You don’t need to be a lifelong Oregonian to understand the appeal of an epic Oregon coast road trip. Far from it.
Highway 101 is no stranger to Americans from all over the country. This stretch of breathtaking coastline speaks for itself, especially during the summer months.
Full of irresistible small towns and epic scenery, the Oregon coast is known for being moody and gray year-round (which only adds to the alluring mystique). But there’s a higher chance of clear skies during summer, which is when the area swells with locals and visitors alike.
While I can’t guarantee sunshine, I can share an incredible Oregon road trip itinerary designed to inspire your next adventure. Let’s get to it!
Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary
(Table of Contents)
How to use this Oregon Coast Road Trip Guide
The beauty of any good road trip is that it welcomes you to leave some things to chance. As such, this Oregon coast road trip itinerary includes some important “hubs” like larger towns with food and lodging (and some hikes), while giving you enough breathing room to add stops that interest you specifically.
This guide following Highway 101 starting in the north and ending in the south (spanning the entire 362-mile length of the coastline). And while a hearty sense of adventure is a must for every road trip, a loose itinerary makes things a bit more enjoyable.
I’ve segmented this guide into three sections to make planning easier: north, central, and southern Oregon coast.
So, whether you plan to use this as a one week Oregon coast itinerary or a simple 3 day Oregon coast road trip, you’ll be able to pick and choose the spots that interest you most. Feel free to pick and choose whatever piques your curiosity and don’t hesitate to reach out in the comments with questions, I’m here to help!
Northern Oregon Coast Road Trip Stops
- Highway Mile Markers: 1-90
- Travel Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Recommended Duration: 1-3 days
#1. Astoria
Standing in the northern-most tip of the state, our great Oregon coast road trip starts in the bustling town of Astoria. Oozing charm, the city has the lion’s share of the best breweries at the Oregon coast, making it an easy first stop after a long drive from Portland.
Beer aside, the town has plenty to offer. The Astoria Sunday Market (open May-October) is prime for fresh local produce and unique arts, crafts, and gifts. It’s also nice to stroll through the quaint neighborhoods full of pastel-hued Victorian homes.
If you’re keen on hiking, check out the Cathedral Hill trail. The hike begins in a neighborhood and leads through an old growth forest up to the Astoria Column (a giant pillar atop the tallest hill in the city). From this viewpoint, admire the incredible Astoria-Megler Bridge that spans the bay between Oregon and Washington.
After that, head over to Fort Stevens State Park (one of the prettiest state parks in Oregon) to explore the most iconic shipwreck on the Oregon coast, the Wreck of Peter Iredale. If you’re a history buff, adding this stretch to your Oregon coast road trip itinerary is a no-brainer.
You may enjoy reading: 10+ Best Things to Do in Astoria, Oregon.
#2. Seaside
After you get your fill of Astoria, head 17 miles south to Seaside. Seaside may feel like a tourist trap to some, but as someone that grew up playing at Funland Seaside Arcade and enjoying too much ice cream from Zingers Ice Cream, I think it’s a great spot to visit during a road trip to the Oregon Coast.
A mere 30-minute drive from Astoria, Seaside marks the official end of the Lewis & Clark trail. It’s a fun little town full of kitschy shops, a scenic boardwalk and long stretches of sandy shoreline.
This is also a great place for kids because there’s tons of family-friendly attractions to choose from, such as the Seaside Aquarium (where you can feed the seals) and the carousel at Seaside Carousel Mall.
If you’re hungry for lunch, swing by Grizzly Tuna for fish tacos. Afterwards, stroll along the boardwalk and soak up the ocean views.
#3. Gearheart Beach
Gearhart is an unassuming gem that sits in the shadow of Seaside. With a population of 1,500, the town has a single stoplight, blink and you’ll miss it.
Make an effort to see Gearheart Beach when you’re passing through on highway 101. Especially if you need to stretch your legs before embarking further on your Oregon coast road trip.
Unlike the towering cliffs and jigsaw-like coves outlining much of the rest of the Oregon coast, this beach is a delightful 8-mile stretch of soft, fine sand sloping into the gently rolling ocean.
You’ll access the beach by parking at a dead-end down Pacific Way (turn right at the lone stop light). Take a short walk through the tall grasses waving over picture-perfect sand hills lining the shore.
Once on the beach you can stroll north, though beware that vehicles are allowed to be driven on the sands that lie that way. Head south to find the mouth of the Necanicum River flowing into the sea, and look further south for a glimpse of Haystack Rock, the giant icon of the Oregon Coast.
There’s also a great chance of seeing Roosevelt elk herds lounging on the grassy knolls, so keep your eyes peeled (while keeping a safe and respectful distance).
Local’s Tip: Gearhart Beach is one of the best places in Oregon to find sand dollars. We’ve also come across whelk, mussel, and clam shells here, as well as plenty of washed up Dungeness crabs.
#4. Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach is the unequivocal darling of the Oregon coast. Renowned for being one of the most beautiful beaches in the country, it’s not hard to see why.
From iconic Haystack Rock looming offshore to the charming city streets lined with shops and restaurants, Cannon Beach is the definitive beachgoer’s destination. I recently rounded up the most charming towns at the Oregon coast and you better believe Cannon Beach topped the list.
Check out Ecola State Park for some top-notch hiking trails and beaches. Hungry? Swing by the deck at Pelican Brewing, a family friendly joint serving classic pub fare alongside great brews.
You might enjoy reading: 15 Fun Things To Do In Cannon Beach, Oregon
#5. Hug Point & Oswald West State Park
As you continue south along the highway from Cannon Beach you’ll quickly reach signs for Hug Point and Oswald West State Park. These two stops are non-negotiable on any proper Oregon coast road trip guide.
During low tide you can access Hug Point’s fantastic tide pools and witness the seasonal waterfalls that cascade from the bluffs.
Oswald West is accessible most of the time even at high tide, and is one of my favorite places to stretch my legs while enjoying the Oregon coast. A short hike through coastal forest will take you to the shore of a small cove situated between two imposing headlands.
You can hike to the jutting points of each cliff, or hang back on the lovely secluded beach. Both are excellent options at this beautiful and little-known side stop.
#6. Tillamook
To round out the first portion of this Oregon coast road trip guide, I suggest you reward yourself with treats from Tillamook Creamery, located in the town of, you guessed it, Tillamook.
The headquarters for some of the best dairy in the state, the creamery dishes out generous cheese samples and delicious ice cream flavors.
If you have time to spare, guided tours provide insight on how the magic happens. Tour or not, order some scoops on a freshly-made waffle cone and enjoy the quick break before continuing your road trip down the Oregon coast.
Local’s Tip: From Tillamook, you’ll have the option to take a detour along the Three Capes Scenic Route, which adds a little bit more time, but is way more interesting than the humdrum highway. This 35-mile loop takes you to three separate headlands, offering dramatic vantage points of the ocean below.
#7. Pacific City
Of all the Oregon coast towns I’ve grown to love over the years, Pacific City feels like the most peaceful of the bunch. Visit Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area and hike to the top of the dune field if you’re feeling adventurous, it’s one of my favorite hikes at the Oregon coast. Afterwards, pop into Pelican Brewery for delicious brews and breathtaking views of the sea.
Central Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary
- Highway Mile Markers: 91-186
- Travel Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Recommended Duration: 2-3 Days
The central portion of the coast feels quite different from the northern leg. While the north coast is dominated by wide open beaches and development, the terrain begins to get more rugged and remote as we journey further into the central and southern regions of the coastline.
Expansive beaches are interrupted by imposing basalt headlands and craggy bluffs; remnants of volcanic activity shaping the region in eons past. Many more state parks and hiking opportunities through the increasingly lush swaths of coast forest can be found in this region, as well as ample places to enjoy a range of outdoor recreation activities.
I recommend planning extra time while traveling around the central coast to take in the natural spaces surrounding the area, many of which require short detours off the highway.
#8. Neskowin
One of my favorite stops along the central coast is Neskowin, the beach famous for its ghosts! Not literal ghosts, of course, but the unique ghostlike remnants of an old forest along the shore.
About 100 stumps of Sitka spruce trees can be seen squatting in the sand during low tide, the collection of which locals have dubbed the “ghost forest.”
These stumps have been transformed by tides over hundreds of years and are now covered in barnacles and marine plant life. While the ghost forest is a draw for many photographers (and curious visitors), the beach itself is beautiful too.
Proposal Rock looms over the shoreline, and there’s a headland jutting out from the south end of the beach. The bases of both of these structures reveal tide pools teeming with ocean life, so check the tide charts and time your visit appropriately, it’s a treat to experience these tide pools in their full glory.
You may enjoy reading: 10 Epic Tide Pools at the Oregon Coast (Worth the Detour)
#9. Depoe Bay & Lincoln City
After you’ve spent part of your day frolicking on the sand at Neskowin, you’ve probably worked up an appetite. Thankfully both Depoe Bay and Lincoln City have excellent dinning options.
Enjoy some fish n’ chips or clam chowder on the deck overlooking the ocean at Mo’s in Lincoln City or Gracie’s Sea Hag in Depoe Bay. I also like to stop for Thai food at Thai Bay in Depoe Bay when I’m in the area. Stomachs full, head over to the shore for some of the best whale watching at the Oregon coast.
It’s true! Both cities are known for being the best places on the coast to catch sight of Gray whales as they migrate close to shore in spring and fall. Depoe Bay has resident Gray whales, meaning there’s a good chance you’ll be able to spot one any time of year.
Stop by Depoe Bay’s helpful Whale Watching Center to learn more about these wonderful mammals and how to see them for yourself.
#10. Fogarty Creek State Recreation Area
As you continue south on your Oregon coast road trip, don’t hesitate to stop at any pullouts you see, whale sightings can happen virtually anywhere along the coast. Case in point: Fogarty Creek.
Fogarty Creek offers a lovely creekside park setting with picnic tables tucked among thickets of salal and salmonberry bushes. A small creek runs through the area with a short trail following alongside it out to the beach. On the sand there are formidable rock formations and ample space to play, relax, or take a stroll for shells and agates.
As such, no list of the best things to see on an Oregon coast road trip is complete without mentioning this gem.
Just a few minutes south on the highway will lead you to Beverly Beach, one of the best campgrounds at the Oregon coast. There’s a few small hiking trails that weave through the park and provide easy access to the large beach.
#11. Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area
Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area is easily one of the most interesting stops on an Oregon coast road trip. Not only will you be able to stand at the foot of the largest lighthouse in Oregon, but the views across the sparkling ocean from the top of this headland are striking.
Couple this with the interesting wildlife in the area and you’ve got a few hours spoken for. Cobble Beach trades sandy surfaces for smooth rocks, a rather rare discovery on an otherwise sandy shoreline.
My favorite thing about this particular beach is the sound the waves make when they creep up on the shore, almost like a rain stick or wind chimes as the water trickles through the rocks on its way back out to sea.
If you’re hoping to see sea lions at the Oregon coast, park yourself on the shore and give it some time. I’ve seen dozens here at once. This is also a hot-spot with shore birds who perch on the nearby sea stacks, including oystercatchers and common murres.
You may enjoy reading: 11 Iconic Lighthouses at the Oregon Coast.
#12. Newport & Yachats
The next major stop on our Oregon road trip guide is the famous city of Newport. Newport is probably best known for its aquarium, and while that’s a fine detour if it interests you, there’s plenty of other things to see in the area. Swing by Rogue Brewery or try your hand at crabbing off the public docks.
Head a little further south to Yachats where you can stop along random waysides to comb the beach for agates, petrified wood and interesting rocks. Try to arrive in Yachats on an empty stomach, because Luna Sea Fish House has some of the best fish and chips you’ll fave during your road trip along the Oregon coast.
After lunch, burn off some calories while exploring tide pools or taking in the ocean views. My favorite pullout is the Strawberry Hill Wayside where you can walk down some stone steps to the sand to admire the powerful waves crashing among the volcanic cliffs.
#13. Thor’s Well & Cape Perpetua
After leaving Yachats you’ll start seeing signs for Cape Perpetua, which is another non-negotiable viewpoint on this Oregon road trip guide.
Cape Perpetua is one of the most breathtaking sights along the coast, and if you manage to catch it on a sunny day feel free to buy a lottery ticket on me (it’s clearly your lucky day).
You can choose to hike to the top (if you have something to prove) but we usually just drive to the top. Take some time soaking up the epic ocean views before making your way back down to Highway 101, bracing to pop into a nearby pullout to visit Thor’s Well.
If you’re a photographer, Thor’s Well probably needs no introduction. This is one of the most photographed spots on the coast, especially at high tide. The salty seawater streams in and out of the hole with such fervor your won’t be able to look away.
But word of caution — some visitors head down to the rock face to get a closer look, I’d caution against getting too close (and always wear sturdy closed-toe shoes).
#14. Florence
Florence is one of the most charming towns at the coast. We couldn’t believe how quaint it felt — from the lovely main street, called Bay Street, to the great dining options — we ended up staying an extra day because we found the town so alluring.
The natural wonders in this area are something else! Make sure to swing by the Sea Lion Caves — the largest sea cave in America inhabited by sea lions (spring and winter are the best seasons to visit).
On your way out of town, make an effort to see Heceta Head Lighthouse, the most photographed lighthouse in Oregon (for good reason).
Quick side trip idea: Spare 20 minutes to see the extremely rare carnivorous plants growing in a bog at the Darlingtonia Natural Wayside just a quick turn off the highway. You won’t find these on a random hike, so enjoy these nearly-extinct beauties while you’re here.
#15. Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
Dunes City opens up into the wild and wonderful world of, well, dunes! From here all the way 65 miles south to Bandon you’ll be greeted with 55 miles of dunes. That’s a lot of sand!
In fact, this is the the largest expanse of coastal dunes in the country, and one of the largest temperate coastal sand dunes in the entire world. Once you arrive in this segment of the coast you’ll have full access to all of these miles of beautiful dune habitat to explore, most of which lies within the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.
A seemingly endless span of shoreline rolling between dunes is open here, allowing visitors to enjoy hiking, beach-combing, riding OHV’s, fishing, and crabbing (and basically any other beachy pastime you can think of!).
If you plan to spend a day here there are numerous tent camping, hotel, and RV camp options in and around the Oregon Dunes Rec Area.
Southern Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary
- Highway Mile Markers: 187-321
- Travel Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Recommended Duration: 2-3 Days
Way down in the southernmost parts of the coast, the area begins to take on an air of mystery. As we venture through a windswept landscape shrouded in fine-grained sand dunes and ethereal mist, the largely undeveloped landscape feels foreign and intriguing.
This part of my Oregon coast road trip guide offers countless miles of hiking trails and large sandy beaches. Many people claim the southern coast has some of the most gob-smacking scenery on the entire coast. Decide for yourself as you spend a couple of days immersed in this magical, and often overlooked, region of Oregon.
#16. Bandon
We’re well on our way to the last few cities on our road trip along the Oregon coast, but rest assured: the best is yet to come! Once you reach the small town of Bandon you’ll start to notice that the crowds are sparse and the views are plenty.
With a slew of beaches, state parks, and hiking trails further inland, this part of the Oregon coast road trip offers the highest chance of solitude.
Whether that means sitting quietly on the sand watching the waves ebb and flow or gazing up at the ancient canopies of thickly-growing spruce along cliff-hugging hiking trails, peaceful memories await.
While you’re in town, visit the Bandon Marsh for some bird-watching then hit up Tony’s Crab Shack for some delicious fresh seafood.
There are tons of dining options in Bandon’s Old Town which is worth taking some time to stroll through–the shops are charming. It’s also a good idea to check out both Cape Arago State Park and Face Rock State Park to photograph the famous sea stacks that lurch up from the sea in sharp, abstract formation whittled over centuries by the elements.
You might enjoy reading: 15 BEST Things to Do in Bandon, Oregon (Local’s Guide)
#17. Gold Beach
Venture further south along the highway toward Gold Beach. Along the way you’ll come across Blacklock Point in Floras Lake State Natural Area, one of the most remote areas of the southern Oregon Coast.
Beginning at the tiny Cape Blanco airport, you’ll walk a couple of miles through scrubby woods, gain some elevation into fir and pine forest before ending up on an open cape peering over the sea.
From here you can find the trails going down to the black sand beach. This trek is probably best for older children and well-behaved dogs, as it’s more of a serene hike than an exciting “something to see at every turn” sort of adventure.
Puttering a few more highway miles, you’ll reach the small town of Gold Beach. Here you’ll find a smattering of dining options including Hunter Creek Bar & Grill or Port Hole Cafe for burgers & fries.
Ariya’s Beach is a great place to enjoy the coastal views, make sure to check out Kissing Rock, a sweet rock formation that resembles two faces kissing.
#18. Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor
Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor is one of the most beautiful spots on the Oregon coast. You’ll inevitably drive through this special span of highway on your way to the end of your journey, but pointing it out in this guide was a must.
This scenic corridor was preserved by a former state park officer who recognized the striking natural beauty of these hills, cliffs, and shorelines. The corridor measures just under 20 miles and has numerous well-marked pullouts where road trippers can stop their cars to get a closer look at the scenery.
Step out of the car at any viewpoint or take some short hikes at a handful of viewpoints with beach access. Towering sea stacks, secret coves, and delicate footpaths weave through the emerald understory of this lush coastal forest.
#19. Brookings
It’ll be difficult to agree to get back into the car after taking in so much natural beauty, and by all means, let the corridor be your last stop on the Oregon coast road trip if you please!
However, if you’ve still got some energy left to tackle the last few miles of our epic Oregon coast road trip, I’m here to cheer you on. The sleepy town of Brookings lies waiting with a warm welcome of serene beaches, quiet eateries, and plenty more panoramic vistas of the seascape to revel in.
Cruise to the Port of Brookings Harbor for restaurants, our favorite being Zola’s for some tasty pizza with lovely harbor views. You may consider camping at Harris Beach State Park or Loeb State Park before beginning your journey back home.
What a whirlwind trip! We hope this guide has inspired you to pack your bags and hit the road for some serious exploration of Oregon’s wondrously unique coastline.
#20. Hike the Redwood Nature Trailhead
My husband and I often joke that you don’t need to leave Oregon to experience 10+ different national parks. And it’s true! Many folks don’t realize that southern Oregon has a healthy grove of Redwood trees.
Having spent a ton of time at Redwoods National Park, we were absolutely enthralled to discover this incredible hike while taking a road trip on the Oregon coast last summer. Found in the Siskiyou National Forest (near Brookings) the Redwood Nature Trail is one of the best spots to see redwoods in Oregon.
The short 1-mile trail meanders past a stunning grove of small to medium-growth redwoods peppered alongside Douglas-Fir. Definitely worth the small effort.
Further Reading: 3 Scenic Spots to Find Redwood Trees in Oregon
Oregon Coast Road Trip Guide (Post Summary)
In sum, here’s a list of the best spots to see at the Oregon Coast
- Astoria
- Seaside
- Gearheart
- Cannon Beach
- Hug Point & Oswald West State Park
- Tillamook
- Pacific City
- Neskowin
- Depoe Bay & Lincoln City
- Fogarty Creek State Recreation Area
- Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area
- Newport & Yachats
- Thor’s Well & Cape Perpetua
- Florence
- Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
- Depoe Bay
- Bandon
- Gold Beach
- Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor
- Brookings
- Redwood Nature Trailhead
Map of best things to see at the Oregon Coast
We can’t think of anything that instills quite the same sense of freedom and adventure as a good road trip, even if it’s only for a day or two.
Wandering the open highway, stopping wherever and whenever we feel like it, discovering new places full of exciting food and bright coastal scenery…now that’s the ideal way to vacation. Especially if it’s an incredible Oregon coast road trip.
Long car rides, hours to talk and laugh with your favorite road trip pals, and that ever-so-exciting thrill of being a little outside your comfort zone while still knowing that the road will lead you to places more wild and wonderful than you ever could have imagined.
Cheers!