If you are visiting Oregon by way of plane, most will fly into the Portland Airport. And one of the best ways to explore the Oregon Coast is to rent a car and take a road trip along the beautiful HWY 101. A little over two hours from Portland lies the small town of Depoe Bay, famously known as the whale watching capital of Oregon. While there is plenty to do in this cozy seaside town, add these things to do on your road trip from Portland to Depoe Bay.
Portland
The eco-conscious city of Portland, Oregon offers plenty to do and see. Resting in the shadows of Mount Hood, Portland is home to its fair share of delicious restaurants, microbreweries, coffeehouses, connected bike paths, and lush green parks such as the Japanese Garden. Several days can easily be spent exploring this unique city and is a good option to kick off your road trip from Portland to Depoe Bay.
Willamette Valley
As you travel down south along I-5 you will start to enter the Willamette Valley, best known for its plentiful orchards and grape-producing vineyards. Make a stop along one of the many wineries and tasting rooms that live in the valley. If you are traveling in the month of April, be sure to plan a visit to Woodburn for the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm and Festival.
Or if you choose to cruise down OR-18 S then make a stop in the small town of Dundee. Known for its wineries, brunch, and well-decorated downtown it’s a true hidden treasure to add your road trip from Portland to Depoe Bay.
Salem
Continue south with plans to stop in the moderately-sized town of Salem. As the capital city of Oregon, Salem offers its own list of things to do such as a visit to the capital building, Schreiner’s Iris Gardens, hike through ancient forests, or a stroll through the historic downtown.
Lincoln City
From Salem continue west along OR-18 W until you reach HWY 101. Turn left onto HWY 101 and head to the coastal town of Lincoln City. Here you can explore miles of sandy beaches, seven miles to be exact. In addition to pristine beaches, the area is also home to Devil’s Lake recreation area and Siletz Bay. And if you time it just right you can scour the beaches of Lincoln City for hidden glass treasures – the town notoriously drops over 3,000 handcrafted glass floats made by local artisans for you to find and keep.
Depoe Bay
After you have found your buried treasure, make your way down the coast to Depoe Bay. Known for its whale watching, Depoe Bay has a lot to offer travelers. From scenic drives and wildlife viewing to wineries and local dining. Discover more about Depoe Bay here.
Otter Crest Loop
Extend your route just outside of Depoe Bay along the Otter Crest Loop. The loop winds up just west of the highway and offers a leisurely route to see views from the 500-foot cape, plus a stop at the Devil’s Punchbowl and views of the historic Ben Jones Bridge. Plus enjoy commanding views from Cape Foulweather that span over 30 miles with Yaquina Head Lighthouse in the distance.
Stay at Whale Cove Inn
Before adding on Otter Crest Loop, drop your bags at Whale Cove Inn. Nestled along the coast, just off HWY 101, Whale Cove Inn offers travelers a secluded retreat with endless Oregon Coast views. Our suites each offer incredible views and private decks with an outdoor soaking tub. So, rest and relax at Whale Cove Inn after your road trip from Portland to Depoe Bay.