The Best Things to Do at the Oregon Coast (+ What to Skip) in 2026

Spanning 363 miles, there’s no shortage of great things to do at the Oregon coast, the state’s pride and joy.

Growing up in Oregon, I spent most of my childhood summers at the coast because my mom couldn’t get enough of the salty air. As kids, my siblings and I’d brace for the chilly wind while packing picnic blankets and snacks, knowing we’d be hunkering down for the day.

As an adult, I’ve learned to love the coast anew. I see it with different eyes because I’ve had the freedom to explore it on my own time. From award-winning breweries to classic childhood staples (Tillamook ice cream!), I’d like to share my favorite spots with anyone visiting Oregon coast. Let’s get to it!

The short version

All 363 miles of Oregon’s coast are public, and the can’t-miss stops cluster around dramatic headlands and a few iconic towns. Here’s where I’d start.

Cannon Beach & Haystack Rockthe iconic north-coast town, about 1.5 hours from Portland, with some of the best tide pools in Oregon.
Thor’s Well & Cape Perpetuathe central coast’s most dramatic stretch, where the ocean churns into a gaping rock cauldron.
Samuel H. Boardman Corridor12 miles of sea stacks, arches, and hidden coves on the far southern coast.
Tillamook Creameryfree self-guided tours, cheese samples, and a scoop of marionberry ice cream.

Important Beach Safety Tips for the Oregon Coast

I want to take a quick moment to talk about beach safety because the Oregon Coast is gorgeous but it demands respect. This isn’t Southern California. The water is cold, the currents are strong, and the coast has some specific hazards that every visitor should know about.

Sneaker waves are the biggest danger. These are unexpectedly large waves that surge up the beach much farther than normal. They can knock you off your feet and pull you into the ocean in seconds. Never turn your back on the ocean, and keep a safe distance from the waterline, especially on rocky outcrops and during winter.
Rip currents are present at many Oregon beaches. If you get caught in one, swim parallel to shore (not against it) until you’re free of the current.
Logs on the beach can be deadly. Waterlogged driftwood can weigh thousands of pounds. A wave can roll a log onto you before you have time to react. Never sit on logs near the waterline or climb on them in the surf zone.
Check tide charts before exploring tide pools, sea caves, or walking around headlands. Getting stranded by a rising tide is more common than you’d think.

I don’t share this to scare you. The Oregon Coast is one of the most beautiful places on earth. But a little awareness goes a long way. Enjoy the coast, take incredible photos, build sandcastles with your kids, and just keep one eye on the ocean while you do it.

Best Time to Visit the Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast, at a glance

Length 363 mi, all public

Water temp ~55°F even in Aug

Best time Jul–Sep

Don’t expect Warm swimming

July through September is the most popular time to visit and for good reason. Temperatures hover around 60-70°F, rain is rare, and the long days give you plenty of time to explore. This is the best window for camping, surfing, and spending full days on the beach.

That said, I’ve a soft spot for the coast in winter (November through February). The storm watching is incredible, hotel prices drop significantly, and the beaches are nearly empty. There’s something deeply peaceful about walking a windswept beach in a rain jacket with a thermos of coffee. Not everyone’s cup of tea (or coffee), but it’s mine.

Spring (March through May) brings wildflowers, migrating whales, and fewer crowds than summer. Fall (September through October) is arguably the best kept secret, with warm weather, golden light, and that post-summer quiet that makes every beach feel private.

More Oregon Coast Guides

I have detailed guides for individual towns and activities up and down the coast.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Oregon Coast

What is the prettiest part of the Oregon Coast?

This is like asking me to pick a favorite child (if I had 363 miles of coastline for children). But if I had to choose: the stretch between Yachats and Florence on the central coast, and the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor on the southern coast are the two most dramatic and beautiful sections. Cannon Beach and Ecola State Park on the north coast are also stunning.

Update (March 2026): Ecola State Park reopened for day use in April 2026; only the western Clatsop Loop Trail remains closed due to a landslide.

How many days do you need on the Oregon Coast?

For a north coast trip (Astoria to Lincoln City), 3 to 4 days is ideal. To drive the entire coast from Astoria to Brookings, you’ll want at least 5 to 7 days to do it justice without feeling rushed. It’s 363 miles, but you’ll want to stop constantly because every viewpoint is more beautiful than the last.

Can you swim at Oregon beaches?

Technically, yes. Practically, the water temperature hovers around 50-55°F year-round, so most people wade or play at the water’s edge rather than fully swimming. If you see surfers in the water, they’re wearing thick wetsuits. That said, some sheltered spots like Sunset Bay near Coos Bay have calmer, slightly warmer water that’s more comfortable for wading.

What should I pack for the Oregon Coast?

Layers, layers, layers. Even in summer, the coast can be 15-20 degrees cooler than Portland. Bring a windproof jacket, warm layers, comfortable walking shoes (or waterproof hiking boots if you plan to explore tide pools and trails), sunscreen (yes, you can still get sunburned through the clouds), and binoculars for whale watching. And always, always have a rain layer within reach.

What is the best month to visit the Oregon Coast?

September. Hands down. The summer crowds have thinned out, the weather is often the warmest and driest of the year, and the golden autumn light makes everything look like a postcard. July and August are also excellent but more crowded and occasionally foggy. For whale watching, late December through January (gray whale migration) is prime time.

Best Things to Do at the Oregon Coast

Click here for the table of contents

Visiting the Oregon Coast (Table of Contents)

Best Things to Do at the Oregon Coast
Oregon Coast Activities to Avoid
- The Sea Lion Caves
Map of Fun Oregon Coast Activities | Oregon Coast Bucket List
- Explore More at the Oregon Coast

Cannon Beach Oregon, a must visit town at the Oregon coast

Explore the Charming Town of Bandon

Sea stacks at Bandon Beach on the southern Oregon coast

Bandon sits on the southern coast and has a completely different vibe from the more popular north coast towns. It’s smaller, quieter, and feels more like a well-kept secret. Old Town Bandon is filled with art galleries, cranberry shops (Bandon is the cranberry capital of Oregon, who knew?), and a working fishing harbor.

Read: Are Dogs Allowed on Oregon Beaches? (The Complete Guide)

The real star, though, is Bandon Beach at sunset. The sea stacks and rock formations create silhouettes that look like they belong in a fantasy novel. Face Rock is the most famous, and the Coquille Point trail gives you access to some of the most photogenic beach scenery on the entire coast. Bring your camera, and bring a jacket.

Further Reading: 15 BEST Things to Do in Bandon, Oregon

My pick, beach town

Bandon, on the southern coast.

Smaller and quieter than the north-coast towns, with Old Town galleries and the cranberry-capital charm. Then Bandon Beach at sunset, where Face Rock and the Coquille Point sea stacks throw silhouettes straight out of a fantasy novel.

Visit Shore Acres State Park and Its Botanical Garden

Shore Acres is one of those places that makes you wonder how a formal botanical garden ended up on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Originally the private estate of timber baron Louis Simpson, the gardens feature meticulously maintained rose beds, Japanese-style ponds, and exotic plantings from around the world.

During winter storms, the observation shelter becomes the best seat in the house for watching massive waves crash against the sandstone cliffs below. And every December, the gardens are decked out with over 325,000 holiday lights. It’s one of the most magical things I’ve ever seen on the coast.

Explore the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor

Tide pools and sea stacks at Secret Beach in the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor

If you make it to the southern coast (and I strongly encourage you to), the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor is the crown jewel. This 12-mile stretch between Gold Beach and Brookings is packed with sea stacks, natural bridges, hidden coves, and some of the most jaw-dropping viewpoints in the entire state.

Natural Bridges Viewpoint is the most famous stop, and for good reason. But don’t skip Arch Rock, Secret Beach (yes, that’s actually what it’s called), or Indian Sands. Each one feels like you’ve stumbled onto a movie set. The whole corridor is free to visit and there are pullouts every quarter mile or so, making it easy to explore at your own pace.

Further Reading: 10+ Best Things to Do at Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor

Try Surfing at Pacific City or Short Sands

Oregon might not be the first place you think of for surfing, but the coast has a surprisingly active surf community. Pacific City (home of the iconic Cape Kiwanda and the massive Haystack Rock, not to be confused with Cannon Beach’s Haystack Rock) is one of the most popular spots for beginners and intermediate surfers. The beach break is relatively forgiving, and the dramatic dune backdrop makes for unforgettable sessions.

Short Sands at Oswald West State Park is the other go-to spot. Fair warning: the water is cold year-round (think mid 50s Fahrenheit), so a thick wetsuit is non-negotiable. But if you’ve ever wanted to surf with sea stacks and old-growth forest as your backdrop, this is your chance.

Discover Yachats, the “Gem of the Oregon Coast”

Yachats (pronounced “YAH-hots,” because Oregon loves to keep visitors on their toes with pronunciation) is a tiny town between Newport and Florence that consistently gets named one of the best small towns in Oregon. And for good reason.

The town sits right where the Yachats River meets the Pacific, surrounded by dramatic basalt formations and crashing waves. It’s quieter and less touristy than Cannon Beach or Newport, which is exactly the appeal. Grab a pastry from Bread and Roses Bakery, walk along the 804 Trail, and let the sound of the ocean do the rest.

Explore Cape Perpetua and the Spouting Horn

Forested headland over the ocean at Cape Perpetua on the Oregon coast

Cape Perpetua is hands down one of the most dramatic stretches of coastline in Oregon (and that’s saying something). Located just south of Yachats, this area packs an absurd amount of natural wonders into a small stretch: the Spouting Horn, Devil’s Churn, Thor’s Well, and the Captain Cook Trail all converge here.

The Spouting Horn is particularly spectacular during winter storms when waves blast through a narrow sea cave and shoot water 30+ feet into the air. Even on calmer days, watching the ocean churn through the narrow channel is mesmerizing. There’s a paved trail from the visitor center that makes it easy to see everything in a couple of hours.

Visit Heceta Head Lighthouse

Heceta Head Lighthouse with its red lantern room perched on a forested sea cliff above the Pacific

Oregon has some spectacular lighthouses (I’ve written about all of them), but Heceta Head is the one that makes people stop their car, grab their camera, and forget whatever schedule they were on. Perched on a dramatic headland between Yachats and Florence, it’s widely considered the most photographed lighthouse on the Oregon Coast.

The short trail from the parking area to the lighthouse is an easy 1-mile round trip with gorgeous ocean views the entire way. And here’s a fun detail: you can actually spend the night at the lightkeeper’s cottage, which operates as a bed and breakfast. They serve a seven-course breakfast. Seven courses!

Further Reading: 11 Iconic Lighthouses on the Oregon Coast

Spend a Day in Newport

Newport is one of those Oregon Coast towns that has a little bit of everything. The Historic Bayfront is lined with seafood restaurants, saltwater taffy shops, and fishing boats. The Oregon Coast Aquarium is one of the best aquariums in the Pacific Northwest (the jellyfish exhibit alone is worth the admission). And Nye Beach is a charming neighborhood with art galleries, boutiques, and the most relaxed beach vibe on the coast.

If you’re traveling with kids, Newport is probably the best base on the central coast. Between the aquarium, the tide pools at Yaquina Head, and the working fishing harbor, there’s enough to fill two or three days without anyone getting bored.

Visit Devil’s Punchbowl

Located in Otter Rock (just north of Newport), Devil’s Punchbowl is a collapsed sea cave that creates a natural cauldron where the ocean churns and foams during high tide. It’s dramatic, a little intimidating, and totally free to visit. The viewpoint above gives you a bird’s eye view into the bowl, and you can scramble down to the beach at low tide to explore from below.

Right next door is the Marine Gardens tide pool area, one of the most accessible on the coast. You can easily combine both in under an hour, making it a perfect quick stop on a road trip.

Visit Cape Meares and the Octopus Tree

Cape Meares is a small state park on the Three Capes Scenic Route that packs a lot into a short visit. The lighthouse is the shortest on the Oregon Coast (only 38 feet tall, but don’t let that fool you, the cliff it sits on does the heavy lifting). The views from the headland are stunning, with Tillamook Bay stretching out to the north.

But the real curiosity here’s the Octopus Tree, a massive Sitka spruce with branches that radiate out from the base like, well, tentacles. It’s believed to be hundreds of years old and was possibly shaped by Indigenous peoples for ceremonial purposes. It’s genuinely one of the strangest and most beautiful trees I’ve ever seen.

Hike Cape Lookout for the Best Ocean Views on the Coast

Forested Cape Lookout headland jutting into the Pacific on the Oregon coast

If you only do one hike on the Oregon Coast, make it Cape Lookout. This 5-mile round trip trail takes you through old-growth forest to a narrow headland that juts nearly two miles into the Pacific. The payoff? Unobstructed ocean views in every direction and some of the best whale watching on the entire coast (bring binoculars during migration season).

The trail is moderate in difficulty and well-maintained. My husband and I try to hike it at least once a year, and it never gets old. Arrive early on weekends because the trailhead parking fills up fast.

My pick, hike & viewpoint

Cape Lookout.

If you only do one hike on the coast, make it this one. The 5-mile round trip threads old-growth forest to a headland that juts nearly two miles into the Pacific, with unobstructed ocean views in every direction and some of the best whale watching anywhere on the coast.

Hike to Short Sand Beach at Oswald West State Park

Oswald West State Park (or “Oswald’s” as locals call it) is tucked between Cannon Beach and Manzanita, and it’s one of the most beautiful spots on the north coast. The trail to Short Sand Beach is about a half mile through old-growth rainforest with towering Sitka spruce and a canopy so thick it feels like twilight even at noon.

Short Sand Beach itself is a sheltered cove popular with surfers. Even if you don’t surf, watching them ride the waves from the driftwood-lined beach is pretty great entertainment. If you’re feeling ambitious, the Cape Falcon Trail branches off from here and follows the headland for incredible ocean views.

Summit Neahkahnie Mountain for a Panoramic Coast View

Neahkahnie Mountain sits just north of Manzanita and offers one of the most dramatic viewpoints on the Oregon Coast. The hike is about 3 miles round trip with a solid elevation gain (about 900 feet), but the reward is a summit view that stretches from Tillamook Head to Cape Meares. On a clear day, you can see forever.

Fun fact: legend has it that Spanish sailors buried treasure somewhere on this mountain centuries ago. People have been searching for it ever since. No one has found it yet, but the views alone are worth the treasure hunt.

Go Tide Pooling at Haystack Rock

Yes, Cannon Beach is already on this list. But I want to specifically call out the tide pools at Haystack Rock because they deserve their own moment. At low tide, the base of the rock transforms into a living aquarium: sea anemones, starfish, hermit crabs, mussels, and (if you’re lucky) the occasional octopus.

Volunteers from the Haystack Rock Awareness Program are usually on-site during low tides to help identify creatures and answer questions. It’s one of the best free activities on the coast, especially if you’re visiting with kids. Check tide charts before you go because the pools are only accessible at low tide.

Further Reading: 10 Epic Tide Pools at the Oregon Coast

Discover the Hidden Waterfall at Hug Point

Hug Point is just a few minutes south of Cannon Beach and most tourists drive right past it (which is kind of the point). At low tide, you can walk along the beach and find a waterfall that cascades directly onto the sand. Yes, a waterfall on a beach. Only in Oregon.

You can also see the remains of an old stagecoach road carved into the cliff face, which was the original route between Cannon Beach and Arch Cape before they built the highway. The beach itself is smaller and more intimate than Cannon Beach, and on weekdays you might have it mostly to yourself.

Explore Cannon Beach

Sitting pretty at the northern end of the coast, exploring Cannon beach is a no-brainier for those wondering about the best things to do at the Oregon Coast. Iconic Haystack Rock looms over one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Located a mere 1.5-hour drive from Portland, the beach is popular most of the year, especially during summer. Start the morning at a local cafe before heading out for a pleasant stroll along the beach. When you’ve had your fill of walking, tuck into Pelican Brewery for great grub (and even better beer).

Canon Beach Oregon — The cute town of Cannon Beach

If you’re into birding, bring your binoculars and make a beeline for Haystack Rock. You’ll see Tufted Puffins (so cool), pelicans and a handful of Bald Eagles circling the landmark. Have kids in tow? Haystack Rock is home to some of the best tide pools in Oregon, making this a very family-friendly activity at the coast.

You might enjoy reading: 15+ Charming Things To Do at Cannon Beach, Oregon

Try Crabbing at the Coast

crabbing at the Oregon coast — Nothing better than catching your limit of crabs at the Oregon coast!

No visit to the Oregon coast is complete without enjoying some fresh seafood. The only thing better than ordering fresh caught crab is catching it yourself. Thankfully, the Pacific Ocean is teeming with Dungeness crab for those who are willing to put in a little work.

If you’d like to try your hand at crabbing, there’s two important things to know. First, you need to purchase a crabbing license from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Second, you need to get some gear. You can rent gear from a local marina or purchase a few essentials online.

The fall months (September – November) tend to be the best time for crabbing at the coast. But based on personal experience, I prefer to go in September because that’s when the crabs are at their fattest. You can either rent a boat or toss your cage directly from a pier.

If it’s your first time crabbing, there’s a few key things to know, read: 5+ Best Crabbing Spots at the Oregon Coast (Helpful Crabbing Guide for First Timers)

Whale Watching at the Oregon Coast

It took me way to long to properly partake in this popular Oregon coast pastime. Peak whale migration occurs mid-December through mid-January (and then March – May). But like most kids, I was in school during those months, so we didn’t spend much time whale watching.

That all changed the year one of my coworkers generously gifted my husband and me a stay at a nice hotel in Depoe Bay for our honeymoon. We timed our stay with peak migration and instantly understood the hype. The best spot for whale watching is Depoe Bay, hands down.

Helpful Guide: Whale Watching at the Oregon Coast (5 Prime Areas)

Insider Tip: The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay is free, staffed by volunteers who know exactly where to look, and sits right on the bluff. It’s the best free attraction on the central coast and most tourists drive right past it.

Visit the Official End of the Lewis & Clark Trail

Seaside Oregon Coast, end of the Lewis & Clark trail

History buff? The turnaround at Seaside is the official end of the Lewis and Clark Trail, reason alone to visit. The monument was built to commemorate Lewis & Clark’s 4,000 mile expedition across North America.

If you’re really digging the history, take a scenic stroll a few minutes along the promenade to the Salt Works, a historical site detailing the salt-making process used during the expedition. Salt was necessary for preserving food during the journey, it’s a tiny little pop off but worthwhile if you’d like to stretch your legs.

“Ocian in view! O! the joy!”
Entry from Captain William Clark’s Diary Upon seeing the Pacific Ocean

Experience the Splendor of Thor’s Well

Impressive white waves violently crash upon jagged rocks before forcing themselves into a gaping abyss that gives way to a makeshift waterfall of epic proportions. Suffice it to say, experiencing Thor’s Well is undoubtedly one of the best things to do at the Oregon coast.

But word of caution, some visitors head down to the well to get a closer look, I’d caution against getting too close (and always wear sturdy closed-toe shoes). If you choose to get close, you risk being swept up by the current (especially at high tide).

There’s a tiny trail that will take you closer to the waterfall while still keeping you at a safe distance. Close or far, you’ll see in no time why all locals take out-of-town visitors here. It’s easily one of the coolest things to see at the Oregon coast.

Enjoy Ice Cream at the Tillamook Creamery

Confession time: The Tillamook Creamery is one of my favorite places at the Oregon coast for nostalgia’s sake alone. The creamery produces over a million pounds of cheese weekly and offers free self-guided tours with cheese samples.

My parents used to bribe us with Tillamook ice cream to keep us calm during the 1.5 drive from Portland. “The first person to see the ocean gets the first ice cream cone” my mom pleaded desperately.

It worked like a charm, we couldn’t see our mom cracking under the pressure of spending almost two hours in the car with 5 kids (don’t look at me, I’m just lucky enough to snatch the #2 spot). Since then, no trip to the coast feels complete without a scoop of marionberry ice cream and samples of squeaky cheese. It’s worth the visit.

Hike the Largest Coastal Sand Dunes in America

Few know that the Oregon coast is home to the largest expanse of coastal sand dunes in the country. As such, no list of the best things to do at the Oregon coast is complete without mentioning the epic John Dellenback Dunes Trail.

Most of the accessible areas in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area are constantly full of sand buggies but the Dellenback Dunes trail is an exception because it’s reserved exclusively for hikers. If you’re into jaw-dropping views of never-ending sand dunes along a pristine coastline overlooking the sea, then this is the perfect hike on the Oregon coast for you.

You might enjoy reading: 10 JAW-DROPPING Hikes at the Oregon Coast

Explore Astoria

Perhaps best known as the filming location for The Goonies, Astoria is perched at the confluence of the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean. The town was established in 1811 as a fur trading post, at which point it became the first permanent American settlement on the west coast (Astoria is the oldest city in Oregon).

You can easily spend a full day exploring this exciting city, start at the historic Astoria Column and then make your way to Fort George Brewery for great beer. There’s too many great activities to list, read: 10 Best Things to Do in Astoria, Oregon.

Visit Fort Clatsop (Lewis & Clark’s Encampment)

Let’s take it back to Lewis & Clark, shall we?

While exploring Astoria, I suggest visiting Fort Clatsop, a replica of the winter encampment used during the duo’s 1805 expedition, which was recreated using diaries descriptions. Seeing the fort where Lewis & Clark hunkered down for a stormy winter is without a doubt one of the coolest things to do at the Oregon coast.

Lewis & Clark chose this location because of its close proximity to the ocean and ample hunting opportunities. Clark hand sketched the site plans and construction began December 1805. The fort was named after a nation of native Americans who resided near the area, called the Clatsop Nation.

See the Wreck of the Peter Iredale

After Fort Clatsop, head over to Fort Stevens State Park to see the most iconic shipwreck on the Oregon coast, the wreck of Peter Iredale. The Peter Iredale was a four-masted steel vessel that sailed the sea before running ashore in 1906 while en route to the Columbia River.

Falling victim to time and erosion, the ship deteriorate until all that remained was the rusted wreckage we see today. Exploring the ship wreck is a popular Oregon coast activity for families, it’s always fun to watch kids getting excited studying the ship’s remains.

Hike the Redwood Trail

Oregonians are a lucky bunch in so many ways. The state’s varied terrain makes us privy to an impressive display of natural wonders. Case in point: the Oregon Redwoods Trail located near Brookings. This quick 1.7 mile hike will deliver you to a breathtaking grove of Oregon redwoods that will have you convinced you accidentally crossed into Redwoods National Park.

Catch Sunset at Ecola State Park

Boasting a dramatic 7-mile trail with unbeatable views of Haysack Rock, Ecola State Park is considered one of the most beautiful state parks at the Oregon coast. Ecola is the Chinook word for whale, which is fitting when you realize that Lewis and Clark’s expedition detoured here to observe a beached whale.

While the men went to barter for blubber and oil, Clark found himself awestruck by the beauty and wrote:

“From this point I beheld the grandest and most pleasing prospects which my eyes ever surveyed, in my frount a boundless Ocean . the Seas brak with great force [and] gives this Coast a most romantic appearance.”

To this day, Ecola State Park remains a popular spot for sunsets. The views are unbeatable and the hiking trails in the area allow you to build your own adventure. I suggest visiting Indian Beach as well (2 miles away, you can drive down to the area) because it’s one of the prettiest beaches on the coast.

Fish & Chips at Luna Sea Fish House

Nobody makes better fish and chips than Luna Sea Fish House in Yachats. Fighting words, I know, but I stand by them. Perfectly crispy outside, satisfyingly soft inside, I’m often tempted to make the 2 hour drive from Portland on a whim.

Luna Sea top destination at the Oregon coast for seafood lovers, so expect a wait most hours of the day. I’ve tried a ton of dishes over the years and everything is top notch. My husband is a sucker for their Slumgullion (unfortunate name, I know, but this twist on traditional chowder is memorable) and I can’t resist ordering the clams.

My pick, seafood

Luna Sea Fish House, Yachats.

Nobody makes better fish and chips: crispy outside, soft inside. I’m tempted to make the two-hour drive from Portland on a whim. Go for the clams, or my husband’s pick, the Slumgullion chowder.

Explore the Ghost Forest in Neskowin

best things to do at the Oregon coast
Ghost Forest Oregon

The quaint town of Neskowin has been able to skirt the commercialization taking most other coastal towns by storm. As such, Neskowin Beach is a great option if you’re looking to escape the crowds along the northern coast.

The beach itself is a sight to behold because it’s home to the Ghost Forest. The Ghost Forest is comprised of ancient 2000-year-old Sitka spruce stumps that reached heights of 200-feet in their heyday. Meandering past the stumps is a blast for kids, which makes this one of the most family-friendly activities at the Oregon coast.

Relax at Pelican Brewing

Pelican Brewing is a staple for great beer at the Oregon coast and clearly I’m not the only one that thinks so! As of 2023, they have four breweries at the coast. Of these, my favorite is the newest location at Siletz Bay which features modern decor, massive windows, and a great outdoor patio perfect for enjoying the stunning views.

The original location opened in Pacific City in 1996 and still draws a crowd today (seriously, try scoring a table during the weekends). Sitting pretty at the water’s edge, the brewery is constantly full of beach-goers, hikers and thirsty locals. Join the fun, sipping a pint while taking in the stunning ocean views is one of the most relaxing things to do at the Oregon coast.

You might enjoy reading: All 15 Breweries at the Oregon Coast (Ranked)

Hike God’s Thumb

If you’re in the hiking mood, don’t miss the God’s Thumb hike, a heart-thumping activity at the Oregon Coast. The steep cliff that juts out towards the sea is shaped like a giant thumb, earning the colorful moniker “God’s Thumb.”

The trail meanders through a dense spruce forest known for being extremely muddy after rainfall. Continue down the trail until you reach the God’s Thumb viewpoint and soak in the views before beginning the sharp ascent to the summit. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with unparalleled views of Oregon’s coastline.

Note: Good hiking boots are a must on this hike because the trail is steep and gets slippery even during dry days.

Experience Circles in the Sand at Bandon Beach

You can’t visit Bandon, one of the most charming towns at the Oregon coast, without taking the Beach Loop Drive and exploring Circles in the Sand (late April thru August).

Circles in the Sand is a unique event where artistically intricate labyrinths are meticulously hand-drawn in the sand at Bandon Beach. This meditative practice, led by local artist Denny Dyke, invites you to mindfully walk through the labyrinthine paths and connect with nature.

Each labyrinth is a temporary masterpiece, washed away by the tide, a testament to the transient nature of all beautiful things. Exploring Circles in the Sand is one of the most unique things to do at the Oregon coast.

Tour Oregon’s Iconic Lighthouses

Cape Blanco Lighthouse, one of Oregon's iconic coastal lighthouses

Standing as a testament to the past, Oregon’s lighthouses are towering monuments that pay homage to the old days of commercial fishing, shipping and trade. Built along estuaries and prominent headlands, the lighthouse greeted sea-faring men as they stepped off ships and into the corridors of maritime history.

Modern technology made most of the lighthouses at the Oregon coast moot, but the endearing charm remains. Today, seven of the nine original lighthouses are open to the public and touring them is a popular Oregon coast activity.

You may enjoy reading: The 11 Iconic Lighthouses at the Oregon Coast

Hike Sweet Creek Falls

Sweet Creek Falls is an pretty four-tier waterfall that cascades down 70 feet into a large pool of icy water. The trail guides visitors to all four tiers of the waterfall which is handy because some of the tiers are only visible from certain vantage points. The first tier cascades 10 feet, the second drop creates a horsetail formation before merging with the final two tiers. The culmination of this watery splendor feels like a feast for the eyes.

Visit Jacobsen Sea Salt

Remember the Salt Works I mentioned earlier (part of Lewis & Clark’s expedition)? Well it turns our Lewis and Clark aren’t the only ones making salt from the Pacific Ocean.

If you enjoy cooking, Jacobsen Sea Salt probably needs no introduction. Sold in stores across the country, these salts are made at the coast. Why not go straight to the source? A tiny shack serves as a makeshift shop, while massive containers of boiling sea water quietly rage in the background.

I’ll admit that the prices are too high for my liking, but dang, this is good stuff. I normally pick up a few small tins ($4-5) as souvenirs. I love the infused flavors (lemon is delicious).

Oregon Coast Activities to Avoid

The Sea Lion Caves

I remember visiting the Sea Lion Caves as a kid. My mom was told it was one of the best things to do at the Oregon coast, but I’m convinced only an enemy would say that. Well, either an enemy or someone who’s never visited the Sea Lion Caves before.

Update (March 2026): Sea Lion Caves admission is now $18 for adults.

The caves are impressive, no doubt. Considered the largest sea cave in the country, you can observe Steller Sea Lions take refuge alongside young cubs. So what gives? Well, for starters, the caves are so stinky and I couldn’t get out fast enough.

Plus, it’s an expensive experience at the Oregon coast because it’s a mere pit stop (you can’t spend a lot of time here). Some folks like it, some folks don’t. I find myself in the latter camp. And I know you’re dying to know, but yes, my mom is still friends with the gal that told us to visit, but now we know to verify everything she says.

Seaside Aquarium

I’ve visited the Seaside Aquarium on several occasions growing up, but always left wanting more. The experience seemed oddly sad to me, so I don’t recommend visiting. In fact, I completely forget it exists until I notice signs while visiting Seaside.

Best Things to Do Oregon Coast (Post Summary)

In sum, here’s a quick roundup of the best things to do at the Oregon coast.

Explore Cannon Beach
Go crabbing for Dungeness crabs
Whale Watching at the Oregon Coast
Admire the (official) end of the Lewis & Clark Trail
Experience the splendor of Thor’s Well
Eat your weight in cheese at the Tillamook Cheese Factory
Hike the largest sand dunes in North America
Explore Astoria, the oldest town in Oregon
Catch sunset at Ecola State Park
Indulge in seafood at Luna Sea Fish House
Check out where Lewis & Clark camped for the winter
Then, learn about the Peter Iredale Shipwreck
Explore the haunted forest of petrified wood
Spend an evening at Pelican Brewery
Hike God’s Thumb
Bandon Circles
Pick up fresh oysters at Nevør Shellfish Farm
Visit the iconic lighthouses along the coast
Hike Sweet Creek Falls
Visit Jacobsen Sea Salt

Map of Fun Oregon Coast Activities | Oregon Coast Bucket List

Explore More at the Oregon Coast

Over to you! What’s your favorite spot on the Oregon Coast? North coast, central coast, or south coast person? I’ve got my opinions (obviously) but I love hearing where other people fall on this debate. Drop your thoughts in the comments below, I read every single one!

Cheers!
Antonina

Newest on Oregon Coast

Oregon Coast in Winter Sep 2026
The Oregon Coast in September: The Secret Best Month Jul 2026
Oregon Coast Lighthouses Guide (History, Views, and How to Visit) Jul 2026
Oregon Coast Storm Watching Guide (The Best Winter Experience) Jun 2026
Oregon Coast Tide Pools (Where to Find the Best Ones) Jun 2026
Oregon Coast in Summer (Complete Guide to the Best Season) Jun 2026

Everything on Oregon Coast