16 Places You Need To Visit On The Oregon Coast
The drive down the Oregon Coast is one of the most iconic road trips in the United States. It’s roughly 360 miles long, and with so many towns, stops, and landmarks along the way, you want to ensure you don’t miss the best places to stop.
I’ve completed the drive along the Oregon Coast and know which stops you should take advantage of. These are some of the top spots on the Oregon Coastline worth pulling over for.
1. Astoria’s Columbia River Maritime Museum
Astoria, located on Oregon’s northern coast, is famous for being the setting of The Goonies movie and is home to the Columbia River Maritime Museum.
This museum offers an excellent experience for visitors along the Oregon Coast. It provides insights into the fascinating history of the Columbia River. You can explore stories from the past and present, including tales of the challenging Columbia River Bar, storms, shipwrecks, boats, and more. It’s a must-visit destination for its fascinating history and stories.
2. Lewis & Clark National Historic Park
Whether you’re a history lover or enjoy being outdoors, Lewis & Clark National Historic Park is a must-visit on your Oregon Coast trip. In the summer, you can watch rangers in traditional attire demonstrating activities like flintlock gun shooting and candle making. If indoor attractions are more your style, check out the Visitor Center for films and exhibits about the Lewis & Clark expedition.
If indoor displays aren’t your thing, you can explore the replica of Fort Clatsop or embark on one of the many hiking trails in the area. I recommend trying the South Slough Trail, a picturesque three-mile loop offering stunning views of forested landscapes and a scenic boardwalk.
3. Wreck Of Peter Iredale
This massive ship, owned by Iredale & Porter, got stranded on Clatsop Beach in 1906 while traveling from Mexico to Portland for wheat.
Despite its age of over 100 years, it’s still a popular tourist spot, although wind, water, and sand have taken their toll on the ship over time. Despite its gradual breakdown, the Wreck of Peter Iredale remains a fascinating piece of history along the coast.
4. Seaside Aquarium
The Seaside Aquarium, located in Seaside, Oregon, is one of the oldest aquariums on the West Coast. It offers a fantastic opportunity to admire various aquatic animals, including fish, seals, sea turtles, and more.
Whether you’re an adult looking for an enjoyable experience or a family with children seeking a fun and educational stop along the coast, the Seaside Aquarium is a can’t-miss stopping along the Oregon coast.
Be sure to swing by Seaside Inverted Experience while you are in town!
5. Haystack Rock At Cannon Beach
One of Oregon’s most famous landmarks is Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach, a towering sea stack rising 235 feet above the Pacific Ocean.
Surrounded by the ocean, tidepools, and diverse bird species, it’s a beautiful sight and a perfect stop to stretch your legs and appreciate one of Oregon’s most famous beaches. I recommend visiting during low tide to get up close and fully appreciate its beauty.
6. Twin Rocks At Rockaway Beach
Twin Rocks at Rockaway Beach is one of the most photographed landmarks along Oregon’s coast. Known initially as Profile Rocks, its name was changed in 1925 to avoid confusion with another nearby landmark.
Located in Tillamook County, it’s a must-see stop on your road trip, allowing you to appreciate one of Oregon’s top beaches.
7. Three Capes Scenic Route
The Three Capes Scenic Route kicks off in Tillamook and guides you to Cape Meares, Cape Lookout, and Cape Kiwanda.
During your drive, I suggest making stops at each cape. At Cape Meares, consider a short hike to the impressive Octopus Tree. At Cape Lookout, the Cape Lookout Trail, spanning about 5 miles, offers stunning views. Lastly, at Cape Kiwanda, wrap up your scenic journey by indulging in some cold beers at the Pelican Brewing Company.
8. Devil’s Punchbowl
The Devil’s Punchbowl, located in the central Oregon coastal area, is a popular tourist spot and photography location.
This natural formation is a bowl-shaped hollow in the rock connected to the Pacific Ocean through a small opening. Waves fill the bowl, creating violent swirls. The park surrounding the Devil’s Punchbowl is also a great place to watch whales, enjoy a picnic, and admire the different views.
9. Seal Rock State Recreation Site
Seal Rock State Recreation Site is south of Newport. As its name implies, it is famous for its abundant seals, sea lions, sea birds, and other wildlife.
It’s a fantastic spot for observing nature, admiring the unique rock formations, and soaking in the coastal scenery. Remember to bring a picnic to fully enjoy all the sights and experiences.
10. Thor’s Well
If there’s one coastal stop you shouldn’t miss, it’s Thor’s Well in Yachats, Oregon. Also known as the Drainpipe Of The Pacific, Thor’s Well is a mesmerizing sinkhole in the Pacific Ocean.
Legend has it that Thor, the God of Thunder, created the sinkhole. It’s best to visit the landmark about an hour before high tide to witness it filling with water. You’ll be amazed at its beauty and how much water moves throughout.
11. Heceta Head Lighthouse
If you’re intrigued by eerie tales and haunted places, make sure to visit Heceta Head Lighthouse. This 205-foot lighthouse is on the Oregon Coast, nestled between Florence and Yachats.
According to legend, a Lighthouse Keeper and his family once resided there, but tragedy struck when their daughter fell off the cliffs and died. Now, a ghostly woman is said to haunt the lighthouse, occasionally appearing in the Lighthouse Keeper’s room.
12. Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
One of my personal favorite spots along this drive is the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. Covering 31,500 acres, this area boasts America’s largest coastal sand dunes.
Whether you want to stroll and enjoy the scenery or try exciting activities like sandboarding or ATV driving, it’s a destination worth adding to your bucket list.
13. Bandon Beach
Bandon Beach is incredibly scenic along the Oregon Coast, with numerous sea stacks, rock formations, and stunning sunsets that make it a photographer’s dream.
I suggest arriving a few hours before sunset. This way, you can enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach, take in the stunning scenery, and catch the sun going down.
14. Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is named after Oregon’s first parks superintendent. It spans 12 miles and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, distinct rock formations, and diverse wildlife.
I suggest taking the one-mile hike to Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint, which offers great photo opportunities, stunning sunsets, and excellent whale watching.
15. Chetco Point Park
This 9-acre beach park offers captivating views of the ocean and coast, along with quirky rock formations. Don’t miss the main walking trail leading past a sturdy wooden bridge to Chetco Point. You can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the Pacific Ocean from three sides. It’s a must-visit for the scenery alone.
Additionally, if you’re traveling with your furry friend, this is the perfect spot, as there’s a dedicated dog park called Chetco Point Dog Park.
16. Hug Point
This is my absolute favorite spot on the Oregon Coast! If you come during low tide, you can see a gorgeous beach, explore sea caves, AND a super cool waterfall!
Something about a waterfall on the beach seems extra magical to me. Parking is free, rarely busy, and an easy walk down to the beach.
