The Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip
A 1000 Mile Adventure Along the Pacific
Have you visited the Oregon Coast? Our slice of heaven is being discovered by more and more visitors. We're biased, but we think the Oregon Coast is one of the most breathtaking road trip destinations on in the United States. It offs the perfect mix of rugged coastline with towering mountains, charming small towns with independent local businesses, and lots of incredible viewpoints. There are lots of opportunities to take amazing photos.
The Oregon Coast stretches for over 360 miles along Highway 101. You'll cover ground once explored by the Lewis & Clark expedition. You can even visit a recreation of the Lewis & Clark winter encampment at Fort Clatsop. The Coast is a paradise for road trippers, featuring stunning beaches, historic lighthouses, and tons of outdoor adventures! Whether you're planning a long weekend or a longer getaway, this Ultimate Oregon Road Trip itinerary will take you to all the must-see areas, from Astoria at the very north, where the mighty Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean down to Brookings near the California border. Bringing your pet on your Oregon Coast roadtrip? Be sure to get the coop about pet friendly lodging and businesses.
Day 1: Portland to Astoria (95 miles, 2 hours)
Start your Oregon Coast adventure in Portland, Oregon's largest city. You've probably heard of it! Before hitting the road, grab a coffee at Sumptown Coffee or a scrumptious doughnut at the famous Voodoo Doughnut. It's the shop with the line down the block! Head to Highway 26, and head west to the Coast. At the end of Highway 26 head north to Astoria, the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies.
Must-See Stops in Astoria
Astoria Column - Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the conflux of the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean.
Maritime Museum - Learn about the region's rich, seafaring history.
Bowpicker Fish & Chips - Don't miss some of the best fish and chips on the coast, served from a converted fishing boat.
Goonies Filming Locations - Visit all the cool locations featured in the 1985 movie The Goonies, including the famous house.
After exploring Astoria, head south on Highway 101 toward your next stop: Cannon Beach
Day 2: Astoria to Manzanita (39 miles, 52 minutes)
A short drive south will bring you to Cannon Beach, home to Oregon's most iconic coastal landmark - Haystack Rock.
Must See Stops in Cannon Beach
Haystack Rock - a towering sea stack that's perfect for tide pooling and bird watching.
Ecola State Park - Offers stunning coastal views and short hiking trails. You might catch surfers in action, too!
Hug Point - A beautiful small beach with a waterfall and sea caves. Be sure to find out about why they named the beach Hug Point.
Pelican Brewing - A fun spot to experience some of Oregon's famous craft brews and good eats.
Continue south along Highway 101 to Manzanita, stopping at some of the most picturesque views along the Oregon Coast.
Must See Stops Along the Way
Oswald West State Park - A short hike through lush old growth forests leads to the beautiful secluded Short Sand Beach. Have more time? Arrange for surf lessons at one of the local surf shops. Many hold beginner surf lessons at Short Sand Beach.
Neahkahnie Mountian - Offers on of the best and most photographed viewpoints on the entire coast. A hike up Neahkahnie Mountian is definitely suggested if time allows.
Manzanita - A charming small town, and a favorite of many Oregonians. Be sure to check out our all oceanfront Manzanita Rentals while in town so you may enjoy our beautiful 7 mile beach overnight, and wake to the sound of the surf.
Day 3: Manzanita to Newport (96 miles, 2 hours 20 minutes)
Head south to Tillamook, and you'll pass through scenic coastal towns that time hasn't touched. Make sure to visit the world famous Tillamook Creamery for a self-guided tour and cheese tasting.
Must See Stops Along the Way
Cape Meres Lighthouse - One of the smallest but most charming lighthouses in Oregon.
Three Capes Scenic Loop - A detour that takes you past some of the most rugged coastal scenery.
Devil's Punchbowl - A unique rock formation where waves crash into a collapsed sea cave.
Arriving in Newport, explore Yaquina Head Lighthouse, Oregon's tallest lighthouse, and visit the Oregon Coast Aquarium, home to sea otters, sharks and a fun walk through underwater tunnel.
Day 4: Newport to Florence (50 miles, 1 hour)
The central Oregon Coast is filled with dramatic landscapes, sand dunes, and hidden gems.
Must See Stops Along the Way
Thor's Well - A dramatic natural sinkhole that appears to drain the ocean.
Cape Perpetua - Offers one of the most panoramic views of the coastline.
Sea Lion Caves - The largest sea cave in America, home to hundreds of barking sea lions.
Arrive in Florence and explore the Old Town, a quaint waterfront district with shops and seafood restaurants.
Day 5: Florence to Bandon (80 miles, 2 hours)
This stretch of the trip features the stunning Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, where you can try sandboarding, ATV riding, or hiking through the vast dunes.
Must See Stops Along the Way
Heceta Head Lighthouse - One of the most photographed lighthouses in Oregon.
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area - Rent an ATV or take a dune buggy tour.
Coquille River Lighthouse - Visit a piece of history in Bandon.
Bandon is known for its striking rock formations, especially Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint.
Day 6: Bandon to Brookings (84 miles, 2 hours)
The final leg of your trip takes you through some of the most scenic areas on the Oregon Coast.
Must See Stops Along the Way
Cape Blanco State Park - Home to the westernmost lighthouse in Oregon.
Port Orford Heads State Park - A short hike with stunning ocean views.
Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor - a 12 miles stretch of coastline with dramatic cliffs, natural bridges, and hidden coves.
End your journey in Brookings, where you can relax on Harris Beach, enjoy fresh seafood, and watch the sunset over the Pacific. What a perfect Oregon Coast road trip!
Thank you for reading our Manzanita Beach Life blog about life around our North Coast and Manzanita Oregon area, our Manzanita activities, and the Oregon Coast!
Interested in staying with us? Contact us for information about our oceanside vacation rentals on beautiful Manzanita Beach, Oregon.
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