INSPIRATION GUIDE 2026-2027
Historic Old Town Florence Sea Lion Caves Exploding Whale Park Cape Perpetua Lookout Whale Watching Thor’s Well and Spouting Horn Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area Heceta Head Lighthouse Cleawox Lake Darlingtonia Classic Coastal Adventures 10
THE PEOPLE’S COAST Our inclusivity extends to visitors with disabilities. The Oregon Coast is proud to be part of the first state to achieve Accessibility Verified status with Wheel the World, an online travel platform that provides details of attractions, lodging, restaurants and more to ensure your trip meets your needs. Go to VisitTheOregonCoast.com for additional ways to enjoy the Coast and to get answers to all of your questions. We can’t wait to see you. Welcome to the Oregon Coast! With endless beaches on 363 miles (584 km) of coastline, forests and scenic waterways to explore, you’ll find adventures and relaxation galore. Sample the best coastal cuisine at our farm stands, fish markets, restaurants and craft brewpubs. Shred mountain bike trails, paddle scenic rivers and play disc golf with friends. Make happy memories in cozy cabins, deluxe beachfront lodgings or a campsite in the woods. No matter your race, creed, color, religion, ability, gender or sexual orientation, we welcome all here. We’re all here to treat each other with kindness and respect. We ask you to extend that kindness to the creatures of the Coast and their habitats, as well. Bandon KEN HAGEN AND ANTON HUGO Go to VisitTheOregonCoast.com for more info. 1 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM
SCENIC BYWAY SCENIC BYWAY SCENIC CORRIDOR SCENIC BYWAY 42 33 47 6 53 223 229 138 138 242 140 595 227 126 99W 5 5 5 20 3h to Seattle 38 36 34 22 22 18 47 18 101 101 101 101 26 30 26 202 5 84 101 199 66 66 5 6h 45m to San Francisco 1h 30m to Portland 1h to Salem 1h to Eugene LANGLOIS ELKTON MERLIN CANYONVILLE SUTHERLIN ASHLAND GRANTS PASS ROSEBURG MEDFORD GOLD BEACH BANDON COQUILLE TILLAMOOK LINCOLN CITY WHEELER ROCKAWAY BEACH GARIBALDI PACIFIC CITY NETARTS DUNES CITY WINCHESTER BAY LAKESIDE CHARLESTON BAY CITY JEWELL SILETZ NEHALEM FOREST GROVE MCMINNVILLE BEAVER ASTORIA WARRENTON GEARHART SEASIDE CANNON BEACH MANZANITA NESKOWIN TOLEDO REEDSPORT NORTH BEND COOS BAY MYRTLE POINT POWERS PORT ORFORD BROOKINGS CAVE JUNCTION PORTLAND VERNONIA ST. HELENS AGNESS OCEANSIDE OTTER ROCK SEAL ROCK MAPLETON NEWPORT WALDPORT YACHATS FLORENCE EUGENE CORVALLIS SALEM GLENEDEN BEACH DEPOE BAY SAND LAKE HEBO OTIS LINCOLN BEACH LONG BEACH PENINSULA HARBOR WASHINGTON CALIFORNIA SEA LION CAVES SIUSLAW NATIONAL FOREST SILETZ BAY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE OREGON DUNES SAMUEL H. BOARDMAN STATE SCENIC CORRIDOR OREGON REDWOODS TRAIL WHISKEY RUN MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAIL OSWALD WEST STATE PARK CAPE PERPETUA MAP KEY OREGON STATE PARK SITES PORT AIRPORT MARINE RESERVE PISTOL RIVER An official publication of the OREGON COAST VISITORS ASSOCIATION 541.574.2679, 888.OCVA.101 www.VisitTheOregonCoast.com EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Marcus Hinz DEPUTY DIRECTOR Arica Sears MARKETING MANAGER Stacey Gunderson CHAIR Jeremy Strober SECRETARY Janice Langlinais TREASURER Drew Roslund DIRECTORS Justin Aufdermauer, Jeremy Burke, Ashley Espinoza, Nathan Kahler, Bob Neroni, Miles Phillips STRATEGIC ADVISORY GROUP Bureau of Land Management, Department of Land Conservation and Development, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Department of Forestry, Oregon Department of Transportation, Oregon Parks & Recreation Department, US Fish & Wildlife Service, US Forest Service OREGON COAST OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE DIRECTOR OF CUSTOM PUBLISHING Megan Kirkpatrick CREATIVE DIRECTOR Nickie Bournias SENIOR EDITOR Jennifer Burns Bright EDITOR Matt Wastradowski COPY EDITOR Morgan Stone SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Betsy Hand, Sloan Reed ADVERTISING PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Max Cyphers DIGITAL PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Alison Kattleman CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Margot Bigg, Emily Gillespie, Tina Lassen, Kerry Newberry, Vanessa Salvia, Matt Wastradowski, Margarett Waterbury Oregon Coast Official Visitor Guide is published by MEDIAMERICA INC. PRESIDENT/CEO Andrew Insinga CONTROLLER Bill Lee 12570 SW 69th Ave., Suite 102 Portland, Oregon 97223 Phone: 503.223.0304 www.MEDIAmerica.net The Oregon Coast Official Visitor Guide is published by MEDIAmerica Inc. for the Oregon Coast Visitors Association, P.O. Box 940, 2200 1st St., #940, Tillamook, Oregon 97141. Specific visitor attractions, facilities and services mentioned in this publication serve only as examples of Oregon Coast attractions. Mention does not constitute an endorsement by OCVA. Data is subject to change. Copyright ©2026. All rights reserved. Printed in Oregon by Journal Graphics. Follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram WA CA NV ID OREGON 2 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM
OREGON’S WILD RIVERS COAST OREGON’S WILD RIVERS COAST WWW.OREGONSWILDRIVERSCOAST.COM
7 ON THE ROAD 14 OUTDOOR ADVENTURES 26 NORTH OREGON COAST Astoria to Neskowin 44 CENTRAL OREGON COAST Lincoln City to Florence 64 SOUTH OREGON COAST Reedsport to Brookings 78 RESOURCES On the cover: Yaquina Head Lighthouse by Jordan & Dani / Travel Oregon CONTENTS MEL BARBOUR, GLP FILMS Cedar Wetlands Nature Preserve
Why Choose Newport Newport is one of Oregon’s most iconic coastal towns for a reason. Here you’ll find: Find yourself in Newport, and make memories you will want to revisit later. NEWPORTOREGON DISCOVERNEWPORT DISCOVERNEWPORT.COM Miles of open coastline to explore Mountain biking trails An inclusive and accessible surf culture Tidepools, marine life and family-friendly attractions Two historic lighthouses to visit Easy access to outdoor adventures in every direction Oregon’s most loved aquarium A walkable bayfront packed with dining, shops, and Oregon’s largest commercial fishing fleet Get your FREE Newport itinerary THIS IS NEWPORT
So here’s a little unsolicited advice. Take them on some vacations when they’re young. Doesn’t have to be for a long time. Could even be a surprise beach weekend somewhere within easy reach, somewhere like Seaside. Because when they get older they aren’t going to remember routines and regular days. They are going to remember the way going on adventures with you made them feel. seaside is for Yes, we know they grow up fast seasideOR.com @visitseasideOR
LIGHTHOUSES » BRIDGES » HERITAGE » WHALE WATCHING » FAMILY FUN » PET-FRIENDLY ON THE ROAD MEL BARBOUR, GLP FILMS Oregon Coast Aquarium
FROM TOP: NASHCO PHOTO; MANUELA DURSON / TSOC LIGHTHOUSES The region’s most emblematic structures are the lighthouses that dot the coastline. These beacons of light offer a glimpse into the past and punctuate views of the stunning seascape. Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, affectionately known as “Terrible Tilly” for its grueling construction amid raging seas, sits perched on an abandoned rock about a mile off the beach near Ecola State Park, which also offers the best views of the structure. The 56-foot-tall (17-m) Heceta Head Lighthouse north of Florence dates back to 1893 and, like a number of coastal lighthouses, is still operating today. It’s special not only for its stellar views and iconic addition to a sunset silhouette, but visitors can also stay at the former lightkeeper’s home, which has been converted into a bed-and-breakfast. Located in Winchester Bay, the Umpqua River Lighthouse is worth a visit for its unique red and white lights. Come evening, they cast a dazzling rotating light show out toward the horizon. The youngster on the Coast, though closed to the public, is the Cape Arago Lighthouse near Charleston, built in 1934. Its Fresnel lens is on display in the Coos History Museum. Cape Blanco Lighthouse near Port Orford doubles as a whale-watching viewpoint. Open seasonally, this lighthouse dates back to 1870 and is the oldest operating lighthouse in the state. Tillamook Rock Lighthouse Cape Blanco Lighthouse 8 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: COURTESY OF OCVA; COURTESY OF THE COLUMBIA RIVER MARITIME MUSEUM; RICHARD WRIGHT / EXPLORE LINCOLN CITY HERITAGE AND CULTURE that highlights tribal languages of the Southern Coast, a collaboration with the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians; the Coquille Indian Tribe; and the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. For maritime culture and history, visit the nationally renowned Columbia River Maritime Museum in Astoria, where all ages are easily captivated by the interactive exhibits that cover the region’s shipwrecks, the science of storms, shark and fur trade, and courageous stories of crossing the legendary Columbia River Bar — one of the most dangerous passages in the world. Explore the Oregon Coast Public Art Trail to immerse yourself in area history and artistic communities. With this self-guided map, you’ll find an astounding 800 pieces of art including sculptures, murals and functional crafts — all accessible to the public and free. Be sure to see two recent installations: the life-size bronze statue of African American Oregon settler Louis Southworth playing his beloved fiddle at the Alsea Bay Bridge Visitor Center and Museum in Waldport and the interactive, 24-foot (7-m) stainless-steel sculpture Poppy outside the Lincoln City Cultural Center. In addition to miles of wild and rugged natural wonders, the Oregon Coast is steeped in heritage and history with interactive museums, an extensive art trail and family-friendly annual events. Learn and experience the culture and ceremonies of Oregon coastal tribes from vibrant pow-wows and seasonal celebrations to museums and public art. Often open to the public, pow-wows are a great way to experience traditional dancing, singing and drumming. The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians hosts its annual Nesika Illahee (“Our Land”) Pow-Wow in August. To mark the anniversary of the tribe’s restoration of federal recognition, Chinook Winds Casino Resort hosts the Annual Siletz Restoration Pow-Wow in November. Each September the Coquille Indian Tribe puts on the Ko-Kwel Salmon Celebration at Ko-Kwel Casino Resort in North Bend. The two-day event includes dancing, bayfront canoe races and a traditional salmon bake. Head to the Coos History Museum in Coos Bay to see a cedar dugout canoe, intricate woven baskets and other Native American artifacts. Also on display: a special exhibit “Cedar and Sea” exhibit at the Columbia River Maritime Museum Sculpture of Lucy Dick at the Port of Brookings-Harbor Chetco Indian Memorial Poppy sculpture at the Lincoln City Cultural Center 9 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM ON THE ROAD
JEREMY BURKE HISTORIC BRIDGES OF THE OREGON COAST HIGHWAY Look for these six stunning spans on U.S. 101, the national scenic byway that runs along the Oregon coastline. All designed by architect Conde Balcom McCullough — just a few of the hundreds of Oregon bridges he designed in his long career in Oregon transportation — these bridges are true originals. They feature a mix of Gothic and Romanesque arches, art deco motifs and elements from other design styles for dramatic impact. Depoe Bay Bridge Built in Depoe Bay in 1927 and widened in 1940, this bridge spans the entry to the town’s small harbor. It has a staircase and a walkway for reaching the Depoe Bay Whale Watching Center. Yaquina Bay Bridge Arching over the bay with views of Newport, this bridge with an iconic steel through-arch stretches 3,223 feet (982 m) and opened to the public in 1936. It includes observation platforms and stairways that lead down to parks. Cape Creek Bridge Designed to look like a Roman aqueduct beneath the roadway, this unique 1932-vintage bridge south of Heceta Head Lighthouse sports one large and several smaller arches, columns and a viaduct — all made of reinforced concrete. Siuslaw River Bridge The pride of Florence, this soaring 1,568-foot (478-m) drawbridge of steel and concrete features four lovely art deco operator booths with Gothic arches and decorative pillars on either end. Conde B. McCullough Memorial Bridge An engineering masterpiece worthy of its name, this cantilever bridge over Coos Bay at North Bend features Gothic arches and plazas with benches and graceful staircases to the shoreline. At 5,305 feet (1,617 m), it was the longest bridge in Oregon when it was built in 1936. Isaac Lee Patterson Bridge Named for a former Oregon governor and opened in 1932, this concrete bridge across the Rogue River at Gold Beach has seven elegant arches, art deco details and arched windows topped with sunbursts in the entrance pylons. Yaquina Bay Bridge 10 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM
FROM LEFT: DANNY KENT ALACALI; VISIT TILLAMOOK COAST FAMILY FUN From beachcombing to biking, the Oregon Coast offers a range of fun to keep the whole family smiling. Visit the Peter Iredale shipwreck and explore an old military fort when you camp at Fort Stevens State Park in Warrenton. In nearby Seaside, rent bicycles or surreys to pedal around town and check out the arcades. Head to the driftwood-strewn beach at Siletz Bay for forts and bonfires, or gear up to try your luck crabbing and clamming. Nearby, watch the glassblowers at Lincoln City Glass Center, and try to find handmade glass floats hidden on area beaches year-round by "float fairies." After a whale-watching excursion, budding naturalists can learn more at Depoe Bay’s Whale Watching Center and Newport’s Oregon Coast Aquarium and Hatfield Marine Science Center, all of which feature hands-on exhibits. In Bandon, look for Circles in the Sand walkable labyrinths and tide-pool interpreters during the summer months. Kid-approved annual events include kite festivals in Lincoln City and Rockaway Beach, the Garibaldi Crab Races, the Tillamook County Fair Pig-’n-Ford Races and Glass Float Month in Gold Beach. During the holidays, be sure to visit holiday light displays, including Shore Acres State Park near Coos Bay and Azalea Park in Brookings. Rockaway Beach Kite Festival DOG DAYS We love dogs, and dogs love Oregon beaches. Follow these tips to ensure a great day at the Coast with your four-legged friend. Before heading out, make sure your destination is dog-friendly. Many wildlife preserves and refuges have strict policies for pets. Some great dog-friendly beaches with plenty of space to play include Del Rey Beach State Recreation Site, South Beach State Park near Newport (which has pet-friendly yurts) and the many beaches along Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. Plenty of coastal accommodations welcome pets, as do restaurants and pubs with patios — some even have treats! Follow leash laws. Carry a leash at all times, and never leave your dog tied up unattended. Dogs must be leashed in state parks; in off-leash areas, dogs should be in sight and responsive to voice commands, especially when near children and other dogs. Pick up after your pooch and properly dispose of waste. Give wildlife a wide berth. Keep dogs away from birds, tide pools, seals, sea lions and other animals. Check signage at beach-access points, as dogs are restricted in some areas from March 15 to September 15, the nesting season for the western snowy plover. Shore Acres State Park 11 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM ON THE ROAD
FROM TOP: JEREMY BURKE; ERIK URDAHL SPOTTING MIGRATING WHALES Visitors to the Oregon Coast get a front-row view of one of the world’s great animal migrations: Every spring and fall, about 20,000 massive gray whales travel along Oregon’s coastline, part of a 12,000-mile (19,312-km) journey between their summer home in the Bering Sea and warmer winter waters of Baja California, Mexico. Some whales decide to stay put right here, so it’s possible to see gray whales in Oregon any time of year. WHEN AND WHERE Spring migration along Oregon begins in March and continues until June. Winter brings a more concentrated migration, typically focused on the month of December. Visit ORWhaleWatch.org for a map of recommended locations like capes and headlands. In December and late March, Oregon State Parks hosts its Oregon Whale Watch program at prime viewing sites along the Coast, with binocular-equipped volunteers who help spot passing pods. Summer and fall are ideal for viewing hundreds of resident whales. Get out on a whale-watching tour to see them; they often frequent Depoe Bay, the waters near Cape Perpetua and between Port Orford and Gold Beach. See VisitTheOregonCoast.com/ Activities for tour operators. LEARN MORE Find exhibits about the gray whale at Oregon State Parks Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay. Learn more about other sea creatures at the Charleston Marine Life Center and the Hatfield Marine Science Center and Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport. South Coast Tours Whale tail 12 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM
“A Floating Adventure!” Aquarium-Style Activities Friendly Naturalists & Captains BIG Boat with Seating for All Calm Route on Ocean, Bay & River Fun Boat! “Outstanding Marine/Aquatic Organization” –NW Aquatic and Marine Educators “Nature-Based Tours that Showcase Oregon’s Coastline” –Tourism Industry Council of Oregon “Learned a Lot and Had Fun!” –Trip Advisor MarineDiscovery.com 541-265-6200 345 SW Bay Blvd ~ Newport’s Bayfront
CYCLING » HIKING » PADDLING » BIRD-WATCHING » DISC GOLF » TIDE POOLS » ACCESSIBLE OUTDOORS OUTDOOR ADVENTURES SUSAN SEUBERT Neahkahnie Mountain
CYCLING ON THE OREGON COAST One of the best ways to take in the magnificent landscapes of the Oregon Coast is from the seat of a bicycle. Road biking has long been a popular way to ride the entire length of the Coast thanks to the 370-mile (595.5-km) Oregon Coast Bike Route and an extensive network of bike- and hike-in campsites at state parks throughout the region. Opportunities for one-day adventures include the Three Capes Scenic Loop on the North Coast and the Wild Rivers Coast Scenic Bikeway down south. Mountain biking is another favorite way to get outside on the Oregon Coast, thanks to a growing network of trail systems for riders of all levels. Sign up for the Ride the Dirt Wave events each summer for group rides at locations along the Coast. On the North Coast, Klootchy Creek has trails for mountain bikers of all skill levels. On the Central Coast, shred the Wilder and Big Creek trails in Newport. In Coos County, the Whiskey Run network offers 32 miles (51 km) of single-track trails. Just inland, the family-friendly Hundred Acre Wood Trail System hosts forested trails in Coquille. The Pine Grove Trail cuts through the Rogue River–Siskiyou Adventure beckons year-round on Oregon’s rugged coastline, a 363-mile (584-km) stretch of magnificent beaches, wildly racing rivers and centuries-old forests. Natural beauty abounds with any outdoor activity. Anglers can cast in pristine rivers for spring and fall chinook or winter steelhead, while paddlers easily glide through coastal waterways to marvel at eagles, seabirds, migrating whales and other sea creatures. Single-track trails twist and turn through old-growth forest, and mist-draped golf courses with stunning ocean views entice both novices and expert golfers to tee time. Few places on earth rival the beauty and thrill found on the Oregon Coast. That sound you hear in the crashing ocean waves — it’s your sense of adventure calling. Waldport National Forest outside Gold Beach, with shuttles available via local outfitter South Coast Tours. Gravel biking has skyrocketed in popularity over the past few years, and the Oregon Coast is an exceptional place to ride. For an enthralling adventure past seven waterfalls, don’t miss the Honeyman ride, a 54-mile (87-km) lollipop trail that begins and ends in Honeyman State Park in Florence. For more information, pick up Dirty Freehub’s Oregon Coast Gravel Guide, which features illustrations by Brookings artist Spencer Reynolds. Dreaming of cycling on the sand? Rent a fat-tire bike and get exploring. Riding alongside the mighty Pacific can be a magical experience, and most beaches on the Oregon Coast welcome nonmotorized bikes outside of the March 15 to September 15 western snowy plover nesting season. For a beautiful, beachy ride, catch a tailwind at Seven Devils State Recreation Site north of Bandon, and head south along the edge of the dunes to see a jetty, a lighthouse and offshore sea stacks, stopping in Bandon’s cute downtown for refreshments. JUSTIN MYERS 15 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
DAVID R. / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO DAY HIKES ALONG THE OREGON COAST TRAIL The Oregon Coast Trail stretches 425 miles (684 km), from the mouth of the Columbia River south to the state line. Along the way it hugs the coastline, crosses bays and inlets, ascends to the peaks of forested headlands and occasionally follows the winding Highway 101. Sample this trio of day hikes for wide-open bluffs, magical forests and quiet beaches. MANZANITA TO NEAHKAHNIE MOUNTAIN TRAIL A moderate hike on the North Coast with sweeping views Hike one of the newest stretches of the Oregon Coast Trail, which opened in 2020 and connects the community of Manzanita to the heights of nearby Neahkahnie Mountain. The trail steadily gains about 1,425 feet (434 m) while passing thickets of Sitka spruce, thigh-high sword ferns and dense salal bushes. It ends at a clearing just below the summit and reveals top-down views of Nehalem Bay, Manzanita and the Pacific Ocean. 804 TRAIL An easy route with open-ocean vistas on the Central Coast A flat, partly wheelchair-accessible part of the Oregon Coast Trail, the 804 Trail showcases dramatic landscapes in the heart of Yachats. Parking is available at Smelt Sands State Recreation Site, the path’s halfway point. From Smelt Sands, head north or south while basking in Pacific Ocean views and watching for gray whales offshore. Here the Yachats coastline comprises basalt outcroppings that formed more than 50 million years ago. In all, the trail measures 1.4 miles (2.3 km) round-trip. HUMBUG MOUNTAIN A challenging ascent ends with south-facing ocean views on the South Coast Take a detour from the Oregon Coast Trail, which passes through Humbug Mountain State Park near Port Orford, to ascend the mountain itself. The 5.5-mile (8.9-km) roundtrip trail climbs about 1,750 feet (530 m) while navigating an enchanting old-growth forest of myrtlewood, Douglas fir, salal and rhododendron. On the way up, enjoy occasional views north to Cape Blanco — and at the summit, peer south toward Gold Beach and the Rogue River. 804 Trail 16 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM
FROM TOP: VISIT TILLAMOOK COASAT; KEN HAGEN AND ANTON HUGO PADDLING Traveling by canoe or kayak is a great way to explore Oregon’s waterways — and you don’t need to be an experienced paddler to do it. Many coastal lakes, estuaries and flatwater rivers are beginner-friendly, while paddlers who want to explore the Pacific or the Oregon Coast’s Wild and Scenic Rivers can rely on experienced outfitters and instructors to get them safely on their way. No matter where you are on the Coast, you’ll find plenty of great options. You can launch into the Lewis and Clark River at Netul Landing near Fort Clatsop to explore sloughs and interconnected channels, or head farther south to canoe on Cape Meares Lake and the Nehalem River with the folks at Kayak Tillamook. If you hope to spot wildlife, take the kids to the Siletz Bay National Wildlife Refuge’s 3-mile (4.8-km) loop trail or paddle the mellow 3-mile (4.8km) Siltcoos River Canoe Trail. Families visiting Newport can book a guided kayak tour of Yaquina Bay with the Oregon Boating Foundation. For a peaceful paddle through the South Slough Reserve, join outfitter South Coast Tours on a guided kayaking trip. South Slough Reserve Cape Meares Lake 17 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
BIRD-WATCHING The diverse habitats along the Oregon Coast attract a remarkable variety of birds throughout the year. More than 450 species have been recorded here, so keep those binoculars handy! Here are a few recommended spots. Tillamook Bay, Tillamook Pullouts along Highway 101 provide a good view of waterfowl in the winter months. Plovers, sandpipers and dowitchers spend summer and fall along its shores. Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, Tillamook Steep cliffs and sea stacks attract common murres and pigeon guillemots. Forested park trails access clifftop viewing areas. Cascade Head Biosphere Region, Lincoln City Watch for warblers, owls, raptors and seabirds on trails winding through old-growth groves and grassy meadows high above the Salmon River Estuary. Boiler Bay, Depoe Bay At this wayside, spot black oystercatchers, marbled murrelets and other seabirds that frequent this rockrimmed bay. Hatfield Marine Science Center, Newport An easy 1-mile (1.6-km) trail along Yaquina Bay draws birders year-round. Peak shorebird migration is late April. Caspian and elegant terns show up in summer. South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve, Charleston Tens of thousands of shorebirds descend on the Coos River Estuary during spring and fall migration. The reserve manages 7,000 acres (2,833 ha) of natural areas, with trails and an interpretive center. Harris Beach State Park, Brookings Just offshore, 21-acre (8.5-ha) Goat Island and surrounding sea stacks provide prime habitat for tufted puffins and other charismatic seabirds. Visit OregonCoastBirding.com for more on Oregon’s birding trails and sites. STEVE DIMOCK / TRAVEL SOUTHERN OREGON COAST Western snowy plover chick 18 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM
TOP TIDE-POOL AND INTERTIDAL AREAS • Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach • Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area, Pacific City • Roads End State Recreation Site, Lincoln City • Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, Newport • Seal Rock State Recreation Site, Seal Rock • Cape Perpetua, Yachats • Heceta Head State Scenic Viewpoint, Florence • Cape Arago State Park, Coos Bay • Coquille Point Marine Garden, Bandon • Harris Beach State Park, Brookings EXPLORE WITH CARE Wave-washed intertidal areas may look rugged, but they’re actually fragile ecosystems that are easily damaged. Here’s how to enjoy and protect these critical habitats. DISC GOLF You can see signs of disc golf’s soaring popularity up and down the Oregon Coast, as new courses join existing favorites. Bring brightly colored discs for the challenge of Red River Disc Golf Course in Waldport, where 18 holes thread through dense Sitka spruce with plenty of elevation change along the way. In Newport, put those technical skills to work at Wilder Disc Golf Course, where hilly, wooded terrain rewards tight placement shots. Another Newport course at South Beach State Park is beginner- friendly, rewarding players with views of the Yaquina Bay Bridge (and free rental discs at the hospitality center). A few miles east of Newport, the newly renovated Toledo Red Dog uses massive firs and hemlocks as obstacles in a 9-hole course that is short but highly technical. On the South Coast, Winsor Park has 9 baskets in a semi-wooded area. Gold Beach’s beloved 18-hole course in Buffington Park is tucked back in the woods away from ocean breezes, and Port Orford’s new 9-hole course has a similar setting. Azalea Park in Brookings and Bandon City Park each have scenic 18-hole courses. At the northern end of the Oregon Coast, Fort Stevens State Park is home to the Columbia Shore Disc Golf Course. Its 23 holes meander along the mouth of the Columbia and among the concrete bunkers and batteries of a historic military defense installation. Coastal winds, beautifully distracting views and even grazing elk make for challenging throws at this unusual course. Beginner-friendly and technical discs are for sale in the state park store. EXPLORING TIDE POOLS During daily low tides, the receding surf reveals a remarkable world in the rocky nooks and crannies of Oregon’s coastline. Look for purple and orange sea stars, wiggly anemones and ruffly sea lettuce. Bring a tide table. Time your visit for a receding tide, and make sure you can safely return to high ground before the tide comes back in. Be careful where you step. Aim for bare rock and sand. Even sturdy- looking barnacles and mussels can be damaged or killed if stepped on. Don’t pick up or move anything living. It can injure the animal or disrupt the delicate balance of the ecosystem. It is illegal to remove any sea stars. Learn more about coastal life. Join interpretive programs and guided walks offered at many state parks and tide-pool areas. Sea stars and anemones FROM TOP: DANNY KENT ALACALI; TRENT OLSON / VISIT TILLAMOOK COAST Winsor Park in North Bend 19 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
DIY SEAFOOD While there’s no shortage of restaurants and markets selling fresh seafood, you’ll find plenty of spots to catch your own fish, crabs and clams, too. Before you set out, remember to check the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s website for up-to-date information on permits and regulations, as well as tips for each targeted species. For a seamless experience, consider going with an expert guide or charter service. Book a guide to fish for salmon and sturgeon on the Columbia River at Astoria or on the ocean from the FROM TOP: JUSTIN MYERS; KEN HAGEN AND ANTON HUGO Port of Garibaldi on Tillamook Bay, also an excellent spot to harvest shellfish and crustaceans. In the Lincoln City area, Siletz Bay is great for crabbing and clamming, while Devils Lake and the Salmon and Siletz rivers offer fantastic fishing. On the South Coast, Charleston is a hot spot for both clamming and dock crabbing, as is nearby Coos Bay. The Rogue and Chetco rivers provide exciting charter fishing for rockfish, salmon, steelhead and albacore in season, as well as trout in area lakes. Surf perch are plentiful at many spots along the coastline. Clamming Charleston Marina 20 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM
MEL BARBOUR, GLP FILMS ACCESSIBLE OUTDOORS FOR ALL The Oregon Coast welcomes explorers of all abilities on its beaches, parks and other public lands. In 2025 Oregon became the first state to be Accessibility Verified by travel platform Wheel the World — whose trained mappers assessed attractions, lodging and more to help visitors plan a trip that meets their access needs. Here you’ll find wide, paved paths, innovative upgrades to beach access and accessible kayak launches and fishing piers. DELIGHTFUL VIEWS ALONG PAVED PATHS The paved 1.5-mile (2.4-km) Seaside Promenade affords sweeping Pacific Ocean views and can be reached from many of Seaside’s top sites and overnight stays. In Lincoln City, families can meander along the self-described “world’s shortest park trail,” a fully paved path, alongside the Coast’s first fully accessible playground at Schooner Creek Discovery Park. At Shore Acres State Park near Coos Bay, borrow a wheelchair to traverse the formal gardens in warmer months. ROLL OUT ON THE SAND For easier access to uneven ground and sandy beaches, several coastal communities have created more options. Visit DavidsChair.org to reserve an all-terrain electric wheelchair with large track tires in Seaside, Manzanita, Rockaway Beach, Netarts, Pacific City, Newport, Florence, Coos Bay and Gold Beach. Manual beach wheelchairs are available for loan in Seaside, Tillamook County, Lincoln City and some state parks. Long, wide, nonslip beach-access mats — known as Mobi-mats — are perfect for caregivers with strollers and those who use mobility aids. Find them at beaches in Seaside, Cannon Beach, Lincoln City, Waldport, Newport, Florence and Gold Beach. PADDLING IN COASTAL WATERS Each year brings new accessible kayak launches with adaptive ramps and other features. Broadway Park in Seaside provides access for bird lovers who enjoy paddling. Accessible kayak docks can also be found at Port of Garibaldi, the public boat dock in Wheeler, Sue H. Elmore Park in Tillamook, Port of Alsea in Waldport, Port of Siuslaw in Florence and John Topits Park in Coos Bay. The boat ramp at the Port of Bandon sits inland from the Coquille River Lighthouse. ACCESSIBLE FISHING PIERS For anglers, try your hand at the ADAaccessible dock at Kelly’s Brighton Marina on the Nehalem River. The western side of the Bandon Marina riverwalk features an ADA-accessible pier. Brookings Harbor Marina has plenty of paved parking and docks for crabbing and fishing. Lincoln City, Siletz Bay 21 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Clams at a Winter Waters dinner RACHELLE HACMAC
OREGON SEAFOOD: SUSTAINABLE AND SENSATIONAL LYNN KETCHUM / OREGON SEA GRANT Shop the Dock at the Chelsea Rose The clackety-clack of chalk on chalkboard reveals the day’s catch at the Chelsea Rose, a floating seafood market in Newport’s commercial harbor. Live crabs. Albacore. Black cod. The fish are already being cleaned and filleted with expert efficiency. Owned by a local fishing family, the market is a place to buy seafood direct on the Coast, where you can be confident that it’s ultra fresh, local and responsibly harvested. Co-owner Cari Brandberg acknowledges how special this is. “Times have changed, and it’s harder to buy seafood off the dock directly from fishermen,” she says. “My husband started the market 20 years ago to sell his own fish, and it now supports numerous fishing families on the Coast.” At the heart of the industry are the diligent fishing families who work tirelessly to keep it special. “The majority of Oregon’s fishing fleet is individually owned and operated,” notes Angee Doerr, who oversees Oregon Sea Grant’s “Shop at the Dock” program. “Fishing families and researchers work together to care for our fishery.” Oregon carefully establishes harvest seasons, limits, fishing practices and monitoring systems, explains Doerr, to ensure a healthy, renewable fishery. Brandberg says that visitors who buy from the dock can see the whole process unfold from source to table. “Buying a whole fish is the guarantee of knowing where it came from.” Look for these Oregon specialties — many wild caught, all sustainable and delicious. 23 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM
RACHELLE HACMAC SEAFOOD MARKETS NORTH COAST • Direct at the Dock, Warrenton and Garibaldi • OleBob’s Seafood Market, Astoria • FishStix Seafood Market, Warrenton • Bell Buoy, Seaside • The Fish Peddler, Bay City • The Spot, Garibaldi • Captain’s Corner, Garibaldi • JAndy Oyster Company, Tillamook • West Fish Co., Pacific City CENTRAL COAST • Direct at the Dock, Newport • Barnacle Bill’s Seafood Market, Lincoln City • Oregon Oyster Farms, Newport • Local Ocean, Newport • South Beach Fish Market, Newport • Luna Sea Fish House, Seal Rock and Yachats • Novelli’s Crab & Seafood, Florence • Krab Kettle, Florence SOUTH COAST • Direct at the Dock, Winchester Bay, Charleston and Port Orford • Umpqua Triangle Oysters, Winchester Bay • Clausen Oysters, North Bend • Fishermen’s Seafood Market, Coos Bay • Little Fish Fine Seafood Market, Coos Bay • Chuck’s Seafood, Charleston • Farm & Sea, Bandon • Port Orford Sustainable Seafood, Port Orford • Fishermen Direct Seafood, Gold Beach • Pacific Ocean Harvesters, Brookings Port Orford dock WILD, SUSTAINABLE FISH CHOICES Albacore tuna is caught by hook and line and landed by hand, avoiding the bycatch that lands in nets. The season is relatively short — usually between July and September — dependent on when these migrating tuna pass along the Oregon Coast. Because it’s harvested young, premium Oregon albacore is rich in nutritional oils while very low in mercury. Groundfish, the general name for a family of white-flesh fish common in near-shore Oregon waters, include rockfish, lingcod and sablefish (or black cod). Their mild flavor is perfect for fish and chips and tacos, and they’re an excellent alternative to similar species with declining populations worldwide. Available year-round. CRAB AND SHELLFISH Sweet and meaty Dungeness crab are caught in pots placed on the ocean floor. Limited permits and a carefully controlled season maintain a healthy population. The commercial harvest often begins in December — making crab a renowned winter delicacy — and lasts until early summer. They’re sold live or steamed. Although some oysters are native to Oregon, the cultivated Pacific oysters harvested and consumed in the state are commercially grown in estuaries along the Coast. Find them year-round, sold whole or shucked and packaged with the meat only. Small in size and big in flavor, Pacific pink shrimp are caught wild in our clean coastal waters, where they are abundant. (Most shrimp consumed in the U.S. is farm-raised overseas, with varying environmental controls.) Innovative nets developed in Oregon deter other species. Oregon shrimp are usually cooked, peeled and frozen soon after the catch, offering yearround availability. CULTIVATED SEAWEED Nutritious wild and cultivated seaweed — like Pacific dulse — is high in protein, vitamins and minerals. Though seaweed is usually collected from the rocky intertidal zone, Oregon Seaweed grows frilly red dulse in Garibaldi and Bandon. The clean-aquaculture company sequesters carbon and uses only sea water and sunshine. Buy dulse fresh or dried at local markets or online at OregonSeaweed.com. WHERE TO FIND FISH MARKETS AND DOCK SALES Just as farmers markets are the place for just-picked produce, Oregon’s fish markets are a great source for sparkling-fresh fish and shellfish. At ports with active commercial-fishing fleets, you can often find boat crews selling their catch right at the dock, happy to answer questions. Brandberg encourages visitors to educate themselves wherever they go. “How do you support local seafood? Ask!” she says. “Ask at your restaurants; ask at your seafood counters.” Showing you care about sourcing will help suppliers know local fish matters. 24 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM
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Ecola State Park
28 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM NORTH OREGON COAST Historic fishing ports and bustling beach towns lie along Oregon’s North Coast, home to hiking trails, a robust dining scene and renowned museums. Go to VisitTheOregonCoast. com/Regions/North-Coast for more info on the North Coast. PREVIOUS PAGE: NASHCO PHOTO. THIS PAGE: COURTESY OF HEADLANDS COASTAL LODGE & SPA Pacific City Reminders of the past are at every turn on Oregon’s North Coast, from its stately Queen Anne homes to its 19th-century fortifications — there’s even a shipwreck! Here you can play a 1920s arcade game called Fascination, watch puffins nesting on ancient sea stacks, see aquatic life up close in tide pools and browse vibrant art galleries showcasing the works of some of Oregon’s finest artists. Just come with an appetite. You’ll need it, whether for sampling world-famous cheese or for treating yourself to a dinner of fresh-as-it-gets Oregon albacore or Dungeness crab. fresh-picked farm greens, freshshucked oysters and much more. At The Schooner Restaurant & Lounge in Netarts, order Netarts Bay oysters — raw or wood-fired with garlic-herb sauce — with a view of the water they came from. At Pacific City’s Meridian Restaurant & Bar at Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa, savor highend steaks and seafood with dramatic ocean views through floor-to-ceiling windows. CASUAL BITES Find your way to Blue Scorcher Bakery & Cafe in Astoria for cardamom-flecked pastries at DINING FINE DINING In Astoria, Daphne offers an intimate dining room and microseason-driven menus that change with what’s ready to harvest or forage. On the Astoria Riverwalk, Fedé Trattoria doesn’t take reservations, but the hand-rolled pasta served alongside the Columbia River makes the wait worthwhile. In Cannon Beach, the dining room at Stephanie Inn serves dinner by reservation only, presenting a different four-course menu each evening built around Oregon seafood, produce and wines. Nearby Anna’s Table offers a hyper-local menu with
NORTH OREGON COAST 29 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM SCENIC BYWAY 3h to Seattle 1h 30m to Portland 101 101 101 101 30 26 53 22 18 6 202 TILLAMOOK WHEELER ROCKAWAY BEACH GARIBALDI PACIFIC CITY NETARTS BAY CITY J NEHALEM BEAVER ASTORIA WARRENTON GEARHART SEASIDE CANNON BEACH MANZANITA NESKOWIN OCEANSIDE SAND LAKE HEBO OTIS LONG BEACH PENINSULA NESTUCCA BAY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE OSWALD WEST STATE PARK LEWIS AND CLARK NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK MAP KEY OREGON STATE PARK SITES PORT MARINE RESERVE FROM TOP: GREGOR HALENDA / VISIT SEASIDE; COURTESY OF DAPHNE DID YOU KNOW? The North Coast region has over 19 state sites that offer amazing opportunities to explore nature. Visit OregonStateParks.org to request a state park guide. Daphne Seaside
30 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM NORTH COAST FOOD TRAIL On the North Oregon Coast, beer, cheese and locally grown produce are just as appreciated as locally caught seafood. Astoria’s Blackberry Bog farm grows vegetables and features its own pasture-raised meat, as well as seasonal events like a pumpkin patch. In Tillamook, sample the traditional, smoked or pepper creamy Brie at Blue Heron French Cheese Company before a flight of de Garde Brewing’s wild-fermented or sour ales. Nestucca Bay Creamery in Cloverdale produces cheddar, Gouda and several other cheeses, all made from the milk of cows that graze on grass year-round. In Seaside, purchase locally harvested razor clams or a whole steamed Dungeness crab at Bell Buoy fish market. Spend a seaworthy day with Garibaldi Charters or Pacific City Dory Charters. For morning pastries and coffee, stop by Cannon Beach Bakery, or have a filling breakfast, lunch or dinner on the beach at nearby The Wayfarer Restaurant & Lounge. In Manzanita, try coastal classics at Offshore Grill or Big Wave Cafe. Plan around the regional farmers markets to shop straight from the source — growers, bakers, fishers and artisans. Astoria, Seaside, Clatskanie, Cannon Beach, Manzanita, Neskowin, Pacific City and Tillamook all have their own farmers markets. Find out more at NorthCoastFoodTrail.com. COURTESY OF DE GARDE BREWING de Garde Brewing breakfast or a tempeh Reuben for lunch. The owners of South Bay Wild Fish House fish the nearby waters aboard their own commercial vessel, so look for daily specials. New in 2025, Akres on the Pier serves Mediterranean-inspired breakfast, lunch and dinner with water views. Pho Mekha warms up any chilly coastal day with a steaming bowl of beef soup topped with herbs in Astoria, or try a chicken version at new Phoholic in Seaside. In both Seaside and Rockaway Beach, you’ll find Oregon’s original corn dogs at Pronto Pup, which was invented in 1939 in Rockaway. Try Rockaway’s classic Old Oregon Smokehouse for clam chowder. After a fishing-charter trip or finding fresh fillets for dinner at a market at Garibaldi’s rugged marina, stop for lunch or dinner at several spots serving the local catch, or opt for barbecued meats at Garibaldi Portside Bistro. Once you’re in Tillamook, you know you’re in cheese country. At the Tillamook Creamery, a selfguided factory tour shows how cheddar is made and packaged. At the on-site cafe, cheese is the star, from ooey-gooey grilled cheeses to mac and cheese. The Riverside Fish n’ Chips cart in Nehalem is worth a stop, not only for its flaky fish and golden crust but for its seating area right along the Nehalem River. Grab a burrito or sandwich from Gearhart’s Prep Kitchen before hitting the golf links. Farm-to-table favorite Bay City Kitchen in Bay City is focused on seasonal cooking, with simple yet wonderful dishes like grilled Columbia River sturgeon. CHEERS! On the North Coast, you’ll find clusters of tasting rooms, breweries and bars. Start in Astoria at Fort George Brewery, which spans an entire city block in a cluster of vintage buildings that house several taprooms and facilities for acclaimed brews and wood-fired pizzas. On a quick walk downtown, cocktail fans will find intimate Blaylock’s Whiskey Bar, Dead Man’s Isle delivering tropical escapism and Pacifick Distillers with small-batch spirits. Stop by Brut Wine Bar for well-curated glass pours or bottles to go, and the new Battery 245 Brewing Co. for craft beer and hearty bites west of town in Warrenton. Cozy Gearhart is home to McMenamins Sand Trap Pub and Daughter’s wine bar and bottle shop, where winemakers often hold special tasting events. Heading south, Seaside’s Sisu Brewing Co. is housed in a former theater. Watch the beer and root beer being made in Cannon Beach at Public Coast Brewing Co., which gets produce from its 40-acre farm in the Coast Range. Pelican Brewing Company has five locations — Rockaway Beach, Pacific City, Siletz Bay, Cannon Beach and Tillamook — for family-friendly pub grub and popular brews on tap. The Cannon Beach location’s modern space showcases a 10-barrel operation, while Siletz Bay’s Pelican location delivers bayfront sunset views. Twist Wine Company and PC Pour wine bar share Oregonmade wines and good conversation in Pacific City. OUTDOORS CYCLING Hop in the saddle and explore the North Coast on forested mountain bike trails, quiet city streets and even the region’s miles-long stretches of sand. Roughly 12 miles (19.3 km) of trails sprawl out from Klootchy Creek County Park near Seaside. One of the Coast’s newest mountain-bike- specific trail networks heads through a forest of thigh-high ferns, centuries- old Douglas fir trees and stately groves of Sitka spruce. Looking to travel on gravel? Depart from Cannon Beach on the 31-mile (50-km) Terrible Tilly route, which offers a mix of old-growth forests and sweeping ocean views. Across the North Coast, hop aboard vintage cruisers for moseying around town, rent road bikes for longer rides and explore miles
NORTH OREGON COAST 31 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM ASHLEY MERSEREAU Co-Owner, Wild Coast Goods, Nehalem When a friend offered Ashley Mersereau and her husband, photographer Justin Bailie, a storefront in Nehalem, the couple turned a daydream into reality. “It was one of those things where we thought about it, and then pretty soon we had the keys,” Mersereau recalls. Both grew up on the Coast and returned after living elsewhere, and both are artists — Mersereau creates jewelry while Bailie makes his trade with his camera in coastal landscapes and portraits. The couple opened Wild Coast Goods in 2020 to showcase their work alongside 50-plus other makers. The tiny town of Nehalem now offers walkable access to good restaurants and shops, giving travelers even more reason to stop. The carefully curated selection focuses on handmade, useful and likewise beautiful items, including everything from ceramics and pocketknives to art prints and candles. Mersereau says they look for “pieces people would actually want to use in their daily lives.” About 90% of the merchandise comes from “incredible artists in our area here, making cool stuff,” Mersereau says. Visit WildCoastGoods.com for details. CULTURE MAKER Riverside Fish n’ Chips Tide pool in Oceanside FROM TOP: TRENT OLSON / VISIT TILLAMOOK COAST; TRAVEL ASTORIA; GREG KOZAWA / VISIT TILLAMOOK COAST Liberty Theatre
32 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM of sandy shoreline in low-slung recumbent tricycles — known as fun cycles — suited to the area’s expansive beaches. Grab your rental at Prom Bike Shop in Seaside; FunCycles Cannon Beach; or Bahama Mama’s Bikes, Boards & Beach Fare in Manzanita. HIKING Dozens of miles of North Coast hiking trails head through coastal rainforests to grass headlands and atop sweeping bluffs. Hike all or some of the 6.5-mile (10.5-km) Fort to Sea Trail through fields, dunes and forests near Astoria — following in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery on their historic stay in the area. Easy access on both ends allows for shorter jaunts in the forested hills or dunes. In the heart of nearby Fort Stevens State Park, the 2.4-mile (3.9-km), family-friendly Coffenbury Lake Trail keeps a mostly level grade while hugging the shore of its namesake reservoir. Keep an eye out for shorebirds, resident elk and other wildlife around the park. Walk through an old-growth forest of Sitka spruce before arriving at a viewpoint that looks upon the offshore Tillamook Rock Lighthouse — also known as “Terrible Tilly” — with the 3.2-mile (5.1-km) Tillamook Head Traverse Hike in Ecola State Park. Trails in the Tillamook area showcase the area’s diverse landscapes. Kilchis Point Reserve, named for Tillamook Chief Kilchis, hosts a 0.3mile (0.5-km), wheelchair-accessible, paved loop trail with interpretive panels that discuss local flora and fauna, as well as regional Native American history. Sitka Sedge State Natural Area hosts about 4 miles (6.4 km) of family-friendly hiking trails near Pacific City. WATER FUN You’ll find peaceful paddles, a day riding the waves and other unforgettable aquatic experiences across the North Coast. Birders will love paddling on the Necanicum River in downtown The Fish Peddler AT PAciFic OysTer 5150 Oyster Drive Bay City OR 97107 503-377-2323 *Now Serving Beer & Wine * WiFi available OPen dAily Gourmet Foods, Clothing & Gifts Fish Market Oyster Bar Restaurant Xanadu Astoria The ONLY LGBTQ Bar and Grill on the Pacific Northwest Coast xanaduastoria.com 1104 Marine Dr - Astoria, OR Great Food, Drinks, Karaoke, Dancing, Shows, & More! sonnysastoria.com 1114 Marine Dr - Astoria, OR Order online for pick-up. Delivery thru DoorDash. SEASIDE AQUARIUM On The Beach Since 1937 TOUCH THE STARS HAPPY LEARNING FOR ALL AGES OPEN DAILY AT 9 AM 200 N. PROM (503) 738-6211 FEED THE SEALS Bruce’s Candy Kitchen Making Sweet Memories Since 1963 • Homemade Saltwater Taffy & Treats • Hand-dipped Chocolate • Caramel Apples • Fudge & More! CANNON BEACH 256 N Hemlock, Cannon Beach, OR | 503.436.2641 SHOP WITH BRUCE’S ONLINE | BRUCESCANDY.COM OF SWEET MEMORIES ON THE OREGON COAST years CELEBRATING 63
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34 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM March 20-April 18, 2026 May 8-31, 2026 June 26-Aug 8, 2026 Nov 20-Dec 20, 2026 Sept 5-Oct 17, 2026
NORTH OREGON COAST 35 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM VISIT TILLAMOOK COAST Seaside. Stop by Wheel Fun Rentals at Quatat Park to rent single and double kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and larger, pedal-powered crafts — and keep an eye out for marine birds and other wildlife along the river’s banks. There’s also an accessible kayak launch at Broadway Park. In Wheeler, paddle the Nehalem River with a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard rental from Wheeler Marina. Watch for elk, bald eagles and other wildlife around Lazarus Island. Park your boat on the sandy shore behind Buttercup Ice Creams & Chowders in nearby Nehalem. There you’ll find some of the best of both delights on the Coast, as well as several food carts perched on the bank of the river to please all palates. In the Tillamook area, Kayak Tillamook offers guided tours through local bays, estuaries, rivers and other peaceful waterways. Lessons and custom outings are also available, as are trips for a wide range of fitness and experience levels. Accessible kayak launchers are available at the Sue H. Elmore Park in Tillamook or at the Port of Garibaldi Marina. For surfing, the best conditions can usually be found between late June and early September, though wetsuits make it possible to comfortably surf year-round. Short Sand Beach, a quiet cove protected from wind near Manzanita, is the heart of the local surfing community — but you’ll also see surfers on the waves in Oceanside and Cannon Beach. Get started with lessons via Oregon Surf Adventures or Northwest Women’s Surf Camps & Retreats in Seaside and Cannon Beach Surf Lessons & Rentals. ARTS & CULTURE PUBLIC ART With more than 800 installations on its map, the Oregon Coast Public Art Trail offers free art that’s always accessible to anyone traveling along the Coast. For a bird’s-eye view of the river and sea, climb 164 steps to the top of the Astoria Column. Modeled after Trajan’s Column in Rome, the monument features a beautiful, hand-painted spiral frieze depicting the stories of early Western settlement. Standing tall outside of Astoria’s Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa, a monumental bronze statue honors Astoria’s fishing and canning heritage. Known as “The Big Catch,” the expressive sculpture by artist Douglas Granum was inspired by a famous photo from 1909. In Seaside, look for several murals downtown, including one of the most Instagrammed spots in town, an eye-catching sunset with the message “Love from Seaside” at the Coast River Inn. Seaside’s largest outdoor art Captain’s Corner in Garibaldi
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