10 Most Scenic Spots Along the Oregon Coast You Need to See
The Oregon Coast is one of the most breathtaking regions in the Pacific Northwest, drawing travelers with its stunning landscapes and dramatic ocean views.
You’re here because you’re eager to explore this rugged coastline and uncover its most picturesque spots, and you want to make sure you don’t miss any highlights.
Reading this article matters because it goes beyond the typical travel guides and focuses on the truly scenic spots that showcase the best of Oregon’s natural beauty.
I wrote this guide to help you plan an unforgettable road trip along the coast, whether you’re an avid photographer, a nature lover, or just looking for a beautiful escape.
Inside, you’ll find ten of the most scenic spots along the Oregon Coast, each offering something unique, from hidden coves to towering sea stacks.
These locations have been handpicked to give you a mix of iconic viewpoints and lesser-known gems that will make your journey along the coast truly special.
Whether you’re looking to hike, relax on the beach, or capture stunning photos, these spots will offer the perfect backdrop.
Let’s dive into the best places to see along the Oregon Coast, where every turn offers a new and breathtaking view.
1. Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock
Cannon Beach is one of the most iconic spots along the Oregon Coast, famous for its wide sandy beach and the towering Haystack Rock.
This massive sea stack is not just a scenic landmark but also a protected marine sanctuary, home to vibrant tide pools and nesting seabirds.
The surrounding town adds to the charm with quaint shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes perfect for unwinding after a beach stroll.
Cannon Beach offers spectacular sunsets, where the sky lights up in brilliant hues, casting a magical glow over the rock formations.
It’s a must-see destination that captures the essence of the Oregon Coast’s natural beauty and charm.
2. Cape Perpetua Scenic Area
Cape Perpetua Scenic Area offers one of the most dramatic viewpoints along the coast, where lush forests meet rugged cliffs and crashing waves.
From the Cape Perpetua Lookout, you can see for miles along the coastline, offering panoramic views that are especially stunning at sunrise and sunset.
The area is also home to Thor’s Well, a natural sinkhole that seems to drain the ocean, creating a mesmerizing and somewhat eerie spectacle.
With numerous hiking trails, tide pools, and scenic overlooks, Cape Perpetua provides endless opportunities for exploration and photography.
It’s the perfect spot for adventurers looking to experience the raw power and beauty of the Oregon Coast.
3. Ecola State Park
Ecola State Park is a coastal wonderland that offers some of the best hiking trails and viewpoints in the region.
From the park’s many vantage points, you can take in sweeping views of sea stacks, lush coastal forests, and the iconic Tillamook Rock Lighthouse in the distance.
The park is also rich in history, as it was once a site visited by the Lewis and Clark Expedition, adding a historical layer to its natural beauty.
With miles of trails winding through old-growth forests and along dramatic cliffs, there’s plenty to explore for hikers of all skill levels.
Ecola State Park’s mix of stunning scenery and serene landscapes makes it a must-visit for anyone traveling the Oregon Coast.
4. Heceta Head Lighthouse
Perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Heceta Head Lighthouse is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country.
This beautifully restored 19th-century lighthouse offers a glimpse into Oregon’s maritime history and provides one of the most scenic viewpoints along the coast.
Visitors can tour the lighthouse, explore the surrounding trails, or simply relax on the nearby beach and watch the waves crash against the rocks.
The lighthouse, framed by the forested cliffs and the expansive ocean, creates a picture-perfect setting that feels straight out of a postcard.
It’s an enchanting spot that captures the spirit of the Oregon Coast and is perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
5. Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is a 12-mile stretch of rugged coastline filled with dramatic cliffs, natural bridges, and hidden beaches.
The corridor’s numerous pullouts and trails offer some of the most breathtaking views on the coast, including the iconic Arch Rock and Natural Bridges viewpoints.
This area is less crowded than other coastal destinations, giving you a chance to experience the wild beauty of the Oregon Coast in peace.
From towering sea stacks to lush coastal forests, every turn in this park reveals a new and stunning sight.
It’s an adventurer’s paradise, offering some of the best hiking, photography, and sightseeing opportunities along the coast.
6. Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area
Devil’s Punchbowl is a unique geological formation that creates a swirling cauldron of seawater during high tide.
This natural wonder is best viewed from the cliffs above, where you can watch the ocean surge and churn inside the rock bowl.
During low tide, visitors can explore the surrounding tide pools, filled with vibrant marine life like starfish, anemones, and crabs.
It’s a fascinating spot that showcases the raw power of the ocean and the ever-changing nature of the Oregon Coast.
Devil’s Punchbowl is a great place for a quick stop, offering dramatic views and a chance to witness one of nature’s most dynamic spectacles.
7. Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area
Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area is home to the tallest lighthouse in Oregon, perched on a basalt headland jutting into the ocean.
The site offers panoramic views of the rocky coastline, with seals often spotted lounging on the rocks below.
Visitors can explore the historic lighthouse, wander the coastal trails, and discover tide pools teeming with sea creatures.
The interpretive center provides insight into the area’s history and marine life, enhancing your visit with educational exhibits.
It’s a picturesque spot that perfectly combines Oregon’s natural beauty with a touch of coastal history.
8. Three Capes Scenic Loop
The Three Capes Scenic Loop is a stunning drive that takes you through some of the coast’s most beautiful landscapes, including Cape Meares, Cape Lookout, and Cape Kiwanda.
Each cape offers its own unique charm, from towering cliffs and expansive beaches to dense forests and panoramic ocean views.
Highlights include the Cape Meares Lighthouse, the rugged trails of Cape Lookout, and the sand dunes at Cape Kiwanda.
This scenic loop is perfect for those who want to experience the coast’s diversity in a single trip, with plenty of stops for hiking, picnicking, and sightseeing.
The Three Capes Scenic Loop offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, showcasing the very best of the Oregon Coast.
9. Cape Arago State Park
Cape Arago State Park is a hidden gem that offers stunning ocean views, secluded beaches, and abundant wildlife sightings.
The park’s cliffside overlooks provide dramatic views of the rocky shorelines, crashing waves, and the occasional whale breaching in the distance.
With hiking trails that wind through coastal forests and along the rugged shoreline, Cape Arago is a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
The nearby Simpson Reef Overlook is a highlight, where you can see and hear hundreds of seals and sea lions basking on the rocks below.
Cape Arago’s natural beauty and tranquility make it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the crowds and connect with nature.
10. Shore Acres State Park
Shore Acres State Park is a botanical wonder, offering manicured gardens that sit atop rugged cliffs with stunning ocean views.
Originally the private estate of a timber baron, the park’s gardens are now a public space filled with colorful flowers, fountains, and scenic viewpoints.
The park’s viewpoint offers a fantastic spot to watch the powerful waves crash against the rocky coastline, especially during stormy weather.
Seasonal light displays add a festive touch in winter, making Shore Acres a year-round attraction that delights visitors of all ages.
This unique blend of cultivated beauty and natural coastal splendor makes Shore Acres one of the Oregon Coast’s most scenic and serene spots.
Conclusion, 10 Most Scenic Spots Along the Oregon Coast
The Oregon Coast is a treasure trove of scenic spots, each offering its own unique glimpse into the region’s rugged beauty and charm.
From iconic lighthouses and natural rock formations to serene parks and vibrant gardens, these locations capture the essence of Oregon’s coastal magic.
Exploring these ten spots will not only provide stunning views but also connect you with the rich history and natural wonders of this incredible coastline.
Whether you’re planning a road trip, a hiking adventure, or just a day by the sea, these destinations offer unforgettable experiences at every turn.
So pack your camera, hit the road, and let the beauty of the Oregon Coast leave you breathless as you explore its most scenic gems.
