

Read More PNW Adventures: Cape Flattery (The Most NW Corner of The US!)

Tillamook Creamery

If you like ice cream and cheese, the Tillamook Creamery will probably be your favorite spot on your Oregon road trip itinerary! The Tillamook Creamery is newly renovated as of June 2018 and is well equipped to accommodate their 1.3 million annual cheese-loving visitors.

One of the most prominent parts of the creamery is the massive cheese-making process hall. There are lots of glass windows that take visitors on a self-guided tour that explains the process of how the famous cheese is made, manufactured, and shipped. In the end, you are able to taste cheese samples! (cue the applause here)

While it’s not a beautiful Oregon beach, this location is a must-see on your way down Highway 101. Make a quick stop, learn about Oregon cheese, and help yourself to their delicious ice cream cones on the way out.

The Tillamook Creamery is open year-round,  (with the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas) from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm during the winter and 8:00 am to 8:00 pm during the summertime.

Three Capes Scenic Loop

If you are looking for a fun day drive with the family on the Northern Oregon coast, consider taking the Three Capes Scenic Route ! Beginning in Tillamook and going as far south as Pacific City, this short Oregon coast drive packs a whole lot of beauty into less than 50 miles!

The stars of the route are the three capes, named Cape Meares , Cape Lookout , and Cape Kiwanda (more on this one below!). Spend time scouting out the best viewpoint spots on each cape (there are a lot of them) and consider choosing a few short hikes to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery.

Along the way, you can also visit Netarts Bay for some clamming (it’s known for its shellfish), the Sandlake Dunes , and the Cape Meares Lighthouse with the Giant Octopus Tree nearby too! Finish your day at Pelican Brewery and Taproom at Pacific City , for lunch with incredible views of the sandstone cliffs and Haystack Rock just right outside the window.

Cape Kiwanda In Pacific City

Cape Kiwanda is one of the most famous beaches on the Oregon Coast . It’s famous on the Northern Oregon Coast for its singular large sea stack in the middle of the beach, and surrounding natural area of fragile sandstone cliffs.

You can drive your car on the beach of Cape Kiwanda! Be careful not to get too close to the waves, and have knowledge of the tide charts before you go. It’s also important to note that there is no Oregon coast state park camping at Cape Kiwanda – the nearest place to camp would be at Webb County Campground.

Safety Tip: If you explore up on the sandstone cliffs, take caution of the unpredictable weather up on the hills! The winds can get extremely strong on the Oregon Coast, thus creating an unpleasant combination of rain, wind, and sand. Take extreme caution on the edges of these cliffs. The sandstone is incredibly fragile, and many people have lost their lives from the ground crumbling underneath them. Don’t get too close!

Is the beach too busy for you? Consider heading just a 5-minute drive south to Bob Straub State Park . Here, you can enjoy miles of walkable beach and tall sea grass on the peninsula. You won’t find sea stacks or dunes, but the ocean breeze and expansive views make up for it.

Read More: 25 Photos To Inspire You To Visit Cape Kiwanda

Neskowin Beach

Neskowin Beach is often referred to as “The Ghost Forest” for its collection of Sitka Spruce stumps scattered across the southern part of the beach. (Accessible at low tide!) This beach often remains a lot quieter than most Oregon Coast beaches , likely because it’s not visible from the highway.

One of its most recognizable features is Proposal Rock, a giant sea stack smack in the middle of the beach, and accessible during low tide.

Love to go hiking? Some of the best Oregon coast hikes are located on the southern part of the beach’s headlands, in Cascade Head. Explore Hart’s Cove Trail (#1303) and wander through the rainforest to emerge at a prairie headland overlooking the vast ocean. Cascade Head Trail (#1310) takes you through a Sitka-Spruce tree forest that has been studied by researchers since 1934. The easiest trail to take is the Nature Conservancy Trail (#1435) for stunning views of the headlands and coast.

Spend the day here enjoying the shallow rivers that flow to the ocean with the whole family. You can grab a bite to eat at the small village ( Neskowin Trading Company has tons of great lunch options and a convenience store!) or visit the Neskowin Farmers Market, open every summer Saturday from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm.

Want a little more adventure? Rent a kayak for the day and explore the Nestucca Bay Estuary, just a short drive north.

Devil’s Punchbowl (Otter Rock Community)

Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area is one of the many beautiful landscapes you will see on your Oregon coast road trip. Located in the community of Otter Rock, the biggest attraction here is a giant sea cave with a hole in the ceiling.

This particular location at Devil’s Punchbowl likely started out as two simple sea caves that were carved deeper by the churning waves of the Pacific Ocean. As the roofs of these two sea caves collapsed, the bowl shape was created!

During high tide, the waves crash and swirl and churn in the bowl, creating a violent and beautiful show to watch from the viewing platform above. You can access the inside too, but it’s only safe to explore the inside of the bowl during low tide. On the south side of the headlands is a popular place for beginner surfers – the Otter Rock Marine Reserve has consistent and mild waves!

To access the most area possible for your trip, we recommend planning your trip during low tide. You can find the Devil’s Punchbowl tide charts here to help you plan out your perfect Oregon road trip itinerary. During low tide, you can also explore the many tide pools around, Otter Crest Beach, and the Otter Rock Marine Garden all north of the cave.

Important Note: Parking is limited here and you are only allowed to park in designated areas. There are bathrooms available, as well as showers (but we just used them to rinse off our feet after exploring the Oregon Coast – the water is COLD!).

Read More: 25 Stops To Make On An Epic Pacific Coast Road Trip

Garibaldi Pier

Stretching over 700 feet, Garibaldi Public Pier is the longest pier in all of Oregon state. The Garibaldi Public Pier is open to public use year-round.  Many people come out to the pier to try their hand at crabbing, salmon fishing, and other recreational fishing.

There is even access to the beds below (via stairs) for clam digging! Garibaldi is an extremely popular Oregon coast crabbing location . You can opt to pay for a guided tour from locals with charters like Garibaldi Charters , or do your own thing by finding all the information at the O regon Fishing and Wildlife Department website .

Central Oregon Coast Stops

God’ Thumb Trail (Lincoln City)

God’s Thumb is an area just north of Lincoln City, known for its strange land formation loosely resembling a thumb.

The surrounding area includes stretching meadows (where elk like to roam!), dense Sitka spruce tree forests, and dramatic coastal cliff dropoffs.

If you’re wanting to get out of the car and stretch your legs, we suggest hiking this trail called God’s Thumb .

This 4.6-mile out-and-back trail is of moderate difficulty , and likely very muddy, so wear your raincoat and rain boots for this one! The Central Oregon coast can be very rainy, especially during the spring months.

At the very end of the trail, you will be rewarded with this amazing landscape, surrounded either by delicate meadows or the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean.

If you wish to climb to the top, take caution because the trails are slippery with very steep dropoffs. Safety first!

Beverly Beach (And Campground)

Beverly Beach State Park is one of the best Oregon coast destinations for whale watching. Come between late December and mid-March to have the best chance of spotting these majestic creatures. Stop b the Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay, or visit these famous Oregon whale-watching viewpoints:

• Cape Foulweather
• Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area
• Rocky Creek State Scenic Viewpoint
• Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint
• Yaquina Head

When you are not busy whale watching or walking alongside the nearby beach, come relax in the nearby campground. There are nearly 200 campsites among the sheltered, windswept trees alongside Spencer Creek. It’s a very central locations to many other amazing Oregon coast destinations, we recommend staying here for a few days!

Yaquina Head Lighthouse

Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area is predominantly known for the famous Yaquina Head Lighthouse, but that’s not all there is to do! Here, you can discover tide pools teeming with life, stunning basalt headlands, and historic exhibits.

Yaquina Head Lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse on the Oregon coast, standing at 93-feet tall. It was first lit in 1873, and now serves as a marker of Oregon history.Pay a visit to the interpretive center to learn about nearby marine life, how lighthouses work, and the wildlife that live on Colony Rock just offshore. Spend some time walking around Cobble Beach if you want to put your toes in the sand.

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area  is an absolute must-visit location on your Oregon road trip. This amazing area of the Oregon coast is known for its violent waves, jagged coastline, beautiful ocean overlooks, and amazing trails.

This is an especially wooded area of the Oregon Coast, which makes for amazing pictures of the forest seemingly dropping straight off into the ocean.

It’s also a hub for trail hikers and campers , with tons of family-friendly trails in the Siuslaw National Forest area.

Make sure to check out the Cape Perpetua Visitors Center just two miles south of Yachats, Oregon. Here, you can find lots of information about other locations in the area, including scenic viewpoints, coastal trails, and places to camp nearby.

Some other amazing Oregon photography locations to see at Cape Perpetua Scenic Area:

• Devil’s Churn
• Spouting Horn
• Captain Cook Point
• Cook’s Chasm
• Cape Perpetua Lookout (an amazing Oregon photography location with a winding coastal road)
• Sea Lion Caves (South of Cape Perpetua)

Read More:   10 Epic Things To Do In The Cape Perpetua Scenic Area

Heceta Head Lighthouse

Heceta Head Lighthouse is one of the most visited lighthouses in the United States, and one of the most photographed locations on the Oregon Coast.

It may be because of its accessibility, but we think the beauty and history of this place is the real driver of visitors! It attracts lighthouse and spooky story lovers alike, this place is commonly referred to as one of the most haunted places in Oregon !

Positioned at the mouth of Cape Creek, Heceta Head is positioned 200 feet up on a bluff with the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean below. It began working in 1894 and could shine 21 miles off the coast to help boats arrive at the shore.

The lighthouse is cared for by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and is open from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm for staff-led guided tours.

On hours when the staff is not available, you can take yourself on a self-guided tour along the trails of the lighthouse.

Want to stay overnight? The Innkeeper’s House just steps away from the lighthouse is a historic bed-and-breakfast! Take your loved one there and wake up to the crashing waves on the Oregon coast!

Read More: Stay Overnight Near Heceta Head Lighthouse!

Florence, Oregon

Florence, Oregon is located in Lane County, on the Central Oregon coast. It’s known for its quirky downtown shopping, delicious restaurants, and annual community events.

Some of our favorite restaurants include  River Roasters  for a morning coffee and a local pub called  Homegrown  for delicious and locally sourced food.

Florence is also a springboard town for surrounding outdoor activities like hitting the sand dunes, canoeing on freshwater lakes, and seeing iconic landmarks on the Oregon coast.

This is a great place to stay for a few days and take day trips to the coast AND inland. There are amenities and comforts for everyone in your caravan in Florence, Oregon.

Ready for a little city life? Take a day trip to Eugene , and see what other adventures are in the area! (Like the EPIC Diamond Creek Falls in the Cascades !)

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

With over 40 miles of coastal dunes next to the ocean, there are tons of opportunities for activities like riding dune buggies , sand-boarding , and even taking a leisurely walk on the beach .

The most thrilling way to get out on the sand is by renting an ATV, and the most convenient business being Spinreel Dune Buggies in North Bend, OR. If you care for a more casual stroll, consider the famous John Dellenback Dunes Trail by Eel Creek Campground. You can choose to talk the small loop for a quick tour or the dunes or take the trek all the way out to the ocean.

Southern Oregon Coast Stops

The Coos Bay area (Often called the Oregon Coast’s “Bay Area”) is the most populated area on the Oregon Coast . You can find a ton of general amenities here, but the real draw to the area is the sheer amount of outdoor activities to do in the area. (more on that below!)

From canoeing on Ten Mile Lake to riding dune buggies on the 40-mile stretch of coastal dunes, Coos Bay is an adventurous stop on the Oregon Coast. If you are interested in enjoying the coast in style, consider staying at the modern glamping resort, Bay Point Landing . They have RV hookup sites, airstreams & cabins for rent, and amazing amenities like an indoor pool, trails, and upscale bathrooms.

Some of our favorite things to do in Coos Bay include visiting the surrounding state parks (Sunset Bay, Cape Arago, and Shore Acres), exploring Oregon coast hikes , and visiting epic beaches like Bandon Beach!

Best Spots Around Coos Bay For Oregon Coast Photography:

• Simpson Reef Overlook (tons of sea lions and marine life!)
• The Elk Refuge in Reedsport (For wildlife viewing!)

Read More: 10 Amazing Things To Do In Coos Bay, Oregon

Shore Acres State Park + Sunset Bay State Park

Located off the Cape Arago Highway, this trifeta of state parks (Sunset Bay State Park, Shore Acres State Park, and Cape Arago State Park) can al be found within a short drive from one another. There is a lot to see between these state parks, so we’ll highlight the best activities below:

• Shore Acres – gorgeous formal Japanese-style garden, with blooms and plants in season almost any time of the year.
• Simpson Reff Overlook – loud gatherings of sea lions on the collection of offshore rocks.
• Sunset Bay State Park – Gregory Point and Cape Blanco Lighthouse views along the headlands trails.
• Cape Arago State Park – The North and South Cove trails brings visitors to exception tide pools, secluded beaches, and beachcombing opportunities in the Pacific Northwest .

Bandon, Oregon

Bandon, Oregon is one of the small southern Oregon coast towns located south of Coos Bay, sitting between several amazing Oregon coast state parks. One of the best features here is Old Town Bandon, a 10-square block section of shopping, dining, and tourist activities. Spend some time enjoying the hand-made goods by local artists, and walk the boardwalk among these historic buildings.

This is a great stop for a quick meal, before you continue on your Oregon coast road trip route.

Face Rock State Scenic Area

Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint is arguably our favorite stop on the Oregon Coast. Everywhere you turn, there are incredible sea stacks, each with their own unique story and history from the Nasomah (Coquille) tribe . Spend some time enjoying the view from above and then head down to the beach to see the sea stacks up close.

Some of the most iconic rock formations are Face Rock, Cat And Kittens Rock, Wizard’s Hat, Gravel Point, and Table Rock.

Other Things To See Near Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint:

• The Coquille Point Stairs at Bandon Beach
• Devil’s Kitchen (The Southern Oregon Coast’s “Haystack Rock”)
• The Bandon State Natural Area

Read More: 9 Stunning Sea Stacks to see at Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint

Floras Lake State Park

Floras Lake State Park is a sparsely visited area of the Oregon Coast, mostly because of it’s lack of infrastructure and amenities. However, don’t let the lack of convenience deter you from visiting! The Oregon coast beach found here is one of the most beautiful and remote in the entire state!

It really feels like this beach was plucked right out of Iceland and placed on the Oregon Coast – the completely straight coastline rigth next to towering cliffs make it ones of the prettiest natural Oregon photography locations in the entire state.

For the easiest access to the beach, park at Boice-Cope Park and walk around Floras Lake to the ocean. Here, you can take a flat and very long walk all the way down the beach – you likely will have it all to yourself too!

Want to see what they views are like from the cliffs above? Follow the trail to Blacklock Point, a promontory rock that juts out far into the ocean, giving you spectacular views north and south for miles.

Cape Blanco State Park

Cape Blanco State Park is the state’s westernmost tip, teeming with rich history and rugged adventure. Stay the night in Port Orford and then wake up bright and early to walk the rugged beach trails and view the incredible solitary rock formation right offshore. Afterward, stop by the Cape Blanco Lighthouse, the oldest of the lighthouses in Oregon built in 1870.

One really cool feature of this Oregon coast beach is that it’s horse-friendly! You can bring you own horse and camp on the beach, or sign up for a guided tour for a one-of-a-kind adventure as you travel Oregon.

Gold Beach is a small town on the Oregon Coast, right at the mouth of the Rouge River. The beaches here are known for collecting treasures that float in from the sea, perfect for beachcombers!

Stop at iconic beaches like Meyers Creek Beach or Kissing Rock to put your toes in the sand. Want more things to do? Consider visiting Otter Point State Recreation Area , Humbug Mountain State Park , or even stopping at the Prehistoric Gardens. Here, you can see kitschy life-sized statues of dinosaurs, scattered within the old-growth forest.

Cape Sebastian State Scenic Corridor

Cape Sebastian State Scenic Corridor is a real treat to visit along your Oregon coast road trip route. This is a perfect stop to have a quick picnic lunch before heading on your way again. There are picnic tables, viewpoints, and short trails to keep everyone happy on this fun Oregon coast stop.

The quick turnoff on Highway 101 climbs all the way to the top of these headlands, giving views in all directions that go for nearly 50 miles in each direction! To the north, you can spot Humbug Mountain and to the south, you can see Crescent City and the Point St George Lighthouse.

On the way to the south viewpoint, you will drive through a thick, dark forest of Sitka spruce trees, which we think is the perfect place for a spooky photoshoot. If you want to stretch your legs a little longer, there is a 1.5-mile walking trail (3-miles total) down to the beach. However, no need to travel far here, the views from the top are spectacular too, and a perfect post (with binoculars) for whale watching season.

A deep forest of Sitka spruce covers most of the park and a 1.5 mile walking trail takes you out to the lower levels of the cape.  If you’re lucky, the trail will give you a chance to enjoy awe-inspiring views of the gray whales on their bi-annual migrations.

• Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor

If you think you’ve seen the best of the best during your Oregon coast road trip, the state appears to have saved Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor for the grand finale.

This area is one of the most beautiful stops on the Oregon Coast, and we really mean that!

Dramatic cliffs, impressive sea stacks, and endless photo opportunities await you at this amazing Oregon coast location! This area was named after Samuel H. Boardman, the first Oregon State Parks director.

Here is a list of the best viewpoints at Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor :

Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint : This 1-mile trail takes you through breathtaking views of amazing Oregon coast photography locations. This is a popular spot whale watching in fall and spring, and wildflower viewing in the summertime.

House Rock Viewpoint : Take a short walk to a stone Samuel H. Boardman memorial, with a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean and the craggy cliffs. Here you can take many side trails to secret and secluded beaches.

Whaleshead Beach & Overlook : Named after the sea stack that looks like a whale’s head, this beach is flat and easy to reach. A perfect place to pull over and have a quick bite to eat.

Natural Bridges Viewpoint : This place holds one of the most iconic views in the corridor — seven arched rocks and blowholes surround a cove (pictured above) for a beautiful example of all the Oregon Coast captured in one photo.

Secret Beach: This secluded cove is home to some of the most iconic sea stacks on the Oregon coast! It’s a little tricky to find, so make sure to read our guide on directions, tips, and routes to know before you go.

Arch Rock : A convenient parking lot right off of Oregon’s Highway 101 brings you down a short trail to a viewpoint. This area includes a cluster of sea stacks, with one that has a hole right through the middle, forming an “arch”.

Other stunning Oregon Coast road trip stops at Samuel H. Boardman:

• Spruce Island From Deer Point
• Thunder Rock Cove
• North Island
• Thomas Creek Bridge
• Indian Sands
• Lone Ranch Picnic Area

Are These All The Places To See On An Oregon Coast Road Trip?

Absolutely not! We have yet to see all the amazing things the Oregon coast has to offer. That is why we will continually update this post with more information about beautiful locations as we keep returning to Oregon!

Keep updated on our whereabouts on our Instagram account, @themandagies ! You will get up to date info about our next adventures, and plans for our next Oregon road trip itinerary to share with you all!

Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary Examples

Wondering if you can see all these iconic landmarks in one Oregon road trip?

To accommodate different trip lengths, we’re sharing some example itineraries for a 3-day, five-day Oregon Coast trip, a one-week Oregon Coast trip, and finally 10 das on the Oregon Coast.

Consider us your own personal Oregon coast road trip planner and read below to find your perfect route!

Note: These journeys start in the north and make their way south. If you are extending a Northern California roadtrip or starting from somewhere south, just reverse the itinerary!

Oregon Coast 3 Day Itinerary

Highlights: Pull-out viewpoints, popular stops, and convenient towns.

While it’s totally possible to plan an Oregon Coast 3 day itinerary, you’ll just be covering the most popular spots! If you are planning an Oregon Coast weekend trip, here is an example itinerary for you below:

Note: These will be long driving days, so arm yourself with great road trip podcasts , fun road trip questions , and lots of snacks!

• Day 1: Astoria to Pacific City. Stop by Seaside, Cannon Beach, and watch the sunset at Cape Kiwanda.
• Day 2:  Pacific City to Coos Bay. Stop at Otter Rock (Devil’s Punchbowl), Cape Perpetua Lookout, and Heceta Head Lighthouse for quick stops.
• Day 3:  Coos Bay to Brookings. Drive up to Face Rock Lookout, lunch at Gold Beach, and explore Samuel H Boardman for sunset.

Five Day Oregon Coast Itinerary

Highlights: Pull-out viewpoints, short hikes, accessible beaches.

Five days on the Oregon Coast is a perfect way to see all the highlights on a quick Oregon road trip. With a five-day Oregon coast itinerary, you will have lots of time to explore the coast’s most easily accessible beaches and attractions.

Prepare for long days of driving , but it shouldn’t be a problem because this Oregon coast road trip route will take you to the most beautiful stops and easy hike!

• Day 1: Astoria to Cannon Beach (stops at the Promenade at Seaside and Ecola State Park)
• Day 2:  Cannon Beach to Newport (stops in Hug Point, Oswald West SP, at Cape Kiwanda)
• Day 3:  Newport to Coos Bay (stops at Cape Perpetua Lookout, Heceta Head Lighthouse)
• Day 4:   Coos Bay to Brookings (Stops at Face Rock State Park , Devil’s Kitchen , Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor)
• Day 5:  Brookings to… Northern California !

One-Week Oregon Coast Itinerary

We think one week is the ideal amount of time to spend on an Oregon coast road trip. During this time, you can do everything a 5-day trip would do, but you will have more time to take longer hikes and reach more hidden places.

This will give you a deeper look into the hidden gems of the Oregon Coast, and allow you to see places not many others get to experience!

To read this one week Oregon road trip itinerary – see the 5-day itinerary above, with these additions below:

• Day 1: Astoria to Cannon Beach
• Day 2: Cannon Beach To Rockaway Beach (hikes to Hug Point Natural Trail)
• Day 3: Rockaway Beach to Pacific City (stops in Tillamook Creamery, Garibaldi Pier, and Cape Meares )
• Day 4: Pacific City to Florence (Hike to God’s Thumb , Drift Creek Falls, and Devil’s Punchbowl)
• Day 5: Florence to Bandon (Explore The Oregon Dunes)
• Day 6: Bandon To Brookings (take Samuel H. Boardman hikes)
• Day 7: Brookings to Northern California

10-Day Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Looking to spend up to 10 days on an Oregon Coast road trip? Since there is so much to cover, we’ve actually created a free downloadable itinerary for you! Sign up below and subscribe to our email list, and you’ll get a free copy in your inbox!

Oregon Coast Attractions (Museums + Fun Stops)

You may be wondering if there’s more to the Oregon Coast besides beautiful beaches, hikes, and sea stacks (which all of this is wonderful, don’t get us wrong!).

While these things alone can make for an extraordinary trip, sometimes the weather will leave you no choice but to spend some time indoors. 

Below is a list of the best Oregon coast attractions, ranging from museums, aquariums, and other interesting coastal sites.

These are the perfect places to visit if/when the weather turns bad, or you just want a different way to experience the beauty of the Pacific Northwest!

Seaside Aquarium

The Seaside Aquarium is located in Seaside, Oregon, just north of Cannon Beach.

It’s one of the oldest aquariums on the West Coast ( built in 1924 and opened in 1937 ) and it’s still operated by some of the younger generations of previous owners!

This Oregon Coast aquarium has many educational programs provided to guests and school-aged children.

Topics like north marine awareness, beach discovery programs, and many conservation subjects are covered during the month. Call ahead to see if you will be coming during one of these programs!

Oregon Coast Aquarium

While the Seaside Aquarium may be the oldest on the west coast, the Oregon Coast Aquarium is the largest on the Oregon Coast.

This aquarium is located in Newport, Oregon focuses on the flora and fauna of the Oregon Coast, sharing local sea plants, marine life, and other unique features of this area.

It also ranks among one of the top 10 aquariums in the entire country! If you love marine life, this is a must stop on your Oregon coast road trip.

Tillamook Creamery and Cheese Factory

If you love cheese, you must make time for this stop on your Oregon road trip itinerary!

You can read more about it above (see stop #7) to see why it’s a unique stop on Highway 101.

We wanted to mention it again here because the Tillamook Creamery is a great option for an indoor activity if the weather isn’t looking good for outdoor exploring.

Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad

The Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad is a stretch of track that runs 46 miles between Garibaldi and Rockaway Beach .

Daily tours are conducted on steam-powered trains and you get to learn about the history of the tracks and how they changed this part of Oregon.

They also run special holiday trips! Inquire about these events and times on their website to learn more. Add this to your Oregon coast road trip if you love history!

Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area

Yaquina (pronounced ya-kwin-uh) Head Outstanding Natural Area is home to the tallest lighthouse on the Oregon Coast!

It stands 93 feet tall on the edge of basalt headlands, just north of Newport, Oregon.

Take a tour of the inside of Yaquina Head Lighthouse on a rainy day , or visit the inside of the interpretive center for more information about this beautiful area on your Oregon coast road trip.

Make sure to add this place to your Oregon Road trip itinerary if lighthouses are your thing!

Heceta (pronounced ha-see-ta) Head Lighthouse is located on Siuslaw tradition tribal land , where they historically hunted sea lions, gathered bird eggs, and used the dramatic cliffs as protection.

If you want to stay longer, the Innkeepers House is actually a bed and breakfast, located just steps away from Heceta Head Lighthouse.

Make your Oregon road trip memorable and stay at this historic and beautiful Oregon location!

Florence’s Historic “Old Town”

This quaint little town on the Oregon Coast is anything but quiet! With unique shops, delicious restaurants, and fun year-round events , Florence knows how to celebrate the best of the coast.

Stop by for lunch at Mo’s Chowder House for an eclectic, seaside meal and afterward wander through old town and explore the many local businesses and artists in the area.

Best Beaches On The Oregon Coast

Read The Full Post Here: The 25 Best Beaches On The Oregon Coast

It’s no secret that some of the best beaches in the Pacific Northwest are located on the Oregon Coast. The sheer diversity of the coastline is what brings people out here, and the discovered beauty is what makes the stay!

Thanks to the Oregon Beach Bill , all Oregon coast beaches from north to south are public property.

The People’s Coast recently celebrated its 50th anniversary of this bill, and to this day Oregonians from all over the state have pride of ownership to this ever-changing, beautiful oceanfront.

While there are more than 50 easily accessible Oregon beaches to enjoy, we’re sharing some of our favorites below to get you started on your epic Oregon coast road trip!

• Peter Iredale Shipwreck at Fort Stevens State Park
• Cape Kiwanda
• Hug Point Recreational Area
• Harris Beach State Park
• Rockaway Beach
• Bandon Beach (Devil’s Kitchen, Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint , Coquille Point Stairs)

Read More: The 10 Best Washington Beaches To Add To You Pacific Northwest Road Trip

Iconic Oregon Coast Hikes

Read The Full Post Here: The 26 Best Oregon Coast Hiking Trails

Craving some hikes on the Oregon Coast ? Lucky for you, there are plenty to choose from, ranging from easy walks to challenging backpacking routes. Here are some of our favorites listed below:

Easy Oregon Coast Hikes

• Samuel H Boardman Hikes – see above for a list of lookouts and short walks here.
• Ecola State Park Loop – short, paved trail with a spectacular view
• Cape Kiwanda – fun sand dunes to climb with a great perspective
• Oswald West State Park – many little trails leading to a surfing beach

Moderate / Intermediate Oregon Coast Hikes

• God’s Thumb Hike In Lincoln City
• Cathedral Tree Trail In Astoria
• Cascade Head Trail in Otis, Oregon

Challenging / Long Distance Oregon Coast Hikes

• The Oregon Coast Trail (tip to tip -382 miles long)

Best Places To Stay On The Oregon Coast

Looking for a place to stay or a city to explore? There are many Oregon Coast towns and cities to make your home base during your adventurous time here!

We’re going to share a range of budget options, everything from Oregon coast camping locations and affordable vacation homes, to luxury accommodations and dreamy stays.

Keep reading for our favorite suggestions of places to stay on the Oregon Coast!

Oregon Coast Camping Locations

Read The Full Post: 25 Oregon Coast Campgrounds to Book ASAP Oregon Coast Yurts – Yurt camping can be a fun and convenient way to see the coast and save a ton of money. Click here to see a full list of cabins and yurts on the Oregon coast. Oregon Coast Disperse Camping – Truthfully, finding free camping is very rare on the Oregon coast. However, there are some in select places, mostly in the Central and Southern oregon coast. Research “disperse camping” for your desired area of the Oregon coast, but our favorites are in the Siuslaw area . *Note: some areas require off-road vehicles to access. Make sure to fully research your disperse camping locations before your trip by reading our guide to free camping here!

Oregon Coast Vacation Rentals and Airbnbs

($) Charming Seaside Beach House (Inexpensive if split, sleeps 4) ($) Beachbunker and the Fox Hole (large house in Lincoln City. Sleeps 8) ($) Mingus Park Place (walkable to Coos Bay Downtown + food, sleeps 6)

Oregon Coast Hotels and Resorts

Wanting to splurge on your trip? Maybe it’s your honeymoon or maybe you just want to experience the best that the coast has to offer!

Here are some of the best luxury hotels and resorts on the Oregon Coast:

Heceta Head Lighthouse – A Historic Bed and Breakfast Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa – Hotel on the Boardwalk in Astoria Inn at Cannon Beach – Highly-rated, walkable to Cannon Beach Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa -Pacific City, Oregon

What To Pack For The Oregon Coast

An Oregon Coast road trip is unlike any other American road trip. You’ll have to prepare for spontaneous rain showers , muddy trails, sporadic coastal cities, and surprises around every corner (literally!).

Read below for a list of essentials everyone should have in their car for this once-in-a-lifetime trip!

Proper Rain Gear

The Oregon Coast averages about 150 rainy days per year . This means that no matter what time of year you go, there is a chance of rain!

Make sure you’re prepared for the elements by packing a lightweight raincoat , waterproof shoes , and a waterproof backpack for your gear. This can also include throwing a pair of rain boots in the back of your car for those extra muddy hikes.

Read More: What To Pack When Hiking In The Pacific Northwest

A Paper Map

It’s likely that along Highway 101 there are areas that won’t reach cell service. If you like to know where you are (or just like marking your favorite spots on a map!) a paper one is a great option. Alternatively, you can download offline maps from Google! We’ll show you how to do that and share other useful road trip planning apps here .

Emergency Road Trip Equipment

Hey, things can happen and it’s important to be prepared! Use this blog post to help yourself put together a DIY car emergency tool kit .

Any good west coast road trip requires a pair of jumper cables, extra phone chargers, a first aid kit, a flashlight, and a warm blanket to help you through sticky situations.

See More: Emergency Winter Driving Toolkit

Road Trip Snacks

During your Oregon road trip, you’ll be spending a lot of time in the car.

Make sure to pack your favorite snacks and carry plenty of water! We recommend grabbing some fresh produce from a local grocery store for a healthy and budget-friendly way to snack on the road.

Read More: 30 Road Trip Essentials You Need To Be Packing

FAQ About An Oregon Coast Road Trip Route

How long is the oregon coast highway 101.

The Oregon Coast Highway (Highway 101) is 363.2 miles long. It takes about 8 hours to drive the entire Oregon Coast highway, with minimal stops (but we don’t recommend that!).

Can I Drive On Oregon Coast Beaches?

Yes, you can drive on SOME Oregon Coast beaches.    Click here for a more detailed description of where you can drive your car on the Oregon coast.

List of Beaches That Allow Driving Cars On The Beach:

• Warrenton to Gearhart (10-mile stretch, starting at Peter Iredale Shipwreck)
• Tierra Del Mar
• Lincoln City

What Permits Do I Need To Visit Oregon’s State Park Areas?

America The Beautiful Pass: This pass will allow you to get into all the United States National Parks. It will also grant you access to Oregon national forests and grasslands. Example: Umpqua National Forest ‘s hot spring – Umpqua Hot Springs !

Oregon Pacific Coast Pass: This pass will grant you access to State and Federal parks located on the Oregon Coast. If you are planning to make many stops in these locations, a pass can save you a lot of money!

• An annual pass for the Oregon Pacific Coast Passpor t is $35 per car, or you can purchase a $10 5-day pass just for the length of your trip.

Northwest Forest Pass: The Northwest Forest Pass ( $30 annually ) will grant you entry to all Washington and Oregon day-use fee areas. This is different from the Oregon Pacific Coast Passport as it grants entry statewide rather than just on the coast.

Any Tips For An Oregon Coast Road Trip In Winter ?

The Oregon Coast does not fluctuate in temperature a lot during the year, which makes it an excellent option for a scenic road trip in the winter!  Yes, it rains more from November through March, but that also means fewer crowds and more parking spots!

A winter road trip to the Oregon Coast doesn’t change much for you, except for the type of clothing you pack. Bring warmer, more waterproof items and you’ll be a-okay!

To be extra safe, we would suggest saving this Oregon traffic updates website on your phone for up-to-date alerts.

How Much Should I Budget For An Oregon Coast Road Trip?

The cost of an Oregon Coast road trip can vary in price , depending on how much you are willing to spend on things like food, accommodations, and entry tickets to exhibits. It can be done incredibly cheap…or not! The beauty of it all is that it’s up to you.

A generous Oregon coast travel budget would come down to around $80-$100 per person per day. This covers $45 for food ($15 per meal), $30 for accommodation, and $25 for miscellaneous spendings like gas and admission fees.

More Money Tips While Traveling: 8 Clever Ways To Save Money While Traveling How To Save Money For Your Next Adventure

Not Ready For Your Oregon Road Trip Adventures To End?

Extend it Northbound: The Olympic Peninsula Road Trip Route in Washington

Extend it Southbound: The Best Northern California Road Trip Route or continue along the ocean for a California Coast road trip .

Connect It On A Bigger Trip: The Complete Pacific Coast Road Trip Route

Or better yet…take your trip inland! There are so many beautiful and hidden places in Oregon state that an extension trip is totally encouraged! Here are some of our favorite locations to extend your Oregon road trip:

• Things To Do In Eugene, Oregon (Central Oregon)
• Sahalie and Koosah Falls (Central Cascade Mountains)
• Alvord Hot Springs (Southeast Oregon)
• Painted Hills (North Central Oregon)
• The Best Eastern Oregon Road Trip Route
• Columbia River Gorge (45-minute drive east from Portland, Oregon) ** Click here to see updates on trail openings.

What are your favorite places to explore on an Oregon Coast road trip? Let us know by leaving a comment below!

Wow such detail you two are truly gifted in writing and photography. You are inspiring to all that read your blog and follow you. The amount of time you spend on writing and links. Thank you so much.

Gregory & Althea Bardon Minnesota

If you get to the east side of Oregon a visit to Succor Creek is a must-see. We’ve been half a dozen times and never tire of the scenery. Rocky spires of different colors and layers of rock are amazing. The entrance is off Oregon hwy 201/Idaho hwy 19 about 11 miles from Homedale, Idaho. There are green opaline bulges and cliffs, a few arches, a small-ish campground and Succor creek. We’ve hiked up to a few caves but didn’t venture too far in due to lack of a flashlight. At one look-out point just up from the campground the view to the creek below is dizzying. The road does lead you out close to Jordan Valley, Oregon on Hwy 95.

Hi S.Lynn! Thanks for the cool recommendations! We will for sure check that out if we are ever in the are! Have a great day and thank you!

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.

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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

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“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.

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How To Do an Oregon Coast Day Trip From Portland

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Waves of the dramatic Pacific ocean? Check.

Viewpoints from tall cliffs? Check.

Gorgeous golden beaches? Check.

Surfing spots? Check!

The Oregon coastline near Portland has it all!

With incredible scenery and fun coastal towns with a great vibe, it’s well worth doing an Oregon coast day trip from Portland or the surrounding area.

Like any day trip, it’s essential to research the place before you go thoroughly, so you can be sure to not miss the highlights and decide whether to drive independently or do a tour. 

Luckily, we’ve done all the hard work for you and have detailed everything you need to know about an Oregon Coast day trip in this post! 

Table of Contents

How To Get To the Oregon Coast From Portland 

Astoria , ecola state park, cannon beach (the most popular oregon coast day trip from portland), oswald west state park, neahkahnie mountain, tillamook (the last spot for an oregon coast day trip), oregon coast tour from portland option #1, oregon coast day trip from portland option #2, so an oregon coast tours or oregon coast day trip, 15 adventurous things to do in lincoln city, 11 adventurous things to do in astoria, oregon, 11 adventurous things to do in pacific city, 13 adventurous things to do around seaside, oregon, 13 adventurous things to do in newport, oregon, 11 most scenic oregon coast towns (and what to do there).

It’s generally around a one-and-a-half-hour drive to the coast from Portland, and it’s a fairly easy drive along main roads. However, the exact timing can vary depending on where you’re going. 

• To get to Ecola State Park, you’ll need to take the US 26-E for around 80 miles; it’ll take you one and a half hours. 
• Oswald West State Park, on the other hand, is a little further south; to reach it, you’ll drive to the end of the US 26-E and turn south when you get to the end of the road. 
• Astoria, however, is further north and takes just under two hours to drive; the best route is up the I-5 S and US 30-E.
• Tillamook is the southernmost part of this section of the Oregon coastline, and it’s around an hour and twenty minutes from Portland, via the US-26 E and OR-6 E. 

If you don’t have your car, plenty of car hire companies are available in downtown Portland. 

Here are our most recommended:

✋ HOLD UP! Don’t Forget…

You need some wheels! It’s nearly impossible to get around the USA and check out the best adventures without a car! Here are our top recommendations…

🚗 Rent a car

If you don’t have your own, renting a car is your best bet!

👉 Find Deals on Cars and SUVs

🚐 Rent a home on wheels

For the more adventurous, rent a van or RV and ditch the hotel.

👉 Find The Best Van For Your Trip

Or, if you don’t want to drive, the other option is to take a tour. We’ll detail these later on! 

Don’t want to wait and want to see the top tour options now? Check these two out:

The Main Areas to Visit on The Oregon Coast on a Day Trip if You’re Driving

There are quite a few destinations to visit within easy reach of Portland. You won’t have time to see all of these spots in a day, but read through the following and see which one you’re feeling the most! 

You’d really only get to truly see one to two of these areas with just a day, so choose wisely or stay the night on the coast.

Astoria is a classic coastal town, sitting just over the border from Washington. It’s super close to places like the historical Fort Stevens State Park or the beautiful Cape Disappointment State Park , which is actually over the bridge in Washington.

It’s popular with anglers, as the rivers and sea have some of the finest fishing in the country. It’s the oldest city west of the Rockies, with beautiful surrounding forests and an almost Scandinavian feel.

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

The appropriately-named Seaside is a unique town to visit along the Oregon coast. Enjoy wide sweeping beaches and lush evergreen forests here; it’s also an incredible place to catch the sunset.

It doesn’t have the dramatic cliffs that you’ll find in other areas of the coastline, but it’s worth visiting for seeing a different side of the beachfront area.

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

Gaze at lovely vistas of the blue ocean, craggy rocks, and lush vegetation as you hike through Ecola State Park, which occupies nine miles of coastline and winds around Tillamook Head. Enjoy Ecola Point, which views the Tillamook Lighthouse and the ever-popular Indian Beach, a much-loved surf spot.

Although Ecola State Park is famous for beaches and surfing, there are plenty of hikes here that will lead you through its beautiful nature and to gorgeous viewpoints where you can enjoy the sea and sand vistas.

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

Cannon Beach is one of the best spots on the Oregon coastline. While it’s famous for the dramatic Haystack Rock, this isn’t a hidden gem – it’s one of the most popular beaches near Portland ! However, there’s plenty of room in the sand, so you should have space to roll out your towel.

Cannon Beach is the name for both the town and the actual beach, and it’s famous for its extensive sands and dramatic waves. Visit to enjoy the gorgeous monoliths, sunbathe or surf at the beach, or go birdwatching!

Come by Haystack Rock around low tide to see which creature your spot in the tidepools and if you’re here in summer keep your eyes peeled for Tuft Puffins!

READ MORE: 14 Adventurous Things To Do in Cannon Beach

Oswald West State Park has an incredible secluded beach called Short Sands Beach , nicknamed ‘Shorty’s’ by the locals. It’s one of the most popular surfing destinations in the state.

The coastal park is also covered in temperate rainforest, making it ideal for hiking (especially during the summer when you need some shade!). Some hikes will come out to glorious viewpoints with incredible vistas!

Our favorite hike in the area is the Cape Falcon Trail which takes you right up to Short Sand Beach before you head up the cliffs for some epic views.

READ MORE: Your Guide to Oswald West State Park

Manzanita is a gorgeous beach that’s not visited as much as other beaches, like Cannon Beach. It’s ideal for those who want to get away from the crowds. 

The bay area has excellent fishing opportunities; if you’re an angler, you can find steelhead trout, sturgeon, and Chinook salmon here.

With turquoise waters and golden sands, landmarked by craggy rocks, and the looming Neahkahnie Mountain, this glorious beach is well worth a spot on your day trip itinerary.

RELATED: 17 Most Scenic Oregon Coast Towns (And What to Do There!)

Neahkahnie Mountain stands at the end of Manzanita Beach, and it’s a popular hike in the area where you can admire an incredible view! The hike up Neahkahnie Mountain starts at the southern trailhead and is a 2.6-mile out and back trail.

It’s moderately difficult going up and can be a bit complicated going down with lots of roots to navigate, but the trail is well maintained, and the views make it all worthwhile!

RELATED: 37 of The Best Oregon Hikes You’ve Got to Check Out

Tillamook Bay is the furthest south beach town viable as a day trip from Portland. It’s most famous for the Tillamook Creamery Visitor Center, making delicious cheese and ice cream products. It’s worth visiting while you’re in town!

However, there’s much more to Tillamook than its creamery. In this town, you can explore coastal wetlands at the Sitka Sedge State Park, hike around the Three Capes Scenic Loop , take in this part of the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad, and much more! This will all of course take you beyond a day though, so you’ll have to pick and choose your favorite spots.

RELATED: 7 Tillamook State Forest Hikes to Tackle

Not Driving? Don’t Want to Rent A Car? Do an Oregon Coast Tour Day Trip!

If you don’t have your own car, the only real way to see the coastline near Portland is by doing a guided tour . The best part of these tours is that they are easily booked, pick you up and drop you off from Portland, and will save you time and cash on renting a vehicle!

They will also squeeze in a ton more places than you’d get to see yourself as well since they know exactly where to go and have organized everything to a T.

Here are two of the best Oregon coast tours: 

This tour takes around seven and a half hours and will take you from central Portland to the coastline (and back again!). 

Visit Ecola State Park, admire Haystack Rock, take lunch by Cannon Beach, hike up Neahkahnie Mountain and check out the view and explore Oswald West State Park. 

This tour is relatively similar but stops in different places from the other tour. Before deciding which tour to opt for, you could research each destination and see which one you’re most interested in! 

The first stop on this tour is the Camp 18 Museum, with vintage logging machines and a self-propelled steam crane. It’s a great stop if you want to learn a little about the region’s history while visiting the Oregon coastline.

You’ll also visit Ecola State Park, Cannon Beach, and Neahkahnie Mountain and check out the lesser-known Manzanita Beach and the lovely Short Sands Beach in Oswald State Park.

This could be one of the best Oregon beach tours if you want your visit to include some history as well as some beaches.

RELATED: 13 Portland Tours for The Adventurous!

Doing an Oregon Coast day trip from Portland will help you see some of the best of the west coast, with broad sandy beaches and a dramatic rocky coastline.

There are state parks, cute seaside towns, hiking trails making their way to epic viewpoints, and some of the best surf spots in the USA. But which one is best in your situation?

We think it totally depends on you and really if you have a car or are willing to rent one!

Here’s where to check on some rental vehicles. If you do an Outdoorsy rental, you can stay along the coast for LONGER without hotel expenses! If not, just rent a regular car for the day.

If you want the easiest option and don’t have a car or want to rent, grabbing a tour is your best bet. These are the most recommended tours in the area, they pack in the most, will save you on car rental expenses, and do literally all the work for you! All you need to do is choose which one of the two?

It’ll be hard to fit it into a day, but if you’re just in Portland for a vacation or don’t have the time for a longer trip, it’s worth heading out just for a day trip to the Oregon coast.

More Oregon Coast Towns

We hope this post helped you plan your Oregon coast tour! Before you go, check out other things you can do on the Oregon coast and more adventures near Portland .

Oregon native and explorer at heart. Loves tackling expeditions around the world and drinking a good beer at the end of the day. PNW obsessed, VW nerd, and surf or snow riding fanatic.

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The Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Posted on Last updated: April 5, 2022

5-Day Itinerary for the Oregon Coast By a PNW Local

After I moved to the Pacific Northwest, it didn’t take long to understand why Seattleites escape each summer on an Oregon Coast road trip for a beach vacation. Once I visited the coast for myself, it has now also become a summer ritual for my family and me to hop in the car and drive down the incredibly scenic Oregon coastline to head to some of our favorite beaches.

To do a proper Oregon Coast road trip, you’ll want to focus on Highway 101. To make it truly epic, do the whole thing from Oregon’s northern border to southern border and vice versa.

I’ve driven various parts of Oregon’s coast highway numerous times on different road trips through the state, but one of my favorites was driving the entire coastline in one trip. I entered the southern portion of Oregon after departing Eureka, California, and ended the drive back home in Seattle several days later after leaving the Oregon coast behind once I crossed the Astoria Bridge.

My Oregon coast road trips have helped me define the best parts of the coastline to focus on if you have a one week vacation and I’m excited to share my itinerary recommendation with you today!

First, decide where to start. If you’re not a west coast local and don’t want to start in California and end in Washington (or vice versa), I recommend flying into and out of Portland, OR and renting a car there. From Portland, drive up to Astoria and start your road trip there since it connects with Highway 101. (You can also switch things up on your drive back to Portland by heading inland from southern Oregon to Crate Lake and then continuing onto Portland.)

Highway 101 is the coastal highway that runs from San Diego all the way up to Canada. It’s one of the most famous drives in the world, and the Oregon coast part of it is often overlooked for its counterpart in California.

I also recommend staying two days in some locations. The reason for that is because 1) the Oregon coast really isn’t that long; 2) You’re going to fall in love with these adorable beach towns I’m recommending you stay in and 3) You’re not going to waste time constantly packing and unpacking – particularly a time waster if you’re traveling with children!

5-Day Oregon Coast Itinerary Outline

• Night 1: Bandon (drive there from Portland or from the south border)
• Night 2: Bandon
• Night 3: Florence or Newport
• Night 4: Rockaway Beach, Cannon Beach, or Seaside (Don’t worry – I’ll explain the differences of these below.)
• Night 5: Rockaway Beach, Cannon Beach, or Seaside

For where you should stop along the Oregon Coast each day as you drive from one location to the next, read on!

I’m making this Oregon coast road trip itinerary a five day one to account for travel time (such as driving from Portland or Seattle or San Francisco to get to your first coastal stop so to cover a one week vacation with weekends on both ends.

However, if you don’t need the transit days, then I recommend spending extra time exploring the northern coast area around Cannon Beach down to Tillamook. There’s so much to do there! Or spend a couple extra days in Bandon being blissfully lazy and just playing in tidepools and gazing at incredible sunsets and rock formations.

Ultimate Oregon Coast Itinerary Guide

Now, without further ado, here is my detailed itinerary for how to spend five days driving along the Oregon coast!

Day 1: Drive Oregon’s Southernmost Coast on the Way to Bandon

If you need to leave Portland to get to Bandon, expect this to be a loooong driving day, but then things will get easier. If you’re coming from the southern border, then you’re all set to spend the day stopping at towns that intrigue you. I find the South Oregon coast to be a special part of the state because of its remote, small-town feel while being a short drive from the famous redwoods of California.

Where to Eat: Barnacle Bistro in Gold Beach (about an hour south of Bandon). Barnacle Bistro has friendly service with a small, laidback ambiance with dining decor full of wood accents and coastal charm. Order the fish and chips made with cod caught fresh right off the shores of the Oregon coast. The restaurant also has several brews from the nearby Arch Brewery on tap.

Where to Sleep: Table Rock Motel in Bandon – A small, quaint motel that has ocean-themed rooms and is a quick walk from the bluffs overlooking the ocean.

• Click here for photos and prices of Table Rock Motel.

Day 2: Explore Bandon

I seriously love this town so much, and you’re going to want a whole day here. If you decide you don’t, then I’ll provide some alternatives next (and tell you you’re crazy for not wanting to spend all day in Bandon, ha!)

Day 3: Florence and Sand Dunes

Wake up and leave Bandon. Your ultimate destination will be the pretty town of Florence, but you’ll be making some stops along the way because this is your Oregon sand dunes day (though I have another sand dune surprise for you when you get to Day 3.

You have two options for experiencing the sand dunes in Oregon. You’ll see them from Highway 101 soon after leaving Bandon and the southern end of the dunes is home to the Oregon Dunes Recreational Park. If you keep driving, then you’ll come to the Oregon Dunes Day Use Park and Overlook on the northern end of this area.

Deciding which of these to visit depends on your interests and the ages of those traveling with you.

Oregon Dunes Recreational Park is where you can go for some wheel-tastic adventures on sand. Rent dune buggies or ATVs and ride up and down the hills for an adrenaline rush.

If you’re doing your Oregon road trip with young kids, skip the recreational park since the kiddos aren’t going to be able to partake in the fun since there’s a minimum height requirement to ride in the vehicles. There are some walking paths at the Oregon Dunes Recreational Park, but I think with young kids it’s easier to go north to the Oregon Dunes Day Use Park and Overlook.

At the Oregon Dunes Day Use Park, you’ll find two easy to access overlooks right off the parking lot. From the second overlook (it has a ramp or short staircase to go up to it) you can easily access the dunes for some fun in the sand. My two young girls had a blast rolling around in the small hills here.

You can also go down the massive hill you’ll see right in front of you and hike to the ocean. We stuck to the upper sand dunes, but saw several groups making the trek to and from the water.

After you leave Oregon Dunes Day Use Park, it won’t be long before you’ll see Haceta Lighthouse. It’s a gorgeous site to see the still–working lighthouse’s rotating beam shining out from the tip of a green tree-adorned cape.

Stop for a coffee or ice cream in Florence and do a quick walk around town to enjoy the quaint architecture and pretty harbor views. Florence also is a good place to stop for the night if you want somewhere low-key, otherwise keep driving up the coast about thirty minutes to Newport for a wider range of hotel options.

Oregon Coast Dining Tip:

During your evening in Florence, you’re going to see Mo’s in town, but save it for tomorrow when you’re in Newport if you want to eat at the original’s (though frankly I think the one in Florence has more charm being right over the water!). Mo’s is an iconic local-to-Oregon restaurant especially known for its clam chowder; Mo’s was started in 1946 with the location in Newport and has grown to nine locations up and down the Oregon coast.

Bonus info if traveling with kids: Mo’s has crackers in buckets on the table and the kid drinks came with plastic toy sharks on them. Snacks on-demand and new-toy entertainment (plus yummy clam chowder) equals my kind of place!

Day 3: Newport and Pacific City

If you spent the night in Newport instead of Florence, the little beach neighborhood of Nye Beach is a great place to grab a bite to eat for dinner, especially if you’re staying right by the coast. But for exploring in the morning and around lunch time, I recommend heading down to the harbor and taking in the bustling ambiance.

The harbor front of Newport seems to be a near-perfect split of tourism and fishing industry. You’ll see a souvenir shop right next to a factory, and Mo’s is right across from a fish market. It’s definitely an interesting vibe, and you’ll even have the chance to view sea lions on the docks just south of the harbor if you’re there when they’ve migrated back from California.

(We weren’t there at the right time to see the sea lions in late June, so the next leg of the road trip consisted of my daughter playing pretend with her toy animals in the back and having them discuss going to California. Next trip, dear!)

After Newport, pull off Highway 101 to make a detour farther west to Pacific City. My mom has good friends that live in a suburb of Portland and gave me the tip of how awesome Pacific City is and that it’s always where they go when their kids and grandkids are back in town.

It was such a cool, unique beach!

There is a free parking lot right by Pacific City Beach, which is located on a lovely bay immediately south of Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area.

Pacific City Beach is right next to a restaurant and bar with seating practically right on the sand. However, before you think this is some party beach, fear not. You walk down a small sand dune to the flatter beach and once there, you can barely even see the bar or parking lot anymore.

Instead, you’ll see a massive rock sitting within the water of the bay, and to your right a massive sand dune that is the highest in Oregon. And you’ll likely see people trudging up and sliding back down the dune.

The bay is gorgeous, and my girls had a blast rolling down the smaller sand dunes (we’ll hit up the large one next time when they’re a bit older, but our friends said it typically just takes about 15 minutes to walk up it – but it’s a steep 15 minutes!).

I was also delighted that we saw whales spouting in the bay and showing us their magnificent tails the whole time we were there. Sorry – no pics of the whales as this was a place I wanted to live in the moment, but I did snap a few pics of the beach before we left.

If you have extra time, there are tons of hiking trails around Cape Kiwanda, and I also did a quick walk at Bob Straub State Park, located just five minutes south of Cape Kiwanda. The coastline at Bob Straub State Park has a windswept look and the beach was practically void of people compared to Cape Kiwanda’s beach, which was much more busy.

Day 4 and Day 5: Rockaway Beach to Seaside and Everywhere in Between 

This area of the coast was the focus of my first week-long visit to the Oregon coast and is what started my love affair with this part of the world. The focal point of this part of the coast is Cannon Beach, which is like the Hamptons of Oregon (in a charmingly PNW way, of course!) and is home to the famous Haystack Rock.

But, before you get to Cannon Beach and the other beach towns that make this northern stretch of coast so special in Oregon, you need to make a stop in Tillamook.

Tillamook is home to the cheese factory of the same name. It’s an interesting place to stop and do a tour. You’ll learn about the cheesemaking process, get to sample some cheeses, and can purchase a freshly made Tillamook ice cream cone. (The Marionberry flavor is my favorite!)

Tillamook is also close to Cape Meares Lighthouse so if you love pretty lighthouses, head there for an hour or two.

Then it’s time for the beaches! There are four main beach cities along this part of the Oregon Coast: Rockaway Beach, Manzanita, Cannon Beach, and Seaside. Here’s a quick guide to each and what to see and do there.

Rockaway Beach

With the vibe of a sleepy, old fishing village, this unassuming tourist town has one main street just east of the beach where you’ll find a couple candy and souvenir shops (selling some delicious taffy), a few restaurants, a small grocery store, and…that’s about it really.

The charm of Rockaway Beach is the uncrowded beach, which is vast and sandy with rock formations jutting out of the water on the southern end of the beach, and the close proximity to fish shops selling freshly caught oysters and catches of the day. Garibaldi Cannery in the tiny town of Garibaldi (10 minutes south of Rockaway Beach) is a great place to stop to pick up some fresh oysters to eat.

When I picture Manzanita, I first picture pine trees right next to crashing waves and peaceful beaches. What then makes this such a nice beach city to spend some time in, though, is its proximity to quality shops and restaurants with a town center that has a much smaller scale than bustling Cannon Beach to its north.

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is a gorgeously laid out beach town with pretty buildings housing upscale boutiques, a plethora of souvenir shops, and quaint little wine tasting rooms. You’ll also find a number of eateries with a focus on local ingredients and fresh seafood.

Cannon Beach’s main draw is its gorgeous beach that is characterized by that aforementioned Haystack Rock jutting up into the sky just offshore.

Seaside has a bit of a party vibe, with lots of bars and restaurants along the streets next to the beach, bonfires permitted pretty much anywhere on the sand, and performers blowing bubbles, dancing, and playing music along the boardwalk.

It feels wildly different from the beach towns to its south, but the entertainment, wide boardwalk, and swings on the sand make this a fun place for families or getaways with friends. 

Where to Sleep:

You can drive from Rockaway Beach to Seaside in under an hour, so anywhere on this stretch of coastline is a good base to sleep and explore from.

I’ve stayed in both Rockaway Beach and Seaside because I like ocean views from my accommodation and for the same price of a place a couple blocks from the sand in Cannon Beach I was right on the beach in Rockaway and Seaside.

I LOVED my stay in the deluxe suite at this hotel in Seaside!

But if you like being where the action is while still having a decidedly PNW-feel then Cannon Beach is your best bet since you’ll be able to walk to restaurants, bars, wine tasting rooms, and lots of shops.

Manzanita is also a beautiful place to stay and we have several friends who always choose that as their home base due to the fact that it has a bit more nightlife than Rockaway Beach (where practically everything closes before 7pm) while still having a much sleepier feel than Cannon Beach. ( Side note: Manzanita also has a cute little grocery store called the Little Apple that is a good place to stock up on some items if you’re running low on snacks.)

Where to Eat Along the Northern Oregon Coast

Maggie’s on the Prom in Seaside: This restaurant has delicious food with gourmet ingredients right on the boardwalk.

Wayfarer Restaurant & Lounge in Cannon Beach: You’ll find seafood entrees, delicious breakfast, and awesome views of Haystack Rock through the floor to ceiling windows.

Old Oregon Smokehouse in Rockaway Beach: Order some delicious barbeque or fish and chips at the counter in the tiny shack, then enjoy on one of the outdoor picnic tables or take it down to the beach for a picnic.

Oregon Coast Itinerary Wrap-Up

So there you have it, my perfect 5-Day Oregon Coast Itinerary! Remember, if coming from Washington, do this route backwards or take a couple days to head down to Crater Lake first before heading to the southern coast to start your drive north.

Keep reading for some more tips to help you plan your ideal Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary.

When to Go on an Oregon Coast Road Trip

Early summer is best in my opinion. The rains will have mostly subsided, but you won’t run into the crowds that flock to the coast to escape the city heat in July and August. That being said, if you do end up doing the drive in July and August, you’ll still have a great time, just be sure to book your hotels well in advance.

In fall, you’ll get the chance to see some fall foliage during your drive, but you’ll also increase your chances of rainy days.

In winter, you’re pretty much guaranteed to have rainy days, but I think there can be charm to gray days by rugged coasts; however, I still don’t recommend doing a week long Oregon Coast road trip in the winter because the days are so much shorter and you’ll be missing out on a lot of sightseeing opportunities due to the sun going down around 5pm.

Spring also brings a lot of rain, but on the flip side the days are starting to get longer and you’ll likely get great deals on accommodations and see hardly anyone else at the beaches and other attractions (but….I’d still go with late spring if I were you if spring is the only time you can do an Oregon Coast road trip).

What to Pack for Your Oregon Coast Road Trip

Rain jackets and rain boots are always wise to stick in at any time of year other than July and August (though it’s the Pacific Northwest, so it’s always good to check the weather report for rain!). I’ve put together a packing checklist you can download, too, to make things easier for you.

Safety Tips for Your Oregon Coast Road Trip

Always be aware of warnings posted at the various beaches you’ll visit. I noticed most beaches in Oregon had signs warning of sneaker waves and riptides. Pay attention to them. Sneaker waves in particular are a major danger along the coast. If looking for creatures in the tidepools, always stay facing the water so you’ll be more likely to notice if a larger than usual wave is suddenly coming upon you.

For the more secluded beaches, the twists and turns of the coast means your exit from the beach may disappear during high tide even if you’re currently surrounded by sand so keep aware of the water level during your outing if visiting when the tide is changing.

The Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip: A Weeklong Itinerary

Updated April 2, 2024

The Oregon Coast is about 364 miles long. The main artery, U.S. Highway 101 , winds along the entire way, often with the ocean in view. On our leisurely weeklong itinerary, we’ll spend a lot of time on this mostly two-lane highway—though with frequent stops and detours to see migrating whales, wave-battered beaches, lonely lighthouses, majestic forests, and quiet villages. 

Keep in mind that this isn’t the sun-and-surfing kind of coastal experience. The water’s too cold and the wind too fierce for swimming. And no matter what time of year you visit, you should bring rain gear. But don’t let that discourage you. The Oregon Coast makes up for its gray skies with an unbroken stretch of rugged splendors. 

Driving distance: 26 miles

Our journey begins in Astoria , located at the mouth of the Columbia River about a two-hour drive west of Portland. After a stroll along the Riverwalk , head south about 5 miles to visit Fort Clatsop at Lewis and Clark National Historical Park , site of the 1805 winter headquarters of the trailblazing explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark and their Corps of Discovery.

Then continue on to Cannon Beach , about 22 miles south of Astoria, to see  Haystack Rock  (pictured above) rising out of the sea amid miles of flat, sandy, surf-pounded beach. Squeeze in a visit to Ecola State Park at the north end of town for forested hiking trails with panoramic ocean views. Cannon Beach has numerous seaside hotels and restaurants to keep you pleasantly occupied during an overnight stay. 

Driving distance: 109 miles

Continuing south from Cannon Beach on U.S. 101, in about 40 miles you’ll come to Tillamook , situated in a dairy region of lush green fields—don't pass up a chance to sample the area's output in the form of cheese or ice cream (or both). Just south of Tillamook, watch for the turnoff for the Three Capes Scenic Loop , a 35-mile circuit that takes you to three giant headlands where you can hike or simply gawk at spectacular viewpoints. Have lunch with a side of Pacific scenery in Oceanside before rejoining U.S. 101 in Pacific City.

Driving another 45 minutes south will bring you to Depoe Bay   (pictured above). In spring and summer, whale-watching boats chug out from the nation’s smallest harbor and into the open sea for possible sightings of 20-ton gray whales passing through during their annual migration. Back on solid ground, the  Whale Watching Center will teach you more about these remarkable mammals. 

Driving distance: 13 miles

Make the busy town of Newport , located about 13 miles south of Depoe Bay, your base for day three. First, follow the signs for Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area to find the 1873 Yaquina Head Lighthouse   (pictured above). The basalt headland here extends a mile into the sea, with a series of dramatic offshore rocks that serve as wildlife sanctuaries for seabirds and seals. A staircase leads down to a beach covered with stones worn smooth by the sea.

Around lunchtime, head to Newport’s Bayfront to find restaurants serving seafood caught only hours before by the commercial fishing fleets based here. Then make your way to Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site on the north side of the Yaquina Bay Bridge. Here stands the lighthouse that was put out of service by the beacon you saw earlier. This one is really just a two-story wooden house with a light fixed to the roof.

Newport has one of the most famous bridges on the Oregon coast—a long, graceful span designed by Conde McCullough in the 1930s. Cross the Yaquina Bay Bridge to reach the popular Oregon Coast Aquarium . You’ll pass through an outdoor aviary with tufted puffins (pictured above) and by outdoor pools with sea otters before reaching the fascinating tanks inside. 

It’s been a full day, but what about a walk on the beach before dinner? The Nye Beach neighborhood is a good option for that. Many of the homes nearby date from the early 1900s, when Newport was one of the only resort towns on the Oregon coast.

Driving distance: 24 miles

From here to the California border, indoor tourist attractions thin out but the wild beauty of the landscape only intensifies. Twenty-four miles south of Newport on U.S. 101, the artsy and affluent village of Yachats (pronounced YAH-hots) has no commercial development to speak of, but with an oceanfront like this who wants commerce? The beach is marked by rocky coves and tide pools; agates frequently wash ashore after storms. At its southern end, the town is overshadowed by the towering bulk of Cape Perpetua , an 800-foot-tall headland and the highest point on the Oregon coast.

At the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, you can hit hiking trails in old-growth forests, poke around in more shoreline tide pools, and marvel at wonders such as the seemingly bottomless Thor's Well sinkhole (pictured above) and  Devils Churn , where the force of incoming waves into a narrow fissure sends geysers of seawater shooting high into the air. Back in Yachats, you’ll be pleased to discover an array of top-tier restaurants.

Driving distance: 25 miles 

On the morning of day five, head south again, up and over Cape Perpetua, and keep your eyes peeled for Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint . The lighthouse sits at the edge of a rocky promontory above the crashing waves of the Pacific. Just a mile south is one of the Oregon coast’s most long-lived natural attractions, Sea Lion Caves . An elevator takes you down to a viewing window overlooking one of the largest sea lion rookeries on the West Coast. In another 6 miles, look for a highway sign marked Darlingtonia State Natural Site (pictured above).   Although it’s very small, this little marshy area beside U.S. 101 is eerily beautiful. It’s home to an emerald-green field of rare insect-eating plants that look like thousands of eyeless cobras. 

Your lunch stop is Florence, which got its start during the California Gold Rush, when timber and provisions were floated toward San Francisco via the Siuslaw River flowing right through the heart of town. The wooden storefronts along the waterside promenade give the place some real historical character. 

Driving distance: 72 miles

Although there’s no official boundary line, the South Coast begins just south of Florence, and so does the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area , a 50-mile swath of towering dunes between the shoreline and U.S. 101 ("sandboarding" on the dunes is pictured above). Next comes Coos Bay and then the turnoff for the Cape Arago Highway. 

You may not want to stop at all three state parks on the route, but each has its charms. The first is Sunset Bay State Park , a sheltered cove beneath high sandstone cliffs. Shore Acres State Park offers the chance to visit a rose garden where you may hear seals barking in the distance. Those animals are also star attractions at Cape Arago State Park , where they hang out on offshore rocks that are part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge . After you’ve visited one—or all—of the state parks, continue south on U.S. 101 to spend the night in Bandon.

Driving distance: 59 miles

Golfers from all over the world descend on Bandon to play at the six renowned links courses at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort . But this coastal community, located where the Coquille River spills into the Pacific, was popular long before the duffers took over. The attractions may be gone from when passenger steamers stopped here on trips between San Francisco and Seattle, but the beach and rock formations (pictured above) remain awe-inspiring. Take the  Beach Loop Drive  to  Bullards Beach State Park  to see mighty monoliths with names based on what they look like: Face Rock, Table Rock, the Sisters, and Cat and Kittens. Also on the way: the octagonal Coquille River Lighthouse , dating from 1896. 

Heading south from Bandon on U.S. 101, you’ll pass cranberry fields. Many of them are now part of huge corporate farming operations, but during the harvest season (mid-October to early December) some cranberry tours are available—and plenty of homemade cranberry jams and other products are for sale in town. Then it’s another 59 miles to Gold Beach, where the Rogue River empties into the sea. 

Driving distance: 28 miles

A jet-boat trip up the Rogue is an exhilarating option for experiencing that waterway, but if you prefer less octane there are several excellent hiking options in the Gold Beach area. The easily walkable Frances Schrader Old Growth Trail takes you to a stand of giant trees; the Rogue River Trail  traverses a scenic area above the water.

The 28-mile stretch between Gold Beach and Brookings is a scenic corridor with several pullouts and state parks (such as Samuel H. Boardman , pictured above) where you can stop to enjoy the view. This area of the South Coast is referred to as the "Banana Belt" of Oregon because the climate and somewhat sheltered topography foster the growth of semitropical plants. Most of the nation’s Easter lilies come from around here.

From Brookings, U.S. 101 continues across the California border, slithering down through even more incredible scenery—but that’s a road trip for another day. 

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The Ultimate Oregon Road Trip: Itinerary Inspiration and Must-See Stops

last Updated: May 17, 2021 bend cannon beach crater lake mt hood oregon portland road trip

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Are you ready to be blown away by shimmering lakes, snowy mountain tops, and enough craft beer to last a lifetime? Get ready for an Oregon road trip, my Pacific-Northwest-craving friends. Sharing tons of details below to get you started planning your trip to the Oregon coast and beyond!

Just last year I had never visited Oregon before. Yeah, yeah, shame on me (I kiiinda recently moved to the west coast so you’ll cut me some slack, yea?) ;p I visited for the first time last year, and let’s just say I’m a tad obsessed. I had heard Portland was kinda cool, and after one look at Crater Lake I knew I had to make it there sooner than later. Alas, my first few trips to Oregon were planned, and I’ve now found myself in the state 3 times within a ~6 month period (something that just NEVER happens).

So without further ado, I’m sharing my ideal Oregon road trip, from the quirkiness that is Portland south to the dazzling still water of Crater Lake and west to the allure that is the stunning Oregon coast.

Oregon Road Trip Itinerary Overview

• Stop 1: Portland (2-3 days)
• Stop 2: Columbia River Gorge/Multnomah Falls (1 day)
• Stop 3: Mt. Hood (1 day)
• Stop 4:  Silver Falls State Park (1 day)
• Stop 5: Smith Rock State Park (½-1 day) 
• Stop 6:  Painted Hills (½ day)
• Stop 7: Bend (1-2 days)
• Stop 8: Crater Lake (1-2 days)
• Stop 9: Ashland (1 day)
• Stop 10: Coos Bay / Southern Oregon Coast (1 day)
• Stop 11: Newport, Tillamook, and Cannon Beach (1-2 days)
• END: Portland

Over the course of the road trip, expect to drive approximately 24 hours (round trip) and around 1000 miles. You’ll notice on the map below that I haven’t included the drive from Portland to Silver Falls State Park (that’ll add another 2 hours or so to the time listed on the map), as well as the 1.5 hour drive back to Portland from Cannon Beach (limits of technology). In order to complete this Oregon road trip in a timely manner (a week to 10 days or so), you’ll be driving almost every day, with some being longer driving days than others. Plan accordingly and bring snacks! The time in the car doesn’t have to be absolutely horrible. :p

→ Read next: Top Tips for Long Car Trips // Long Road Trip Essentials

When to Visit Oregon

Like the rest of the Pacific Northwest, Oregon experiences four seasons. To be completely transparent (and as noted above), I visited these different spots in the state on a few different occasions. I visited Portland in early June, Crater Lake in early September, and Bend in the snowy winter months. Oregon is spectacular year round, but if you’re on the hunt for some sunshine and minimal precipitation, I’d recommend planning your Oregon road trip between the months of April and September.

The best month for visiting the Oregon Coast is typically September, as the summer months are usually pretty foggy. It’ll be the wettest throughout the state between November and March, and the warmest between June and September. The roads around Crater Lake typically don’t fully open to cars until July, so keep this in mind if you’re visiting prior!

If you have the luxury of picking exactly when to take your Oregon road trip, choose September! The weather is glorious – little to no rain, clear coastlines, and warm weather. Just like my home state of California, Oregon typically experiences an Indian Summer, which lasts until early-mid October.

Getting to Oregon (and Portland in particular)

First things first, if you’re not a resident of Oregon, you’ll of course need to get yourself there! Since PDX is a major international airport, it’s wise to start your Oregon road trip in Portland, as you’ll be able to find decently priced tickets from throughout the US, highly dependent on the airport you’re departing from. For reference, from SFO (San Francisco), I commonly see round trip tickets to PDX (Portland) for under $200, and many times under $150.

New Yorkers can fly to Portland for roughly $300 if bought far enough in advance. I swear by Skyscanner and Google Flights whenever searching for tickets, and more often times than not, find the cheapest prices on one of them. The ability to track prices (and get email notifications when the price drops) is top notch and one of my favorite features. Take advantage of Skyscanner , you guys, they’re seriously the best.

quirky coffee shops everywhere you go in Portland – this one’s in a converted school bus!

If you’ll be following this complete Oregon road trip itinerary you’ll be doing a full loop from Portland, hence the need for round trip tickets from PDX. If you’re coming from Northern California and don’t mind doing a bit of extra driving, you can start this road trip from wherever you see fit (Crater Lake is roughly 7-8 hours from San Francisco, and the southern Oregon Coast – Coos Bay – is about 9 hours). Just remember that you’ll need to head back to your original destination. 🙂

Since this is in fact a road trip , you’ll need a vehicle to get you from place to place! Worth mentioning so you don’t forget to account for the cost of a rental car when following this Oregon road trip! And since you’ll be returning the car in the same place you picked it up, no need for pesky extra drop-off fees. I commonly use this booking site when searching for low-cost car rental options, and like Skyscanner , frequently find great deals on there!

I like to search  via this site in order to compare rental companies to see who has the best price.

How Long Should This Oregon Road Trip Take?

In all honesty, that’s a kinda hard question to answer, as the duration of the trip highly depends on your interests and how long you wanna stay in each place. I’d say a week if you’re picking and choosing a few stops to 2 and a half weeks if you wanna see and do mostly everything on this Oregon itinerary at a leisurely pace.

Now let’s get this Oregon road trip under way!

The Complete Oregon Road Trip Itinerary

Stop #1: start in portland (2-3 days).

Portland, Oregon is best known for its delectable donuts, snobby coffee culture, orgasmic food, and, of course, for being weird. It is in their slogan after all! Two to three days in the city will give you enough time to see all the highlights, as well as eat to your heart’s content. It’s the best place to start your Oregon road trip since renting a car will be easy peasy if you’re flying into PDX.

With two days in Portland, you can easily fit in these activities:

• Pittock Mansion: Looking for spectacular views of the entire city? You’ll find those here at Pittock Mansion. Note that while the view is free to admire, a ticket is required to tour the mansion grounds.

• International Rose Test Garden (located within Washington Park): What’s better than rows and rows of sweet-smelling roses? Hint: not much. The garden boasts over 10,000 of the pretty things, in every color combination imaginable (over 650 varieties)! Wander around for a half hour or so, and be sure to actually stop and smell the roses (yes, pun intended). Make sure you visit when the roses are in bloom (April through October, although June is the peak season). FYI – Entrance to the garden is free, but you’ll need to pay a few bucks for parking.

• Powell’s City of Books: Book lovers, rejoice! You can easily spend hours (and hours) exploring Powell’s flagship store – you’ll even need a map (which they happily supply). Be warned: this place is HUGE huge (like, multiple floors with rooms opening into rooms opening into rooms, etc etc). It actually takes up an entire city block and then some. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, you’re just not looking hard enough – they have EVERYTHING imaginable and then some (new, used, rare, and even out-of-print books). I was like a kid in a candy store…

• Keep Portland Weird Sign: Right across from Voodoo Donuts you’ll find this quick photo spot → don’t miss this iconic mural! The sign itself is just a wall in a parking lot, but just go, be weird, and take your picture. The actual address is 350 W Burnside St in case you can’t find it (it’s right behind Dante’s).

• Tilikum Crossing: Have more time and looking for a scenic leisurely walk over the river? Head to Tilikum Crossing, also known as the “bridge of the people”, a .35 mile pedestrian, bike, and light rail bridge with unparalleled views of the Willamette River. Smart, right? Why don’t more cities have this (bridges that ban cars that is)? You can easily do this walk back and forth in under an hour. I reckon it’d be even more dramatic and scenic at night with all the city lights shining down on the river! Be sure to look out for the submarine near OSMI!

→ Read Next: 3 Perfect Days in Portland

Where (and what) to eat in Portland (my favorites):

• Pok Pok: order the Vietnamese fish sauce wings
• Blue Star Donuts: just do it, more than once (calories don’t count on vacation)
• Coffee at Stumptown: grab some at the airport if you don’t have time
• Salt and Straw ice cream: try some of their wacky flavors, changing all the time!
• Abyssinian Kitchen: some of the tastiest Ethiopian food around
• Katchka (Russian): try the herring under a fur coat, Siberian dumplings, lamb with rice, and cauliflower schnitzel (all super tasty)
• Pine State Biscuits: I’m drooling just thinking about my breakfast
• Fried Egg, I’m in Love: the best egg sandwiches in Portland, in my opinion
• Tov Coffee: located in a converted school bus; get “the mint thing”, it’s orgasmic
• Voodoo Donut: a Portland must-stop, even if everyone says Blue Star is better

Sleep: Portland (I’ve been lucky enough to stay with friends/family when visiting the area, but I’ve heard fantastic things about Ace Hotel Portland , Jupiter Hotel , Kimpton Hotel Monaco , and Stay Pineapple at Hotel Rose . Browse all hotels in Portland here .

Stop #2: Multnomah Falls and the Columbia River Gorge (1 day)

Distance: 30 miles to Multnomah Falls | Driving time: 45 minutes + driving through the Gorge

It’s time to grab those wheels (hint: car rental) and make our way towards our first official stop on this Oregon road trip, Multnomah Falls!

Being the tallest waterfall in all of Oregon state, a stop at Multnomah Falls really should be on any Oregon road trip itinerary, no matter how long or short. Looking up at the 600+ foot tall roaring cascade of icy water is awe-inspiring to say the least! It’s actually the most visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest (whoaaa Nelly), so be prepared to share the views with 34,534 of your closest Portland-loving friends if you come after 10am. Visit before 9am and you’ll have the place almost to yourselves, season dependent.

Once Multnomah Falls is outta the way (and as noted earlier, head here early due to the crowds that arrive by 9/10am), continue on your waterfall-finding journey – there’s dozens upon dozens (!!!) of them in the Columbia River Gorge. The Gorge is essentially a canyon of the Columbia River, stretching more than 80 miles and up to 4,000 feet deep, and is kinda a divide between Washington and Oregon. With stunning vistas and enough waterfalls to last a lifetime, you’ll want to carve out at least half a day to explore.

Note that trails close on occasion due to wildfires, so you’ll want to make sure access is available before you set off on any hike. I’ve heard Horsetail Falls, Latourell Falls (it’s a few minutes before Multnomah, but go afterwards to beat the rush at Multnomah), and Wahkeena Falls are spectacular – but all were closed during my June 2018 visit due to the horrific fire in 2017.   Check for possible trail closures here .

Note that it’s about 45 minutes from Multnomah Falls to the town of Hood River, which is a good place to base yourself for the night. If you’re exploring other waterfalls in the Gorge, you’ll be even closer to Hood River.

Sleep: Hood River (Check out the Hampton Inn & Suites Hood River and the Best Western Plus Hood River – both great options). Browse all hotels near Hood River here.

Stop #3: Hood River and Mt. Hood (1 day)

Psst – if you’re really pressed for time you can combine stop #2 and #3 into one long day. It’s definitely doable, it’ll just be a little rushed. Do note that if you plan on doing some hiking, you’ll probably wanna split up the days, but your call! I visited everything in one day, but wasn’t able to do all the hiking I wanted due to the trail closures as mentioned above.

Distance: 47 miles to Timberline Lodge | Driving time: 1hr

Next up, Hood River, but first, a short pit stop at Rowena Crest . Sure, it’s about 25 minutes outta the way, but most definitely worth it for that instashot (I’m sure you’ve seen it somewhere – haha)! So what is it about this place that makes it rather popular?! Yes, it’s technically just a bend in the road but the surrounding scenery makes it a worthwhile stop.

This iconic horseshoe curve is actually one of the most photographed roads in all of Oregon! It does get pretty windy up here, so if you’re planning on taking that insta-photo, please be extra extra careful! Note that you’ll need to hoist yourself up and over the railing if you want more than just shoes in your shot (I was too much of a chicken to do so).

On your way to Mt. Hood, you’ll most likely wanna stop in Hood River for some lunch. My suggestion – Solstice Wood Fire Cafe for, you guessed it, some wood-fired pizza. Stretch those legs and go for a walk along the Hood River Waterfront for some great views of the area as well!

Additional pit stop: Hood River Lavender Farm ! An absolute must-stop for anyone who’s even a little bit lavender obsessed. Not only can you wander around the whole place smelling the sweet smells, but for $5, you can pick your own lavender to tie up and bring home! The place was smaller than I had expected, but there’s tons and tons of lavender bushes so it doesn’t even matter. Be extra careful when picking, as there’s lots of bees!

Be sure to look inside the gift shop for lavender jams/jellies, soaps, etc. If you come on a clear day you can even see Mt. Hood in the distance! FYI: Lavender picking season is from April/May to November, with peak bloom being July-August.

Wanna brag to your friends about finding the best views of Mt. Hood? Head to Trillium Lake , where the mountain literally reflects in the water and creates the most peaceful setting. What’s better than a mountain reflection in a jazzy blue lake? Not much! On a clear day, you’ll find Mt. Hood perfectly reflected in the water. Worth the short photo stop for sure! You can also walk around the lake for additional views as well, but we wanted to make it back by dinner so skipped the almost-2-mile loop trail. I want to visit during sunrise or sunset next time!

End this long day at Timberline , a mountain lodge right at the base of Mt. Hood, where you can watch the skiers summer ski and grab a bite to eat (if you’re so inclined). You of course can spend the night here if you’re planning on actually using the mountain for skiing or snowboarding (be sure to make reservations in advance), but we were just observers for the day.

Sleep in Mt Hood : Timberline Lodge if you’re feelin’ fancy, or check out Best Western Mt. Hood Inn or Collins Lake Resort for budget options in the area.

Stop #4 ( optional ): Silver Falls State Park (1 day)

(adds an extra 2-3 hours of driving time)

Distance : 94 miles to Silver Falls State Park | Driving time : 2hr plus traffic

→ Note that it’s more than possible to visit Silver Falls State Park as a day trip from Portland, so if you wanna do that and tack on a day to your Portland stop, feel free! → That’s what I did! It’s actually only about 1 hour, 15 minutes south of Portland, so if you prefer staying in the city and switching hotels one less time, a day trip to Silver Falls from Portland may be your best bet!

If the waterfall at Multnomah wasn’t enough for you, or you’re just a waterfall fanatic like myself, make the 2-3 hour detour to Silver Falls State Park. (Psst – I actually found the waterfall at Silver Falls State Park even more spectacular than those on the Columbia River Gorge). There are numerous trails available, with the easiest of them leading to the most impressive waterfall in the park – South Falls. You can even go behind some of them! Definitely reminded me of the some of the waterfalls I saw in Iceland!

If you’re looking for a longer hike, trek the entire 9 miles and you’ll be rewarded with 10 waterfalls (yes, 10!). Where else can you see 10 waterfalls on one hike?! We hiked about 3 miles or so and saw two waterfalls.

People actually call it the “crown jewel” of the Oregon State Parks system – you’ll quickly understand why after your first visit! I mean, who doesn’t appreciate a leisurely walk the rainforest (Oregon’s only one actually!)

Sleep : Browse all hotels near Silver Falls State Park here.

Stop #5: Smith Rock State Park (½ – 1 day)

Drive: 3 hours to Smith Rock State Park from Silver Falls State Park -or- 2 hours from Timberline

Located roughly 30 minutes north of Bend (next up on this Oregon road trip itinerary) in central Oregon’s High Desert (riiiight off the highway I might add), this is a spot you’d be absolutely mistaken to miss, no matter the weather. With scenic views of deep river canyons and ample hiking opportunities, Smith Rock is any outdoor-lovers dream. If you’re up for a workout on tons of switchbacks, head up to Misery Ridge for dramatic views of the entire canyon and nearby rock formations. This spot is a mecca for rock climbers, and even if you don’t subject yourself to Misery Ridge (it is called Misery Ridge for a reason), you can still spot them from the canyon floor.

we visited in winter, hence the reason we’re bundling up (obv)

Psst: if you’re an alpaca fanatic like I am (guilty!), be sure to check out Crescent Moon Ranch located in Terrebonne (right near Smith Rock State Park). make sure to head into the visitor’s lounge to pick up some alpaca food to feed the little guys and check out all the goods made from their soft, luxurious fleece. Wool sweaters, wool socks, wool stuffed animals, and oh so much more – it’s all there.

Sleep: near Smith Rock ( Sleep Inn & Suites Redmond and Best Western Plus Rama Inn are viable options) or in the areas of Mitchell / Prineville near the Painted Hills (depends if you wanna do more driving today)

Stop #6 ( optional ): Painted Hills and surrounding areas (1 day)

This minor detour to Painted Hills will take you roughly an hour and 45 minutes outta the way, but hey, you might as well see a lot of the state on this Oregon road trip. And plus, it’s one of the Seven Wonders of Oregon, so you kinda gotta see it.

The Painted Hills are just that – full of hills of a whole myriad of different colored soils, including yellows, golds, blacks, and reds. Top Tip: these different colors are best viewed in the late afternoon (the claystones appear different dependent on light and moisture).

But don’t leave just yet – the Painted Hills are just one of three units that make up the John Day Fossil Beds. You’ll find mars-like landscapes at the Clarno Unit, and fossils of plants and animals at the Sheep Rock Unit (which make up 55 million years of evolution with a giant collection of 40,000 fossils). And no, I didn’t exaggerate those numbers. It’s the real deal over in these parts! All of these three units have short trails to dramatic viewpoints of colorful rock formations – you could easily spend all day here. Note that the three units are roughly 1 hour away from each other, so you’ll need to account for some extra driving should you want to visit two or all three.

→ Important: If you’re staying after dark to watch the sunset (highly recommended), be extra careful when driving to your accommodations at night. There’s lots of wildlife out and about near the roads (deer, elk, etc).

Note that today’s kinda a lot of driving if you decide to see Smith Rock and the Painted Hills in one day, so you may want to consider sleeping in Mitchell near the Painted Hills (30 min drive) and driving to Bend the next morning. If you wanna get a head start the drive to Bend, sleep in Prineville (roughly 1 hr, 15 minutes from the Painted Hills and on the way to Bend).

Sleep : Bend at LOGE Entrada Bend (where I stayed and brand spankin-new) or The Oxford Hotel (another top-notch option recommended by a couple we met on our Craft Beverage Tour).   Browse all hotels in Bend here . (or Mitchell / Prineville near the Painted Hills)

Stop #7: Bend (2-3 days)

Drive: 2 hours to Bend from the Painted Hills

Located between the snow-covered peaks of the Cascade Mountains and the high desert plateaus of Central Oregon, Bend really has it all, and then some. Because of its prime location for outdoor activities (think hiking, biking, river sports, etc), you’ll find a ton of sporty enthusiasts living the rugged lifestyle.

Bend is basically an adults playground. And the town is super cute, too, with a whole slew of mouthwatering restaurants and cafes to indulge in!

As noted above, we visited Bend in it’s snowy winter months , and have yet to experience the area in all it’s warm-weather summer-glory. We fully enjoyed our time in Bend covered in snow, and went snowshoeing, took a craft beverage tour, and ate everything in sight (for real).

However, since I have a feeling you’ll be planning this Oregon road trip for a warmer month, I’ve compiled some of the best things to do in Bend sans piles and piles of snow. I have a few friends and cousins who frequent the area quite often (they’re Bend-obsessed), so I got some recommendations from them for you to enjoy.

Since Bend is sooo well known for its craft beers, you can’t leave town without taking part in the fun for at least a little while. The city is actually known as Beer Town USA, and has more breweries per capita than any other city in Oregon. Craft beverage tours like the Bend Ale Trail or the Local Pour Tour with Wanderlust Tours are especially popular to sample local sips.

We loved the mixture of the Local Pour Tour, visiting a local cidery, kombucha tap room, a whisky distillery, and of course a brewery. There’s even a non-alcoholic beer brewed for pups! Crazy, right?! They do love their beer over in Bend! If you’re a beer fanatic as well, you may want to schedule your trip to Bend during one of it’s many annual beer celebrations, including Central Oregon Beer Week, Bend BrewFest, or Bend Oktoberfest (among many, many more).

Alternatively, simply wander around the Old Mill District and Downtown Bend, which have tons of places to eat, stroll, or shop.

Outdoor lovers will also find tons to do here. During the summer, book a kayaking or canoeing expedition on the Cascade Lakes or the Deschutes River with Wanderlust Tours, who we actually went snowshoeing with in the winter and LOVED!

You can also enjoy the outdoors on foot or by bike, and you’ll see tons of people out on the trails on warm, sunny days. The Pilot Butte Trail is a popular hiking trail in Bend that takes you to the top of an extinct volcano (yup, I said volcano alright), with thrilling views of the surrounding Cascade Mountains nearby. It’s a beautiful, scenic trail for beginners and seasoned hikers alike. For bikers, you can’t beat the Deschutes River Trail, which extends over 12 miles and borders the Deschutes River, winding through canyons and beautiful green forests along the way.

what you can expect Bend to look like in the winter (that snow, swoon)

And if you’re looking to amp up your photography skills, book yourself a private lesson with Toni from Bend Photo Tours. She was oh so patient with me and answered all my silly (and quite embarrassing) questions without batting an eye. Next time I’m there I’m hoping the weather conditions are sufficient for some night-sky photography!

→ Read Next: A Snowy Weekend Trip to Bend, Oregon

Sleep: Bend at LOGE Entrada Bend (where I stayed and brand spankin-new) or The Oxford Hotel (another top-notch option recommended by a couple we met on our Craft Beverage Tour).   Browse all hotels in Bend here .

Stop #8: Crater Lake National Park (2 days)

Drive: 2 hours, 30 minutes to Crater Lake National Park from Bend

Crater Lake National Park has got to be one of the most mesmerizing places I’ve been to date, and thankfully, it’s up next on this Oregon road trip. With its calm dazzling blue waters, scenic highways, and super starry night skies, you can be sure you’ll never forget your visit to Crater Lake. And that’s a promise!

Some quick facts:

• Crater Lake is currently the 10th-deepest lake in the world, with a maximum depth of almost 600 meters (1,949 feet). It’s also the deepest lake in the USA!
• The magnificent intense blue color of Crater Lake is primarily due to it’s great, great depth, and remarkable clarity. The waters stay so clear since the lake has no other bodies of water flowing into it, meaning little-to-no pollution!  

We spent most of our time hiking, but there’s lot more to do at the National Park if hiking isn’t your jam. Revel in the views from Rim Drive’s multitude of lookout points, get some fancy drinks and/or a dessert at Crater Lake Lodge, take a boat cruise to Wizard Island, and even go for a swim (if you dare to step foot in the chilly waters)!

Although the park is open every single day of the year, many of the park’s roads, trails, and facilities are closed seasonally due to snow, which usually do not reopen until summer (June/July). If you want to ensure you’ll be able to drive around the perimeter of the lake (Rim Drive), schedule your trip for late July, August, or September. These also happen to be the most popular times to visit Crater Lake, but don’t fret – the park is rather large so you’ll still be able to find your own spots of peace and solitude.  

Sleep : Melita’s Crater Lake Lodge nearby Crater Lake (or you can head right to Ashland if you prefer). Browse all hotels near Crater Lake National Park here.

Stop #9: Ashland (1 day) – OPTIONAL

Drive: 2 hours to Ashland from Crater Lake National Park

Get one last look at Crater Lake, then hit the road; it’s time to make our way to Ashland, one of southern Oregon’s hot spots and loved by all.

Ashland is a classic Pacific Northwest hippie town with a love for nature, beer, and admittedly, all things weird. Here, you can find a very alternative vibe, with tons of green, vegan health shops, locally-brewed beers, and tons of places where you can get in touch with the quirky and downright strange personality of the place.

It’s not everywhere that you can watch Shakespeare, drink Sriracha flavored beer, and go to a paranormal activity hotspot in just one day. But in Ashland, you can do all this and more! Told you it was weird.

Speaking of Shakespeare, The Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF) is a must-see here, with regular shows at the Green Show, a performance venue and courtyard that’s frequented by visitors and locals alike. But if you’re not a fan of Shakespeare himself (say what?!), you can see other productions the group puts on, like Hairspray and Alice in Wonderland. The OSF shows usually happen during the summer, and if you choose to go to a classic Shakespeare show, don’t miss the ones at the Allen Elizabethan Theatre.

Aside from Shakespeare, there are tons of other weird and wacky things to do in Ashland. Beer lovers can find the strangest and most unique beers at the Caldera Brewing Tap House, a local favorite that made waves with its Sriracha Stout beer. You can also visit the Oregon Vortex, which is a weirdly spiritual spot known for paranormal activity and other strange happenings located about 30 minutes from town. And of course, don’t forget to enjoy the beautiful nature in the area, especially in the fall, when the leaves turn all kinds of beautiful colors.

Technically , if you wanna save a bit of driving and don’t have all the time in the world, you may choose to cut Ashland out of your Oregon itinerary. Your call, but I think it’s worth at least a day or so.

Sleep: Bard’s Inn Ashland . Browse all hotels in Ashland here.

Stop #10: Coos Bay // Southern Oregon Coast (1-2 days)

Drive: 3 hours, 15 minutes from Ashland to Coos Bay

It’s finally time to get this Oregon coast road trip itinerary underway! The drive from Ashland and Crater Lake will essentially take the same amount of time, so there’s no absolute NEED to visit Ashland if you’re pressed on time.  If you’re coming from either one, you have two options – the long way (~5 hour drive with more exploration of the southern Oregon coast), or the shorter way (3 and a half hours cutting straight to Coos Bay from Ashland/Crater Lake). I suggest opting for the short route as in my opinion, you won’t be missing out on too much by skipping the southern coast below (as Coos Bay is one of most scenic areas on the Oregon Coast)– but obviously, your choice!

Coos Bay is home to the Cape Arago Beach Loop, which is where I’d spend the rest of the day.

On this driving/exploring/sightseeing loop, you’ll venture into three Oregon State Parks, watch a ton of seals and sea lions play, as well as stop at numerous breathtaking vantage points. The drive is not super long, but you’ll definitely want the better portion of the day to stop and soak it all in!

A few must-see stops: 1) Bastendorff Beach (say goodbye to crowds and hello to oh so much natural beauty), 2) Sunset Bay State Park (those towering sea cliffs sure are something, especially with the beautiful sandy beaches and amazing tide pool explorations), 3) Cape Arago Lighthouse Viewpoint (you unfortunately can’t view the inside but you can get fantastic views from here), 4) Shore Acres State Park and Botanical Gardens (tons and tons of blooms), 5) Simpson Beach (look out for the migrating whales and hundreds of seals and sea lions), 6) Shell Island (breeding and rest areas for seabirds and Marine mammals), and finally 7) Cape Arago State Park.

Sleep in Coos Bay : Browse all hotels near Coos Bay here.

Stop #11: Newport, Tillamook, and Cannon Beach (2 days)

Next up on this Oregon coast road trip → making the way back up north to Cannon Beach!

Prepare yourself as today’s primarily a driving day, but don’t worry, there’s tons of scenic stops along the way. Think scenic seaside towns, sand dunes, spectacular lighthouses, and cheese! Yes, cheese! Because who isn’t fascinated by cheese?

Sure, California’s Highway One surely steals the show when it comes to coastal road trips, but Oregon’s coast is one for the bucket list as well! With quiet seaside coves, bustling beach towns, and secluded hideaways, you won’t want to miss the beauty that is Oregon.

A few recommended stops between Coos Bay and Cannon Beach, where we’ll be ending the drive today. If you’re not pressed on time you can easily spread these activities/stops out over two days.

• Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area: Wind-sculpted sand dunes for days (literally, miles and miles and miles). This NRA is actually one of the largest expanses of temperate coastal sand dunes in the world, so yea, I wasn’t kidding when I said Oregon’s coastline is on par with California’s .  You can even take a buggy or ATV tour of the dunes!
• Haceta Head Lighthouse : The first of numerous lighthouses on our list, and this one just happens to be the brightest light on the Oregon coast and most photographed in the whole state. To say it’s simply stunning is a huge understatement.
• Cape Perpetua: Don’t miss the Spouting Horn, an exploding salt water geyser, and Thor’s Well, a gaping pit with violent waves crashing in every direction that ultimately fall into a hole, just as weird and wonderful as it sounds.
• Nye Beach: The perfect stop for a late lunch, depending on how much exploring/sand-duning you did earlier. This is also a great place to spend the night if you’ll be splitting the drive from Coos Bay to Cannon Beach into two days.
• Yaquina Head Light: Being the tallest lighthouse on the Oregon Coast, you can’t miss this towering beauty
• Devils Punchbowl State Reserve: This is a popular whale watching site and displays an intriguing geology. Also, as the name suggests, there’s a hollow rock formation shaped like a huge punch bowl. Better yet, go at sunset if you want to see something spectacular.
• Tillamook Cheese Factory: Who could resist some fine, fine creamy cheese samples? Not I, that’s for sure! If you’re not familiar with the brand, Tillamook is a leading cheese provider in the area, who aims to connect farmers with everyday food lovers (hi!) with cheese and ice cream. Don’t miss the tour.
• Cannon Beach: Phew, made it (finally)! HAYSTACK ROCK, enough said.

Finally, the last official stop on this Oregon coast road trip, the one and only Cannon Beach. Here at Cannon Beach, you’ll find the famous and ever-so-popular Haystack Rock (it’s a sight to be seen).

No matter where you stand, you’ll see it (I promise), as it towers 235 feet over the beach. If you can, plan your visit during low tide so you’re able to walk right up to Haystack Rock to search for sea creatures (crabs, sea anemone, mussels, and snails). Check here to see when the tide is at its lowest. Check out Pelican Brewing Company should you get hungry (the fish tacos were absolutely bomb).

Sleep: Hallmark Resort and Spa Cannon Beach or Surfsand Resort if you’re feeling fancy, or Hidden Villa Cottages for a less expensive room. Note that many of the hotels are quite expensive in Cannon Beach, so expect to pay at least $250 a night or so.

Thankfully, you’ve only got about an hour and a half drive west back to the city of Portland to complete this full Oregon road trip. Choose to drive back after your first night in Cannon Beach, or the morning after your second.

End: Portland → Phew, you made it back! Grab some Stumptown Coffee on your way home!

Are you visiting the state soon? What are you most excited about on this Oregon road trip itinerary!?

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April 5, 2024 at 8:41 am

Sharp photos! Bend is definitely vibrant in the summer. You should make the trip. Be sure to check out Galveston and the oldmill district =)

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How to have an EPIC Southern Oregon Coast Road Trip! (The BEST things to do + 3 day itinerary!)

Last updated on February 10th, 2023

Want to have an epic Southern Oregon Coast road trip? In this guide we’re sharing the best stops, where to stay, and a 3 day itinerary! Back when we lived in Seattle, one of our favorite places to visit on the weekends was the Oregon Coast. With a mix of stunning beaches, fun hiking trails, unique cliffs and rock formations, plus charming towns, it makes for the perfect relaxed, yet adventurous getaway. We typically visited Cannon Beach on the Northern Oregon Coast, due to its closer proximity to Seattle, and while every section of the coast is stunning, we have to say our favorite region of the coast so far is the Southern Oregon Coast.

Check out our road trip along the Southern Oregon Coast from 2022, which includes many of the stops listed on this guide!

Compared to the other parts of the coast we have visited, the Southern Oregon Coast feels more rugged, wild, and remote. It’s a bit further from any major cities, which makes the crowds a bit lighter, but it still offers everything that makes the Oregon Coast a magical place. We have road tripped the Southern Oregon Coast a couple times now and in this guide we’re sharing all of the best stops to make on a Southern Oregon Coast road trip, important things to know beforehand, and helpful logistics, like a full three day itinerary, with places to stay each day. We hope you enjoy this slice of coastal heaven as much as we do!

Looking for more things to do in Oregon? Check out these guides & videos:

• The BEST things to do at Crater Lake National Park in Oregon (+ one day itinerary!)
• The BEST waterfall hike in Oregon! Hiking the Trail of Ten Falls at Silver Falls State Park
• 20+ AMAZING things to do in Bend, Oregon
• How to visit Tumalo Falls in Bend, Oregon (ANY time of the year!)
• A weekend in Portland itinerary
• The best things to do in Cannon Beach on the Oregon Coast!
• Watch our Oregon vlogs

About the Southern Oregon Coast

Getting to the southern oregon coast, how to get around the southern oregon coast, when to visit the southern oregon coast, where to stay on the southern oregon coast, things to know before visiting the southern oregon coast, what to bring , the best stops on the southern oregon coast, 3 day southern oregon coast road trip itinerary.

With 363 miles of rugged coastline, there is a lot to explore along the Oregon Coast. In fact, it’s known as the “People’s Coast” because every mile of it is open for the public to enjoy!  Unlike some coastal regions in the United States, the Oregon Coast isn’t exactly a tropical getaway. The beaches aren’t filled with palm trees, but rather full of giant rocky sea stacks, Douglas Firs and Pines, and mountainous backdrops.  With many rainy and foggy days, plus cold waters, it may not be the kind of beach that you lay out and go for a swim (unless you’re brave!), but with tons of state parks, beaches, overlooks, trails, and small towns, it offers plenty of other ways to enjoy its coastline and stay busy!

While many consider the Southern Oregon Coast the section from Brookings to Coos Bay, we have not made it as far north as Coos Bay. So for the sake of this guide, we’re specifically referring to the Southern Oregon Coast as the section from Brookings to Bandon, which is about 83 miles of coastline and about 1.5 hours of driving, without any stops. But trust us, you WILL want to make stops!

Before embarking on your adventure, please review the  Leave No Trace principles  to ensure you leave every place better than you found it, so that others can enjoy these beautiful places for many years to come! These seven principles include planning ahead and preparing, hiking and camping on durable surfaces, disposing of waste properly (pack out what you pack in!), understanding campfire rules and always fully extinguishing your fires, respecting wildlife, and being considerate of other visitors. 

The Oregon Coast is not near any major towns and is a bit off the beaten path from the main north-south thoroughfare (I-5), so it does require a bit of effort to get to, whether you’re driving or flying. 

Flying to the Southern Oregon Coast

There are no major cities on the southern Oregon Coast, but it isn’t too far from a few major cities with airports if you need to fly into the area.  The closest large airport is the Eugene Airport (EUG) and is about a 2.5 hour drive to Bandon, on the northern end of the Southern Oregon Coast. It is served by several major airlines including Alaska, American, Delta, Southwest, and United Airlines. The largest airport though will be the Portland International Airport (PDX) , which is just over 4 hours from Bandon (and just under 6 hours from Brookings) and offers tons of airline and flight options across the US!

Driving to the Southern Oregon Coast

The Southern Oregon Coast makes for a great road trip stop if road tripping on the West Coast. Here’s how long you can expect to drive from nearby popular destinations: Redwood National & State Parks (CA): Between ½ hour-1.5 hours, depending on where in the park you come from. Eugene, OR to Bandon, OR: 2.5 hours (133 miles) Crater Lake National Park (OR): 4 hours (193 miles) Portland, OR to Bandon, OR: 4 hours (246 miles) Redding, CA to Brookings, OR: 4 hours, 45 minutes (237 miles) Bend, OR to Bandon, OR: 4 hours, 45 minutes (254 miles)

Since this is a road trip, you’ll definitely need your own car or to rent a car . Any type of car will work fine! Our long Sprinter van was able to handle all roads and we were able to access everything without any issues, including parking lots.  However, if you plan to bring a large RV or trailer, we’d suggest leaving it at a campground and using your other vehicle to get around, as many parking lots do not have RV parking.

The Oregon Coast is an extremely mild climate, with the average highs being in the 50s-60s year round. And similar to most places in the Pacific Northwest, the summer (June-September) is the best time to visit if you want to experience more sunshine and slightly warmer temperatures.  However, the prices and crowds will be higher in the summer, so if you want more solitude and to get a better deal on lodging, we’d suggest visiting in the late spring or early fall. May and October are less crowded than the summer and also slightly less rainy than the winter. Just make sure to bring a rain jacket!

And speaking of the winter, the winter on the Southern Oregon Coast brings a lot of rain and storms (we have had sunny days in the winter too!), including a phenomenon called the King Tides , which occur during a new or full moon. In 2023, the King Tides will be on January 20-22, 2023 and also during November and December. For the average sightseeing visitor, this may be a tough time to visit weather wise, but for storm watchers, you’ll love it! Regardless of when you visit and what the weather is like, you can still have a lot of fun on the Southern Oregon Coast! We have visited the Oregon Coast in just about every season and have experienced all sorts of weather and we personally think the Oregon Coast is still stunning on a rainier, foggier day. It just adds to that Pacific Northwest moodiness that we grew to love while living in Seattle.

Although there are no major cities along the Southern Oregon Coast, there are a lot of smaller towns, which will have a variety of accommodations, like Airbnbs, hotels, and campgrounds, with some having more than others.  Below are some options for four different areas including Brookings, the southern point of the coast, Port Orford and Gold Beach, both of which are about half way, and Bandon, the northern end of the Southern Oregon Coast. A few things to note about lodging:

• You may have to hop around each night to different accommodations to reduce driving. OR you could just drive a bit extra everyday to stay in one place.
• We will be including a three day itinerary later on in this guide and will suggest where to stay each night if you are willing to move around!
• For those who enjoy free camping, we found the options to be very limited on the Oregon Coast, so we stuck to paid camping.

Vacation Rentals

Colorful Ocean Retreat, Luxury Apartment (1 bedroom, 1 bathroom) Beautiful Oceanview Home (2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms)

Harbor View Ocean Suites Motel   Beachfront Inn

Campgrounds

Harris Beach State Park   The Harris Beach State Park Campground is open year round, although some loops close in the winter. There are 149 sites with 80 of them having at least electric and water hookups. Reservations are required with the exception of the C Loop which is first-come, first-served Nov 1-May 24. Alfred A. Loeb State Park This state park is located 8 miles inland from the coast, but what you miss in the coastal benefits is made up by the fact that you’re camping within minutes to the northernmost redwood grove in the US and along the Chetco River! 

There are electrical sites with water, 3 reservable yurts, flush toilets, and hot showers, and river and gravel bar access for fishing. 

Harvest Hosts

While not technically in Brookings (it’s just across the border in California), there is a Harvest Host, the Lucky 7 Casino, which allows overnight stays for self contained RVers. We stayed here for a night before heading to Brookings!  Not sure what Harvest Hosts is? It is a paid membership for self contained RVers that lets you stay at farms, breweries, wineries, golf courses, and other spots for FREE, with the expectation that you will support the business. While this means you do need to spend some money and it’s not totally free, it’s usually a unique experience and you get to support a local business. 

Want to join Harvest Hosts? Use our link to get 15% off on your membership (make sure to add the code HHFRIENDS15 too)! 

Dog-friendly Oceanside Home (2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms) Stunning apartment in Gold Beach with fireplace + partial ocean views (2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms) Beachy Dog-friendly home (3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms)

Taylor Creek Lodge

Secret Camp RV Park   Many reviewers say this campground is very quiet and the sites are nice and large. It’s a smaller campground, but includes full hookups, showers and restrooms, and a lazy creek that runs through camp.  Lobster Creek National Forest Campground This campground is located about 20 minutes inland from Gold Beach. It’s a small National Forest campground (7 sites) that might not be the best for larger rigs. It’s located right along the Rogue River and some reviewers say there can be a lot of boat traffic and subsequent noise from the jet boat tours. With that said it seems like a nice campground with potable water, but no hookups and no reservations.  Quosatana National Forest Campground   Just a couple minutes east of the Lobster Creek Campground is Quosatana National Forest campground. This campground is much bigger, with 43 dry campsites. Quosatana Campground is located right on the Rogue River so you will get the boat traffic again, but you can easily fish from the shore and there is potable water. Reservations are not required.

Port Orford

Most Spectacular Ocean Views – Studio East Lower (1 bedroom, 1 bathroom) Heartland Treehouse (1 bedroom, 1 bathroom) Upper Port View Bungalow (1 bedroom, 1 bathroom) Oregon Coast Beach Cabin Getaway (3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom) China Mountain House (2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms) – this one looks epic!

Cape Blanco State Park We stayed here at Cape Blanco State Park Campground and LOVED it! There are sites with hookups, tons of tall trees, and flush toilets and hot showers. Sites can be booked up to six months in advance, so make sure to book early! The campground was pretty full during our visit, even on a rainier weekday. Humbug Mountain State Park With access to the highest headland on the Oregon coast and the beach, Humbug Mountain State Park would be a fun place to stay! There are lots of sites with hookups and flush toilets and hot showers available.  Boice Cope Park This campground is a Curry County campground located just north of Port Orford. It’s a small campground sitting right next to the beach and has wifi and laundry available. Reservations must be made at least 2 days prior to arrival.

Artist Cabin on Pacific Ocean (1 bedroom, 1 bathroom) Coastal Forest Cabin (1 bedroom, 1 bathroom) Bandon Beach Shack (2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom) Surf Song – Amazing views of Face Rock Beach (3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms)

Table Rock Motel Best Western Inn at Face Rock Bandon Inn

Bullards Beach State Park Located just north of Bandon is Bullards Beach State Park Campground. This is a pretty large campground with most sites having hookups, 13 yurts, flushable toilets and showers, and a dump station. 

Bandon Crossings Golf Course is another Harvest Host along the Southern Oregon Coast near Bandon. While we did not stay here, it definitely doesn’t seem like a bad spot…especially for the golf lovers!

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Entrance Fees

Every spot listed on this guide is FREE to visit! While some Oregon State Parks and recreation areas do require a day use fee (you can see the list here ), none of the parks on this guide have a fee to visit. 

Dogs are allowed

Dogs are allowed in all areas listed on this guide, but for many of them, they must be on a 6 foot leash. Please follow leash laws (not all dogs or humans want strange dogs running up to them!) and always pick up after your dog.

Cell service can be spotty

Our cell service was very hit or miss along the Southern Oregon Coast. Make sure to download Google Maps for offline use as well as any trails you want to hike on AllTrails to ensure you don’t get lost!

Hide valuables

Break-ins are common along the 101, unfortunately, so please do not leave any valuables or anything visible in your car. We thankfully have not had any issues though!

Ocean Safety

You’ll be spending a lot of time on the beach and near the ocean and it is important to take extra caution near these areas. Here are a few tips to stay safe while adventuring: 

• Never turn your back on the ocean, unexpected large waves are common
• Know the tide schedule so you don’t get caught somewhere when the tide rises. You can find the times for tides at: tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov  
• Be careful of the driftwood. They can be brittle and slick so it’s best not to walk on them if you can avoid it.
• Don’t walk next to cliff edges. The cliff edges are often unstable and could collapse at any given moment. Stay behind guardrails and fences

You will definitely want to bring a camera on your Southern Oregon Coast road trip! The best camera is the one you have at the moment, but if you’re curious what cameras and gear we use, check out our gear list . Since it may be rainy, you’ll want to also bring protection for your camera. We just use a good ‘ol shower cap on our camera to keep it dry!

Food, snacks, water

While there are some towns along the way to grab food at, we have found that it’s most convenient (and best for hanger) to have food and water on you while road tripping along the Southern Oregon Coast! Pro tip: store it all in a cooler! Before we had our Sprinter van, we used this YETI cooler to store our road trip provisions and it was a champ!

Hiking gear

If you’re doing any hiking, make sure to bring the appropriate hiking gear with you (see what all we take here !). We also always recommend having the 10 essentials on you, which can come in handy both for hiking or if you have any car troubles and get stuck in one spot for a bit.

Layers and extra clothes

The weather on the Oregon Coast can be cool in the mornings and evenings, so you’ll want to pack some layers for the changing temperatures. Also, when it’s rainy and muddy, your clothes may get dirty and soaked, so it’s a good idea to bring extra clothes you can change into.

Rain Jacket

There is a very good chance it will rain for at least part of your trip, so bringing a rain jacket is a must!

A variety of shoes

We suggest bringing a variety of shoes for your Southern Oregon Coast road trip. We recommend hiking shoes for the trails, but also bringing shoes for the beaches, like Chacos or flip flops.

Car phone charger

Since you may be relying on your phone for navigation and trail maps, you’ll want to pack a car charger to keep your phone charged. Plus, if you’re camping, you will want to ensure you charge when you can!

Music and Podcasts

While the scenery alone will keep you entertained during the drive, you may want some music or podcasts to listen to as well! Some of our favorite podcasts are Beach Too Sandy, Water Too Wet and we like to listen to The Bobby Bones Show , which is a national radio show. Make sure to download anything you want to listen to in advance, as you won’t have service most of the drive.

Below are some of the best stops along the Southern Oregon Coast, going from south to north, which is how we did our trip most recently. While this isn’t a comprehensive list of every single thing to do along the Southern Oregon Coast, these are all spots that we highly recommend or that came highly recommended to us and are on our list for next time!

Known as Oregon’s “banana belt,” Brookings has some of the warmest temperatures year round on the Oregon coast. There is tons of outdoor recreation here, including biking, hiking, fishing, beach combing, and so much more! Here are some top spots to check out in Brookings itself.

Harris Beach State Park

Harris Beach State Park has a lot of beach to explore, plus crazy cool sea stacks, tide pools, and even the chance to see harbor seals, California sea lions, and gray whales as they pass by on their winter and spring migrations.  And make sure to look for puffins! Bird Island (also known as Goat Island), just off the coast is not only a National Wildlife Sanctuary and a breeding site for tufted puffins, but is also the largest island along the Oregon coast.  While in the park, take the short Harris Beach Trail (0.6 miles) to Harris Butte, where you’ll have a birds eye view of the coastline. Also, be sure to check out Arch Rock at low tide, when you can get really close to its arch!

Where to eat in Brookings

• Zola’s on the Water
• Pacific Sushi & Grill
• Tropicália Brazilian Cuisine
• Bell & Whistle Coffee House
• Cosmic Grind
• Dutch Bros (an Oregon staple for drive thru coffee! We love the Irish Creme Kicker!)

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

One of the most iconic and “can’t miss” spots on the Southern Oregon Coast is the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. This is a 12 mile stretch of coastline named after the first Oregon Parks superintendent and has a mixture of quick overlooks, beaches, rugged coastline, rock arches, hikes, and so much more! It would be really difficult to list and describe all of the amazing spots to see at Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor in this guide, but we have featured some of our favorite spots we’ve visited, plus some we’d like to visit next time below!

Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint

From the parking area it’s only a half mile walk to the incredible Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint which is a fantastic spot to see the rugged coast line and keep your eye out for whales in fall and spring. You can also take the Lone Ranch to Cape Ferrelo Loop Trail (1.6 miles round trip, 291 feet of elevation gain) from the Lone Ranch Picnic Area and end up at the Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint. 

House Rock Viewpoint

Next up on your scenic journey is the House Rock Viewpoint , which is a short, easy stroll from the large parking area. 

Whaleshead Beach

Less than a couple minutes north of the House Rock Viewpoint is the Whaleshead Viewpoint and Whaleshead Beach , which we LOVED! There are a couple different ways to get down to the beach. If you follow Google Maps to Whaleshead Beach it will take you down a road that says 4WD is required. We had read mixed reviews on how rough the road was, but we didn’t want to run into any issues with our large, non 4WD van, so we decided to go the alternative route, which is from the Whaleshead Viewpoint. The viewpoint has a small parking lot and right of the parking lot is a short, but very steep (and slick after rain!) trail that takes you down to the beach.  If you’re looking for a longer adventure while in this area, you can also hike the Thomas Creek Whaleshead Beach Trail , which starts from just north of Whaleshead Beach, travels along the bluff, connects with the Indian Sands Trail, then loops back to where you started for a 3 mile round trip hike. 

Natural Bridges

One of the most popular stops at Samuel H. Boardman is Natural Bridges, which are seven arched rocks and blowholes. You have very likely seen photos of these before, as it’s one of the most photographed spots on the Southern Oregon Coast! The easiest and safest way to view the bridges is from the overlook , just a quick walk from the parking area. There is a side trail to get closer to the bridge and some people do walk across the bridge, but we highly advise NOT doing this. Several people have fallen and died from the steep, unstable terrain. When people get hurt and need assistance, it costs a lot of time and resources, as well as puts other people in danger. We attempted a side trail a few years ago and it was incredibly steep and sketchy at times, so we turned around before the end and were very happy with that decision. This time, we just enjoyed it safely from the overlook and recommend you do the same.

Secret Beach

Miles (round trip): 1.6 Elevation (feet): 374 Reviews & Current Conditions Just a stone’s throw from Natural Bridges is Secret Beach , which was our favorite stop at Samuel H. Boardman and one of the BEST stops along the entire Southern Oregon Coast, in our opinion! The beach can be a little confusing to find and the first hurdle is picking a trailhead. Google Maps has a pin for one trailhead , which we went to first (parking is VERY limited), but the trail was insanely steep and very overgrown, so we turned around to try a different route. Instead, we parked here to start the hike and the trail was more straightforward in our opinion! However, it does have a couple different offshoots, so you’ll want to download the AllTrails map in advance to ensure you don’t get turned around. Secret Beach will be the third, most northern offshoot!

Want to get 30% off an AllTrails+ membership ? Use our code aplusk30 (you must redeem this code on the website, not the app)! We use AllTrails+ on every single hike and it is the most helpful hiking tool out there! Some of the features we love are offline maps (so we can navigate even without cell service), wrong-turn alerts, and its 3D maps feature, so we can get a feel for trails before we hike.

This route for Secret Beach takes you through the forest and right by a gorgeous waterfall. You will end with a stunning view of Secret Beach, which has some huge rocks jutting out of the sand. While viewing the beach from up here is beautiful, if you’re feeling brave, you can also hike down to the beach. However, ONLY do this if it is LOW TIDE!

At high tide, the beach won’t be accessible, so in order to stay safe on the beach, only visit at a falling tide and at low tide, to ensure you do not get stuck on the beach as the tide rises. The hike down to the beach itself is more like a scramble down some rocks, which can be slick after rain, so please be careful if you attempt this. 

Once on the beach, you’ll have to cross some streams, which come from waterfalls that feed into the ocean, so your feet may get wet! While Secret Beach requires a bit of work to get to, it’s well worth it, as it is one of the best coastal views and the adventure to get there only makes it even sweeter.

Arch Rock Picnic Area

For an easy walk, with multiple views, head to the Arch Rock Picnic Area , where you’ll be treated to views of more sea stacks and a natural arched rock! There’s a short looped path on a rocky headland, which gives you views in all directions! There’s also a restroom here as well if you need one during your road trip. The majority of the stops listed above do not have any restrooms.

Check out some pullouts, viewpoints, and overlooks

After leaving the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, the next stretch of the drive up the 101 is loaded with pullouts and viewpoints, where you can simply stop to just admire the view, have a picnic, or hang out at the beach. Here are some of our favorite pull outs along this stretch of the drive!

• Pistol River Scenic Viewpoint
• Meyers Creek Pullout South
• Kissing Rock
• Cape Sebastian Viewpoint

Next on your southern Oregon coast journey is Gold Beach, the gateway to the Rogue River. Gold Beach is located at the mouth of the Rogue River and there are tons of fun opportunities to experience the river from Gold Beach. 

Things to do in Gold Beach

• Rip down the Rogue River on a jet boat with Jerry’s Rogue Jets .
• Go on a whitewater rafting trip, a flat water paddle, or paddle through the gorgeous Copper Canyon of the Rogue River with South Coast Tours . 
• Backpack along the Rogue River Trail , which is a 37.1 mile (round trip) hike that takes you along the Rogue River (no coastal views here!) and has various lodges along the way that you can eat at and sleep at. 

Where to eat

• Indian Creek Cafe
• Gold Beach BBQ
• Hunter Creek Bar & Grill
• Leavened Bakery
• First Chapter Coffee House

Otter Point State Recreation Site

Otter Point is a region of sandstone bluffs and the best way to see it is to hike the Otter Point Trail , which is 0.5 miles and takes you to Otter Point, where you can admire the coastal views, plus tons of rocks in the water. For the extra adventurous, you can hike down to the beach from here, but it is steep and requires some assistance from ropes. We haven’t personally done this, so we can’t speak to the conditions.

Sisters Rocks State Park

The biggest surprise (and favorite stop) during our most recent southern Oregon road trip goes to Sisters Rocks State Park ! Sisters Rocks State Park is a newer state park in Oregon and is named after two huge monoliths attached to the mainland, plus one offshore, named Sisters Rocks.  But before this became a state park, the area was home to some interesting history. Back in 1893 a California businessman named S. H. Frank developed the site into a local shipping point for his large tannery in Redwood City. It was called Frankport and was used by him until 1901, and later used by others as a shipping port, before eventually being purchased by the Oregon Parks and Rec Department. You can still see some of the remains of the village today, but the real star of the show are the Sisters Rocks!

To get to the rocks, you will park at a large parking area (you can also park a bit more north up the road too!) and then take a path (about 1 mile round trip) that leads through the brush toward the two massive rock structures.  The views along this short hike are stunning! It reminded us of our time on the Isle of Skye in Scotland , with all of the green, rockiness, and coastal views. And there is a lot to see and explore once you get to the bottom as well, including a beach with striking blue water, sweeping views of the coast, both north and south, plus a very cool sea cave to check out! 

This sea cave can be found at the base of the larger of the two main sisters and is only viewable at low tide, which is definitely the best time to visit this park, as much more of it is accessible to explore. During low tide, you’ll be able to watch water from the ocean slosh into the cave, hitting the many rocks and splashing everywhere. It is incredibly cool! 

It’s hard to explain, but something about the scenery here just stood out from the rest of the Southern Oregon Coast and we both agreed that it was our favorite stop of the drive. We almost skipped it due to being tired, but we are so glad we didn’t!

Humbug Mountain State Park

Just a few miles south of the town of Port Orford is one of the Oregon coast’s highest headlands, Humbug Mountain at 1,765 above sea level. As you’re driving, you’ll see Humbug Mountain from miles away from either direction and in the park there is a popular campground, beautiful trails, as well as access to the beach, with the most popular thing to do being the Humbug Mountain Loop Trail! Miles (roundtrip): 5.6 Elevation (feet): 1,784 Reviews & Current Conditions The Humbug Mountain Loop Trail travels through Douglas Fir forests to the highest point on the Oregon coast. You won’t have views the entire time, but will have some peek-a-boo views of the ocean and more expansive views at the top!

Port Orford is the next town along the Southern Oregon Coast and is home to a couple great state parks, plus restaurants!

Port Orford Heads State Park

Port Orford Heads State Park is the former site of the Port Orford Lifeboat Station, which was built by the Coast Guard in 1934 and used until 1970. The park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and you can tour the Crew Quarters, which is a museum, plus see the 36 foot unsinkable motor lifeboat. Another spot to check out in the park is the Port Orford Heads Trail , which is a 1.2 mile (round trip) hike that takes you around the headland to get different views of the surrounding area.

Cape Blanco State Park

Cape Blanco State Park is located at the western most tip of the state. It has a historic lighthouse, historic ranch home, gorgeous beaches with unique rock formations off the coast, a river, and a very nice campground! While in the park we suggest checking out:

• The Cape Blanco Lighthouse , which is 59 feet tall and is the oldest standing lighthouse on the Oregon coast, built in 1870. It’s built 245 feet above the sea and is visible to ships from 22 miles away! If you’d like to go inside, tours cost $2 for adults (free for those under 15) and are offered on Wednesdays-Mondays from April 1-October 31 between 10 AM-3:30 PM. 
• Tour the Hughes Historic House . This land was settled by an Irishman named Patrick Hughes in the late 1800s, who set up a large dairy farm and built a large ranch complex, and this house is the only building left. Tours are offered on Wednesdays-Mondays from May 1-September 30, between 10 AM-3:30 PM and are free, but donations are helpful to maintain the home and help fund restoration.
• Hike the Mouth of the Sixes Trail , which is an easy 1.8 mile stroll through a cow pasture and along the Sixes River at the northern end of the park, before ending at Sixes Beach.
• Admire Needle Rock , which is a popular landmark close to the lighthouse. You can view it from near the lighthouse parking area!

Where to eat in Port Orford

• The Honey House Cafe
• The Crazy Norwegian’s Fish and Chips
• Golden Harvest Herban Farm and Bakery

Bandon is the final stop on this Southern Oregon Coast road trip and it’s a pretty epic finale! Bandon sits at the mouth of the Coquille River and is home to amazing ocean views, charming shops and restaurants, a historic lighthouse, thriving arts scene, and lots of outdoor recreation activities, like hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, and one of Adam’s favorite activities, golfing at one of the most spectacular golf courses in the world!

Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint

One of the most popular spots in Bandon is Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint , which has a variety of uniquely shaped sea stacks, all named after what they resemble. There is Face Rock, which looks like a face, plus Wizard’s Hat, Cat and Kittens Rock, and many more! The parking lot (which does have a bathroom!) has an overlook that gives you a great overview of the whole area and you can also walk a pathway down to the beach to get a closer look!

Circles in the Sand

One really neat thing to see at Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint are Circles in the Sand , also known as Walking Labyrinths, which are gorgeous designs drawn into the sand everyday with the intent to share love, joy, and kindness.  These labyrinth designs were first created by artist Denny Dyke who created them for his own walking meditations. During specific dates from mid-April until early-August, the designs are drawn freehand and once they are complete they are open for about 2 hours (or until the tide washes them away) for people to come and walk the path.  We unfortunately did not get to see this during our visit due to when we visited, but it looks incredible! 

Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge

The Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge at Coquille Point is one of our favorite places to go in Bandon! This area is home to amazing sea stacks and rock islands, and depending on the season you visit, lots of birds, including tufted puffins, murres, cormorants, and petrels. This park has a couple different areas to explore. You can take a staircase down to the beach, where you can wander among the rock formations, watch the waves crash into them, and if you’re like us, see some seals!

Up at the top of the park, right by the parking area, there are some pathways along the cliffside, with information boards about the local birds and the area. There’s also a really cool puffin sculpture made out of trash plucked from the sea! This sculpture is part of a project called Washed Ashore , which creates art to educate people about plastic pollution in the ocean and waterways. 

Stroll around Old Town Bandon

Bandon’s historic district includes 10 blocks of shopping, dining (see our suggestions below), history, art, and culture right on the Coquille River! While walking around, make sure to check out Cranberry Sweets & More (Bandon is the cranberry capital of Oregon!) and visit the free Washed Ashore gallery to see more of the art they have created from trash. 

Bullards Beach State Park 

Just north of Bandon, on the other side of the Coquille River, is Bullards Beach State Park .  While in the park you can camp, go for a stroll or ride your bike along the 4.5 miles of Bullards Beach, and visit the Coquille River Lighthouse . The Coquille River Lighthouse’s signal room can be toured Thursday-Monday 11 AM-5 PM and is staffed by volunteers who will share the history of the area. 

Devils Kitchen

One spot we haven’t visited yet in Bandon is the Devil’s Kitchen State Park Vista Point . Similar to many spots on this guide, this area includes a nice beach area, plus some large rocks, and we hear that even when busy, you can still find plenty of space to spread out.

Tee it up at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort

We know this one isn’t for everyone, but it’s very high on Adam’s list so we had to mention it! The sandy soil and rugged coastline of Oregon is a perfect canvas for one of the premier golf resorts in the world, Bandon Dunes . The course is created with a lot of inspiration and similarities from Scotland, the home of golf, and its magnificent courses. The resort includes 6 unique courses that are built in harmony with the natural environment, as opposed to creating the courses from scratch, like many courses in the US are. As they say at Bandon Dunes, “this is golf as it was meant to be!” It definitely is not a cheap course and is way outside of our golf budget, but it looks like an incredible experience and one day we hope to experience it for ourselves.

Where to eat in Bandon

Bandon Fish Market (we highly recommend their fish and chips!) Tony’s Crab Shack Angelo’s Italy Pablo’s Corner Bandon Coffee Cafe

While you could spend less time on the Southern Oregon Coast and still see tons of amazing scenery just from quick pullouts and stops, three days feels like the perfect amount of time to knock out a bunch of items on this guide, especially some hikes, without feeling too rushed. Note: This itinerary is in order from south to north (which is what we did on our latest visit), but you can easily reverse it if starting in the north!

• Grab coffee and breakfast in Brookings and then hit the road! We’d suggest getting as early of a start as possible!
• Explore Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor! We especially recommend Whaleshead Beach, Natural Bridges, Secret Beach, and Arch Rock.
• Visit the overlooks as you drive north towards Gold Beach.
• Head to Otter Point for sunset.
• Grab dinner in Gold Beach.
• Stay the night in Gold Beach or backtrack to Brookings if needed.
• Start the morning with breakfast at Indian Creek Cafe in Gold Beach.
• Check out Sisters Rocks State Park and if it’s low tide, go see the sea cave!
• Hike the Humbug Mountain Loop Trail.
• Visit Port Orford Heads State Park and stay for sunset!
• Stay the night in Port Orford.
• Start the morning with breakfast at The Honey House Cafe.
• Head to Cape Blanco State Park and check out the lighthouse.
• Spend the rest of the day in Bandon! If visiting during Circles in the Sand, try to stop by first thing, as it’s only up for a couple hours. After that, we suggest walking around town, grabbing a coffee at Bandon Coffee Cafe, getting lunch at Bandon Fish Market, going to Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint, and exploring the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge.

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3 Day Northern Oregon Coast Road Trip

T he Oregon coast is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the United States. Roads along this route are peppered with lighthouses, tide pools, and quaint and cozy coastal towns. With the crown jewel, of course, being the majestic Pacific Ocean. It’s no wonder Northern Oregon Coast road trips are so popular!

With so many beaches and different towns along the coast, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin when planning your own adventure. Never fear, we’ve created a simple and fun 3 Day Northern Oregon Coast itinerary that will offer you some of the best the coast has to offer! 

The Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast is 363 miles and follows Highway 101 along the Pacific Ocean. The first coastal town is Brookings and then Gold Beach along the Southern Oregon Coast and the Oregon coast ends in Astoria at the Washington border.

This 3 day road trip is 112 miles and about 2.5 hours of driving without stops along Oregon Coast Hwy 101.

• Portland to Newport = 132 miles | 2 hours 15 minutes
• Salem to Newport = 81 miles | 1.5 hours
• Eugene to Newport = 95 miles | 1 hour 40 minutes

Northern Oregon Coast Road Trip

Day 1: newport .

We recommend starting your Oregon Coast road trip in Newport . One of the most charming towns on the Oregon Coast, this spot is full of serene beauty and lots of opportunities for family fun. 

Keep in mind that Newport is one of the busiest towns along the coast for tourism, so you may run into crowds here or there. But the value of the attractions far outweigh any congestion. 

The Oregon Coast Aquarium 

The Oregon Coast Aquarium (2820 SE Ferry Slip Rd, Newport, OR 97365) is one of the main attractions in Newport. One of the largest aquariums in that part of the country, it has some impressive exhibits and over 200 different species of sea animals. It’s a great place to explore in you have an animal lover in the family and is also a fun place to escape to on a rainy day. 

Yaquina Bay Lighthouse

The Yaquina Bay Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Beauty area is home to some of the most striking Pacific Ocean views in this part of the Oregon Coast. The Yaquina Bay Lighthouse is famous for being the tallest lighthouse along the coastline, so that’s reason enough to pay a visit! 

Nye Beach 

Nye Beach is one of the best places to visit if you’re looking to spend some time on the beach in Newport. The sandy beach here is great for sand combing and kite flying. And the quaint surrounding neighborhood has no shortage of yummy restaurants and charming shops to explore. 

Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area 

Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area is one of the most renowned natural wonders along the Oregon Coast. The famous punchbowl-shaped rock formation shouldn’t be passed on, especially by any marine life and nature lovers. 

Depending on the time of day you visit (low tide vs. high tide), you can witness some amazing sights. Travelers who are interested in hiking down into the inside of the bowl should visit during low tide. While high tide makes for a dramatic water show, with waves crashing into the walls of the bowl. 

This is a wonderful place to see the many different species of wildlife that the Newport area is known for. From Sea Lions to whales, you never know what you might spot! 

Where to Eat in Newport

Mo’s Seafood and Chowder is one of the most popular restaurants in Newport, and for good reason. The clam chowder served here is the stuff of legend passed down from generation to generation. Be sure to grab a bowl while visiting Newport. 

The Original Mo’s Address: 622 SW Bay Blvd., Newport, OR 97365

Where to Stay in Newport

Hallmark Resort – Newport is an amazing 3-star hotel on the beach in Newport, Oregon. Room accommodations here are varied enough to fit any travel situation. Standard rooms, and suites, pet-friendly and pet-free, Hallmark Resort has the perfect room to fit your needs. 

This property also has a pool and hot tub to keep traveling families happy and entertained. An onsite bar and restaurant make it an excellent option for couples or others enjoying an Oregon coast getaway. 

Check Hallmark Resort reviews on TripAdvisor and find the best deals on Hotels.com or Booking.com

Related: Book Lovers Retreat in Newport, Oregon

Day 2: Pacific City 

Moving on from Newport, a little over an hour north on Oregon Coast Highway, will lead you to Pacific City . This spot is an outdoor person’s dream come true. Rich with stunning landscapes that far surpass the breathtaking ocean views, this locale also features some world-class hiking trails and dunes. 

Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area

For travelers seeking reprieve from city life, a quick trip outside Pacific City to Cape Kiwanda may be just what the doctor ordered. This sandstone landscape is home to one of the best hikes in this area. The steep ascent up the great dune can be challenging, but the view is well worth the effort. 

The vantage point from the top of Cape Kiwanda offers a stellar perspective of Nestucca Bay. It’s also an amazing place for kids to witness science in the real world. The impact of erosion is on full display here as visitors can see the sandstone weathered and depleted over time by the power of the incoming, crashing waves. 

Bob Straub State Park

Bob Straub State Park is another wonderful place to explore and enjoy nature while visiting Pacific City. Known for its dune trails, this park is also a great spot to comb the beach for shelling or look out for fascinating tide pools. 

A fun fact about Bob Straub State Park, it’s actually a designated horse park, so don’t be surprised to see some land roaming animals around as well! 

Green Acres Beach

Green Acres Beach is an amazing place to visit if you’re looking to spend a memorable day on a beach along the Oregon Coast. It’s one of the most popular spots in this area for horseback riding tours. Riding along the shoreline while enjoying the sunshine or a misty sunset makes for a moment to carry with you for years to come. 

Where to Eat Near Pacific City

Pelican Brewing is the best place to eat in town, especially if you plan on spending any time at Cape Kiwanda, as it’s only a 2-minute drive away! 

Favorites at this pub-style eatery include regional go-to’s like clam chowder and fish and chips. Being a brewery, the beer is also top-notch here. Food and beverages aside, it’s the patio dining that really seals the deal at this place. As long as the weather holds out, you can comfortably enjoy a tasty meal outdoors with the beach landscape right in front of you. 

Address: 33180 Cape Kiwanda Dr, Pacific City, OR 97135

Where to Stay in Pacific City

Surf & Sand Inn is a comfortable and convenient place to stay while spending time in Pacific City. The cabin-style motel features spacious rooms equipped with the makings of home. Cozy beds along with a lovely full kitchen, including a refrigerator, stovetop and microwave. Add in the flat-screen TV, and you’re all set! 

There aren’t a lot of extra amenities outside the comforts of the room, but the property does have an excellent location. Parking is included in the room’s rate, and you can walk to Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Pacific City Beach, or Bob Straub State Park, all within 15 minutes! 

Check Surf & Sand Inn reviews on TripAdvisor and find the best deals on Hotels.com or Booking.com

Day 3: Cannon Beach

Another hour and a half north outside of Pacific City will bring travelers to Cannon Beach , the quintessential Oregon Coast beach town. It’s one of the best places on the coast to explore on foot.

There are lots of shops to explore near Hemlock Street, where you can find some fun souvenirs. Walking through town is a fun way to soak up the seaside town atmosphere. 

Haystack Rock 

No one should visit Cannon Beach without stopping by the famous Haystack Rock. One of the most raved-about landmarks along the Oregon Coast, the rock stands a whopping 235 feet. It’s staggering and majestic to experience in person. 

Plus, it’s a sea life wonderland to explore during low tide. There are lots of tide pools around the bottom of Haystack Rock where excited travelers of all ages can behold all sorts of marine life species up close. 

Where to Eat in Cannon Beach

Osprey Cafe is a local and tourist favorite eatery just down the road in Seaside. Known especially for its delicious breakfast, this restaurant serves tasty American food with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. To top it all off, they serve up the food with a smile and warm service. 

If you do stop by, be sure to try the French Toast or Eggs Benedict to get your day started. And consider sampling the espresso bar if you need an extra jolt to set you off on the right foot!  

Address: 2281 Beach Dr #5117, Seaside, OR 97138

Where to Stay in Cannon Beach

There are some amazing  Cannon Beach hotels , but the Inn at Cannon Beach is one of the best. It’s a great location close to the beach, but the property also boasts a gorgeous garden you could get lost in. 

Hypoallergenic bedding and free cribs for families traveling with little ones make this one of the most family-friendly hotels in Cannon Beach. Not to mention the complimentary breakfast and beach towels, the Inn at Cannon Beach is a gem on the Oregon Coast.

Check Inn at Cannon Beach reviews on TripAdvisor and find the best deals on Hotels.com or Booking.com

Best Oregon Coast Tours

These are tours with Viator and all offer a full refund if you need to cancel for any reason.

• Full-Day Guided Oregon Coast Tour from Portland : Incudes stops at Ecola State Park, Indian Beach, Cannon Beach, Hug Point State Park, Neahkahnie Mountain and more!
• North Coast Pub Crawl Tour : A small group tour of no more than 12 exploring Oregon’s North Coast craft breweries, distilleries and Pubs. Visit The oldest tavern in the area, learn about underground ghosts, and visit the spookiest tavern. You’ll also visit a brewery made from an old jail.
• Crazy Cannon Beach Scavenger Hunt : discover favorite hidden gems on an off the beaten trail where you creatively interpret fun art, history, and culture clues!

Wrapping it Up

The North Coast of Oregon is rich with stunning landscapes and enchanting wildlife. It’s a stretch of the United States that everyone should explore at least once in their life. With so much to do and see along the Northern Oregon Coast, we hope this itinerary will help guide and enhance your adventure. Enjoy the open road and ocean breeze as you cruise the Oregon Coast! 

Oregon Coast FAQ

How long is the oregon coast.

The Oregon Coast is 363 miles and run parallel to highway 101.

How long does it take to drive the entire coast of Oregon?

It takes about 8 hours without stops to drive the Oregon Coast.

When is the best time to visit the Oregon Coast?

For optimal weather conditions and ample daylight hours to explore the coast, it’s best to plan a visit between July and early October.

Recommended Travel Resources

• Travel Insurance: World Nomads .
• Transport: CheapOAir and Skyscanner (Best Sites to Research Flight Prices) 
• Best Car Rental Deals: Rentalcars.com
• Best Sites to Find Hotel Deals: Hotels.com and Booking.com
• My Favorite Hotel Review Website: TripAdvisor
• Best Tours: Viator and Get Your Guide

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