Discover shipwrecks, tour old lighthouses, learn about local marine life and spend a day on the beach when you visit Oregon's long and diverse coastline.
With beach towns, fishing villages, coastal cities, beaches, forests and mountains, the Oregon Coast is popular for exploration by nature lovers, adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts. The region extends for 363 miles (584 kilometers) along the Pacific Ocean and offers scenic beauty, outdoor adventures and cultural gems. Spot migrating whales, walk through an ancient rainforest, see shipwrecks stranded on beaches and admire coastal-inspired art.
Get acquainted with Oregon Coast’s natural attractions with hiking expeditions in its many natural parks, including Ecola State Park and Bob Straub State Park. Visit Munson Creek Falls State Natural Site, home to ancient western red cedars. Follow the coastal trails near Heceta Head Lighthouse and tour the interior of this late 19th-century tower. Relax on the beaches of Sunset Bay State Park.
Grab your binoculars and head to Cape Foulweather, Cook's Chasm Turnout or other prime viewpoints to see migrating and resident gray whales. Most migration occurs from December to May.
The waters off Oregon Coast are a graveyard for numerous ships. Observe the rusted steel shell of the Wreck of the Peter Iredale, which ran aground in 1906. See the remains of the vessel near shore at Fort Stevens State Park. Approximately 10 miles (16 kilometers) away is Astoria where you can view lots of relics from historical shipwrecks at the Columbia River Maritime Museum. While you are in Astoria, watch seals being fed at the Seaside Aquarium and climb up to the observation deck of the 125-foot (38-meter) Astoria Column.
Travel to some of the region’s other cities and towns. Newport has art galleries and the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Descend into the spectacular Sea Lion Caves in Florence and tour the fish markets of Charleston.
One of the quickest ways to reach the Oregon Coast is to fly into Portland International Airport or one of the regional airports. Alternatively, come by bus, train or car and stay for the natural beauty, outdoor pursuits and urban charms.