The Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip: 10 Must-See Stops
Stretching over 360 miles along Highway 101, the Oregon Coast is one of the most scenic road trips in the U.S.. With stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, historic lighthouses, and charming seaside towns, this coastal drive is a must-do adventure for any traveler. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best stops on the Oregon Coast.
Where Does the Oregon Coast Road Trip Start?
📍 Starting Point: Astoria, Oregon
🏁 Ending Point: Brookings, Oregon
⏳ Recommended Duration: 3-7 days
🏁 Ending Point: Brookings, Oregon
⏳ Recommended Duration: 3-7 days
The Oregon Coast road trip follows Highway 101 from Astoria in the north to Brookings in the south, offering unforgettable views and attractions along the way.
Top 10 Must-See Stops on the Oregon Coast
1. Astoria – A Historic Coastal Gem
Start your journey in Astoria, the oldest city in Oregon, known for its rich history, waterfront views, and iconic bridge.
🏛️ Best Attractions:
- Astoria Column – Climb for panoramic views of the Columbia River.
- Fort Stevens State Park – Explore the shipwreck of the Peter Iredale.
- Columbia River Maritime Museum – Discover the history of Pacific Northwest seafarers.
📍 Stay in Astoria for: 1 night
2. Cannon Beach – Haystack Rock & Coastal Beauty
One of the most famous beaches in Oregon, Cannon Beach is known for its dramatic sea stacks and tide pools.
📷 Must-See Spots:
- Haystack Rock – A 125-foot-tall rock formation, home to puffins.
- Ecola State Park – Offers scenic viewpoints and forested hiking trails.
- Downtown Cannon Beach – A charming town with boutiques and art galleries.
📍 Perfect for: A half-day stop
3. Tillamook – Cheese, Ice Cream & Scenic Views
This town is home to the famous Tillamook Creamery, where you can sample cheese, ice cream, and take a factory tour.
🧀 Top Things to Do:
- Tillamook Creamery – A must-visit for dairy lovers.
- Cape Meares Lighthouse – The shortest lighthouse on the Oregon Coast, with stunning views.
- Three Capes Scenic Loop – A beautiful coastal drive with ocean viewpoints.
📍 Perfect for: A lunch stop
4. Pacific City – Beachfront Adventure & Sand Dunes
Pacific City is known for its massive sand dunes and laid-back surf town vibe.
🏄 Must-Do Activities:
- Climb the Sand Dune at Cape Kiwanda – Enjoy breathtaking ocean views.
- Watch Dory Boats Launch from the Beach – A unique fishing tradition in Oregon.
- Grab a Beer at Pelican Brewing – A beachfront brewery with local craft beers.
📍 Perfect for: A 2-3 hour stop
5. Depoe Bay – The Whale Watching Capital of Oregon
Depoe Bay is one of the best places to see whales in Oregon, with gray whales spotted year-round.
🐋 Best Attractions:
- Whale Watching Center – Learn about Oregon’s resident whale pods.
- Take a Whale Watching Tour – Get up close with migrating gray whales.
- Devil’s Punchbowl – A natural rock formation with crashing waves.
📍 Perfect for: A quick scenic stop
6. Newport – Lighthouses & Marine Life
Newport is home to two historic lighthouses and the famous Oregon Coast Aquarium.
🌊 Must-Visit Attractions:
- Yaquina Head Lighthouse – The tallest lighthouse in Oregon.
- Oregon Coast Aquarium – Features shark tunnels and sea otters.
- Historic Bayfront – A lively area with shops, restaurants, and sea lions.
📍 Stay in Newport for: 1 night
7. Florence – Sand Dunes & Sea Caves
Florence is the gateway to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, home to towering sand dunes and incredible wildlife.
🏜️ Best Things to Do:
- Hike the Oregon Dunes – Some of the largest coastal dunes in North America.
- Explore Sea Lion Caves – The largest sea cave in the U.S., home to wild sea lions.
- Visit Heceta Head Lighthouse – A scenic viewpoint and historic lighthouse.
📍 Perfect for: A half-day stop
8. Coos Bay – Rugged Coastline & State Parks
Coos Bay is surrounded by dramatic cliffs, sea stacks, and hiking trails.
🌲 Top Attractions:
- Shore Acres State Park – A cliffside botanical garden with ocean views.
- Cape Arago State Park – Great for tide pooling and spotting sea lions.
- Sunset Bay State Park – A perfect camping spot with calm beaches.
📍 Stay in Coos Bay for: 1 night
9. Bandon – Stunning Rock Formations & Beach Strolls
Bandon is home to some of the most unique rock formations on the Oregon Coast.
📷 Best Spots for Photos:
- Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint – Incredible sea stacks and tide pools.
- Coquille River Lighthouse – A historic lighthouse with scenic views.
- Bandon Old Town – A charming town with cafés and gift shops.
📍 Perfect for: A 2-3 hour stop
10. Brookings – The Southern Oregon Coast’s Hidden Gem
Your final stop is Brookings, home to rugged cliffs, redwood forests, and secluded beaches.
🌿 Top Attractions:
- Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor – One of the most picturesque sections of Highway 101.
- Secret Beach – A hidden cove with dramatic rock formations.
- Harris Beach State Park – A great beach for picnicking and camping.
📍 Perfect for: A scenic last stop
Final Thoughts
With its breathtaking coastal views, charming small towns, and unforgettable experiences, the Oregon Coast road trip is a must for any traveler. Whether you're a nature lover, foodie, or adventure seeker, this Highway 101 journey will leave you in awe.
For more Oregon travel guides, check out our Crater Lake Travel Guide and Best Waterfalls in Oregon.
