Plan Your Trip to Oregon Coast: Best of Oregon Coast Tourism
Oregon Coast, Oregon
The Southern Oregon coast is home to isolated beaches, rugged cliffs with breathtaking views of the Pacific and quaint seaside towns. If you stay in the Bay Area, go whale watching at Coos Bay or explore the region on a bike or a hike along the coastline. Antique shoppers will want to explore old town Bandon while golfers hit the links at the world-renowned Bandon Dunes golf course. And don’t forget to bring your fishing gear – you’ll want to cast for salmon and other Pacific Northwest fish at Gold Beach, one of the region’s top fishing spots.
The Central Oregon Coast is a great place for fishing, clamming, hiking, golfing and other outdoor activities. Take the kids and visit the Sea Lion Caves near Florence, the world’s largest. Head up to Newport for a view of the state’s second-tallest lighthouse and shopping in this seaside town popular with vacationers for the last century. Go fly a kite on the beach in Lincoln City, kite capital of the world.
The Northern Oregon Coast offers a relaxing way to enjoy the region. A stay in the scenic town of Astoria on the Washington border will allow you to explore the western edge of the Lewis and Clark trail, with views of the Columbia River and the Pacific. Walk the sandy beaches in Seaside and Cannon Beach and then grab saltwater taffy and other treats while shopping these seaside towns.
Essential Oregon Coast
Things to do
Browse collections
Trending in the forums
Oregon Coast Is Great For
Historical Tours
Shopaholics
Bus Tours
The great outdoors
Eat & drink
Oregon Coast travel advice
Recommendations from Travelers
According to forum posts, the Stephanie Inn and the Cannery Pier Hotel are frequently recommended for their upscale amenities and prime locations. Travelers have highlighted the Whale Cove Inn in Depoe Bay for its exceptional stays and ocean views, making it another top choice.
Unique Features
For those seeking unique features, the Inn at Nye Beach offers rooms from which whales can be observed, directly enhancing the guest experience. Additionally, the Overleaf Lodge and Spa in Yachats has been praised for its lovely views, adding to its appeal as a luxurious stay option on the coast.
Additional Options
Other travelers have suggested The Channel House in Depoe Bay for a more boutique experience, with amenities like hot tubs on private decks and a cozy breakfast nook overlooking the ocean. These properties offer a mix of luxury and unique coastal experiences that cater to a range of preferences and needs.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Must-See Locations
According to forum posts, some must-see stops along the Oregon Coast include Newport for its Yaquina Lighthouse, Devil's Punch Bowl, and the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Yachats is recommended for the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, Thor’s Well, and Devil's Churn.
Activities and Attractions
Travelers have called out Lincoln City for its unique shops and the Finders Keepers event where glass orbs are hidden on beaches. Cannon Beach is noted for its iconic Haystack Rock and the nearby Ecola State Park, which offers stunning views and tidepool exploration at low tide.
Additional Recommendations
For those interested in natural beauty and hiking, forum users suggest visiting Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor for its rugged coastline and Cape Lookout State Park for beachcombing and scenic views. The Oregon Dunes and Shore Acres State Park are also highlighted for their distinct landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Route Recommendations
Some travelers have recommended starting the coastal road trip from Portland by taking Highway 26 to Cannon Beach, then traveling south on Highway 101. This route covers scenic spots like Tillamook, where the cheese factory offers a fun stop, and continues to Nestucca Bay.
Scenic Highlights
For a focus on scenic views, users suggest driving south from Portland to Newport, then exploring the Oregon coast down to Gold Beach. Notable stops include Thor’s Well, Devil’s Churn, and the Oregon Dunes. This route also allows for a visit to the Samuel Boardman scenic corridor, known for its beautiful vistas.
Alternative Scenic Drive
Another suggested itinerary involves a drive from Portland to Astoria via Highway 30, then heading south from there. This route is ideal for those seeking a more relaxed drive with opportunities for easy sightseeing, including visiting the Astoria Column and exploring the maritime museum.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Accommodation Options
Some travelers recommended Schooners Cove Inn in Cannon Beach for its great views, kitchens, and fireplaces, with easy access to dining, shopping, and breweries. Additionally, the Lanai at the Cove in Seaside is noted for its amazing views and budget-friendly options, located about 10 minutes from Cannon Beach.
Price and Quality Considerations
According to forum posts, accommodations in Cannon Beach can be expensive, especially during peak seasons. For example, Schooners Cove Inn is praised for its cleanliness and comfort, but no specific price range was mentioned. Travelers looking for more budget-friendly options might consider Seaside, which offers places like Lanai at the Cove with varying quality at a lower price point.
Alternative Recommendations
For a quieter and possibly more affordable stay, Manzanita is suggested as an alternative, with the Ocean Inn providing nice accommodations. This location offers proximity to Cannon Beach while being a less crowded option.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Travel Route Suggestions
According to forum posts, one popular route to Crater Lake involves driving from Portland along Highway 101 south to Reedsport, then taking Highway 38 east to Highway 138 south to Sutherlin, followed by I-5 south to Roseburg, and finally Highway 138 east directly to Crater Lake. This route is noted for scenic views and attractions like the Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area.
Alternative Scenic Routes
Some travelers have recommended taking either the North Umpqua Highway (OR-138) or the Willamette Pass Highway (US-97/OR-58) from areas near Roseburg or Eugene. These routes are described as scenic, with the North Umpqua Highway offering views of waterfalls and the Willamette Pass Highway providing sights of Salt Creek Falls and covered bridges.
Route from California
For those coming from California, a post suggested a route from Crescent City, CA, taking Highway 199 to Grants Pass, then approximately four hours of driving to reach Crater Lake. This route allows travelers to experience the broader region and its transitions from coastal areas to the mountainous terrains near Crater Lake.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?