The Oregon Coast trail is known as one of the must do routes in the USA. Imagine rugged cliffs, breathtaking beaches, salty ocean breezes, and waves crashing against rocks as you follow the stunning Oregon Coast Trail.
The official coastal guide states the trail is 382 miles in length (615 km) About 39 percent of the route is on the beach, 41 percent is on paved road, and 20 percent is on trail and dirt roads. If you don’t have time to hike the trail, another option is to drive Highway 101 to see the the stunning views of the beautiful Oregon Coast line and the Pacific Ocean. We opted for the Road Trip and these are some of my recommended points of interest for a 2 day itinerary which will captivate you from start to finish.
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Day 1 – Astoria to Lincoln City (108 miles)
After breakfast, we set off on a scenic drive from Astoria to Lewis and Clark National Historical Park. The morning was calm, and the roads were quiet as we navigated the short, picturesque stretch of U.S. Highway 101 South. The drive, just a few miles, took us through lush forests and along winding coastal roads, offering glimpses of the rugged terrain that Lewis and Clark must have encountered on their journey.
Lewis & Clark National Historical Park
Our first stop was the Lewis & Clark National Historical Park, a significant site that commemorates the famous expedition between 1804 and 1806. The park spans both Oregon and Washington, featuring key points of interest along the Columbia River and the Pacific Coast where Lewis and Clark encountered diverse landscapes, wildlife, and Native American tribes. Highlights of the park include:
• Fort Clatsop: A replica of the fort where Lewis and Clark and their Corps of Discovery spent the winter of 1805-1806. The fort offers a glimpse into their daily lives during their stay and provides interactive exhibits that bring the explorers’ experience to life.
• Clark’s Dismal Nitch: A dramatic site along the Columbia River where Clark and his men struggled to find a safe route to the Pacific. The viewpoint offers stunning views of the river and surrounding landscape, providing insight into the hardships the expedition faced.
• Netul River Trail: A scenic trail that winds through lush forests and along the riverbanks, giving visitors the opportunity to connect with the landscape that Lewis and Clark explored. The trail is rich with native plant species and offers peaceful views of the surrounding wilderness.
• Cape Disappointment State Park: Just a short drive from the park, this state park marks the place where Lewis and Clark first glimpsed the Pacific Ocean. The park is home to dramatic cliffs, a lighthouse, and several historic sites, making it a perfect spot to reflect on the explorers’ journey.
• Visitor Center: The heart of the park, where you can find informative exhibits, artifacts, and a film that highlights the challenges and triumphs of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. It’s a great place to start your visit and get an overview of the park’s history.
As we were on a short stop, we chose to visit Fort Clatsop which was an interesting replica of the fort where the expedition spent the winter of 1805-1806. If you have sufficient time it is possible to hike the Fort to Sea Trail, which connects the fort with the ocean.
Ecola State Park
We continued our journey south along U.S. Highway 101 toward Ecola State Park. The drive, just under 30 minutes, winds through coastal forests and offers glimpses of the Pacific Ocean peeking through the trees. As we approached the park entrance, the scenery became even more dramatic, with steep cliffs and rolling waves in the distance.
Ecola State Park is a true gem of the Oregon Coast, offering some of the most breathtaking views in the region. Stretching along nine miles of coastline, the park boasts forested trails, rugged cliffs, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking Cannon Beach and the iconic Haystack Rock.
Upon arrival, we made our way to Ecola Point, where the vista opens up to a sweeping view of the coastline. The sight of waves crashing against the rocks and mist rolling in over the ocean was unforgettable. From there, we took a short hike to Indian Beach, a secluded cove perfect for beachcombing, watching surfers, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
For those looking for more adventure, Tillamook Head offers a challenging yet rewarding hike. This section of the Oregon Coast Trail leads to viewpoints of the rugged coastline and Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, perched dramatically on a sea stack just offshore.
Cannon Beach & Haystack Rock
After soaking in the stunning views at Ecola State Park, we made our way down to Cannon Beach, just a short drive south along U.S. Highway 101. As we descended toward the coast, the charming seaside town came into view, framed by rugged cliffs and the vast Pacific Ocean stretching endlessly ahead.
Cannon Beach is famous for its wide sandy shores and, of course, the iconic Haystack Rock – a towering 235-foot sea stack that rises majestically from the shoreline. As one of Oregon’s most photographed landmarks, Haystack Rock is not just a visual wonder but also a haven for wildlife. At low tide, the base of the rock reveals tidepools teeming with colorful sea stars, anemones, and crabs. Above, tufted puffins and other seabirds nest along the rocky crevices during the spring and summer months.
Cannon Beach
Walking along the beach toward Haystack Rock is an experience in itself. The ocean breeze, the soft sand beneath your feet, and the rhythmic sound of waves create a sense of calm that makes Cannon Beach feel magical. As the sun begins to set, the silhouette of Haystack Rock against the vibrant hues of the sky transforms the landscape into something truly unforgettable.
Beyond the beach, the town of Cannon Beach is full of coastal charm, offering quaint shops, art galleries, and cozy cafés. Whether you’re browsing local artwork or warming up with a cup of coffee, the laid-back atmosphere perfectly complements the natural beauty of the coast.
Devils Cauldron
After spending time at Cannon Beach, we continued our journey south along Highway 101 to our next stop – the dramatic and awe-inspiring Devil’s Cauldron. Tucked within Oswald West State Park, just a short drive from Cannon Beach, this hidden gem offers one of the most breathtaking viewpoints along the Oregon Coast.
Devil’s Cauldron is exactly as its name suggests – a swirling, churning inlet where waves crash violently against the cliffs, sending sea spray high into the air. Standing at the overlook, the sound of the water echoing in the cove was both powerful and humbling. The sheer drop into the cauldron, framed by jagged rocks and lush greenery, created an unforgettable view.
For those looking to explore further, the nearby Cape Falcon Trail offers a longer hike with panoramic views of the coastline and the forested headlands. But even if you’re short on time, the short detour to Devil’s Cauldron is well worth it.
It’s one of those places where you can simply stand, breathe in the salty air, and feel the raw power of nature. The stop at Devil’s Cauldron was a reminder of just how wild and untamed the Oregon Coast can be – a stark contrast to the peaceful beaches of Cannon Beach, but equally beautiful in its own right.
Lincoln City
After leaving the rugged beauty of Devil’s Cauldron behind, we continued south along Highway 101, tracing the winding coastline toward Lincoln City. The drive was a scenic stretch of road, with ocean views on one side and dense coastal forest on the other. As we approached Lincoln City, the landscape opened up to reveal long stretches of sandy beaches and the charming coastal town ahead.
By the time we arrived, it was the perfect moment to unwind and enjoy a meal, and Kyllo’s Seafood & Grill was just the place. Located right on the edge of the beach, Kyllo’s offers stunning views of the ocean, making it an ideal spot to relax after a day of exploration.
Day 2 – Lincoln City to Newport (25 miles)
We woke up to the sound of crashing waves and the soft morning light filtering through the windows, signalling the start of our second day on the Oregon Coast. After a quick walk along the beach, we grabbed breakfast at a local café before heading south along Highway 101 toward Newport. The stretch between Lincoln City and Newport is only about 25 miles, but the drive is packed with stunning coastal views, hidden coves, and unique stops along the way.
Boiler Bay State Park
Our first stop was just a short drive south of Lincoln City at Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint. The overlook offered panoramic views of the rugged coastline, with waves crashing dramatically against the volcanic rocks below.
The bay gets its name from the J. Marhoffer, a steamboat that caught fire and exploded off the coast in 1910. The shipwreck’s boiler still rests within the bay, visible at low tide when the ocean reveals its hidden treasures. Knowing the bay’s history adds a sense of mystery and depth to the experience, as you picture the dramatic past colliding with the peaceful yet powerful present.
Boiler Bay is also known for its whale-watching opportunities, especially during the annual gray whale migrations. In the winter and spring months, these majestic creatures pass close to the shore, and on calmer days, their spouts can be seen from the cliffs. Even outside of migration season, resident whales are known to linger in the waters, making this a year-round hotspot for marine life enthusiasts.
Depoe Bay
A little farther down the road, we reached Depoe Bay, the smallest navigable harbor in the world and famous for its resident grey whales. We pulled over at the seawall along the main strip, where waves often surge high enough to spray over the road during stormy days. We wandered through the town, stopping to browse the local shops and watch the charter boats head out to sea. Depoe Bay’s charm lies in its raw, untamed beauty and the ever-present connection to the ocean.
Devil’s Punchbowl
Continuing south, we took a detour to see Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area. This natural rock formation, carved by the relentless power of the sea, resembles a large bowl where waves churn and swirl dramatically. During high tide, the water crashes into the bowl, creating a chaotic display of nature’s power. Nearby, the tidepools were teeming with marine life, and surfers dotted the horizon beyond the bowl.
It’s also worth making a stop at Rocky Creek and Otter Crest Viewpoint, both of which offer stunning coastal vistas and opportunities to explore nearby walking trails.
Rocky Creek is a peaceful spot where a small coastal stream winds its way toward the ocean. The area is perfect for a quiet stroll or simply pausing to enjoy the rugged shoreline and crashing waves. It’s a lesser-known stop, making it an ideal place to take in the beauty of the coast without the crowds.
A little farther along, Otter Crest Viewpoint provides sweeping panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s the perfect place to pull over for a picnic, with benches and open spaces to relax while watching the waves roll in below. On clear days, you can see for miles, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of whales offshore.
Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area
Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area is a breathtaking 9-acre coastal gem in Lincoln County, known for its dramatic ocean views, historic lighthouse, and abundant wildlife. This stunning state park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich maritime history, making it a must-visit destination along the Oregon Coast.
Yaquina Head is located just a few minutes north of Newport. As we approached, the iconic Yaquina Head Lighthouse came into view, standing proudly against the backdrop of the Pacific. At 93 feet (23 meters) tall, it holds the title of Oregon’s tallest lighthouse, guiding ships safely along the rugged coastline since 1873.
We climbed to the top, where we were rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of the coastline and ocean stretching endlessly to the horizon. Below, the black basalt beaches were alive with tidepools teeming with colourful sea stars, anemones, and mussels, creating a vibrant underwater world that revealed itself at low tide.
Yaquina Head is also a haven for wildlife lovers. From the whale-watching platform, we scanned the waves for signs of grey whales, which are often spotted in the area. On the rocky outcrops near the shore, we were lucky enough to see harbor seals basking in the sun and playfully bobbing in the surf. Seabirds circled overhead, nesting along the cliffs and adding to the area’s dynamic ecosystem.
Newport
By mid afternoon, we arrived in Newport, a vibrant coastal town where maritime history meets the charm of a modern seaside getaway. Newport’s dynamic atmosphere, with its working fishing docks, bustling shops, and fresh seafood restaurants, makes it a perfect stop along the Oregon Coast.
Our first destination was the Historic Bayfront, Newport’s beating heart. As we walked along the docks, the air was rich with the salty tang of the ocean and the mouthwatering aroma of freshly cooked crab from nearby seafood markets. Colourful fishing boats bobbed gently in the harbour, and seagulls soared overhead, hoping for a scrap or two from the day’s catch. The Bayfront is not just a picturesque spot—it’s a window into Newport’s long-standing fishing industry.
A highlight of any visit to Newport is seeing the sea lions at Dock 1, one of the area’s most beloved (and loudest) free attractions. As we approached, their barking calls filled the air long before we saw them lounging on the rocks or swimming playfully in the water. The sea lions are impossible to miss—not only are they easy to hear, but their distinct, fishy aroma also signals their presence. Visitors and locals alike gather along the docks to watch these fascinating creatures basking, diving, and interacting in their natural habitat.
The sea lions can be spotted here year-round, except in July, when they migrate south to the Channel Islands to mate. July is known as the “quiet month” on the docks, but during the rest of the year, their energetic presence is a Bayfront staple.
Beyond the sea lions, the Bayfront offers plenty to explore – from quirky souvenir shops to galleries showcasing local art. Don’t miss the chance to stop by Local Ocean Seafoods for a delicious lunch overlooking the harbor, or grab a cup of clam chowder from one of the smaller seafood shacks along the water.
Conclusion: A Coastal Adventure to Remember
In conclusion, a two-day adventure along the Oregon Coast Trail offers an incredible blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and coastal charm. From the historic landmarks of Astoria to the rugged cliffs of Ecola State Park, and from the iconic Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach to the picturesque lighthouse views in Newport, this trip showcases the best of what the Oregon Coast has to offer. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking to relax by the ocean, this journey provides unforgettable experiences that will leave you longing to return to the stunning, wild beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Read about more about my Oregon Travels in the Beaver State.
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I would enjoy the 2 day road trip you took on the Oregon coast. The scenery is stunning and there is so much to see and do.
We are visiting the Oregon coast as part of our PNW trip later this year, and this post was super helpful in helping me understand what sort of time outlay I should have for this part of the road trip. Thanks, and I can’t wait to see all of these gorgeous places in person!
We finally made it to Washington a couple years ago, so the rest of the PNW is on my list.