Planning an Oregon Coast road trip this summer? While any stretch of the coast is beautiful there is a particular lure to visiting the Central Oregon Coast. From Lincoln City to Florence here are a few of our favorite stops and things to do!
Whale Watching
It should come as no surprise to you that a popular activity to enjoy when visiting the Central Oregon Coast is whale watching. From northwest Alaska to the Baja Peninsula and back again, gray whales migrate over 12,000 miles, making this one of the longest migrations of any animal.
The gray whale’s seasonal migration can be seen from some of Oregon’s most rugged coastline throughout the spring and winter. While any vantage point along the coast is a great spot for whale watching, some of the best spots for viewing are along the Central Oregon Coast including Depoe Bay, Cape Perpetua, and Boiler Bay Scenic Viewpoint.
Visit the world’s smallest harbor in Depoe Bay
Named as having the world’s smallest harbor, Depoe Bay has a unique and colorful history that has shaped the town into what it is today. Yes, we realize there are smaller harbors throughout the world, but the distinction people make is that Depoe Bay is home to the “smallest natural navigable harbor.”
The harbor today covers approximately six acres, with a 50-foot wide channel opening – connecting to the Pacific Ocean. But before it was expanded over 50 years ago, it was actually even smaller at just 30 feet wide.
Devil’s Punchbowl
Perhaps one of the more unique naturally occurring phenomena on the Oregon Coast is the Devil’s Punchbowl. Located just five miles south of Depoe Bay, the Devil’s Punchbowl is a large bowl naturally carved into the cliffside, created by the collapse of two sea caves, and over time, shaped by the wind and waves. This natural landmark is a popular attraction due to the impressive force of water that crashes into the bowl, filling it up at high tide. Take in the scenes from the short walking trail above or at low tide, and step inside the bowl for a unique perspective.
Beaches of Lincoln City
While Oregon’s coastline is better known for its rugged topography and less for its wide sandy beaches, there are a few places along the coast that make for a great day at the beach. Located twelve miles north of Depoe Bay are the beaches of Lincoln City. With over seven miles of sandy shoreline, visitors can enjoy tide pooling, beachcombing, fly and kite, and even search for buried treasures of sea glass.
Where to stay on the Central Oregon Coast
Complete your visit to the Central Oregon Coast with a stay at the Whale Cove Inn in Depoe Bay. Book your stay at the award-winning Whale Cove Inn, where you can choose from seven signature suites that boast unparalleled views of Whale Cove, one of the most scenic bays on the entire Oregon coastline.
Our suites offer stunning ocean and bay views, gas fireplaces, and King-size TempurPedic sleep systems. Guests enjoy private balconies with Jacuzzi tubs and an unobstructed view of the ocean and bay. Each room at Whale Cove Inn has been designed to be an oasis of tranquility you will never want to leave.
