Oregon Coast

Driving the 101 south offers much to see and things to experience along the way.

Seaside

Seaside offers many ocean access points. We prefer the ones north of Seaside which tend to be less crowded. If you need a lunch stop, Bell Buoy has wonderful fish and chips with outdoor seating which is great if you have a dog with you.

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is famous for the well-known landmark of Haystack Rock. At low tide you'll find many sea creatures and colorful sea stars aka star fish as us older generation know them as. 

Elk Siting

Our first encounter with elk was driving South of Ecola State Park. They were grazing on the hill and are much larger than they seem in photos.

Cape Meares State Park

The Scenic Viewpoint is 200 ft above the ocean. During the summer you can spot whales and sea lions. You can also tour the tiny lighthouse.

Otter Rock

This viewpoint offers spectacular views at 500 ft above the ocean. Whale watching is popular in this area.

Newport Harbor

Newport is our favorite Oregon coastal town. We enjoy walking the harbor and checking out the boats. There are many restaurants that offer tasty seafood. Local Ocean Seafoods is our favorite place to eat in Newport. Crab cakes are a must and the daily specials are great.

Yachats & Florence Area

Around this area is a good place to find campsites. There are some smaller sites not on the coast but usually has better availability or are a first come first serve basis. 

Battle Rock Wayside

This is a wonderful spot to stop for a picnic lunch.

Rockaway Beach

Here you can spot the Twin Rocks and grab a bite to eat at the Old Oregon Smokehouse. It isn't fancy but has decent seafood.

Cape Lookout State Park

This state park is a massive campground with 170 tent sites and 38 hook-up sites. During the summer the sites tend to be completely booked on the weekends so plan ahead.

Yaquina Head Lighthouse

The Yaquina Bay is a definite must stop. Check out the visitor center and take a tour of the lighthouse. Sea lions frequent the beach.

Oregon Coast Aquarium

If you have the time, stop by the Oregon Coast Aquarium. It's well done and a fun way to learn more about the Pacific ocean. Fun fact - this aquarium was home to Keiko, the orca who starred in Free Willy from 1996 - 1998.

Cape Perpetua Area

This area has a wonderful visitor center and trails to explore. Be sure to check out Devil's Churn and Thor's Well. More photos can be found on our site here. 

Gold Beach

We have watched many gorgeous sunsets from the Southern Oregon coast. The rocky coast make for a perfect backdrop.

Tillamook

Ever been to a cheese factory? If not, head inland to the Tillamook Cheese Factory for a tour and cheese sampling. Get some ice cream if you need something sweet. 

Cape Kiawanda State Natural Area

Here is where the coast begins to change. This is one of the best places to experience spectacular wave action. 

Yaquina Bay Low Tide

We could spend hours climbing about the rocks exploring the sea creatures. 

Seal Rock

Seal Rock is located between Newport and Waldport. The Seal Rock refers to the one large rock that is about 20 ft above the water. This use to be the site where hundreds of seals and sea lions would rest. Take some time to walk the beach.

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

Here you'll see windswept sand dunes with some dunes towering up to 500 ft above sea level. This area is great for off-road vehicle use. If camping close be sure to bring eye plugs.

Brookings

Climb around the cliff and take in a sunset in this area.