Summer is the ideal season for an outdoor adventure-themed trip down the Oregon Coast. We’ll head west to Tillamook, then turn south on Highway 101, passing through Pacific City, Depoe Bay and Newport, before ending in Florence. Along the way, you’ll experience one of the world’s most beautiful, rugged coastlines that’s home to magical trails, historic lighthouses, and unique features that can be found nowhere else.
Before you start packing your bags, here’s everything you need to know about the area and our insider recommendations.
Drive time: ~4 hours (not including stops)
🌊 Things to do
Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area
The pounding waves are constantly changing the shape of this sandstone headland just north of Pacific City. Climb up the towering dune — but don’t go beyond the safety fence — for majestic views, then spend the evening back on the beach to watch the sun sink below Chief Kiwanda Rock.
Storms in the late 1990s uncovered the remains of an ancient Sitka spruce forest on the beach, best seen at low tide. Look for small fish + crabs in the water that pools around the petrified stumps, and if the water is low enough, climb a short trail to the top of Proposal Rock.
Oregon’s tallest lighthouse was built in 1872. You can take a tour up its 114 steps, explore the nearby Cobble Beach tidepools + see one of the West Coast’s largest nesting colonies of common murre seabirds.
Towering 800 ft above sea level, this viewpoint is a must-see. Walk in the footsteps of people who explored these forests at least 6,000 years ago by trying one of the dozen nearby trails, or brush shoulders with the God of Thunder at Thor’s Well.
Park at the China Creek Trailhead, then follow the trail post signs down a short but scenic hike to Hobbit Beach. Just before the trail spits you out onto the sand, you’ll pass through a whimsical tunnel formed by windswept coastal trees.
Hundreds of Steller sea lions make their home in North America’s largest sea cave, which you have to pay to visit. Buy a ticket at the gift shop along Highway 101, then take an elevator 200 ft down to the viewing area + prepare your ears for crashing waves and barking pinnipeds.
Get to know the sand dunes that inspired Frank Herbert’s epic sci-fi fantasy by taking a lesson at the world’s first sandboard park.
🐟 Eat + drink
The Riverhouse Nestucca | 34450 Brooten Rd., Pacific City
This cozy spot with river views may look unassuming, but the food is worth a stop. Customers rave about the steak, fish + chips, gluten-free calamari, and Dungeness crab mac ‘n cheese.
Whale Bites Cafe | 234 US-101, Depoe Bay
Try a dolled-up brunch dish like the homemade biscuits + gravy or a bagel topped with fresh, locally smoked salmon. If you’re stopping for lunch, you can’t go wrong with a cup of soup or a French dip sandwich.
Clearwater Restaurant | 325 SW Bay Blvd., Newport
Watch the water + the local sea lions sunning themselves on the dock over a plate of rock cod tacos, a tuna melt, or pan-fried oysters. Wash it down with a craft beer on draught.
Luna Sea Fish House | 153 US-101, Yachats
Sure, you’ve had fish and chips — but the halibut version here is on another level. Another seafood staple done right? The clam chowder. Pro tip: You’re in the town of YAH-hots.
The Hukilau | 185 US-101, Florence
Let’s keep the seafood theme rolling at this Pacific-fusion restaurant that serves massive sushi rolls with creative themes. Treat yourself to a tropical cocktail after that long drive.
🏡 Stay
Vrbo Large Ocean View Home | Oceanside
With four bedrooms in the main home + an additional bedroom in the optional guest quarters for a total capacity of 14 people, this location is perfect for large groups or family get-togethers. Plus, it’s just a few minutes’ walk from the beach, restaurants, and coffee shops.
Hart’s Camp | 33145 Webb Park Rd., Pacific City
Park your own wheels here or stay in one of the on-site Airstreams for a luxury glamping experience. Each RV site has a campfire ring + there’s a common area with a gazebo and yard games like giant Jenga.
Beverly Beach State Park | 198 NE 123rd St., Newport
One of Oregon’s largest campgrounds is perched along a forest creek, just steps from the beach. You’ll find rentable yurts, public restrooms + showers, picnic shelters, and a playground.
Vrbo Oceanfront Cottage | Depoe Bay
Soak up some sun from the large deck or watch the waves from the outdoor hot tub. Dogs are welcome here.
Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park | Florence
Race down the sand dunes surrounding Cleawox Lake, fish for native cutthroat trout, build sandcastles near the shore, and go for a swim — if you don’t mind chilly water.
🚗 Cruise
No matter where the highway takes you, our road trip must-haves will ease your journey as you make your way to your destination.
- With more than 23,000 location-based audio stories, Autio’s Unlimited Plan: Lifetime Subscription is your perfect companion offering mini podcasts about the history, culture, and geology of areas you drive through.
- You’ll stay fully charged up and connected with this 4-in-1 retractable car charger that has iPhone compatibility and secure plug-in capability.
- Rock a comfortable sweatshirt and pants set for the road featuring a cozy elastic waistband and side-seamed pockets to store your valuables.
- Keep your tailbone supported during lengthy drives with a thick memory foam cushion that is machine washable and gives complete postural support.
- Avoid getting stranded with a dead battery by packing this portable car jump starter that gives up to 50 jumps in a single charge — no flagging down a stranger needed.
- Easy to clean and leak-proof, this collapsible car trash can gives you 2 gallons of storage capacity to keep your vehicle free from clutter.
