Northern Oregon Coast Travel Guide

Plan your next adventure to Northern Oregon Coast with this comprehensive travel guide featuring must-see attractions, local culture, safety tips, and transportation options.


Introduction to Northern Oregon Coast

The Northern Oregon Coast is a picturesque region along the Pacific Ocean in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. Known for its stunning beaches, magnificent landscapes, and charming coastal towns, it is a popular destination for travelers seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, the Northern Oregon Coast has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Northern Oregon Coast

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums, and Historical Places

  1. Tillamook Air Museum: Located in Tillamook, this museum has something for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The museum’s collection includes WWII-era aircraft, vintage military vehicles, and artifacts from the Tillamook Naval Air Station.

  2. Columbia River Maritime Museum: This museum in Astoria showcases the rich maritime history of the region with exhibits on the Columbia River Bar Pilots, the Coast Guard, Native American canoes, and more.

  3. Fort Clatsop National Memorial: Explore the historic site of Lewis and Clark’s winter encampment in 1805-1806. The fort features a reconstructed replica of the original building, as well as exhibits, and a visitors center.

Natural Attractions of Northern Oregon Coast: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Cannon Beach: This iconic beach is famous for its towering sea stacks and stunning sunsets. Hike to the top of Haystack Rock or explore tide pools at low tide.

  2. Ecola State Park: This state park offers panoramic views of the coastline, sea stacks, and the rainforest. It’s a great place for hiking, beachcombing and seeing wildlife such as bald eagles and elk.

  3. Cape Lookout State Park: Situated on a promontory, this park offers breathtaking views of the ocean, trails for adventure, and a 110-foot tall cape lookout.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Oregon Coast

  1. Neahkahnie Mountain: This 3.5-mile round trip trail near Manzanita offers stunning views of the ocean, beach, and nearby mountain ranges.

  2. Cape Lookout: This 5.2-mile hike is one of the most popular trails on the Oregon coast and takes you through old-growth forest, a waterfall, and a hidden cove.

  3. Cannon Beach Trail: This 1.1-mile trail in Ecola State Park offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, and Haystack Rock.

Best Things to Do in Northern Oregon Coast: Activities and Tours

  1. Whale Watching Tours: Take a tour during peak whale watching season (March to June and December to January) and witness the annual migration of grey whales.

  2. Fishing: Book a charter or join a fishing excursion to catch the famous Chinook salmon, halibut, and crab.

  3. Beachcombing: Explore the beaches and discover unique stones, seashells, and washed-up items from the ocean.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Oregon Coast

Day Activity
1 Cannon Beach and Ecola State Park
2 Astoria and Columbia River Maritime Museum
3 Fort Clatsop and Seaside
4 Cape Lookout and Tillamook Air Museum
5 Lincoln City and Devil’s Punchbowl
6 Whale Watching Tour and Yaquina Head Lighthouse
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Northern Oregon Coast

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Dungeness Crab: The crab is a popular delicacy along the coast, and there are many places to try it, either boiled or grilled.

  2. Fish and Chips: Whether it’s halibut, cod or salmon, you can’t go wrong with a classic fish and chips dish.

  3. Clam Chowder: Oregon Coast clam chowder is known for its use of fresh ingredients. Try the classic white chowder or the tomato-based Manhattan-style chowder.

Local Beverages

  1. Craft Beer: Oregon is known for its craft beer scene, and the Northern Oregon Coast has many breweries to choose from, including Pelican Brewing Company and Fort George Brewery + Public House.

  2. Wine: The wine scene around the Willamette Valley is well known, but Northern Oregon Coast offers vineyards such as Ruby Vineyard and Smith Berry Barn.

Where to Stay in Northern Oregon Coast: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Headlands Coastal Lodge and Spa: This luxury lodge in Pacific City offers oceanside rooms, spa services, and a fine seafood restaurant.

  2. Inn at Cannon Beach: This cozy inn is located steps away from the beach and has a fireplace in each room.

  3. Hostelling International - Astoria/Warrenton: For travelers on a budget, this hostel offers affordable accommodations, communal living areas, and a shared kitchen.

What to Buy in Northern Oregon Coast: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Sea Salt: The Pacific Ocean’s salt is harvested from the Oregon coast and makes a great condiment or souvenir.

  2. Handmade Soaps: Many local shops offer handmade soaps, lotions, and skin care products made with natural, locally-sourced ingredients.

  3. Glassware: The Northern Oregon Coast is home to several glassblowing studios that produce unique, handcrafted glassware and ornaments.

Local Culture and Customs of Northern Oregon Coast

The Northern Oregon Coast is known for its rugged landscapes, maritime history, and respect for nature. Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles and to be mindful of the local wildlife.

Best Time to Visit Northern Oregon Coast

The best time to visit Northern Oregon Coast is during the summer months (June to September) when the weather is warm, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Whale watching season (March to June and December to January) is also a popular time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Oregon Coast

Do:

  • Respect nature, wildlife, and other visitors.
  • Bring layers, as weather conditions can change quickly.
  • Try the local food and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Take items from the beaches or tide pools.
  • Litter or leave trash behind.
  • Disturb local wildlife or their habitats.

Safety and Health

Safety in Northern Oregon Coast

  • Be aware of sneaker waves and rip currents when swimming or walking along the beaches.
  • Always check weather and tide forecasts before heading out on outdoor activities or hikes.
  • Use caution when walking along cliffs, rocks, or trails with steep drops.

Health in Northern Oregon Coast

  • Be mindful of potential ocean pollution and check local advisories for water quality.
  • Bring insect repellent for areas with mosquitoes and ticks.

Getting to Northern Oregon Coast: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Northern Oregon Coast

  • Portland International Airport (PDX)
  • Astoria Regional Airport (AST)

Bus Stations Near Northern Oregon Coast

  • Greyhound Bus Station, Tillamook
  • Columbia Cab, Astoria

Other Options

  • Drive: The most popular way to explore Northern Oregon Coast.
  • Bike: The region has many bike-friendly roads and trails.
  • RV: RV parks are readily available around the coast.

How to Get Around in Northern Oregon Coast

  • Bus services The Northwest Connector, Pacific City LINk and Tillamook County Transportation District(TCTD).
  • Taxis and ride-share services (mainly in cities).
  • Personal vehicles.

Where to Go Next from Northern Oregon Coast: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Cannon Beach and Ecola State Park, Seaside, and other places not entirely visited.
  • Lincoln City
  • Newport

Conclusion

The Northern Oregon Coast is a stunning destination for travelers seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. With an abundance of scenic views, natural attractions, and cultural landmarks, there’s always something to see and do on the Northern Oregon Coast. Plan your next trip today!”



    Arch Cape
    Garibaldi
    Rockaway Beach
    Seaside
    Tillamook
    Warrenton