Oregon Coast road trip is truly one of the best US road trips! Stretching approximately 363 miles, you will be greeted by the charming city of Brookings in the south and leave the Oregon Coast after historic Astoria, after which Highway 101 enters Washington State.
Why trust this guide? As someone who spent over a month exploring the Oregon Coast in the summer of 2024 and visited 3 times in total, I’ve personally uncovered the best spots, hidden gems, and insider tips on how to make the most out of your trip.
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What clothing to bring on a trip to the oregon coast?
There are three clothing must-haves if you’re visiting the Oregon Coast, regardless of the time of the year: good hiking shoes, a fleece, and a rain jacket. Below are my favorites that have been tested through the years.
Brookings
Welcome to the sunniest and warmest spot on the Oregon Coast! Brookings is known for its charming downtown, rugged scenic shoreline, and Brookings Effect! This phenomenon occurs when warm inland heats up due to compression, and creates unusually warm temperatures. This warm air can sometimes break up the fog, resulting in clear skies while surrounding areas remain foggy.
Brookings is also known for Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, a 12-mile stretch of the shoreline known for its rugged cliffs, natural bridges, and arches. This is a place you often see a picture of on social media with its dramatic bridge-like rock formations. Another must-visit in the area is Harris Beach State Park, where you can explore tidepools that brim with marine life.
bandon
The coastline through Bandon is worth a stop. Explore the sea stacks at Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint, visit Coquille River Lighthouse, and enjoy a sunset at Bandon Beach!
Port Orford
Discover the oldest town on the Oregon Coast! Port Orford is home to Battle Rock Wayside Park and Cape Blanco State Park. You can hike or simply go to a viewpoint and soak in panoramic coastal views.
Florence
Apart from being yet another small fishing town, Florence is home to 3 must-sees in the area – Sea Lion Caves, Heceta Head Lighthouse, and Oregon Dunes.
While I’ve never personally visited Sea Lion Caves (it’s been closed every time I visited), taking down an elevator to the caves seems like it would be an epic adventure!
Heceta Head Lighthouse is a place I WOULD NOT miss! The whole area is so scenic; the hike up to the lighthouse is an easy walk up from the parking lot and offers amazing views!
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area stretches 40 miles from Coos Bay to Florence. You can go sandboarding, rent an ATV for the day, or hike in the area! Some areas are reserved for walking only, while others allow motorized vehicles. Please follow the rules to protect the environment.
Yachats
Yachats is a place I would definitely stop and explore for the day! It is home to Cape Perpetua, which is my favorite place on the coast. It’s home to one of the largest temperate rainforests in North America. It thrives due to heavy rainfall and fog in the area, which provides extra moisture to the vegetation. Now, picture this – rugged cliffs, ocean views, and lush rainforests. Did I convince you to make Cape Perpetua a must-stop on your road trip? You can hike to see a Giant Spruce tree or experience the power of the ocean at Thor’s Well and Devil’s Churn.
Waldport
A stop in Waldport is a must for food lovers, especially if you love fresh bread and pastries. Pacific Sourdough is so renowned for its artisanal creations that it regularly attracts eager customers who are willing to wait in hour-long lines. Trust me—it’s worth every minute. They do close for the winter season, so check out their website for seasonal hours. They are located at 740 NE Mill St, Waldport, OR.
newport
Newport is one of the most vibrant, bigger towns on the Oregon Coast! Here’s everything you need to see there:
Yaquina Head Lighthouse – tallest lighthouse on the Oregon Coast. You can also go tide pooling and see barnacles, mussels, and sea stars.
Nye Beach – is the definition of cozy. This district is full of charming cafes and shops.
Historic Bayfront. When I think of Newport’s Historic Bayfront, one thing comes to mind – a charming fishing village. You can see boats coming, visit a fresh seafood market, and watch sea lions lounge on the docks.
Devil’s Punchbowl – a natural rock formation that literally looks like a bowl. At low tide, you can explore the tide pools, but please don’t go down if you are unaware of the tide. At high tide, you can see the water dramatically swirling and churning in the bowl.
Depot Bay
Known as the whale-watching capital, this is THE place to go whale-watching! There are a lot of companies that offer whale-watching tours; however, if you are short on time or are on a budget, you can spot whales from the pier. Be patient, they might eventually pop up!
Tillamook
One of the most visited spots on the coast due to its well-known dairy factory – the Tillamook Creamery. See just how the beloved cheese is made, indulge in some cheese samples, and don’t forget to stop by the ice cream stand!
The area also offers a very scenic drive through the Three Capes Scenic Loop – explore Cape Meares, Cape Lookout, and Cape Kiwanda.
Manzanita
Manzanita is a quaint little town that doesn’t draw as many tourists as some other cities on the Oregon Coast. If you are looking for a quiet getaway on the coast, I would say Manzanita is it. There are two state parks you’ll want to explore in the area – Nehalem Bay State Park and Oswald West State Park. Oswald State Park is home to Devil’s Cauldron and Short Sand Beach. Both are moderately easy hikes that offer great views!
cannon beach
Iconic spot on the coast. I cannot imagine taking an Oregon Coast road trip and not making a spot here. Cannon Beach is home to the famous Haystack Rock and Ecola State Park. Cannon Beach is hands down the prettiest, cleanest city on the Oregon Coast (my personal opinion). This place is where Nantucket charm meets West Coast beauty. You can read more about how to spend a perfect day in Cannon Beach HERE.
Just 7 miles south of Cannon Beach, you’ll also find Hug Point Recreational Area. Hug Point is a spectacular stop, with a waterfall on the beach and caves. Make sure to go at low tide.
Astoria
Astoria is the last city on the Oregon Coast before you enter Wahington State. This place is full of history, downtown charm, and good local eats.
Visit the Astoria Column. Standing 600 feet a, it offers views of the Pacific Ocean and the Columbia River.
Cathedral Tree Trail is a great short hike through a forest.
Take a stroll on Astoria’s Riverwalk. This peaceful walk runs along the Columbia River and offers great views of the Astoria-Megler Bridge that connects Oregon to Washington.
Fort Clatsop and Fort Stevens State Parks. If you’re more of a history enthusiast, you might be interested in visiting these two historic park. Fort Clatsop recreates the winter encampment of the Lewis and Clark expedition of the early 1800s. Explore the Peter Iredale Shipwreck at Fort Stevens State Park and marvel at the remains of this historic vessel.
The Oregon Coast has captured my heart, and I’m sure it will capture yours too. Remember, LEAVE NO TRACE!
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