The Oregon Coast is known for its rugged coastlines. On this highway trip, you will be at the brim of the Pacific Ocean and discovering some local gems so grab your car, friends, and get ready for some ocean.
| Photo by Joelle Bourque (Amateur Photographer Contest 2018) |
First stop: Cannon Beach
Mesmerizing sandy shores surrounding by Oregon’s iconic Haystack Rock show why this beach is named one of the world’s most beautiful places by National Geographic. During low tide you can walk right up to colorful starfish and shells resting on the shores. After the beach, visit the village for chef-owned restaurants, local brewers and shop for local Oregon crafts.
Second Stop: Florence
Adventure awaits at the centre of the Oregon Coast. A little before Florence visit stop by at Oregon’s largest marine reserve. The isolated rugged reef is home to a diversity of ground fish, invertebrates, and even stellar sea lions. When in Florence, visit the sand dunes and jump on buggies, ATVs, go horseback riding on the beaches and more. Explore the Heceta Head Lighthouse. This lighthouse is 205 feet above the ocean and was first lit in 1894.
Third Stop: Brookings
Harris Beach State Park might be the ideal spot to go camping by the beach or heading to the ocean in your Kayak. You can then look over to Oregon’s Bird Island, the state’s largest island. Wildlife viewing is abundant from harbour seals, sea birds, and even grey whales. Visit the iconic 19 miles of rugged coastline at the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. Hike to the Indian Sands to see unreal sculpted sandstone beauty or head to one of the free concerts at Azalea Park. This is an easy place to hike around and see beautiful heirloom azaleas.
| Photo by Jeff Hollett (Amateur Photographer Contest 2018) |
Last Stop: Portland
Twenty minutes east of Portland you’ll find the incredible Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls, which were carved during the recent ice age. There are close to 50 unique waterfalls to explore by hiking or by car. You can start on Eagle Creek trail to get to Metlako Falls, the first major waterfall. Portland is Oregon’s largest city and offers a variety of activities to make the most of your time there. Go on craft beer or wine tours, join locales in biking around the city to get to your destinations. One hidden gem is Woodlawn & Concordia School. This former elementary school has been converted into a dining and hotel facility where one can soak in a pool-sized hot tub, then go see a movie and grab some cheap drinks.
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5 breathtaking Oregon beaches