The Oregon Coast is a stunning and diverse destination, offering something for everyone. Here are 13 of the best things to see and do.
1. Hike the Oregon Coast Trail
: This epic 425-mile trail stretches along the entire Oregon Coast, offering breathtaking ocean views, rainforests, and beaches.
2. Eat your weight in oysters
: Oregon is famous for its fresh seafood, and oysters are a must-try. You can find them on the menu at many restaurants along the coast, or slurp them down fresh at an oyster farm.
3. Explore Fort Stevens State Park
: Located at the northern tip of the Oregon Coast, Fort Stevens State Park is a former military base that now offers camping, hiking, fishing, and a variety of historical exhibits.
4. Climb the dunes at Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is home to the largest expanse of coastal sand dunes in North America. You can climb the dunes, go sandboarding, or take a Jeep tour.
5. Check out Thor’s Well
Thor’s Well is a naturally occurring hole in the rock that shoots water up into the air with the force of the waves. It’s a fascinating sight to see, but be sure to stay a safe distance away as the waves can be very powerful.
6. Drive the Three Capes Scenic Route
The Three Capes Scenic Route is a stunning 40-mile drive that takes you past three capes: Cape Falcon, Cape Meares, and Cape Disappointment. Along the way, you’ll see beautiful beaches, lighthouses, and wildlife.
7. Relax at Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach is a popular resort town with a beautiful beach and a variety of shops and restaurants. Haystack Rock, a large sea stack that sits just off the shore, is a popular landmark.
8. See the sea lion caves
There are several sea lion caves along the Oregon Coast where you can see these fascinating creatures up close. One of the most popular spots is Sea Lion Caves near Florence.
9. Dive into all the seafood
As mentioned before, Oregon is a seafood lover’s paradise. In addition to oysters, you can enjoy fresh crab, salmon, and other seafood dishes at restaurants along the coast.
10. Hit the beach
The Oregon Coast is all about the beaches. There are miles of sandy beaches to explore, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, tidepooling, beachcombing, or simply relaxing and enjoying the sound of the waves.
11. Wander Ecola State Park
Ecola State Park is home to some of the most dramatic scenery on the Oregon Coast. There are hiking trails that lead to waterfalls, tide pools, and viewpoints with stunning ocean views
12. Stroll around Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area
Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area is a beautiful area with hiking trails, tide pools, and a lighthouse. It’s a great place to go whale watching during the winter months.
13. Go whale watching
The Oregon Coast is a great place to go whale watching, especially during the winter and spring months. Gray whales, humpback whales, and blue whales are all common sights off the coast.
