From Astoria to Brookings, the Oregon Coast is full of beauty and some of the most scenic areas in the country. Use our guide for the most scenic stops along the Oregon Coast for your next adventure along HWY 101.
Cape Lookout State Park
Enjoy an easy two-mile hike through Cape Lookout State Park. Enjoy walking through giant spruces and western red cedars, to vista views of Cascade Head and Cape Meares. See colorful wildflowers, wildlife, more than 150 species of birds, and picnic areas for an afternoon lunch.
Discover more to do in Tillamook, Oregon with our one-day guide.
Peter Iredale shipwreck
Ok, an old shipwreck may not seem like one of the most scenic stops along the Oregon Coast, but trust us this one is worth stopping for! The Peter Iredale is easily one of the most notable haunting shipwrecks along the coast. Located near the Fort Stevens State Park, the ship ran aground in 1906 still remains exposed with only the steel hull showing. You don’t have to wait for low tide to see this shipwreck as it is visible any time of day.
Read here for more haunting shipwrecks along the Oregon Coast.
Otter Crest Loop
A short drive from Whale Cove Inn, along Highway 101, travelers can take the Otter Crest Loop, winding west of the highway, which offers a leisurely drive to some of the coast’s most interesting geological formations and views. The loop itself climbs over the 500-foot Cape Foulweather and guides visitors to beautiful coastal landscapes and viewpoints unique to Oregon. There are several stops along this detour that make Otter Crest Loop one of the best scenic road trips along the Oregon Coast.
Astoria-Megler Bridge
Spanning over the lower Columbia River, the Astoria-Megler Bridge is a notable landmark that marks the northernmost spot of the Oregon Coast. The bridge opened in 1966 and is the longest continuous truss bridge in North America. It is also one of the most photographed places along the Oregon Coast, so be sure to grab your camera during your visit.
For more coastal bridges to visit on your Oregon Coast-road trip find our guide here.
Coquille River Lighthouse
Standing guard at the north harbor of the Coquille River, the Coquille River Lighthouse is the beacon for the town of Bandon. First lit in 1896, the lighthouse was abandoned in 1939 and now has re-opened to the public offering seasonal tours from May to September through the Bullards Beach State Park.
There are a total of 11 lighthouses that dot the Oregon Coast, learn more about them here with our Lighthouses of the Oregon Coast guide.
Stay at the Whale Cove Inn
Of course, one of the most scenic stops along the Oregon Coast is a stay at the Whale Cove Inn. Enjoy even more beautiful scenes of the coastline from the comforts of your own room. Each of our seven signature suites offers incredible views from the private deck along with an outdoor soaking tub. Don’t keep your vacation waiting, book your stay today!
