Things to Do on the Oregon Coast: A Local’s Guide

From Astoria to Brookings, the Oregon Coast packs 360 miles of beaches, headlands, and small towns into one unforgettable road trip. Here are the things worth planning a trip around.

Explore iconic beaches

Stand beneath Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach, fly a kite along the seven-mile strand in Lincoln City, or find the quieter sands of Manzanita. Low tide reveals tidepools full of sea stars and anemones — bring sturdy shoes.

Chase lighthouses and views

The coast is dotted with historic lighthouses and jaw-dropping viewpoints, from Cape Meares to Yaquina Head. Pull over often; the next headline view is usually a mile up Highway 101.

Watch for whales

Gray whales pass close to shore twice a year (winter and spring), and resident whales linger near Depoe Bay all summer. Pack binoculars.

Walk the dunes and taste the coast

Explore the Oregon Dunes near Florence, dig for razor clams, and eat your way through Dungeness crab, fresh oysters, and small-town chowder houses in Bandon and beyond.

Time it with an event

Kite festivals, sandcastle contests, whale-watch weeks, and holiday lights fill the calendar — see the Oregon Coast events.

Where to stay

Make any town your base and book an Oregon Coast vacation rental direct with the local owner — no service fees, and you are steps from the sand.