Julie and I had heard rumors about the stunning beauty of the Oregon Coast. It could not compete with the rocky shores of Acadia National Park or the famous scenery of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Could it?
Julie and I had no idea what awaited us as we flew into Portland, secured our rental car, and went to the coast to begin our adventure.
Every mile of the 363-mile journey from Astoria to Brookings took our breath. Other than Alaska, that road trip is our favorite travel adventure, period.
So, why is the Oregon Coast so special?
Sea Stack Paradise
I never knew how much I loved sea stacks until we visited Oregon. The monstrous rocks dominate the horizon, standing firm against relentless, crashing waves.
Julie and I stared in awe at the towering 235-foot Haystack Rock on Cannon Beach as we strolled the beautiful beach at sunset. At night, bonfires dotted the beach with families and friends making memories.
We went back the following day to experience tide pooling. Bright sea stars and colorful marine life clung to the rocky giant as birds circled above and scampered below in search of a bite. Haystack Rock is a mini planet teeming with life.
Do not make the mistake of thinking the Oregon Coast has only one noteworthy sea stack. The geological features litter the coast from top to bottom.
As great as Haystack Rock is, Julie and I enjoyed Bandon Beach even more. At high tide, you must appreciate the sea stacks from afar. You can walk next to and sometimes through the sea stacks during low tide. A new world opens when the waves roll out, revealing caves and tunnels. We will never forget our foggy morning beach walk along iconic formations like the Wizard’s Hat.
Dramatic Landscapes
The Oregon Coast offers much more than sea stacks. Some sections showcase rugged cliffs with breathtaking views, while others, like Florence, feature rolling sand dunes. As Julie and I made our way south, we could not wait to see what each subsequent mile held in store. The sweeping vistas do not disappoint.
Public Shoreline with Secluded Beaches
The Oregon Coast may not have sprawling sandy beaches like those on the East Coast, but it offers a public shoreline the entire length of its coast. We were delighted to discover many secluded beaches with few people in sight. The Oregon Coast is chock full of secret beaches and hidden gems.
Historic Lighthouses
If you enjoy history, check out the Oregon lighthouses. The scenic drive comprises nine beacons, all of which are on the National Register of Historic Places.
Beyond the history and dramatic views, some towers are adjacent to fun adventures. Our favorite is Heceta Head Lighthouse. The area includes a beautiful arch bridge and a beach with a sea cave that is only accessible at low tide.
Diverse Ecosystems and Wildlife
Julie and I expected rocky shores and a few sandy beaches. We did not expect to find coastal rainforests, estuaries, and marine reserves. The Oregon Coast’s diverse ecosystems are a dream come true for those who like to explore and watch wildlife.
Julie and I heard sea lions barking in Astoria and spotted them in Florence. We saw whale spouts in Depoe Bay, the tiny town that boasts resident and migrating gray whales.
Julie and I savored forest hikes that spilled out onto a secluded beach. We enjoyed tide pooling and birdwatching. Then, we looked up to see a lighthouse atop a cliff in one direction and waves crashing into sea stacks in the other. Beautiful scenery, unique wildlife, and varied habitats all in a small area feels like a fantasy, yet it is real.
Quaint Towns
Whether you want the fresh catch of the day or a cup of brew from a local roaster, you will find plenty of regional cuisine and beverages. During our adventures, I had some of the best fish and coffee I have ever tasted, and we barely scratched the surface.
We stayed in various towns along the way. Our accommodations were cozy inns and motels run by locals.
Each quaint town has its unique personality, but all are laid-back and friendly. It was so refreshing to escape the usual big chain resorts and businesses.
Fun Side Adventures
Julie and I stumbled upon many unique attractions and fun side adventures. The beach at Fort Stevens State Park in Hammonds houses the rusty hull of the Peter Iredale, a four-masted steel ship that sank in 1906. At low tide, you can walk up to the wreck.
In Neskowin, we found a ghost forest, the remaining stumps of an old Sitka spruce forest. We also discovered Devils Punchbowl in Otter Rock. At low tide, you can enter the punchbowl to explore an expansive rocky beach with stunning views. Be warned: you must exit before the tide rises. Julie and I almost did not get out in time.
Port Orford has Sisters Rock State Park, an absolute gem. Julie and I could not believe our eyes when we saw this little slice of heaven. Bold green hills slide into sparkling aquamarine waters below. The area includes hiking trails, secluded beaches, and a sea cave.
These are merely a few of the adventures we encountered in what seemed to be a never-ending supply of hidden attractions.
Unique Natural Wonders
The sand dunes, sea stacks, and rugged cliffs are spectacular. Just when you think you have seen it all, something new appears. Cape Perpetua holds unique natural wonders that challenge your imagination.
Thor’s Well is a giant sinkhole that could drain the ocean, and Spouting Horn is an ocean-powered geyser. Julie and I marveled at these wonders, losing track of time and letting our worries melt away.
Not to be outdone, the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor has aptly named Whaleshead, Natural Bridges, and Arch Rock geological formations. Every mile of the journey seems to hold a natural wonder.
Tips for Your Oregon Coast Road Trip
Highway 101 along the Oregon Coast is a dream road trip. Treat it as a slow travel adventure. Take your time and soak in the sweeping vistas.
Chunk the trip into three primary segments: northern, central, and southern Oregon Coasts. Plan to spend at least two days in each section, more if your schedule permits.
Keep your schedule flexible to enjoy surprise areas and attractions as you discover them.
Pack for all types of weather. Even in summer, it can get chilly, rainy, or windy. Fog can roll in suddenly, especially in the mornings or evenings.
Bring binoculars to gain closer views of birds and whales.
The tides at some attractions, such as Devils Punchbowl, significantly impact your experience. Before your trip, look into the tide charts for these specific attractions.
Consider extending your trip to California. Julie and I drove another half-hour south to see the world’s tallest trees in Redwood National and State Parks, one of our favorite national parks.
Get ready to experience jaw-dropping views and fun adventures for days. We hope you enjoy the Oregon Coast as much as we did.