The Oregon Coast is a mix of raw beauty and small-town charm, where cliffs meet rolling waves, and every bend in the road reveals something new. Follow this four-day guide from historic Astoria down to peaceful Brookings, stopping for scenic views, local flavors, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re climbing dunes, whale-watching, or savoring fresh seafood by the shore, the heart of Oregon’s coast captures it all.
Day one on Oregon’s coast blends historic charm, natural beauty, and iconic beaches, from Astoria’s history to Cannon Beach’s scenic splendor.
Start in Astoria, a town steeped in history. Climb the 125-foot Astoria Column for sweeping views of the Columbia River and Pacific Ocean. Film buffs can visit the Oregon Film Museum, celebrating local cinematic gems like “The Goonies.”
A short drive south, Seaside invites with its historic promenade, sandy beach, and classic saltwater taffy. Visit the Seaside Aquarium, where you can feed seals and get an up-close look at Oregon’s marine life—a perfect spot for families and ocean lovers alike.
Head to Ecola State Park, where dense forests meet dramatic ocean vistas. Walk the Clatsop Loop Trail, a moderate hike through coastal woods with scenic viewpoints. Wildlife like elk and diverse bird species add to the park’s charm, enhancing the coastal experience.
Cannon Beach will wrap up your day with its iconic 235-foot Haystack Rock. This beautiful town offers everything from cozy inns and beachfront resorts to a wide range of dinner choices, including fresh seafood at local favorites like Ecola Seafood Restaurant & Market.
Prepare for a day packed with scenic stops, local flavors, and unforgettable coastal views as you journey through the heart of Oregon’s central coast.
Begin your day at the Tillamook Creamery, where cheese-making comes to life. A self-guided tour, with plenty of samples, will reveal the craft behind the cheese. The on-site café serves delicious dishes made with Tillamook’s famous dairy products.
Travel the Three Capes Scenic Loop, a 40-mile route with some of Oregon’s most breathtaking coastal sights. Stop at Cape Meares for its historic lighthouse, Cape Lookout for hikes and whale-watching, and Cape Kiwanda to see its impressive dunes and sandstone formations.
In Pacific City, challenge yourself with a climb up the massive dune at Cape Kiwanda for a rewarding view of the coastline. Afterward, relax at the Pelican Brewing Company, located right on the beach, and enjoy the view of the ocean.
Proceed to Lincoln City for the night. Known for its seven miles of sandy beaches, it’s a great place for beachcombing and kite-flying. Consider staying at a beachfront hotel to enjoy the sound of the waves as you unwind.
This day is dedicated to exploring Oregon’s coastal gems, each town offering its unique character and natural marvels.
Begin your day in Depoe Bay, renowned as the world’s smallest navigable harbor and a prime spot for whale watching. Numerous charter companies offer tours to see gray whales, especially during migration seasons. Even from the shore, the Whale Watching Center provides information and viewing opportunities.
Continue to Newport, where you can explore the historic bayfront lined with shops, galleries, and seafood restaurants. Visit the Oregon Coast Aquarium to learn about local marine ecosystems and see a variety of sea creatures.
Further south, Yachats offers a charming small-town atmosphere with stunning coastal views. The nearby Cape Perpetua Scenic Area provides hiking trails through old-growth forests and viewpoints like the Devil’s Churn and Thor’s Well, a natural sinkhole that creates dramatic water displays during high tide.
Conclude your day in Florence, a town that blends historic charm with natural beauty. The Old Town district features shops and restaurants along the Siuslaw River. For dinner, consider trying local specialties at one of the riverside eateries.
Experience the unique landscapes, rich culture, and coastal charm of Oregon’s southern coast, where each stop offers a new glimpse into the natural wonders and welcoming towns that define this stretch of the Pacific.
Just south of Florence, the Oregon Dunes stretch along the coast, offering an otherworldly experience. Adventure awaits with dune buggy rides, sandboarding, and hiking. Guided tours dive into the area’s fascinating ecology and history, making it a perfect stop for both thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts.
In Coos Bay, the coast’s largest city, visit the Coos Art Museum or stroll through Mingus Park’s Japanese garden. Shore Acres State Park, nearby, offers beautifully landscaped gardens and sweeping ocean views, especially dramatic during stormy weather when waves crash powerfully against the cliffs.
Bandon’s Old Town has a charm all its own, with unique shops and scenic views. Walk along the beach to see the iconic Face Rock and other sea stacks. Stop by the Bandon Historical Society Museum to learn about the town’s cranberry farming heritage.
Near the California border, Brookings is known for Azalea Park, which bursts with color in bloom season, and Harris Beach State Park, with its tide pools and sandy shores. It’s also a gateway to the redwood forests, perfect for extending your trip into Northern California.
After four days on the Oregon Coast, you’ll carry unforgettable memories—Cannon Beach’s salty air, Florence’s sweeping dunes, and serene forest trails. This journey is more than sightseeing; it’s about savoring each moment. As you head home, Oregon’s coastal charm will linger, calling you back.
Discover the best unique stays in Oregon, from beachfront cottages to luxury treehouses, and plan your perfect Pacific Northwest escape.
Set off on an unforgettable Oregon road trip, exploring majestic mountains, rugged coastlines, and vibrant cities with this ultimate adventure itinerary
Plan your two-day adventure in Koh Samui with this guide for the best experiences.
Discover Mui Ne, the ultimate kiteboarding destination in Southeast Asia, with its ideal wind conditions, sandy beaches, and vibrant kiteboarding community.
Planning on visiting Bangkok? Dive into this 3-5 day itinerary that explores the best Bangkok attractions, local culture, and must-see highlights for an unforgettable trip.
This guide will help you precisely measure your waist circumference and explain why your good health depends on your waist size.
Get started with stock investing using this comprehensive beginner's guide to building a strong portfolio.
Learn what preferred stock is, how it differs from common stock, and the benefits it offers investors. Discover the key features and why preferred shares might be a good investment choice.
Find out how many days in Honolulu are enough to enjoy its beaches attractions and culture
Enfold on an unforgettable adventure with our 2024 Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide. Explore must-see stops, scenic viewpoints, and hidden gems along this iconic route
Discover the best neighborhoods to stay in Dublin, from vibrant city centers to peaceful, charming areas, and find the perfect spot for your trip.
Explore the ultimate Southwest USA road trip with this in-depth itinerary, guiding you through breathtaking desert landscapes, iconic national parks, and unforgettable scenic drives.
Uncover the secrets of successful mutual fund timing strategies. Learn to buy low and sell high using effective market research and professional advice.
Discover the importance of understanding your personal risk tolerance in making smart financial decisions.
Explore your right of rescission which allows you to cancel a home equity loan, HELOC, or mortgage refinance within three days. Understand how to safeguard your finances and make informed decisions.
This guide details the consumer rights that apply when purchasing a used car, including lemon laws, warranties, and FTC protections.
Are you considering Possible Finance installment loans for your financial needs? Learn about their benefits, terms, and how they stack up against other options in this detailed review.
Understand your choices for loans in the stage of retirement. Also, uncover methods to achieve financing after retiring from work completely.
Understand the importance of life insurance for new parents and get guidance on selecting a suitable plan for your family's future.
What is full coverage car insurance? Are you considering full coverage? Find out what it covers and whether it’s the right choice for you in this comprehensive guide.
Examine the differences between a credit line and a credit card for financial adaptability and efficient handling.
Discover how to take equity out of your home with our easy guide. Explore options like home equity loans, home equity lines of credit, and cash-out refinancing.
Dive into the art of building, balancing, and optimizing investment portfolios tailored to your goals and risk tolerance. Your journey to sustained financial prosperity starts here.
Discover the best retirement plans for small business owners and how you can secure your financial future with options tailored for self-employed individuals.