From the mouth of the Columbia River up north to the beaches of Brookings, the Oregon Coast is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline with some of the best photographic opportunities. In 1967, the Oregon Beach Bill made the entire 364 miles of coastline open to the public and those wishing to photograph its beauty. So, grab your camera and discover the most photographed places along the Oregon Coast.
Astoria – Megler Bridge
Located at the mouth of the Columbia River, the historic town of Astoria is a must for beginning your road trip down the Oregon Coast. Its most popular landmark, and most photographed, is the Megler Bridge. Sunset or sunrise are both great times to capture the beauty of this modern marvel.
Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach
If you’ve ever seen a photograph of the Oregon Coast, you most likely saw a picture of Haystack Rock. Probably the most photographed place along the Oregon Coast, Haystack Rock is a 235-foot sea stack that stands prominent on Cannon Beach. Its wide-open beach makes it perfect for an afternoon stroll in the sand and stay for sunset when the rock is best photographed.
Haystack Rock is another great spot for birdwatching along the Oregon Coast when the puffins nest upon the rock.
Ecola State Park
For even better views of Haystack Rock and Cannon Beach, visit Ecola State Park. As one of the most popular state parks in Oregon, Ecola State Park offers miles of hiking trails, sandy beaches, and unbeatable views.
Cape Kiwanda Pacific City
Located in Pacific City, Cape Kiwanda is one of the most photographed places along the Oregon Coast, and it’s easy to see why. An ideal spot for photographing waves crashing into rocks or rushing up over rocks. There are plenty of vantage points to capture the perfect shot, with some not ever having to leave the parking lot!
Depoe Bay
Almost any spot in Depoe Bay offers stunning scenery from most any vantage point in town. One of the most scenic places near town is the beautiful Whale Cove, where the luxurious boutique hotel, Whale Cove Inn, rests. Enjoy beautiful views from this private cove and take in the sights and sounds of Depoe Bay. Plus, just north of Depoe Bay, be sure to stop at the scenic viewpoint called Boiler Bay, where you will find almost endless photography opportunities.
Yaquina Head Lighthouse & Yaquina Bay Bridge
In the town of Newport, less than 20 minutes south of Depoe Bay, the Yaquina Head Lighthouse and Yaquina Bay Bridge stand as the area’s most notable landmarks and one of the most photographed places along the Oregon Coast. The lighthouse is located within the Yaquina Head Lighthouse State Park, which is the best location to photograph. Continue you on a short distance further south to find the bridge. Come at sunset to photograph the lighthouse and at sunrise to photograph the bridge.
Read here for more tips on photographing the Oregon Coast.
Heceta Head Lighthouse
The Oregon Coast is known for its scenic lighthouses that dot the rugged coastline. Heceta Head Lighthouse, found near Florence, is an unforgettable sight at sunset when best photographed. With easy access from Highway 101, visitors can get right up to the lighthouse for an up-close shot.
Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
Without a doubt, the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is one of the most spectacular scenes along the Oregon Coast. The 12-mile long scenic corridor is packed full of stunning photo locations including, Natural Bridge, Secret Bridge, and Indian Sands.
Stay at Whale Cove Inn
Make Depoe Bay your home base when exploring the beautiful landscape of the Oregon Coast and stay at the Whale Cove Inn. Surround yourself with the beauty of the Oregon Coast when you stay in one of our luxurious suites. Each suite offers incredible views, a private deck with an outdoor soaking tub, and plenty of opportunities to photograph the Oregon Coast from your room! Don’t forget to pack your camera and book your stay at the Whale Cove Inn.