The Oregon Coast
We’ve compiled the best of the best in The Oregon Coast - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
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1. Astoria Column
Memorial/Monument/TombFor the best view of the city, the Coast Range, volcanic Mt. Helens, and the Pacific Ocean, scamper up the 164 spiral stairs to the top of the...
For the best view of the city, the Coast Range, volcanic Mt. Helens, and the Pacific Ocean, scamper up the 164 spiral stairs to the top of the Astoria Column. When you get to the top, you can throw a small wooden plane and watch it glide to earth; each year some 35,000 gliders are tossed. The 125-foot-high structure sits atop Coxcomb Hill, and was patterned after Trajan's Column in Rome. There are little platforms to rest on if you get winded, or, if you don't want to climb, the column's 500 feet of artwork, depicting important Pacific Northwest historical milestones, are well worth a study.
View Tours and Activities16th St. S, Astoria, Oregon, 97103, USA503-325–2963Sight Details
Rate Includes: $2 per car, Weekdays 9–5:30, weekends 9–5, $5 parking (good for an entire yr) -
2. Cape Lookout State Park
Park (National/State/Provincial)Located about 8 miles south of the beach town Netarts, this park includes a moderately easy (though often muddy) 2-mile trail—marked on the...
Located about 8 miles south of the beach town Netarts, this park includes a moderately easy (though often muddy) 2-mile trail—marked on the highway as "wildlife viewing area"—that leads through giant spruces, western red cedars, and hemlocks, and ends with views of Cascade Head to the south and Cape Meares to the north. Wildflowers, more than 150 species of birds, and occasional whales throughout the summer months make this trail a favorite with nature lovers. The section of the park just north of the trail comprises a long, curving stretch of beach with picnic areas and campsites.
Cape Lookout Rd. at Netarts Bay Rd., Tillamook, Oregon, 97141, USA503-842–4981Sight Details
Rate Includes: Day use $5, Daily dawn–dusk -
3. Columbia River Maritime Museum
Museum/GalleryOne of Oregon's best coastal attractions illuminates the maritime history of the Pacific Northwest and provides visitors with a sense of the...
One of Oregon's best coastal attractions illuminates the maritime history of the Pacific Northwest and provides visitors with a sense of the perils of guiding ships into the mouth of the Columbia River. Vivid exhibits recount what it was like to pilot a tugboat and participate in a Coast Guard rescue on the Columbia River Bar. You can tour the actual bridge of a World War II–era U.S. Navy destroyer and the U.S. Coast Guard lightship Columbia. Also on display is a 44-foot Coast Guard motor lifeboat, artifacts from the region's illustrious riverboat heyday, and details about Astoria's seafood-canning history. One especially captivating exhibit displays the personal belongings of some of the ill-fated passengers of the 2,000 ships that have foundered here since the early 19th century. In addition, the theater shows an excellent documentary about the river's heritage as well as rotating 3-D films about sea life. At the east end of the property, the city's former railroad depot now houses the museum's Barbey Maritime Center, which offers classes and workshops on maritime culture and wooden boatbuilding.
View Tours and Activities1792 Marine Dr., Astoria, Oregon, 97103, USA503-325–2323Sight Details
Rate Includes: $12, Daily 9:30–5, $14 -
4. Fort Clatsop at Lewis and Clark National Historical Park
Memorial/Monument/TombSee where the 30-member Lewis and Clark Expedition endured a rain-soaked winter in 1805–06, hunting, gathering food, making salt, and trading...
See where the 30-member Lewis and Clark Expedition endured a rain-soaked winter in 1805–06, hunting, gathering food, making salt, and trading with the local Clatsops, Chinooks, and Tillamooks. This memorial is part of the 3,200-acre Lewis and Clark National Historical Park and is a faithful replica of the log fort depicted in Clark's journal. The fort lies within a forested wonderland, with an exhibit hall, gift shop, film, and trails. Park rangers dress in period garb during the summer and perform such early-19th-century tasks as making fire with flint and steel. Hikers enjoy the easy 1½-mile Netul Landing trail and the more rigorous but still fairly flat 6½-mile Fort to Sea trail.
92343 Fort Clatsop Rd., Astoria, Oregon, 97103, USA503-861–2471Sight Details
Rate Includes: $3, Mid-Jun.–Labor Day, daily 9–6; Labor Day–mid-Jun. 9–5, $5 -
5. Haystack Rock
Nature SightTowering over the broad, sandy beach is a gorgeous, 235-foot-high dome that is one of the most photographed natural wonders on the Oregon Coast...
Towering over the broad, sandy beach is a gorgeous, 235-foot-high dome that is one of the most photographed natural wonders on the Oregon Coast. For safety and to protect birding habitats, people are not allowed to climb on the rock, but you can walk right up to its base at low tide.
View Tours and ActivitiesAccess beach from end of Gower St., Cannon Beach, Oregon, USA -
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6. Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge
Nature Preserve/Wildlife RefugeEach of the colossal rocks jutting from the ocean between Bandon and Brookings is protected as part of this 19-acre refuge, in total comprising...
Each of the colossal rocks jutting from the ocean between Bandon and Brookings is protected as part of this 19-acre refuge, in total comprising a string of 1,853 rocks, reefs, islands, and two headland areas spanning 320 miles. Thirteen species of seabirds, totalling 1.2 million birds, nest here, and harbor seals, California sea lions, Steller sea lions, and Northern elephant seals also breed within the refuge. Coquille Point, a mainland unit of Oregon Islands Refuge, is one of many places to observe seabirds and harbor seals. The point overlooks a series of offshore rocks, and a paved trail that winds over the headland ends in stairways to the beach on both sides, allowing for a loop across the sand when tides permit. Visitors are encouraged to steer clear of harbor seals and avoid touching seal pups. A complete list of viewpoints and trails is available online.
11th St. W and Portland Ave. SW, drive west to road's end for Coquille Point and parking, Bandon, Oregon, 97411, USA541-347–1470 -
7. Yaquina Head Lighthouse
Nautical Site/LighthouseThe tallest lighthouse on the Oregon Coast has been blinking its beacon since its head keeper first walked up its 114 steps to light the wicks...
The tallest lighthouse on the Oregon Coast has been blinking its beacon since its head keeper first walked up its 114 steps to light the wicks on the evening of August 20, 1873. Next to the 93-foot tower is an interpretive center. Bring your camera and call ahead to confirm tour times.
N.W. Lighthouse Dr., off U.S. 101, 4 miles north of Newport, Newport, Oregon, 97365, USA541-574–3100Sight Details
Rate Includes: Free. Donations suggested, Thurs.–Tues. noon–3, Free, donations suggested -
8. Alsea Bay Bridge Interpretive Center
Visitor CenterEnthusiasts enjoy the daily summer bridge tours at 2 pm, led by a park naturalist, which cover the story of the Alsea Bay Bridge replacement...
Enthusiasts enjoy the daily summer bridge tours at 2 pm, led by a park naturalist, which cover the story of the Alsea Bay Bridge replacement, and the interpretive center's displays recount the construction of the Oregon Coast Highway and its many graceful bridges through dioramas, bridge models, photography, and time lines.
620 N.W. Spring St., off U.S. 101 at south end of bridge, Waldport, Oregon, 97394, USA541-563–2133Sight Details
Rate Includes: Free, Summer, daily 10–5; winter Tues.–Sat. 9–4 -
9. Astoria Riverfront Trolley
Tour–SightAlso known as "Old 300," this is a beautifully restored 1913 streetcar that travels for 4 miles along Astoria's historic riverfront, stopping...
Also known as "Old 300," this is a beautifully restored 1913 streetcar that travels for 4 miles along Astoria's historic riverfront, stopping at several points between the Astoria River Inn and the foot of 39th Street (although you can easily flag it down at any point along the route by offering a friendly wave). The hour-long ride gives you a close-up look at the waterfront from the Port of Astoria to the East Morring Basin; the Columbia River; and points of interest in between.
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10. Bandon Historical Society Museum
Museum/GalleryIn the old city hall building, this museum depicts the area's early history, including Native American artifacts, logging, fishing, cranberry...
In the old city hall building, this museum depicts the area's early history, including Native American artifacts, logging, fishing, cranberry farming, and the disastrous 1936 fire that destroyed the city. The well-stocked gift shop has books, knickknacks, jewelry, myrtlewood, and other little treasures.
270 Fillmore St., Bandon, Oregon, 97411, USA541-347–2164Sight Details
Rate Includes: $3, Daily 10–4 -
11. Cape Arago Lighthouse
Nautical Site/LighthouseOn a rock island just offshore from Charleston near Sunset Bay State Park, this lighthouse has had several iterations; the first lighthouse...
On a rock island just offshore from Charleston near Sunset Bay State Park, this lighthouse has had several iterations; the first lighthouse was built here in 1866, but it was destroyed by storms and erosion. A second, built in 1908, suffered the same fate. The current white tower, built in 1934, is 44 feet tall and towers 100 feet above the ocean. If you're here on a foggy day, listen for its unique foghorn. The lighthouse is connected to the mainland by a bridge. Neither is open to the public, but there's an excellent spot to view this lonely guardian and much of the coastline. From U.S. 101, take Cape Arago Highway to Gregory Point, where it ends at a turnaround, and follow the short trail.
Cape Arago Hwy., just north of Sunset Bay State Park, Charleston, Oregon, 97420, USA -
12. Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area
BeachHuge waves pound the jagged sandstone cliffs and caves here, and the much-photographed, 327-foot-high Haystack Rock (not to be confused with...
Huge waves pound the jagged sandstone cliffs and caves here, and the much-photographed, 327-foot-high Haystack Rock (not to be confused with the 235-foot-tall rock of the same name up in Cannon Beach) juts out of the Pacific Ocean to the south. Surfers ride some of the longest waves on the coast, hang gliders soar above the shore, and beachcombers explore tidal pools and massive sand dunes, and take in unparalleled ocean views.
Cape Kiwanda Dr., 1 mile north of Pacific City, Pacific City, Oregon, 97135, USA503-842–3182Sight Details
Rate Includes: Free, Daily sunrise–sunset -
13. Cape Meares State Park
Nautical Site/LighthouseOn the northern tip of the Three Capes Loop is Cape Meares State Park. The restored Cape Meares Lighthouse, built in 1890 and open to the...
On the northern tip of the Three Capes Loop is Cape Meares State Park. The restored Cape Meares Lighthouse, built in 1890 and open to the public April through October, provides a sweeping view over the cliff to the caves and sea lion rookery on the rocks below. A many-trunked Sitka spruce known as the Octopus Tree grows near the lighthouse parking lot.
3500 Cape Meares Loop, 10 miles west of Tillamook, Oceanside, Oregon, 97141, USA503-842–3182Sight Details
Rate Includes: Free, Park daily dawn–dusk. Lighthouse Apr.–Oct., daily 11–4 -
14. Charleston Marina Complex
Marina/PierAt this bustling marina 8 miles west of Coos Bay, there's a launch ramp, a store with tackle and marine supplies, an RV park, a motel, restaurants...
At this bustling marina 8 miles west of Coos Bay, there's a launch ramp, a store with tackle and marine supplies, an RV park, a motel, restaurants, and gift shops. Fishing charters also set out from here.
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15. Clatsop County Historical Society Heritage Museum
Museum/GalleryIn a 100-year-old Colonial Revival building originally used as the city hall, this museum has two floors of exhibits detailing the history of...
In a 100-year-old Colonial Revival building originally used as the city hall, this museum has two floors of exhibits detailing the history of the early pioneers, Native Americans, and logging and marine industries of Clatsop County, the oldest American settlement west of the Mississippi. Artifacts include finely crafted 19th-century Chinook and Clatsop baskets, otter pelts, and historic logging and fishing tools. The research library, where you may research local family and building history, also is open to the public.
1618 Exchange St., Astoria, Oregon, 97103, USA503-325–2203Sight Details
Rate Includes: $4, May–Sept., daily 10–5; Oct.–Apr., Tues.–Sat. 11–4 -
16. Coos History Museum & Maritime Collection
Museum/GalleryThis modern 11,000-square-foot museum with expansive views of the Coos Bay waterfront contains an exhaustive collection of memorabilia related...
This modern 11,000-square-foot museum with expansive views of the Coos Bay waterfront contains an exhaustive collection of memorabilia related to the region's history, from early photos to vintage boats, all displayed in an airy, open exhibit hall with extensive interpretive signage. You'll also find exhibits on Native American history, agriculture, and industry such as logging, shipping, natural history, and mining.
1210 N. Front St., Coos Bay, Oregon, 97420, USA541-756–6320Sight Details
Rate Includes: $5, Tues.–Sat. 10–5, $7 -
17. Darlingtonia State Natural Site
GardenSix miles south of Sea Lion Caves, on the east side of U.S. 101, is an example of the rich plant life found in the marshy terrain near the coast...
Six miles south of Sea Lion Caves, on the east side of U.S. 101, is an example of the rich plant life found in the marshy terrain near the coast. It's also a surefire child pleaser. A short paved nature trail leads through clumps of insect-catching cobra lilies, so named because they look like spotted cobras ready to strike. This area is most interesting in May, when the lilies are in bloom.
U.S. 101, at Mercer Lake Rd., Florence, Oregon, 97439, USA541-997–3851Sight Details
Rate Includes: Free -
18. EVOO: Cannon Beach Cooking School
Educational InstitutionSchool never tasted this good. EVOO Cooking School performs advanced feats of culinary education for large and small groups, set around seasonal...
School never tasted this good. EVOO Cooking School performs advanced feats of culinary education for large and small groups, set around seasonal or specific food themes. EVOO holds cooking demonstrations, or you can sign up for hands-on courses—both always based on what's local, in season, and tantalizing. They call them dinner shows for a reason: whether or not you remember how to duplicate these recipes at home, you'll have a great time sampling them here. Classes start at $79 per person and include a full meal, with wine pairings for the dinner classes.
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19. Flavel House
Historic HomeThe Queen Anne–style mansion helps visitors imagine what life was like for the wealthy in late-19th-century Astoria. It rests on parklike grounds...
The Queen Anne–style mansion helps visitors imagine what life was like for the wealthy in late-19th-century Astoria. It rests on parklike grounds covering an entire city block and has been gorgeously restored, with its three-story octagon tower visible from throughout town. It was built for George Flavel, an influential Columbia River bar pilot and businessman who was one of the area's first millionaires. Visits start in the Carriage House interpretive center.
441 8th St., Astoria, Oregon, 97103, USA503-325–2203Sight Details
Rate Includes: $6, May–Sept., daily 10–5; Oct.–Apr., daily 11–4 -
20. Fort Stevens State Park
Military SightThis earthen fort at Oregon's northwestern tip was built during the Civil War to guard the Columbia River against attack. None came until World...
This earthen fort at Oregon's northwestern tip was built during the Civil War to guard the Columbia River against attack. None came until World War II, when a Japanese submarine fired upon it. The fort still has cannons and an underground gun battery, of which tours are available in summer (call for details). The park has year-round camping, with full hookup sites, 11 cabins, and 15 yurts. There are also bike paths, boating, swimming, hiking trails, and a short walk to a gorgeous, wide beach where the corroded skeleton—or the tiny bit that remains of it—of the Peter Iredale pokes up through the sand. This century-old English four-master shipwreck is a reminder of the nearly 2,000 vessels claimed by these treacherous waters.
100 Peter Iredale Rd., Hammond, Oregon, 97121, USA503-861–3170Sight Details
Rate Includes: Day use $5 per vehicle, Daily
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