Must-visit places on the Oregon coast

Discover the must-visit destinations along the Oregon coast, from charming seaside towns to breathtaking natural landscapes. Explore sandy beaches, rugged sea cliffs, and historic lighthouses offering spectacular views. This guide will help you plan your road trip, highlighting the best coastal towns and outdoor activities. Find perfect spots for whale watching, hiking, and beach adventures. Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty and rich maritime culture of this iconic region.

487100% verified
  1. 1

    Tillamook Creamery (Tillamook, Oregon)

    166 Global Votes
    • Offers guided tours about cheesemaking

      (+4)

    This famous dairy factory is one of Oregon's most visited attractions, offering the opportunity to learn about the region's dairy heritage and enjoy cheese and ice cream tastings.

  2. 2

    Haystack Rock (Cannon Beach, Oregon)

    80 Global Votes
    • Iconic landmark on the Oregon Coast

      (+4)

    This iconic sea stack is one of Oregon's most recognizable landmarks and a very popular tourist destination. It is ideal for wildlife viewing, including tufted puffins, and exploring tide pools.

  3. 3

    Devils Punchbowl State Natural Area (Otter Rock, Oregon)

    41 Global Votes
    • Scenic picnic spot

      (+4)

    This circular rock formation is a fascinating place to observe the ocean's power, as waves rush in and create a 'foaming brew' during high tide. It is ideal for picnics, surfing, and tide pooling.

  4. 4

    Heceta Head Lighthouse (Florence, Oregon)

    35 Global Votes
    • Iconic tower

      (+2)

    This historic lighthouse is a classic stop on an Oregon coast road trip, offering interior tours and stunning ocean views. Its picturesque location makes it a very photogenic spot.

  5. 5

    Yaquina Head Lighthouse (Newport, Oregon)

    30 Global Votes
    • Historic beacon guiding ships

      (+4)

    This is Oregon's tallest lighthouse, operational since 1873, and offers spectacular panoramic views. It is an excellent place for observing seabirds and wildlife in general, combining history and nature.

  6. All the rankings you can imagine

    Thousands of verified votes to discover the best. Your vote here counts

  7. 6

    Wreck of the Peter Iredale (Hammond, Oregon)

    26 Global Votes
    • Fascinating shipwreck to see

      (+4)

    The rusted remains of this steel sailing vessel, which ran aground in 1906, are a historic and photogenic site that has remained visible on the beach for over a century. It offers a tangible connection to the coast's maritime history.

  8. 7

    Ecola State Park (Cannon Beach, Oregon)

    24 Global Votes
    • Offers incredible scenery

      (+4)

    This park offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, secluded coves, and forested headlands, making it ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing. Its trails, such as the Clatsop Loop Trail, are highly appreciated by visitors.

  9. 8

    Thor's Well (Yachats, Oregon)

    22 Global Votes
    • Spectacular and jaw-dropping natural feature

      (+4)

    This natural phenomenon is one of the most spectacular attractions on the Oregon coast, offering a dramatic visual spectacle where the ocean appears to be 'swallowed' by a sinkhole. It is a very popular spot for photography, especially during high tide.

  10. 9

    Shore Acres State Park (Charleston, Oregon)

    18 Global Votes
    • Steeped in Oregon Coast History

      (+4)

    This park is famous for its lush gardens that bloom almost year-round and for its spectacular ocean views, especially during storms. It is also known for its impressive holiday lights.

  11. 10

    Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area (Florence and Coos Bay, Oregon)

    17 Global Votes
    • Offers a one-of-a-kind landscape of shifting sands

      (+4)

    This is the largest expanse of coastal sand dunes in North America, offering unique opportunities for adventure and relaxation. It is ideal for activities like sandboarding and horseback riding.

  12. 11

    Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (Brookings, Oregon)

    14 Global Votes
    • Features craggy bluffs

      (+4)

    This stretch of rugged coastline is famous for its arched rock formations, small tree-covered islands, and natural bridges. It offers dramatic landscapes and unique photography opportunities in a more remote and wild setting.

  13. 12

    Cape Perpetua (Yachats, Oregon)

    8 Global Votes
    • Offers ridiculous views

      (+4)

    As the highest point on the Oregon coast, it offers panoramic views that can span over 100 kilometers. Additionally, it hosts multiple coastal phenomena such as Thor's Well and Cook's Chasm, making it a very comprehensive destination.

  14. 13

    Hug Point State Recreation Site (Cannon Beach, Oregon)

    5 Global Votes
    • Easy beach access

      (+4)

    This site offers a historical glimpse into how people traveled along the coast with its ancient road carved into the cliff, in addition to a picturesque waterfall. It's an interesting stop to explore history and natural beauty.

  15. 14

    Neskowin Ghost Forest (Neskowin, Oregon)

    1 Global Votes
    • Features ancient stumps over 2,000 years old

      (+4)

    This unusual and mysterious natural wonder reveals 2,000-year-old tree stumps during low tide. It offers a unique experience for geology and natural history enthusiasts, especially in winter.

  16. 15

    Depoe Bay (Depoe Bay, Oregon)

    0 Global Votes
    • Celebrated for whale watching

      (+4)

    Known as the 'whale watching capital of the world,' Depoe Bay is an excellent place to spot gray whales, as a pod resides there much of the year. It is also famous for having the world's smallest navigable harbor.

  17. 16

    Astoria (Astoria, Oregon)

    0 Global Votes
    • Features the Astoria Column

      (+4)

    This historic city at the mouth of the Columbia River is known for its rich maritime history and shipwreck relics. It offers museums like the Columbia River Maritime Museum and is a charming starting point for exploring the north coast.