The Oregon Coast Road Trip I’d Recommend After 20+ Visits

As local Oregonians, we’ve spent 20+ trips figuring out the best things to do on the Oregon Coast. Here’s the exact Oregon Coast road trip itinerary we’d recommend for first-timers — plus a bonus route for return visitors ready to go further south.

You know how some places seem to get better every time you visit? Well the Oregon Coast is one of them.

My first trip was as a kid, and I remember being completely mesmerized. We came back in 2017 on a week-long vanlife road trip and fell in love all over again. Then in 2019 we moved to Oregon, and now the coast is a regular jaunt for us. Weekend trips, longer explorations— we’ve gone in every season. 

At this point we’ve lost count of how many times we’ve been.

And here’s the thing: we still discover new spots every single time.

That’s exactly why we wanted to write this guide. 

First, we’re sharing our favorite things to do on the Oregon Coast, from crabbing and glass blowing to bonfires on the beach. Then we’ll show you the exact itinerary we’d give to a friend visiting for the first time. The route we’ve refined over dozens of trips. The spots we keep going back to.

We’re sharing two itineraries here. 

The first covers our favorite stretch of the north coast, from Astoria down to Pacific City. It packs a lot into a manageable route and is the one we recommend to pretty much everyone visiting for the first time. 

The second is for returning visitors (or adventurous first-timers with more time) who want to venture further south into some of the coast’s more under-the-radar corners.

Oregon Coast Road Trip Guide

• Things to do on the Oregon Coast
• Oregon Coast road trip itineraries
• Northern coast itinerary
• Southern coast itinerary
• Planning your road trip
• Route map
• What you need to know before you go!
• Transportation
• Best time to visit
• What to pack

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Our favorite things to do on the Oregon Coast

Sure, you can find beaches and seafood elsewhere. But these are the experiences that are uniquely, unmistakably Oregon Coast—and ones we keep coming back for!

1. Have a bonfire on the beach

This is honestly one of my favorite things to do on the entire Oregon Coast, and it never gets old. The good news is that bonfires are allowed on most beaches along the coast, so there’s no reason not to make it happen at least one night of your trip. 

Pick up firewood at a grocery store or look for the small firewood stands you’ll spot along the way. Pack a lighter, fire starter, s’more fixings, and plenty of blankets because it gets cold once the sun goes down. 

One important tip: always put out your fire with water, not just sand. Hot embers can stay buried under the sand for a long time and that’s a burn hazard for the next person who walks by.

We’ve had bonfires at both Cannon Beach and Pacific City and both places made for memorable nights. We recommend Cannon Beach if you can swing it — watching the sunset behind the sea stacks while you roast marshmallows is about as quintessential Oregon Coast as it gets.

2. Explore tide pools at low tide

Tide pooling is one of those things that sounds simple until you’re crouched over a pool watching a starfish the size of your hand. 

On a recent trip to Lincoln City we walked out to the tide pools at Road’s End State Park and counted what felt like hundreds of starfish. It takes about 30 minutes to walk there along the beach, but the payoff is absolutely worth it. 

If you’re short on time, Fogarty Creek Tide Pool Area (head to the south side) is a quicker walk, though we saw a lot fewer starfish.

Other areas for tide pooling along the Oregon Coast: 

• Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach
• Hug Point State Recreation Site near Cannon Beach
• Short Sand Beach at Oswald West State Park
• Cobble Beach at the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area
• Smelt & Sands State Recreation Site near Yachats

The key with tide pooling is timing, and honestly this applies to a lot of what you’ll do on the Oregon Coast. Some beaches, trails, and sea caves are only accessible at low tide, and planning around the tide schedule can make or break a day. 

The night before each day of your trip, Google “tide tables in [town name]” and plan accordingly. We try to build our whole day around the low tide window wherever possible.

3. Go crabbing at Kelly’s Brighton Marina

Grab your camping chairs and bring them out to the dock at Kelly’s to try your hand at crabbing. It’s pretty simple, really. You’ll be given a crab ring (essentially a ring the size of a small hula hoop with a rope netting around it and bait inside). You’ll toss it out into the water and wait 10-15 minutes before pulling it in. 

You’re only allowed to keep male crabs, so the females can continue to reproduce more (delicious) crabs. And they must be over a certain size. 

Chances are you’ll have to throw many back into the water, but cross your fingers that you get one big enough to keep. If you do, Kelly’s will cook it for you for free. That’s right, FREE!

Go in the morning for the best chances at catching crabs. Plus you’ll be able to eat your catch for lunch.  

4. Blow your own glass float at the Lincoln City Glass Center

This one had been on my bucket list for years and it did not disappoint. At the Lincoln City Glass Center you pick your colors, then work with an instructor to create your own hand-blown glass piece from molten glass. 

The whole session takes about 25 minutes and you can choose to make a float, paperweight, jellyfish, heart, votive candle holder, or fluted bowl. Your piece goes into the kiln overnight and is ready for pickup the next morning, or you can have it shipped home. 

Sessions range from $75 to $225 depending on what you make. Book in advance because it fills up fast, especially on weekends.

Insider tip: while you’re in Lincoln City, keep an eye out along the beach for hidden glass floats. Every year more than 3,000 hand-blown floats are secretly placed along 7 miles of shoreline as part of the town’s beloved Finders Keepers program. Finding one is a serious treat (we’ve talked to locals who’ve tried but never found any) and it’s yours to bring home.

5. Visit the Tillamook Creamery

The farmer-owned Tillamook Creamery is a must-stop on any Oregon Coast road trip.

If you’re new to Tillamook, get ready to fall in love with their cheese and ice cream. And if you’re a true Oregonian, you already know the magic.

Take a self-guided tour to see how your favorite dairy treats are made, then dig into the menu at the onsite restaurant—think gourmet grilled cheese, squeaky cheese curds, mac ’n cheese, and, of course, their famous ice cream.

We make a stop here anytime we are driving by. Our girls love it! 

Yes, it’s touristy, but go anyway. Beyond the cheeses you already know and love, they have samples and specialty varieties you won’t find at your local grocery store.

Unless you’re lactose intolerant… in which case, I’m very sorry!

6. Sand boarding in Florence

Florence is known as the sandboarding capital of the world, and once you see the scale of these dunes you’ll understand why. 

Head to Sand Master Park, the world’s first sandboarding park, where you can rent a board for $10 to $25 (they even have kids boards!) and spend as long as you want carving down the dunes. 

They also offer lessons if you want a little guidance before launching yourself down a hill. It’s genuinely fun for all ages and skill levels, and the setting inside the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is unlike anything else on the coast.

Not into boarding? Cape Kiwanda in Pacific City offers a different kind of dune experience. There’s a massive sand dune you can climb to the top of for sweeping views of the coast, no board required. Our four-year-old climbed the whole thing herself and was incredibly proud of it. Highly recommend.

7. Photograph the sea stacks at Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is one of those places that genuinely lives up to the hype, and the sea stacks are a big reason why. 

Haystack Rock, standing 235 feet tall right at the water’s edge, is one of the most photographed spots on the entire Oregon Coast and honestly one of the most beautiful coastal scenes I’ve ever seen. No filter needed.

The best time to visit is around sunset, when the light turns golden and the sea stacks are silhouetted against the sky. Plan to arrive at least an hour before sunset so you can find your spot and soak it all in. 

If you go at low tide you’ll also get access to the tide pools right around the base of Haystack Rock, which makes for an even better experience.

One honest heads up: Cannon Beach gets very crowded in summer, especially on weekends. If you can visit on a weekday or in the off season you’ll have a much more peaceful experience. 

We went in January once and had the beach almost entirely to ourselves. That said, even on a busy summer day the scene is so stunning it’s worth pushing through the crowds. This is one of my favorite places in the entire world and I could never skip it.

→ Psst! As a can’t-miss stop on any Oregon Coast road trip, we have an entire article dedicated to things to do in Cannon Beach. 

8. Eat all the fresh seafood

If you love seafood, the Oregon Coast will absolutely deliver. Think fresh oysters straight from the bay, live catch bought off a fishing boat, and clam chowder that’ll ruin all other chowders for you. 

The honest caveat: there’s also a lot of mediocre, overpriced food mixed in. Stick to the spots that locals actually love and you’ll be in heaven.

Here are our tried and true recommendations:

Fresh Dungeness crab in Newport: Did you know Newport is the Dungeness crab capital of the world? On a recent trip we spotted a sign on a boat in the harbor selling live crab and walked away with two crabs totaling three pounds for $13.50 per pound. It doesn’t get much fresher than that. 

Local Oceans Seafoods(Newport): A local staple known up and down the coast. If you have room in your budget for one proper sit-down seafood dinner, make it here. Their dock-to-table concept is the real deal. Order the moqueca, a Brazilian-inspired seafood stew with coconut milk, giant prawns, rockfish, and piles of fresh Dungeness crab. It was our favorite dish last time we ate there! 

JAndy Oyster Co.(Tillamook): If oysters are your thing, do not skip this one. This garage-turned-oyster bar may seem unassuming, but the oysters are top-notch and so is the wine. Order outside and eat them straight from the bay — as fresh as it gets.

Barnacle Bill’s(Lincoln City): Don’t let the no-frills exterior fool you—this roadside shop is famous for its smoked salmon (seriously, don’t skip it!). Just remember: it’s cash only (ATM on site).

Mo’s Seafood and Chowder: A beloved Oregon Coast seafood chain with locations all over the coast (the original location is in Newport). The clam chowder is the move here. Touristy? Yes. Worth it? Also yes.

Psst! If you want all of our favorite spots, tried-and-true restaurants, hikes, nature, lookouts and more, in one place, check out our PNW Map. It’s everything we’ve discovered while living in Oregon, designed to be your go-to resource for planning a perfect PNW trip.

9. Walk through a tunnel to a secret beach in Oceanside

Oceanside is already one of my favorite little towns on the Oregon Coast, a tiny, picturesque spot perched on a cliff with no cell service and serious charm. But the real draw is Tunnel Beach. 

To get there you walk north along Oceanside Beach until you reach a 90-foot tunnel carved right into the base of Maxwell Point, a giant basalt headland. The tunnel was built in 1926 to give resort guests access to the beach on the other side, and stepping through it still feels like discovering somewhere secret.

Bring a flashlight or use your phone light since the tunnel floor is rocky and uneven, and watch your head in spots. On the other side you’ll find dramatic sea stacks, tide pools, and views of Three Arches Rock, one of the oldest wildlife refuges on the west coast. It’s a completely different scene from the beach you just left.

A few practical notes: check tide times before you go since Tunnel Beach loses most of its sand at high tide, and the tunnel itself can get slippery. Go at low tide and you’ll have the best experience. Closed-toed shoes are a must here.

10. Hike to Drift Creek Falls

This hike had been on my list for years and it completely delivered. The Drift Creek Falls Trail is a 3.2-mile (out-and-back) in the Siuslaw National Forest, about 40 minutes inland from Lincoln City. 

It’s easy to moderate, family friendly, and the payoff is genuinely spectacular: a gorgeous 75-foot waterfall and a suspension bridge hanging 100 feet above it that might be the coolest trail feature on the entire Oregon Coast.

11. Check out Ecola State Park

Ecola is a MUST for us on any Oregon Coast road trip. Tucked just north of Cannon Beach, it stretches along 9 miles of some of the most dramatic coastline in the state.

The park has something for everyone: cliffside viewpoints, tide pools, surf at Indian Beach, hiking trails, and incredible whale watching in winter and spring. 

Give yourself a couple of hours to wander rather than trying to check off a specific trail. The view from the main overlook looking south toward Cannon Beach and the sea stacks is our favorite.

12. Visit Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor

I’ll be honest: this might be the most beautiful stretch of the entire Oregon Coast. The Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor runs for 12 miles along Highway 101 near Brookings, right near the California border, and it is jaw-dropping from start to finish. 

Sea stacks, natural arches, hidden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and some of the most surreal coastal scenery in the entire country. 

The best approach is to treat the corridor as a slow scenic drive with multiple stops rather than a point-to-point hike. Must-stop highlights include: 

• Arch Rock
• Natural Bridges
• Whaleshead Beach
• Indian Sands

Give yourself at least half a day, and more if you can. Entry is free, no park pass required.

Insider tip: download offline maps before you go. Cell service along this stretch is unreliable, and you don’t want to miss a turn to one of the viewpoints.

13. Photograph a lighthouse (or 2)

The Oregon Coast has some of the most photogenic lighthouses in the country, and working at least one into your itinerary is a must. Here are our two favorites depending on which route you’re taking.

Cape Meares Lighthouse is a great stop on the northern coast, tucked near Oceanside. It’s a short, easy walk from the parking lot and the views are beautiful. While you’re there, don’t miss the Octopus Tree right nearby, a massive Sitka spruce with bizarrely sprawling branches that’s worth a detour of its own.

Heceta Head Lighthouse near Florence is arguably the most beautiful lighthouse on the entire coast. It sits on a dramatic headland above the Pacific and makes for an incredible photograph at pretty much any time of day. 

If you want to fit in a third, the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse is visible from Ecola State Park and makes for a stunning shot from the cliffs, especially at sunset, without requiring any additional driving.

14. Wander Astoria’s historic downtown

Perched at the mouth of the Columbia River, Astoria has a rich history, a genuinely great food and brewery scene, and a charm that feels more like a small San Francisco than a typical Oregon Coast town. We’ve been five times in the last couple of years and keep finding reasons to go back.

The highlights: 

• Climb the Astoria Column for panoramic views over the river and coast
• Explore the Flavel House Museum for a glimpse into the town’s Victorian-era past
• Spend some time wandering the waterfront popping into shops and cafes. The coffee scene here is excellent and there are several spots with beautiful river views.

We have a full guide to things to do in Astoria if you want to go deep on this one. It’s absolutely worth two nights of your itinerary.

15. Watch the sunset on the beach 

You’re on the West Coast after all, and there are some spectacular opportunities for watching the sun sink into the deep blue oblivion of the ocean.

Oregon Coast beach sunsets are something else. You’ll understand once you see it. 

Our biggest tip: make a plan to catch the sunset every single day of your trip. Look up the exact sunset time the night before, and aim to be on the beach at least an hour ahead of it. Build your dinner plans around it rather than the other way around. Choose a restaurant with a view when you can, or pack a picnic and a blanket and just sit with it.

Some of our favorite sunset spots: the beach at Cannon Beach with Haystack Rock silhouetted against the sky, and Pacific City looking out from Cape Kiwanda. Both will genuinely take your breath away. But really any Oregon Coast beach will do!

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Oregon Coast road trip itineraries overview

If you’re wondering how to fit all the things to do on the Oregon Coast into your trip, we’ve got you covered! We’ve broken our Oregon Coast road trip recommendations into two routes. 

The first covers our favorite stretch of the north coast and is the one we recommend to pretty much everyone visiting for the first time. The second ventures further south into some of the coast’s more spread out, under-the-radar territory and is best suited for returning visitors or those with a little more time. 

Scroll down to find the right fit for your trip, or combine both for one epic end-to-end adventure.

Northern route: Astoria to Pacific City

Our personal favorite stretch of the Oregon Coast and perfect for first-time visitors. 

• Day 1: Arrive in Astoria (Astoria)
• Day 2: Explore Astoria (Astoria)
• Day 3: Seaside (optional), Ecola State Park & Cannon Beach (Cannon Beach)
• Day 4: Cannon Beach, Hug Point & Oswald West State Park (Cannon Beach)
• Day 5: Kelly’s Brighton Marina (optional), Tillamook & Oceanside (Pacific City)
• Day 6: Pacific City (Pacific City)
• Day 7: Depart the coast

Southern route: Lincoln City to Brookings

If you have the time to explore something a little more unique or you’ve been to the Northern Coast already. 

• Day 1: Lincoln City (Lincoln City)
• Day 2: Hiking – Drift Creek Falls or God’s Thumb (Lincoln City)
• Day 3: Depoe Bay, Yaquina Head Lighthouse & Newport (Newport)
• Day 4: Seal Rock, Yachats, Cape Perpetua (Florence) 
• Day 5: Florence, Hecita Head Lighthouse & Sea Lion Cave (Florence)
• Day 6: Shore Acres State Park & Bandon (Bandon)
• Day 7: Bandon, Gold Beach & Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor (Brookings)
• Day 8: Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor (Brookings)
• Day 9: Depart the Oregon Coast

Note: These routes can be done in either direction, or combined for one epic Oregon Coast road trip if you have the time to do it right. 

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Oregon Coast road trip: Northern route

This is our personal favorite stretch of the Oregon Coast and the itinerary we recommend to pretty much everyone visiting for the first time. It packs a lot of variety into a manageable route, moving through some of the most iconic scenery on the entire coast without ever feeling rushed.

Day 1: Arrive in Astoria

Astoria is the perfect place to begin an Oregon Coast road trip. A charming riverfront town at the very northern tip of the coast with a small San Francisco vibe.

Today is all about settling in, getting your bearings, and soaking up the town’s unique vibe.

Wander the waterfront, find a coffee shop with a river view (Coffee Girl is one of our favorites), and end the night at one of Astoria’s excellent breweries or restaurants. You’ve got a full day of exploring tomorrow, so don’t overdo it.

Day 2: Explore Astoria

Today you’ll make your way down the coasWith a full day in Astoria, you have time to dig into everything that makes this town so special. 

Start with a climb up the Astoria Column for sweeping views over the river and coast, then head into the historic downtown to explore the Flavel House Museum and pop into shops and cafes along the waterfront. 

Grab lunch at Buoy Beer Co. (we recommend the clam chowder & oyster shooters) or Bowpicker Fish & Chips (order at the walk-up window). And if you need a sweet treat, Frite & Scoop serves up fries and ice cream. 

Tip: Order your fries tossed in garlic or rosemary salt, or drizzled with hot honey, and choose from, like, 20 dipping sauces. Not joking.

Choose your own adventure in the afternoon:

• Hike the Cathedral Tree Trail 
• Drive 20 min to Fort Stevens State Park to explore the Peter Iredale shipwreck and white sand beach
• Check out Youngs Creek Falls
• Take a hike at Cape Disappointment State Park
• Or stick around town and go brewery and/or museum hopping

Astoria has a great food scene, so choose your dinner spot wisely tonight. Our Astoria guide has plenty of recommendations.

Day 3: Ecola State Park & Cannon Beach

Today you make your way south toward one of the most iconic stretches of the entire Oregon Coast. 

Seaside (optional stop)

Seaside is the first town you’ll hit heading south from Astoria and it’s worth a quick stretch of the legs if you need one. Grab a coffee, walk the famous promenade, and take in the classic boardwalk energy. 

That said, it’s not our favorite town on the coast. It has a retro, Jersey Shore kind of vibe that feels more touristy than charming compared to what’s coming. We’d say spend an hour max and save your energy for Ecola and Cannon Beach.

Ecola State Park

This is a non-negotiable stop and one of the most spectacular state parks on the entire coast. 

Pull off Highway 101 just north of Cannon Beach and follow the winding road through a lush Sitka spruce forest until it opens up to sweeping cliffside views of the Pacific. The panorama looking south toward Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock is our favorite view. 

Give yourself at least an hour to wander the viewpoints. Day use fee is $5 per vehicle.

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is one of my favorite places in the entire world (and that’s saying something!). Unlike its larger neighbor, Seaside, Cannon Beach still retains some small town charm despite it also being a very touristy town.

Check into your accommodation, then spend the late afternoon wandering the main street, popping into galleries and coffee shops, and making your way down to the beach for the inevitable first look at Haystack Rock. 

If you have time, grab happy hour at Driftwood Restaurant – 4-6 pm daily for $6 Chowder Bread Bowls and $6 glasses of wine to enjoy around an outdoor fire pit.

Tonight is the perfect night for a beach bonfire. Pick up firewood at a local grocery store if your accommodation doesn’t provide it, grab s’more supplies, pack blankets, and head to the beach before sunset. Watching the sun drop behind Haystack Rock with a fire going is as Oregon Coast as it gets.

Day 4: Cannon Beach, Hug Point & Oswald West State Park

Start your day at Sleepy Monk, which has some of the best pastries in town alongside excellent coffee. Our favorites were the lemon poppyseed cake and the savory bacon, bleu cheese and chive scone. Insomnia Coffee Co. is another solid option if Sleepy Monk has a wait.

Hug Point

About 5 miles south of Cannon Beach, keep your eyes peeled for the small parking area off Highway 101 as it fills up fast on weekends. 

What makes this beach special is the small waterfall that spills right onto the sand and flows into the Pacific, plus a shallow cave carved into the cliff beside it. It’s a quick stop but a memorable one. 

Check tide times before you go: the waterfall and cave are best accessed at low tide.

Oswald West State Park

Just south of Hug Point, this is one of our favorite beaches on the entire Oregon Coast. A short, easy trail winds through magnificent old growth forest before opening up to Short Sand Beach, a sheltered cove framed by towering headlands and dotted with surfers. 

The combination of the ancient trees, the sound of the waves coming before you can even see them, and the dramatic scenery at the end makes this one of the best easy hikes on the coast. Even on a packed summer Saturday it’s worth every minute.

Neahkahnie Beach viewpoint

Before you head back toward Cannon Beach, pull over at the Neahkahnie Beach viewpoint for one of the most breathtaking coastal panoramas on the entire road trip. The cliffside view over a long stretch of sandy beach is the kind of place that makes you wonder if you’ve left the Oregon Coast and transported to California. 

There are a few pull outs in a row here, so find one to park at and take in the views.

Evening in Cannon Beach

Head back to Cannon Beach with time for happy hour at Driftwood Restaurant: chowder bread bowls and wine around an outdoor fire pit from 4 to 6 pm daily. 

Then pick up fish and chips from Ecola Market to take down to the beach for sunset. Their four-piece Pacific cod and chips is easily splittable between two people, and a bowl of clam chowder alongside it never hurts.

Day 5: Tillamook, Oceanside & Pacific City

The drive to Oceanside juts inward around Tillamook Bay and makes the perfect opportunity to stop at the famous Tillamook Creamery on your way. 

Optional: Crabbing at Kelly’s Brighton Marina

Grab your camping chairs and bring them out to the dock at Kelly’s to try your hand at crabbing! It’s pretty simple, really. You’ll be given a crab ring (essentially a ring the size of a small hula hoop with a rope netting around it and bait inside). You’ll toss it out into the water and wait 10-15 minutes before pulling it in. 

You’re only allowed to keep male crabs, so the females can continue to reproduce more (delicious) crabs! And they must be over a certain size.

Chances are you’ll have to throw many back into the water, but cross your fingers that you get one big enough to keep. If you do, Kelly’s will cook it for you for free. That’s right, FREE!

Get there in the morning for your best chances at catching crabs and stay for lunch to eat your catch.

Tillamook Creamery

The farmer-owned Tillamook Creamery is a must-stop on any Oregon Coast road trip.

If you’re new to Tillamook, get ready to fall in love with their cheese and ice cream. And if you’re a true Oregonian, you already know the magic.

Take a self-guided tour to see how your favorite dairy treats are made, then dig into the menu at the onsite restaurant—think gourmet grilled cheese, squeaky cheese curds, mac ’n cheese, and, of course, their famous ice cream.

Unless you’re lactose intolerant… in which case, I’m very sorry!

Insider tip: If dairy isn’t your thing, stop in to enjoy fresh oysters and wine at JAndy Oyster Co.

And if Tillamook is too crowded and you’re looking for an alternative, we have one listed below (just 10 min outside Pacific City…)

Oceanside

Oceanside is one of the most underrated towns on the entire Oregon Coast and one of our personal favorites. It’s tiny, picturesque, perched on a cliff, and has almost no cell service, which somehow makes it feel a bit like a hidden gem.

Tunnel Beach

Walk north along Oceanside Beach until you reach the 90-foot tunnel carved into the base of Maxwell Point. Walk through it (bring a flashlight) and you’ll emerge onto a dramatic, quieter beach with sea stacks and incredible views of Three Arches Rock. 

Go at low tide for the best experience.

Short Beach

Just south of Oceanside, Short Beach is the perfect spot to hunt for agates, jasper, and Oregon jade. Head toward the creek on the north end of the beach for the best pickings.

Three Capes Scenic Route

This scenic drive starts just north of Oceanside and ends at Pacific City. It passes by — you guessed it! — three scenic capes along the way (they didn’t get very creative with naming the route!).

• Cape Meares: Just north of Oceanside, this steep bluff is great for spotting whales during migration season. Also, Cape Meares has two extremes — the largest Sitka Spruce in Oregon (known as Octopus Tree!) as well as the shortest lighthouse in Oregon.
• Cape Lookout: This day use area is popular with families and has lots of excellent picnicking areas, walking trails and secluded beaches.
• Cape Kiwanda: The smallest of the three capes, this area just north of Pacific City is known for a giant sand dune you can climb up which is really fun (our daughter loved it!). 

For this section of your road trip, you’ll want to veer off Highway 101, which takes a more inland route at this point. Instead, you’ll hug the shoreline.

Pacific City

Pacific City has a laid-back surf town energy that feels a little like southern California. It took us a couple of visits to really fall for it (our first trip was a peak summer weekend and the crowds were overwhelming), but we’ve since spent a full week here and have come to love it. 

It’s also a great base for day trips up and down the coast as it’s super centrally located, which is exactly how Day 6 is going to go.

Tonight, head to Pelican Brewing for dinner and drinks. Sit outside if you can: great views and a small play area for kids. The clam chowder, onion rings, and oyster shooters are all solid orders.

Day 6: Pacific City

A full day to slow down and soak up Pacific City. This is the kind of day the Oregon Coast was made for.

Morning coffee on the beach

Start slow. Grab a coffee from Cold Water & Coffee or Stimulus and take it down to the beach. Walking the shoreline with a warm cup in hand while the morning marine layer burns off is a pretty perfect way to start a day.

You can also explore the tide pools near the sea stacks if you time your morning right. 

Climb Cape Kiwanda

This is the signature Pacific City experience and not one to skip. Cape Kiwanda is a massive golden sand dune rising right at the edge of town, and climbing to the top rewards you with sweeping views of the coast in both directions. 

It’s more of a scramble than a hike, but it’s totally doable for most fitness levels. Our four-year-old climbed the entire thing herself and was incredibly proud of it. The views from the top are worth every sandy step.

Optional: Lincoln City

If you want to squeeze in one more adventure, pop down to Lincoln City for the afternoon. There’s lots to do in this town, just skip down to our second itinerary to get some ideas for things to do in Lincoln City. 

Optional: Nestucca Bay Creamery

About 10 minutes up Hwy 101 from Pacific City in Cloverdale, this fifth-generation family-run creamery is worth a quick stop if you decide to forgo the crowds at Tillamook. 

Sample the cheeses, then get a cone with the marionberry ice cream blended into soft serve right in front of you. Open Monday through Saturday, 11am to 5pm.

JAndy Oyster Co.

If you like oysters, this is a must. Located up the coast near Netarts Bay, order outside and eat them as fresh as it gets. Simple as that.

Bonfire on the beach

If you haven’t had a bonfire yet, tonight is your last chance on this itinerary. 

→ See how our perfect day in Pacific City came together in this Instagram Reel.

Day 7: Depart the Oregon Coast

Don’t rush out. Take one last morning walk on the beach, grab a coffee from your favorite spot, and let the coast have its final say before you hit the road.

Start a list on your phone of everything you didn’t get to. Because there will be a next trip, and you’ll want to be ready. If you want all of our favorite spots, restaurants, hikes, and hidden gems mapped out and ready to go for whenever that next trip happens, our PNW Map has you covered.

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Oregon Coast road trip: Southern route

If you’ve already done the northern coast or you’re simply craving something a little less traveled, this is the itinerary for you. 

The southern route is more spread out, involves more driving between stops, and takes you through some of the coast’s most spectacular and least visited scenery. Save at least nine days for this one and resist the urge to rush it.

Day 1: Lincoln City

• Driving time from Portland: about 2 hours / 100 miles

One of the bigger towns on the coast, Lincoln City is known for their bi-annual kite festivals, glass blowing community, and like just about every other coastal town, fresh seafood!

As we approached Lincoln City on Highway 101, the strip malls and chain stores made me question how much I’d like this town… but it turns out once you get off the highway, it gets progressively more charming.

While not as quaint as many of the smaller and less commercialized towns on the Oregon coast, Lincoln City has a relatively large and spacious beach as well as a burgeoning foodie scene, making it a good place to stop on your Oregon coast road trip.

Settle in and explore

Today is an arrival day so keep it relaxed. 

Wander over to Robert’s Bookshop, a genuinely labyrinthine used bookshop with an estimated quarter million books inside. It’s the kind of place you walk into for ten minutes and emerge from an hour later.

Lunch at The Pines Dines

This food truck pod in Lincoln City’s historic Taft district is super family friendly and has a bunch of options. Order outside from the trucks, then grab a drink from the indoor bar and find a seat inside or out. 

Blow your own glass float

This one had been on my bucket list for years and it did not disappoint. Book your session at the Lincoln City Glass Center for this afternoon. You’ll pick your colors and work with a professional glassblower to create your own hand-blown piece.

Sessions start at $75 and take about 25 minutes. The glass has to cool overnight in the kiln, so you’ll pick it up first thing tomorrow morning before heading out on your hike. Book in advance as it fills up fast. If you can’t make it in person, they also ship.

We had the best time and now we have a really cool souvenir to remind us of our trip. 

Sunset on the beach with a kite

Lincoln City is one of the best places on the Oregon Coast to fly a kite, and sunset is the perfect time to do it. Pick one up at a local shop, head to the beach an hour before sunset, and let the coastal wind do the work.

Dinner

Squatchsami Outpost is our top pick for a casual first night dinner. The fish and chips are excellent: upgrade to the rosemary fries and don’t skip it. For drinks after dinner, Seahorsey Bottle Shop serves only PNW wines and makes their citrus olives in house. A perfect low-key evening.

Day 2: Hiking day near Lincoln City

Start with a coffee from Left Coast Coffee Co., one of our favorites on the entire coast. Next, swing by the Lincoln City Glass Center when they open to pick up your glass piece from yesterday.

Today is all about getting out on the trails. You have two excellent options depending on your fitness level and what kind of experience you’re after.

Option 1: Drift Creek Falls (easy, family friendly)

A 3.2-mile out-and-back through old growth forest in the Siuslaw National Forest, about 40 minutes inland from Lincoln City. 

The trail ends at a gorgeous 75-foot waterfall and a suspension bridge hanging 100 feet above it. This was one of the most rewarding easy hikes we’ve done on the entire coast. 

Download the trail on AllTrails before you leave since cell service disappears en route. You’ll need a Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass to park, or purchase a $5 day pass online in advance as they are not available on site.

Option 2: God’s Thumb (moderate, epic views)

If you’re up for something with more elevation, God’s Thumb is a 4.3-mile out-and-back just north of Lincoln City with about 1,000 feet of elevation gain. 

The trail passes through The Knoll, a sweeping grassy meadow with panoramic views over Lincoln City and the coast, before continuing to God’s Thumb itself: a dramatic basalt formation jutting high above the Pacific. Two spectacular viewpoints in one hike makes it an excellent bang for your effort.

Important note: As of 2024, you are no longer allowed to hike all the way out to “the thumb,” but we still saw a lot of people doing it. When there are restrictions on trails, please respect them. (It’s usually for your safety or to keep the wildlife or environment protected.)

Brunch at The Wildflower Grill

A cute little brunch spot perfect for a post-hike meal. Get the crab Benedict. You will not regret it.

Tide pooling

Roads End State Recreation Site is our top pick and one of the best tide pool spots on the coast. It takes about 30 minutes to walk to the end of the beach, but we counted close to 100 starfish on one visit. 

Plan for low tide and give yourself a couple of hours. Check tide times the night before.

Short on time or prefer a quicker walk? Fogarty Creek State Recreation Area has accessible tide pools on the south side that are worth a visit and require much less walking. But I will note we saw significantly less star fish here. 

Day 3: Depoe Bay, Yaquina Head Lighthouse & Newport

• Driving time from Lincoln City to Newport: about 45 minutes

Today is a packed and rewarding day. You’ll make your way south with two great stops before landing in Newport, one of our favorite towns on the entire Oregon Coast.

Depoe Bay

Depoe Bay has traded the expansive sandy beach you’ll find in neighboring Lincoln City for a rugged coastline dotted with whitecaps and… resident whales!

Often touted as the “whale watching capital of Oregon”, Depoe Bay is the best place to try your luck at spotting these gentle giants on the Oregon coast.

Fun Fact: Apparently Depoe Bay has the world’s smallest harbor!

Grab coffee at Pirate Coffee Company or LEFT COAST Coffee Co. and stroll along the oceanfront walkway. (Be sure to look to the water for whales!). 

Try to spot a whale (or two!). Between the months of March through December, a resident pod of grey whales call the waters just offshore of Depoe Bay home, giving visitors an excellent chance of spotting them. In fact, after just a few minutes of strolling along the ocean walk, we saw a whale-tail-slap (is that what it’s called?!) in the distance.

Insider Tip: If you want a close up view of the whales, you might want to book a whale watching tour. There are several operators in town. According to them, the best time for whale watching is June through September.

Yaquina Head Lighthouse

Just north of Newport, this lighthouse is stunning and the rocks just offshore are perfect for birdwatching. I felt like we had been transported to Iceland for a minute!

We think it’s well worth a stop as you make your way down from Depoe Bay.

Newport

Another one of our favorite towns on the Oregon Coast! Check in, then head straight to the historic Bayfront to get your bearings. 

Wander the waterfront, pop into shops (Femme Fatale Curiosities is one of the quirkiest stores I’ve ever walked into), and make your way to the sea lion docks where a sprawling cuddle puddle of sea lions hauled out on the docks is waiting for you. 

Keep an eye out along the harbor for boats selling live crab straight off the vessel. Newport is the Dungeness crab capital of the world, after all. We once picked up fresh crabs on a whim and it was the most fun we’ve had cooking dinner in a long time. 

Dinner at Local Ocean’s Seafood

If you’ve got the budget for a nice seafood dinner on your trip, we’d highly recommend dining at Local Ocean’s Seafood in Newport. They call their restaurant concept “dock-to-table”, and you dine with a view of the dock where the catch is brought in daily. Can’t get much fresher than that!

We ordered the grilled calamari salad, Crab Po’ Boy, and Moqueca. Everything was delicious, but the Moqueca was a standout and definitely our top recommendation!

Day 4: Seal Rock, Yachats & Cape Perpetua

• Driving time from Newport to Florence: about 1 hour / 50 miles

Seal Rock

Unlike the name suggests, you aren’t likely to find seals here. Apparently one of the large rock formations resembles a seal… but I didn’t really see it.

Don’t be disappointed though. This beach is well worth a stroll and is a fantastic spot for seeing tide pools filled with little creatures. Make a quick stop here to stretch your legs before you continue down the coast. 

Yachats

Instead of sandy beaches, you’ll see waves crashing against rugged black basalt rock, for a very different vibe than some of the more northern coastal towns.

Yachats (pronounced ya-hots… yep, I was saying it wrong too!) is home to fewer than 700 people and the center is just a few blocks. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in charm. 

It is said that Arthur Frommer (yes, of that Frommer’s), once listed Yachats as one of his top 10 destinations in the world. I don’t know about the whole world, but Yaachats is certainly one of my favorite stops on the Oregon Coast. 

On this itinerary, we recommend stopping into Yachats for lunch. Here are a few of our favorite restaurants: 

• Luna Sea Fish House: Fisherman-owned town staple featuring the best fish & chips in town
• The Drift Inn Family Pub: With an extensive menu of scratch-made dishes and cozy atmosphere, this is a popular dinner spot for the whole family
• Green Salmon: A vegan and eco-friendly coffee house that serves up fair trade brews and counter-serve menu items for breakfast and lunch
• Bread & Roses: The most popular bakery in town and for good reason! (Only open on weekends)
• Topper’s Ice Cream & Candy: Homemade fudges and chocolates alongside scoops of ice cream and espresso shots for dessert

And in case you want to stay longer, we have a guide for things to do in Yachats that’ll keep you busy for at least a day or two.

Thor’s Well Cape Perpetua Scenic Area

Just south of Yachats lies Thor’s Well, a dramatic hole in the volcanic rock that appears to suck ocean water straight into the earth—earning it nicknames like “the drainpipe of the Pacific” and “gate to hell.” 

Good to know: Photos of the hole can be a bit misleading… We were expecting something much larger, but when we arrived we realized it is only about 10 feet across at the widest part. That said, it’s still impressive and worth seeing.

Formed from a collapsed sea cave, Thor’s Well is most impressive at high tide when waves crash in and disappear down the opening.

→ See our guide to Thor’s Well on Go Wander Wild to find out everything you need to plan your visit.  

Thor’s Well is the most famous attraction on Cape Perpetua, but there are other “blow holes” (is that a real term?) where you can see more activity. Devil’s Churn and Spouting Horn are two that you’ll find nearby.

Dinner in Florence

You should make it to Florence in time for a late dinner. Here are a few of our top recommendations for places to eat: 

• Homegrown Public House & Brewery: We came for the beer and clam steamers and left super satisfied.
• Mo’s Chowder: One of the many locations of this famous coastal chain is located on the water in downtown Florence.
• Bridgewater Fish House & Zebra Bar: Cute restaurant in the heart of Old Town serving fresh seafood.

Day 5: Florence, Hecita Head Lighthouse & Sea Lion Cave

Situated near the mouth of the Siuslaw River, Florence, Oregon is ah-freaking-dorable (the Old Town section, at least).  The center of Florence actually has a river view instead of looking out into the ocean, making it feel a bit different from many of the other towns on the Oregon coast. 

The combination of river + ocean + sand dunes makes this town pretty unique, and has some adventurous things to do to top it off.

If you’re adventurous and have time to do one thing in Florence, go sandboarding. It is such a fun activity you can’t do in very many places, so if you have the opportunity, take it! 

Sand Master Park is the place for all your sandboard questions and rentals. The guy who was working when we stopped in said he competes regularly in sandboard competitions (yep, that’s a thing!) and you could tell he was suuuuper passionate about the sport. He shared his favorite spots with us and answered all our silly questions. 

While you’re there, be sure to check out their HUGE collection of sand from around the world which is pretty fascinating.

Heceta Head Lighthouse

If you visit one lighthouse on the Oregon coast, Heceta Head should be it.

From the parking lot ($5 day use fee or state park pass required), you’ll follow a forested trail for a half-mile, passing the lighthouse keeper’s residence just before you reach the lighthouse.

Insider Tip: While it’s stunning to see it up close, we recommend taking the path to the right of the trail just before you reach the lighthouse. It’s a short hike up, but you’ll get views from the top overlooking the lighthouse with the ocean in the background. You can turn around and head back down the way you came, or you can continue on the trail which leads to Hobbit Beach.

The state park offers tours of the lighthouse and property between the hours of 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. (summer) and 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. (winter).

Looking for a splurge? If you’re into lighthouses and have the budget for it, you can rent out a room in the lightkeeper’s house at Heceta Head and let your imagination run wild. Starting at $385 for the cheapest room, it’s not a very budget-friendly accommodation, but it’s sure to be one of the most unique stays on your trip!  

Sea Lion Caves

We were skeptical about this one—cheesy signage, admission fees to see wild animals… it didn’t sound promising. But we were (mostly) wrong.

After a 45-minute wait, we made it to the outdoor viewpoint and spotted about 150 sea lions lounging on distant rocks. The real highlight came next: a short elevator ride down into America’s largest sea cave, where you can view wild Steller sea lions from a designated window—without disturbing their natural habitat.

The privately owned cave is massive (12 stories tall and a football field long) and includes exhibits, a short film, and views of Heceta Head Lighthouse.

• Hours: 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily
• Entrance fee: $18 adults, $17 seniors, $12 kids, 4 and under go free!
• More info on their official website

Good to know: We returned to Sea Lion Cave with our daughter in August 2024 and learned that during the later summer months, the sea lions aren’t actually in the cave, they are just on the rock. In our opinion it was not worth the entry fee for the cave when there were no seals present. Before you decide to stay, it would be worth asking if the sea lions are in the cave. 

Day 6: Shore Acres State Park & Bandon

Before we set off on our trip, we got recommendations from at least two different people to make sure we stopped at this state park, just north of Bandon. And we’re glad we heeded their advice.

There are viewpoints and hiking trails, but Shore Acres is most well-known for its botanical gardens that are free to the public as long as you have a state park pass (or pay the $5 day use fee).

We’re huge fans of Japan and everything associated with the country and its culture, so exploring the Japanese zen garden — complete with a lily pond — was a highlight for us. There is also a rose garden and a large English-style garden as well.

The gardens are open year round, and you’ll find it changes with the seasons (even in the winter!). In fact, between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve, there is a holiday lights display that looks pretty cool.

Simpson Reef Overlook / Cape Arago

While you’re in the area, we’d recommend stopping at Simpson Reef Overlook. While it’s not anything entirely special, you can see sea lions on a large rock offshore.

And at the next viewpoint, Cape Arago, a couple waved us down and pointed out some whales in the distance. Try your luck, and pack binoculars if you have them!

Bandon

Artsy Bandon is a quiet, quirky town with several intriguing qualities. 

The sand labyrinths and beautiful animal sculptures from Washed Ashore are both family-friendly and certainly memorable exhibits. Plus, you’ll find that beaches in Bandon have more solitude than most other Oregon Coast towns. 

Head to the Coquille River Lighthouse for one of the best sunsets on the coast. 

Day 7: Bandon, Gold Beach & Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor

Start your morning with coffee and a walk on the beach in Bandon before you take off further down the coast.

Gold Beach

Although it’s not necessarily the cutest or most historic Oregon Coast town, Gold Beach has some of the most striking scenery in the entire PNW at its doorstep. 

One of the top things to do here is take a jet boat adventure with Jerry’s Rogue Jets. From leisurely cruises to blasting through whitewater rapids, it’s the best way to experience the Rogue River.

Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor

The Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor packs one jaw-droppingly gorgeous punch after another, with considerably fewer crowds than the northern coast. Spend your time in Gold Beach taking scenic drives, hiking, getting out on the water, and lingering in great restaurants. 

Brookings

Located at the southern tip of the Oregon Coast, the draw to stay in Brookings is not the town itself, but it’s proximity to the Scenic Corridor.

Day 8: Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor

Stretching 12 miles along the southern coast between Brookings and Gold Beach, the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor is one of the most jaw-dropping sections of Highway 101. This rugged stretch is packed with dramatic sea cliffs, hidden coves, natural arches, and postcard-worthy viewpoints.

Must-see stops include Natural Bridges, Arch Rock, Secret Beach, and Whaleshead Beach—all accessible via short trails or pull-offs. If you have time, hike a section of the Oregon Coast Trail, which winds through old-growth forest with stunning ocean views.

Insider Tip: This area is best explored slowly, stopping at multiple viewpoints. Bring good shoes and your camera—this is one of the most scenic spots on the entire coast!

Day 9: Depart the Oregon Coast

Today is your final day on the Oregon Coast and depending on where you’re headed next you’ll likely want to get on the road fairly early. It’s a full 6 hour drive if you’ll be making your way back to Portland.

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Planning your Oregon Coast road trip

We have some important advice to share with you before you hop in your car and head to the coast.

Entrance fees

• Ecola State Park: $5 (free with Oregon State Park Pass)
• Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad: $32 for adults round trip
• Yaquina Head Lighthouse: $7 parking/entrance fee (free with Oregon State Park Pass)
• Cape Perpetua Scenic Area: $5 (free with Oregon State Park Pass)
• Hecita Head Lighthouse: $5 (free with Oregon State Park Pass)
• Sea Lion Cave: $18 per adult, $12 kids, 4 and under go free!

Best time to plan your Oregon Coast road trip

The Oregon Coast is stunning year-round, but we think the best time to visit is in early fall—September to October—when you’ll have fewer crowds and the best chance of dry weather and clear coastal views.

• Summer (June–August) offers the warmest temps and long daylight hours, but it’s also the most crowded, especially in popular towns like Cannon Beach.
  
• Early fall (September–early October) is a sweet spot: the crowds thin out, the weather often stays pleasant, and everything is still open.
  
• Winter & spring bring moody skies, rain, and dramatic waves—perfect if you’re into storm watching and don’t mind bundling up. Plus, it’s prime whale-watching season (December through March)!
  

Whenever you go, bring layers—the weather can shift quickly from sunshine to fog, especially near the coast.

Weather on the Oregon Coast

The weather on the Oregon Coast can change drastically. It’s not uncommon for it to shift from fog and wind to cloudless sunny skies to rain all in one day.

Don’t plan on your trip being filled with sun-soaked beach days. (You’ll want to go to southern California for that.) But if you get a beautiful sunny day or two, stop everything and rejoice because you’re lucky.

Understand the Marine Layer. If you’re not already familiar, this phenomenon occurs in many coastal areas and makes for thick fog, cooler temperatures, and overall gloomy conditions (see picture).

Sometimes it can last all day, while other times the sun will burn it off by mid-morning and you’ll be rewarded with blue skies. Even if the marine layer is thick, you can often head inland just a bit and find very different weather, blue skies and all!

Be prepared for the wind! Some beaches and lookout points can get incredibly windy. Like, sand whipping in your eyes, windy! You’ve been warned.

A little history…

The first people to call the Oregon coast home are the following native peoples (in order from north to south):

• Chinook
• Tillamook and Siletz
• Alsea
• Siuslaw
• Coos
• Athabaskans

Find more info here.

Don’t make these common mistakes on your Oregon Coast road trip

There are some common mistakes people make, and we want you to be prepared!

• Cell service can be spotty.
  • Insider Tip: Download offline version of Google Maps and AllTrails because there will likely be times when you’re without service on the Oregon coast. 
• Put on sunscreen, even if it’s cloudy. Don’t be deceived, you can get burned through the marine layer (and also through clouds!).
• If you’re traveling in a campervan, pay careful attention to signage for overnight parking.

Where can you camp overnight in your campervan? 

You can’t park just anywhere, after all… Our advice is to download The Dyrt, an app that’ll take your campervan game to the next level. Use this link to get 30 days of the Pro Membership totally free (no strings attached). We’ve also got a whole article all about ways to find free camping if you want more info!

How to find Free Camping in the USA (+Tips & Apps)

Tips for enjoying your Oregon Coast road trip

• Seafood lovers will be in heaven! Plan to eat as much fresh fish, oysters, crab, and clams as you can while on the coast.
  • Mo’s Seafood & Chowder is a staple chain that you’ll see all over the coast, but the original location is in Newport.
  • Psst! This article is packed full of food suggestions, so be sure to take notes!
• Good hotels book up well in advance, especially in the summertime and even more so on the weekends. Same goes for campgrounds and Airbnbs, so book in advance if possible.
• Highway 101 winds along the coast and can get narrow in parts. Drive carefully.
• Plan to have picnics on your Oregon coast road trip. There are many perfect opportunities, so pack your favorite picnic foods, utensils, and a blanket so you’re prepared. 
• Pay attention to the tide tables. While you won’t be able to plan out every stop along the way according to high and low tides, it’s good to know what to expect. For instance, if you want to see tide pools, you’ll need to visit at low tide.
  • This website is a good resource for tide tables.

• Weekends in the summer can get crazy busy. Everyone from Portland migrates to the coast on the weekends… or so it seems. Be prepared.
• Trailheads can get super busy and oftentimes people park alongside the (narrow) road.
  • Tip: Check out all the best Oregon Coast hikes to plan your hikes before you arrive and get to the trailheads early!
• An Oregon State Park Pass is good to have and will likely save you money in the long run!
• You can have bonfires on the beach. There are places all along the coast that sell firewood for $5 a bundle.
• Catch as many sunsets as you can! You’re on the West Coast after all, and there are some spectacular opportunities for watching the sun sink into the deep blue oblivion of the ocean.

Oregon Coast road trip map

Click on the map and enter your email to gain access to our custom Oregon coast road trip Map.

Transportation for your Oregon Coast road trip

Most people will use their everyday car as the vehicle for their Oregon road trip. And that’s a great choice; however, there are other options to consider. Especially if you will be flying in from out of state. 

Campervan rental

It’s no secret we are big fans of #vanlife. If you want to give it a test drive, we’ve got tons of resources for you! 

Check out our list of top companies for USA Campervan Rentals, from budget to bougie, including exclusive discounts for our readers.

→ Related: If you already know you’re flying in and out of Portland, we also have a guide to the best campervan rentals in Portland specifically.

Our go-to place to find the best campervan rentals in a particular destination is Motorhome Republic. This is an aggregate (kind of like what Booking.com is for hotels or what Discover Cars is for car rentals) that rounds up all the options in one place so you can easily compare them. 

Rental cars

Renting a car is a great option for your road trip if you don’t want to put extra miles on your own vehicle, or are flying in from out of state. 

Personally, for road trips in the USA, we’ve had good experiences with Booking.com (formerly RentalCars.com). We’ve booked through them several times and have found some really great deals. For example, we rented a small SUV for a road trip in Washington State and paid less than $30 per day, and in Tucson, Arizona we paid just $17 a day. Heck yes!

Prices vary depending on your location, number of days, season, and type of car. Our advice is to compare Booking.com to other platforms with your specifics so you can be sure you’re getting the best deal.

Search & Compare Rental Car Prices

• Discover Cars: We personally use this aggregate site to compare rental car prices from all the big name companies and get the best price possible. 
• Booking.com: We’ve had good experiences finding rental cars with this site (formerly RentalCars.com) in the past. 

Discover Cars

Booking.com

Where to fly into

The best airport to fly into for an Oregon Coast road trip is Portland International Airport (PDX). It’s the largest airport in the state and about 2 hours from the northern coast (when starting in Astoria or Cannon Beach).

From there, you can easily rent a car or campervan and begin your journey south along Highway 101.

What to pack for an Oregon Coast road trip

• State Park pass: There are tons of state parks listed on this itinerary, and having a pass will save you money along the way (as well as the headache of having to pay at each individual point). Buy an annual pass for $30 at the first state park you stop at.
• raincoat and/or umbrella
• battery pack
• layers: The coast can be notoriously chilly even in the height of summer. Bring warmer clothes than you think you’ll need.
• sunscreen
• sunglasses
• Shoes that can get wet and are good for hiking
  • we usually pack Chacos as well as a pair of closed toe shoes
• Camera & tripod
• motion sickness remedies
• light hiking gear
• snacks
• picnic blanket
• cooler
• utensils
• binoculars (if you want to try your luck at spotting whales)
  • We spotted some with our naked eyes, but they were quite far away. So if you have binoculars, you may want to pack them!

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We want to hear from you!

Are you planning an Oregon coast road trip? What areas sound most appealing to you? What questions do you still have? Comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!