Discover The Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

The Oregon Coast Road Trip is a bucket-list adventure for any nature lover or road trip enthusiast. With dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, charming towns, and stunning lighthouses, exploring the Oregon Coast is an unforgettable experience.

Whether planning a long weekend or a week-long adventure, the ultimate Oregon Coast road trip itinerary promises diverse landscapes, wildlife encounters, and fun. Here’s your guide to making the most of your coastal journey along one of the most scenic routes in the U.S.

Day 1: Starting Your Oregon Coast Adventure in Portland

Your Oregon road trip begins in Portland, the largest city in Oregon. A perfect blend of quirky neighborhoods, natural beauty, and local culture, Portland is the ideal spot to kick off your journey. Explore the city’s attractions before going on the Oregon coast road trip. Visit Powell’s Books, the world’s largest independent bookstore, or stroll through Washington Park. When ready, hop onto Highway 101 to start your Oregon coast itinerary.

Day 2: Exploring Cannon Beach and Ecola State Park

Students near buses, preparing for a group travel adventure. — A school outing begins near Oregon’s scenic coast.

Your second day will bring you to one of Oregon’s most iconic spots: Cannon Beach. Known for its beautiful coastline and Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach is a must-see destination on any Oregon coast trip itinerary. As you explore the area, be sure to take in the views of the Pacific Ocean and explore the small shops and restaurants that line the town.

Afterward, head to Ecola State Park, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Oregon coast, including hidden beaches, lush forests, and dramatic cliffs. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a short hike to one of the scenic viewpoints for breathtaking coastline photos. Whether walking along the cliffs or simply soaking in the beauty, Ecola State Park is a highlight of your trip.

Day 3: Scenic Stops and the Oregon Dunes

Day 3 of your ultimate Oregon coast road trip is all about scenic beauty and unique landscapes. Start the day by driving along the scenic corridor of Highway 101, stopping at various scenic viewpoints along the way. Head towards the Oregon Dunes, a unique landscape known for its expansive dunes and stunning views.

You can spend the afternoon exploring the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, where you’ll experience miles of dunes, coastal forest, and wildlife. Whether you want to try sandboarding or enjoy the view, the Oregon dunes contrast the lush coastline you’ll see earlier in the trip.

Day 4: Discovering Cape Perpetua and Lighthouse Views

On Day 4, go to Cape Perpetua, one of the most stunning spots on the Oregon coast. The area offers dramatic cliffs, a lush forest, and breathtaking views along the Pacific coastline. Check out the lighthouse at Yaquina Head—a historic beacon providing a stunning ocean vista. This area is also famous for the tide pools that form at low tide, allowing you to see marine life like crabs, sea anemones, and starfish.

While in the area, you can also visit the Oregon Coast Aquarium, one of the best aquariums on the coast. Learn about the local marine life, including sea lions, seals, and other ocean-dwelling creatures. Yaquina Head Lighthouse and the Oregon Coast Aquarium perfectly blend natural beauty and fascinating wildlife education.

Portland to Tillamook: North Coast Adventures

Van loaded with bikes on a picturesque mountain road. — A camper van heads into Oregon’s scenic wilderness.

After Cape Perpetua, head north to Tillamook, known for its famous Tillamook Creamery. Whether you’re a cheese fan, the Tillamook Creamery is an essential stop on your Oregon coast trip itinerary. Taste some of the best dairy products in the state, including award-winning cheese, ice cream, and butter.

Make stops at various state parks and lighthouses along the way, including Cape Kiwanda and Fort Stevens State Park. Both parks are known for their stunning beaches and rugged coastlines. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some sea lions resting on the rocks at Sea Lion Caves, one of the largest sea caves in the world.

South Coast: A Peaceful and Remote Experience

Your journey continues south towards Gold Beach and the southern Oregon coast. This stretch of coastline is quieter and less crowded, offering a more peaceful and secluded experience. Stop at the mouth of the Columbia River, where the river meets the Pacific Ocean, and admire the towering cliffs and rolling waves.

One of the highlights of the south coast is Heceta Head Lighthouse, a stunning and historic lighthouse perched above the cliffs. As you travel along the Oregon coast, you’ll also find plenty of state scenic areas and natural reserves perfect for hiking, photography, or just soaking in the quiet beauty of the Oregon coastline.

Ending Your Oregon Coast Road Trip at Cape Kiwanda

To wrap up your ultimate Oregon coast road trip, head towards Cape Kiwanda in Pacific City. Known for its impressive dunes and towering rock formations, Cape Kiwanda offers spectacular views of the coastline. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the coast before saying goodbye to one of the most scenic areas in the world. Whether taking in the ocean views or reflecting on the journey, Cape Kiwanda is the perfect ending to your Oregon coast road trip.

Essential Tips for Driving the Oregon Coast

Scenic coastal highway with lush greenery and water views. — Winding coastal roads of Oregon offer breathtaking views.

Start early: Many of the best spots along the coast can get crowded during peak hours. Start your day early to avoid the crowds and find the best spots.
Be flexible: Your Oregon coast itinerary may need to change depending on weather conditions or other factors. Keep a flexible attitude to enjoy the experience fully.
Plan for the long drive: Although the distance is relatively short, driving along the Oregon coast can take longer than expected due to winding roads and numerous scenic stops.
Pack for all weather: The Oregon coast is known for unpredictable weather, so pack layers and rain gear to stay comfortable no matter what conditions you encounter.
Respect the environment: Always follow Leave No Trace principles to keep the Oregon coast beautiful for generations.

The Oregon Coast Road Trip

An Oregon coast road trip is an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking views, charming towns, and endless opportunities for exploration. From the iconic beaches of Cannon Beach to the rugged cliffs of Cape Perpetua, every stop along the coast offers something unique and unforgettable. Whether you’re interested in hiking, wildlife watching, or simply enjoying the scenery, this Oregon road trip will create memories that last a lifetime.