Oregon’s entire coastline is public land, and U.S. Route 101 traces it for some 363 miles past headlands, sea stacks, dunes and quiet beach towns. It is one of America’s great coastal drives, and unlike much of the country, every beach is open to everyone.
The North Coast
Begin in Astoria, a historic port town at the mouth of the Columbia River. Heading south, Cannon Beach is famous for Haystack Rock, a towering monolith ringed by tide pools. Continue to the charming village of Manzanita and the cape viewpoints around Tillamook, where you can also tour a famous cheese factory.
The Central Coast
Newport offers a working waterfront and an excellent aquarium. To the south, the Yaquina Head Lighthouse and the dramatic Cape Perpetua, with its churning Thor’s Well, are highlights. Florence sits at the edge of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, where mountains of sand meet the sea.
The South Coast
Less visited and arguably most beautiful, the south coast around Bandon and the Samuel H. Boardman corridor features sculpted sea stacks, hidden coves and the natural rock formations near Brookings. This stretch rewards travelers willing to drive a little farther.
Practical Tips
- Drive north to south to keep the ocean on your right and pull-offs easy to reach.
- Pack layers — the coast is cool and often foggy even in summer.
- Check tide tables before exploring tide pools or beaches below headlands.
- Allow 3–5 days to enjoy it rather than rush.
Wildlife and Seasons
Gray whales pass during migration seasons in winter and spring, and many headlands have volunteers with spotting scopes. Summer offers the warmest, driest weather, but the shoulder seasons bring solitude and moody beauty.
The Oregon Coast Highway is a drive to savor, not to hurry. Every few miles a viewpoint asks you to stop — and you should.