20 Must-See Places Along the Oregon Coast (Super Detailed Guide!)

We've traveled along the Oregon Coast three times. It's a fantastic drive and a bucket list destination with much to see and do along the way!

In today's post, I'd like to share a fully-curated, super-detailed guide listing all the must-see attractions along the Oregon Coast. Arranged from south to north, we've covered the entire coast in full detail:

20 Must-See Places Along the Oregon Coast (Super Detailed Guide!)

Here are the best places to visit along the Oregon Coast (arranged from south to north by city)

  1. Brookings-Harbor

    • Harris Beach State Park
    • Whaleshead Viewpoint

  2. Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
  3. Gold Beach

    • Prehistoric Gardens
    • Rogue River Bridge

  4. Port Orford

    • Cape Blanco State Park

  5. Bandon

    • Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint
    • Bullards Beach State Park
    • Circles in the Sand

  6. Coos Bay

    • Cape Arago State Park
    • Shore Acres State Park
    • McCullough Memorial Bridge

  7. Winchester Bay

    • Umpqua River Lighthouse

  8. Reedsport

    • Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

  9. Florence

    • Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint
    • Sea Lion Caves
    • Siuslaw River Bridge Interpretive Center
    • Siuslaw Pioneer Museum
    • Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park
    • Darlingtonia State Natural Site
    • Neptune State Scenic Viewpoint

  10. Yachats

    • Cape Perpetua Scenic Area
    • Thor’s Well
    • Devil’s Churn

  11. Newport

    • Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area
    • Oregon Coast Aquarium
    • Hatfield Marine Science Center
    • Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area
    • Yaquina Bay Lighthouse
    • Newport’s Historic Bayfront
    • Nye Beach
    • Cape Foulweather
    • Yaquina Bay Bridge
    • South Beach State Park

  12. Depoe Bay

    • Otter Crest Loop
    • Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint

  13. Lincoln City

    • Lincoln City Glass Center
    • Roads End State Recreation Site
    • Historic Taft District
    • Finders Keepers

  14. Three Capes Scenic Drive (from Pacific City to Tillamook)
  15. Tillamook

    • Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint
    • Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge
    • Munson Creek Falls State Natural Site
    • Tillamook Forest Center
    • Tillamook Air Museum
    • Tillamook County Pioneer Museum
    • Tillamook Creamery

  16. Garibaldi

    • Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad

  17. Cannon Beach

    • Oswald West State Park
    • Hug Point State Park
    • Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site
    • Haystack Rock
    • Ecola State Park

  18. Seaside

    • Lewis & Clark Salt Cairn Monument
    • Turnaround at Seaside
    • Seaside Promenade
    • Seaside Aquarium

  19. Warrenton

    • Peter Iredale Ship Wreck

  20. Astoria

    • Astoria Column
    • Columbia River Maritime Museum
    • Astoria-Megler Bridge
    • Fort Stevens State Park
    • Astoria Riverfront Trolley
    • Flavel House Museum
    • Fort Clatsop National Memorial
    • Astoria Oregon Riverwalk
    • Cathedral Tree Trail
    • Young River Falls

Boy, I wish I had that list ready before our visits. It sure would have saved us some planning time and helped us focus on the important things, which is exactly what I hope to achieve here.

There is so much to see and do along Oregon's ocean beaches that one post—even a mega-post—just can't cover it all. That's why we've published several posts in previous posts, each covering a larger location along the coast.

These included the following destinations: Florence, Newport, Seaside and Cannon Beach, Tillamook, and Astoria. Now, it's time to combine everything to create this definitive guide to the Oregon Coast!

Here's how this is going to work.

This post lists places to visit along the coast, from south to north. When we reach one of the towns with a dedicated post, we'll link to that post. Otherwise, the specifics will be given here.

Keep reading for details about each of these cities and suggestions on where to stay along the Oregon Coast.

I have included admission costs, hours of operation, and website links where necessary. Hopefully, this list helps you plan a fantastic trip you won’t soon forget!

Oregon South Coast

1. Brookings-Harbor

Harris Beach State Park

This park has the largest island off the Oregon coast. It has miles of sandy beaches with rocky outcroppings. In addition, sea stacks dot the ocean near the shore and offshore.

This is a favorite location for photographers and bird enthusiasts. Check the park’s website for more information and to see if there are any advisories you might need to know prior to your visit.

Harris Beach State Park, Brookings, Oregon
Harris Beach State Park, Brookings, Oregon | Photo by Scott Catron

Bird Island (or Goat Island, depending on who you talk to) is a wildlife sanctuary. It is the breeding site for many birds, including the rare tufted Puffin. While you cannot go to the island, binoculars allow you to spot any of the 100,000 seabirds that nest there.

This park has wonderful tide pools due to the rocky intertidal area. This rocky cove includes Arch Rock. At low tide, you could see sea stars, green anemones, hermit crabs, and who knows what else?!? Remember, this is a protected area, so you are free to look and take pictures but not remove anything.

Whaleshead Viewpoint

Known as one of the most gorgeous and scenic spots along the Oregon coast, this viewpoint is worth the stop. There is a parking area right at the viewpoint. There is also a trailhead, but visitors say the one-and-a-half mile further north is a safer hike down to the beach.

It is named for the sea stack offshore that looks like a whale's head. How the sea stack is cut with a rock channel causes waves to spurt a spray, making it look like a whale’s spout. Hence, the name of this viewpoint.

2. Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

This park is a 12-mile stretch of Highway 101 from Brookings Harbor to Gold Beach. Depending on your preferred way of exploring, you can experience this park in several ways.

You can pick one specific trailhead and spend the day hiking through one section, or you can stop at each parking area and explore its features.

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, Near Pistol River, Oregon
Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, Near Pistol River, Oregon | Photo by Ken Lund

Based on my research, here are the must-see parts of the corridor and what you should look out for while exploring this section of the coast.

Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint is a great place to spot migrating whales in the fall and spring seasons. To get to this rugged coastline that has photo-worthy sunsets, you just have to hike about a mile.

House Rock Viewpoint has a memorial to Samuel H. Boardman, Oregon’s first Park Superintendent. It also has a 4-mile trail stretching from here to Cape Ferrelo and numerous side trails that lead to secluded beaches.

Whaleshead Beach is a great picnic spot with gorgeous views. It also has an easy, flat trail to the beach.

Natural Bridges consists of seven iconic arch rocks and blowholes. You can reach the best viewpoint of this natural attraction by following a short trail.

Arch Rock is an area with a series of offshore sea stacks and islands. A short path from the parking lot leads to a lookout, which is a perfect place to view these.

3. Gold Beach

Prehistoric Gardens

This unique park, created within Oregon’s natural rainforest, contains 23 life-sized dinosaur sculptures. The sculptures are based on scientific measurements and made to look as realistic as possible.

Prehistoric Gardens Pixabay

Each dinosaur exhibit has a plaque that contains fun facts about the creature. Dinosaur tracks help guide you through the park. The graveled path and 6 beautiful wooden bridges make the visit possible for anyone who wants to take in the prehistoric scenery.

In the spring and fall, the gardens are open from 10 am to 5 pm daily. During the summer, the hours switch to 9 am to 6 pm. In the winter, the hours vary. Admission costs $12 for adults, $8 for children ages 3 to 12, and anyone 2 or younger is free. Check their website for additional information.

Rogue River Bridge

This bridge, which spans the mouth of the Rogue River, was completed in 1932. The revolutionary technique used during its construction allowed the architect to include embellishments. These features give the bridge the illusion of being made from cut stone, making it a sight worth seeing.

Rogue River Bridge and the Isaac Lee Patterson Memorial Bridge
Rogue River Bridge and the Isaac Lee Patterson Memorial Bridge | Photo by Ken Lund

The bridge has two lanes, spans 1,938 feet, and is still in use today. It is free to use and open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to anyone traveling on US 101.

4. Port Orford

Cape Blanco State Park

Cape Blanco State Park
Cape Blanco State Park | Photo by Visitor7

Located on Oregon’s westernmost tip and perched over the Pacific Ocean, this park is full of state history.

More than 8 miles of hiking trails within the park provide visitors with incredible viewpoints and access to the beach and lighthouse. Two attractions worth noting are also within the park.

Cape Blanco Lighthouse is the oldest standing lighthouse on the Oregon coast. Touring the lighthouse costs $2 for adults and is free for anyone 15 years old or younger. Tours are available from April 1 to October 31, Wednesdays through Mondays from 10 am to 3:30 pm.

Cape Blanco Lighthouse
Cape Blanco Lighthouse | Photo by Bureau of Land Management

Historic Hughes House was constructed in 1898. It is a 3,000-square-foot farmhouse with plenty of Victorian charm. The home is free to tour, but donations are accepted. Tours are offered on Wednesdays through Mondays from 10 am to 3:30 pm from April through the end of October.

5. Bandon

Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint

This scenic location offers a view of Face Rock, plumbed restrooms, and ample parking. The pathway leading from the parking area to the point is ADA-accessible, so anyone can enjoy this location.

Face Rock Viewpoint in Bandon, OR
Face Rock Viewpoint in Bandon, OR | Photo by Tobias Kleinlercher / Wikipedia

At this point, there is a viewing scope and picnic tables so you can relax and enjoy the scenery. According to an American Indian legend about this spot, you can hear a maiden’s voice on the wind.

Now, I can’t verify this, but from here, you can easily pick out the face on the rock that gave this point its name.

In addition to the viewpoint, several sets of stairs lead down to the wide, sandy beach. These stairs are fairly steep, so make sure you can get back up!

Bullards Beach State Park

This family-oriented park is well-known for excellent fishing and crabbing along the Coquille River banks. Numerous hiking and biking trails are available for exploring, including a one-mile, mostly paved pathway leading from the registration booth to the beach.

Coquille River Lighthouse
Coquille River Lighthouse | Photo by IIP Photo Archive

The Coquille River Lighthouse was active from 1895 until 1939 and is located within the park. You can’t access the tower, but the fog and signal room remains open to the public from mid-May through the end of September, from 11 am until 5 pm.

You can walk onto the jetty from the lighthouse and get a great view of the river and the long stretch of sandy beach.

The park is open for day use year-round, and camping accommodations are available for those so inclined. If you want more information about the camping rates or about the park's history, you can check out its website.

Circles in the Sand

What began as a special project has turned into a Bandon staple. The labyrinths are created by Denny Dyke, a local artist, and his team. These walkable art pieces are designed to promote meditation and reflection on the beach and are free for the public to enjoy.

Sacred Journeys: Circles in the Sand
Sacred Journeys: Circles in the Sand | Photo by daveynin

Most weekends, the artists begin drawing in the sand when the tide goes out in the mornings.

There is about a 2-hour window of time available to walk the labyrinths, but the end time is dependent on the weather and the tides. A detailed schedule is available on their website, but the event may be canceled if the weather turns bad.

6. Coos Bay

Cape Arago State Park

Located at the literal end of the road, this scenic headland juts out into the Pacific Ocean. It is an excellent location for spotting migrating whales, other marine life, and the numerous vessels traveling through Coos Bay.

Cape Arago Overlook
Cape Arago Overlook | Photo by Debbie Tegtmeier

The South Cove Trail is a favorite of visitors because it leads to a sandy beach with “superior” tide pools. This is a wonderful place to get a glimpse of what lives in the ocean’s current.

In addition, the North Cove Trail provides areas great for fishing and beachcombing. It also provides a great view of the off-shore colonies of seals and sea lions at Shell Island. Just an FYI, this trail is closed from March 1 to June 30 to protect the newly born seal pups.

Shore Acres State Park

Another state park? Well, this one will surprise you! Located atop sandstone cliffs high above the Pacific Ocean, this park features multiple formal gardens, stunning views, and beach access. In addition, there is a fully enclosed observation building, allowing you to enjoy the views no matter what the weather is doing.

Shore Acres State Park in Coos County, Oregon
Shore Acres State Park in Coos County, Oregon | Photo by Rick Obst

It doesn’t matter what time of year you visit because something is always in bloom somewhere in the park. A formal and Japanese garden complete with a lily pond and two rose gardens.

Within the park is also one of the largest Monterey Pines in the US. Estimated to have been planted around 1910, it stands 95 feet tall, has a 208-inch trunk circumference, and a 74-foot crown spread.

The park is open daily from 8 am to dusk; admission is $5 per vehicle. Check out their website for more information on the park, including any advisories and detailed history.

McCullough Memorial Bridge

Named for the architect in charge of the design, this draw bridge (formally called a cantilever bridge) opened in 1936. At that time, it was the longest bridge in the state, at 5,305 feet long.

The Conde McCullough Memorial Bridge in North Bend, Oregon as seen from the east.
The Conde McCullough Memorial Bridge in North Bend, Oregon, as seen from the east. | Photo by Cacophony

At each end of the bridge, pedestrian plazas are located to allow visitors to watch the bridge and passing vessels. The plazas also have built-in benches for those who want to sit back and enjoy the view. Sweeping stairs provide access to the shoreline and park below.

7. Winchester Bay

Umpqua River Lighthouse

This Lighthouse, commissioned in 1894, stands 65 feet above Winchester Bay. It was constructed after the original Lighthouse collapsed due to a flood. It is one of the few lighthouses where visitors can climb the tower.

Umpqua River lighthouse
Umpqua River Lighthouse | Photo by Adbar

The Lighthouse Museum is located within a restored Coast Guard barracks. It provides visitors with a glimpse into life as a lighthouse keeper.

In addition, period furniture, memorabilia, and artifacts are available for viewing. There is even information on lighthouse lore and shipwrecks that occurred along the Umpqua River Bar.

The Lighthouse and Museum is open May 1 through October 30 from 10 am until 4 pm. Tours are available and cost $3 for adults and $2 for children. Check their website for information on night tours and seasonal options.

8. Reedsport

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

This 31,500-acre park of the Siuslaw National Forest is home to one of the largest expanses of temperate coastal sand dunes in the world. Many different activities are available in this park to fill your time and enjoy the scenery.

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area | Photo by Themom51

In the summer, ranger-led talks are available on most days of the week, and guided hikes are available on most weekends. Off-highway vehicles (OHVs) are allowed in specific areas outlined in maps available on this website.

While the area includes 40 miles of the Oregon Coast, the Oregon Dunes Visitor Center is in Reedsport. You can find maps, brochures, information, exhibits, a gift shop, and restrooms here. It is open from 8 am to 4 pm daily and is only closed on federal holidays.

The area is free for all to enjoy, but some areas require a day-use fee of $5 per vehicle. Visit the Oregon Dunes website for more information on recreational activities, programs offered, and specific sites within the area.

Central Coast

9. Florence

This city is full of amazing opportunities to enjoy the Oregon coast. From exploring North America’s largest seal cave to multiple museums about the area’s history to enjoying the view from Heceta Head Lighthouse, this place has something for everyone.

Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint
Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint in Florence, OR

In a previous post, I detailed 7 of the most popular attractions in Florence. Check out all the information on the things to do and see, as well as where to stay, in “Top 7 Things to Do & See in Florence, Oregon.”

10. Yachats

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area

The Cape Perpetua Headland towers over 800 feet above the protected Marine Garden shoreline. It is the highest viewpoint accessible by car on the Oregon Coast, and this national park is located here.

There are 26 miles of trails radiating out from the visitor’s center. From these trails, you can explore old-growth forests, Native American shell middens, and many other attractions. You can download a trail guide by visiting this website.

The visitor’s center is open seven days a week, but the hours vary depending on the season. It offers visitors an amazing view of the Pacific Ocean and a viewing deck if the weather is agreeable.

The staff can help you find activities suitable for your visit. In addition, interpretive programs and a bookstore with souvenirs are available.

A day-use pass is required since you will be within the Siuslaw National Forest. It costs $5 per vehicle and can be purchased online at this website; you can either buy an ePass or have one mailed to you.

Thor’s Well

Thor's Well at Cape Perpetua in Oregon | Photo by Jeff Hollett (Public Domain)
Thor's Well at Cape Perpetua in Oregon

Near Cape Perpetua Thor’s Well is a seemingly bottomless sinkhole that drains water from the Pacific Ocean. Estimated to be around 20 feet deep, this huge hole is a spectacular site.

The best time to visit is at high tide or during storms when the waves violently crash over the rocks and funnel into the hole. Locals suggest arriving an hour before high tide so that you can see how it looks before water comes in and fills the hole.

Devil’s Churn

This wave-carved inlet allows visitors to watch the dramatic churning action of the ocean. The chasm likely started as a narrow fracture or collapsed lava tube within the volcanic bedrock. It is a view of the shoreline’s volcanic history and an awe-inspiring place to view the relentless and violent power of the ocean.

The Devil's Churn, Cape Perpetua, Oregon
The Devil's Churn, Cape Perpetua, Oregon | Photo by Joe Mabel

Access to this location requires a $5 fee per vehicle. If you visit another location within the Siuslaw National Forest, the pass you purchased there will be accepted here. The Devil’s Churn Day Use area is accessible year-round, and a restroom is available.

11. Newport

Nestled in the heart of Oregon, Newport offers many opportunities to enjoy the sand and sun. Many attractions keep visitors busy, but there is still a small-town atmosphere that makes visiting enjoyable.

Newport Beach, OR – Nye Beach | Photo by Joe Mabel
Newport Beach, OR – Nye Beach | Photo by Joe Mabel

Some of my favorite places give you a chance to not only learn about the area but also to interact with it. The Oregon Coast Aquarium and Hatfield Marine Science Center top the list. Many natural areas take our breath away!

In the article “Top 10 Things to Do and See in Newport, OR,” you will learn about these attractions and many more. In addition, there are suggestions for where to stay while you enjoy all this city offers.

12. Depoe Bay

Otter Crest Loop

Winding just west of Highway 101, this 4.2-mile narrow stretch offers unique views along Cape Foulweather. A few small pull-offs allow you to get out of the car and take in the sites. Two must-do stops are Otter Crest State Wayside and Devil’s Punchbowl.

Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint

This Bay is named for the freighter J. Marhoffer, which wrecked off the point in 1910. To this day, its boiler is visible at low tide. In addition to its namesake, this location is a rugged, basalt-rimmed bay, making it a great spot for surfing.

 Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint
Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint | Photo by Finetooth

The Bay also has an amazing panoramic view, providing visitors with one of the best opportunities to spot gray whales year-round.

In addition, locals say this is one of the best places for bird watching along the coast. You can catch shearwaters, jaegers, albatrosses, grebes, pelicans, loons, oystercatchers, and other species.

13. Lincoln City

Lincoln City Glass Center

Have you ever wondered how glass art is made? If yes, then this is the place for you! You can observe glass-blowing demonstrations on Mondays and Tuesdays or sit and observe anytime.

If you want to participate, you can make an appointment Wednesday through Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm. There is also a gallery where you can purchase items made previously.

To make your project, you must make a reservation on their website. Projects vary in cost but start at $65. Children can participate if they are at least 8 years old and 46 inches tall. The typical project takes about half an hour to complete, so plan accordingly.

Since any glass project has to cool for 24 hours before it can be taken home, the Center allows you to ship your project back home for $15 and up, depending on size and destination.

Or, if you are staying in the area, you can drop it back by the next day and pick it up. Their website has more specific information and answers to frequently asked questions.

Roads End State Recreation Site

Many locals claim this is THE place to go if you want to take a romantic stroll along the beach. It is also a popular location for sailboarders due to the coastal winds that typically blow here. There are islands and even a hidden cove located within this Recreation area.

Roads End Point is at the beach's north end. Over time, lava has formed ragged islands here.

At low tide, you can get around the point to find the secret cove and beach hidden during high tide. Remember that you will be stuck here if you don’t get out before the tide returns!

Historic Taft District

Taft Historic District
Taft Historic District | Photo by Visitor7

Located on the southern end of town, this strip of land is home to many attractions, restaurants, and shopping venues and has easy access to Siletz Bay.

Along this stretch are art studios, a historical museum, and a surf shop that will get you set to enjoy the ocean. For more detailed information on the District, check out their website.

Finders Keepers

While this location isn’t specific, it is a unique feature of Lincoln City beaches. All seven miles of public beach have handcrafted glass floats (or balls) for visitors to find and keep.

The “Float Fairies” put out more than 3,000 treasures yearly, and more are placed each day that weather allows.

These floats are not hidden in difficult-to-find locations, so don’t hurt yourself while looking for your keepsake!

People find items throughout the day and all along the shore, so there isn’t a specific time or location to hunt. Check out their website for specifics and how to register your found treasure!

North Coast

14. Three Capes Scenic Drive (from Pacific City to Tillamook)

This easy 40-mile drive provides some of the most breathtaking views in north Oregon. There is ample signage, making the drive stress-free and one that many visitors can compare to a Sunday drive reminiscent of years gone by.

Following the coast, you will pass Cape Meares, Cape Kiwanda, and Cape Lookout. Each location has something special to offer you if you choose to stop. However, even if you don’t stop, this coastline stretch is amazing.

Cape Meares is filled with stunning sea cliffs and old-growth forests. This location has more than three miles of hiking trails. If you walk, visit the “Big Spruce” and “Octopus Tree.” There is also an iconic lighthouse dating back to 1889.

Cape Meares and the Three Arch Rocks
Cape Meares and the Three Arch Rocks | Photo by DimiTalen

Cape Kiwanda is known for having one of the best views of Haystack Rock.

Cape Lookout is located within a state park with hiking trails and waterfalls to admire. Beachcombing, whale spotting, and bird watching are popular activities here.

Many people claim this Lookout gives the farthest view of the coastline and is incredible in any weather.

15. Tillamook

If you enjoy Tillamook cheese, this is a stop you can’t miss! In addition to the famous creamery, there is a lot of history to take in at the Pioneer Museum and the Air Museum.

Oh, and of course, there are plenty of parks and scenic locations to enjoy while you are there.

Tillamook Creamery

In my post “7 Best Things to Do in Tillamook, Oregon,” I detail each of the popular attractions within the city. This city is one you can’t miss, especially on your trek along the Oregon coast. The post includes a couple of places you can stay while in the area.

16. Garibaldi

Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad

Extending from the Tillamook Air Museum through Garibaldi, Rockaway Beach, and Wheeler, this steam-powered locomotive offers riders an unmatched experience.

The views are spectacular, and everyone can enjoy them since nobody is driving! It runs right along the coast, parallel to Highway 101, from about mid-May through September.

Those aged 11 to 61 can enjoy the Coastal Excursion trip for $22, children from 3 to 10 years old are $14, and anyone under 3 is free. Additional discounts and routes are available; check their website for more detailed information.

17+18. Cannon Beach & Seaside

This is a little area that packs a big punch! The two cities are close together and offer numerous parks to explore. In addition to nature’s beauty, the Seaside Promenade is a wonderful location to soak up some local flavor.

Known as one of the Oregon Coast’s most recognizable attractions, Haystack Rock is one stop you have to make
Known as one of the Oregon Coast’s most recognizable attractions, Haystack Rock is one stop you have to make

Learn about our favorite parts of these two cities in my post “9 Best Things to Do in Cannon Beach & Seaside, Oregon.” In addition to the numerous attractions, I have included a couple of suggestions for where you could stay while here.

19. Warrenton

Peter Iredale Ship Wreck

The wreck of the Peter Iredale in the Fort Stevens State Park, Oregon, USA, at sunset. Ran aground in 1906.
The wreck of the Peter Iredale in the Fort Stevens State Park, Oregon, USA, at sunset. Ran aground in 1906. | Photo by Robert Bradshaw

Only four miles south of the Columbia River channel, the Peter Iredale ship ran ashore in 1906. Today, it is one of the most accessible shipwrecks along the coast.

During low tide, visitors can walk right up to the remains of this rotting sailing vessel. The site is on a public beach, so it is free to visit and open to the public year-round.

20. Astoria 

As you have realized by now, I love to visit the Oregon coast. Astoria is the diamond located at the top of this gem-filled coast. I haven’t been able to see and do all I want to in Astoria, but I plan to fix that someday soon.

Astoria-Megler Bridge, Astoria, Oregon
Astoria-Megler Bridge, Astoria, Oregon | Photo by Tom Collins

The area has historic locations, including the Astoria Column, the Maritime Museum, the Riverfront Trolley, and the Fort Clatsop National Memorial. In addition, the Cathedral Tree, a 300-year-old Sitka Spruce, is located there.

You can find my full list of things you have to check out while in the area in my post “10 Best Things to Do & See in Astoria, Oregon.” In addition to the numerous attractions, you will find my suggestions on where to stay while you are in the area.

Places to Stay along the Oregon Coast

Here are my suggestions on where to stay while touring the Oregon Coast. As always, I have used booking.com to do my research, and I strongly suggest you start using this site. In addition to being able to filter by location, you can filter by cost and guest ratings.

Therefore, it is a great way to ensure your stay is as great as you expect while still within your budget. For this list, I have given you a handful of options for each part of the coast.

These are considered great places to stay and won’t break the bank. To learn more about the location, click on the name, and you will be taken to its page on booking.com.

South Coast

Ocean Suites Motel is located in Brookings-Harbor, at the southern tip of Oregon. The beach and many local restaurants are within walking distance.

Taylor Creek Lodge is in Gold Beach and offers a sauna, fitness room, and hot tub. A shared lounge and water sports facilities are also available.

Lamplighter Inn is located in Bandon, right off Highway 101. It is only 1.4 miles from Coquille River Lighthouse and is close to many other attractions.

The Old Tower House Bed & Breakfast was built in Coos Bay in 1872. It is within walking distance of the beach and has fishing, crabbing, and whale-watching tours available to book.

Central Coast

Park Motel & Cabins is located in Florence. It offers barbecue facilities and laundry services on-site. Each room has a microwave and a refrigerator, so you can save money on eating out.

Deane’s Oceanfront Lodge is in Yachats and is located on 4 miles of oceanfront property. In addition, there is a shared lounge with DVDs, puzzles, games, and books available for guests to borrow during their stay.

Agate Beach Motel is located in Newport, just a little over a mile from Yaquina Head Lighthouse. The property has barbecue facilities and ovens in every room.

Looking Glass Inn is in Lincoln City, just a few steps from the beach. It is one of the top-rated locations in Lincoln City as well as being considered a great value.

North Coast

Surf & Sand Inn is located in Pacific City. It has a private garden and concierge service. As a privately owned location, it is a break from the typical chain hotels.

Tradewinds Motel is in Rockaway Beach, near miles of sandy beaches. Each guest room has a private balcony, microwave, and refrigerator.

Sea Breeze Court is a 100% non-smoking hotel located in the heart of Cannon Beach’s city center. Each room has a microwave and refrigerator.

Sandy Cove Inn is in Seaside, a short walk from the beach. Each room has a mini-fridge and is decorated uniquely charmingly (according to those who have stayed there!).

Norblad Hotel is in a historical building in Astoria. It offers a shared kitchen and a tour desk to help guests plan their stay.

How long should the Oregon Coast Road Trip take you?

That's an excellent question. At the bare minimum, I would say two days. That's pretty much how long it will take you to drive along the 101 from Brookings to Astoria while making three to four short stops every day.

We've spent 8 days exploring the Oregon Coast and don't feel we've had enough. This is a perfect destination for a family vacation. We once rented a place in Newport for five days. Another time, we stopped for 3 days in Manzanita.

That gave us more time to explore the state parks in-depth and hike. I can't recommend it enough if you can afford it.

How much should a trip to the Oregon Coast cost?

One of the greatest aspects of visiting Oregon is that the vast majority of the state parks and beaches are free to the public and open to visitors all year. Most state parks charge an entrance fee, and with so many state parks along the coast, this helps to save you quite a bit of money along your journey!

Some parks have additional costs due to attractions located within the park boundaries; that information is included below. When visiting any of the beaches, be sure to check the tide pool schedule to make sure you time your visit right. In addition, any specific hours of operation that vary from the year-round day use will be outlined in the description of the attraction.

All you need to add is the cost of gas and accommodation, which will vary depending on how many days you'd like to spend road-tripping along the coast.

Over to you!

Have you made it thus far? Well done! This was one long post to write, so please comment if you made it through.

Let me know what you think of these destinations. Which have you visited? What did you think of them? Which would you like to include in a future itinerary? I love comments and questions from blog readers, so bring them on!

20 Must-See Places Along the Oregon Coast (Super Detailed Guide!)

 
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8 Comments

  1. We are headed to Olympic National Park and the Oregon Coast in July. Thank you so much! Very good information.

  2. FANTASTICO! I’ll visit this Oregon coast this October 2022 for sure. Thank you so much for your long and very well described article. So helpful and so enticing indeed!

  3. This is the most comprehensive list I have ever seen. Thank you so much for putting this together. We are hoping to visit Oregon next Spring; however, it will be in early March and I’m wondering if that’s even a good time to do it or if we should wait until Summer. Also, my only question is about places to eat along the way. My daughter is a culinary science student so food is usually a big part of any trip we do. Are there accessible places to eat? Any must not miss places? I know on the east cost the lobster and crab shacks are dotted around very abundantly.

    • Hi Rosemary,
      I think early March would be a hit or miss, in terms of rain. Typically, along the coast the temperatures are cool all year around without getting super cold in winter. Rain would be the issue, and it’s just hard to tell in advance. I would go for it – with the off-season prices you could probably find some accommodation bargains along the way!
      I’m not sure about places to eat, sorry! Not much of a foodie, myself. I would just use TripAdvisor and similar apps to find places to eat around me. Even Google Maps has good listings, with reviews.
      Enjoy your trip!

  4. This post is amazing! We are going for Spring Break this year and planning on staying at a few Sate Parks (we have a truck camper and Grandpa can stay in a yurt).

    This lost will be very helpful! I saw somewhere else I,go about the Oregon Coast Quests. We thing our boys will love these challenges through the trip.

  5. Those dunes are not in Reedsport they are in North Bend, I recognize that exact spot in the ‘Oregon Dunes National Recreation area’. Mislabeled the location. Otherwise, this is an excellent list✌

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