I must admit, despite living in Oregon all my life, it took me way too long to embark a proper Oregon coast road trip. Desperate for redemption, my husband and I planned a road trip last summer with the intention of visiting all the quaint Oregon coast towns along the way.
It turned out to be the adventure of a lifetime. After visiting all of the coastal towns that line the salty sea, I thought it’d be fun to rank them based on charm, from a local’s perspective. Let’s get to it!
Quick Tip: Make sure to pack sunscreen. Here’s the sunscreen I’ve used for the past 6+ years, I discovered it in France and now buy it in bulk. You’ll never catch me without it.
Who am I and why can you trust me?
Fair question. I’m a lifelong Oregonian. I’ve been exploring Oregon my entire life. My childhood is freckled with memories of weekends spent at various Oregon coast towns. My mom was in love with the area and would drag us out most summer weekends.
Admittedly, when I was younger the voyage to the coast was anything but exciting. Two hours in the car with my siblings? Please. I don’t know how she did it. But the effort was worthwhile because now I find myself missing the Oregon Coast if I stay away too long.
As an adult, I visit the coast at least ten times a year and have discovered a plethora of charming Oregon coast towns worth a visit.
Best Oregon Coast Towns
(Click here for the table of contents)
Towns at the Oregon Coast
- Best Oregon Coast Towns
- #15. Tillamook
- #14. Coos Bay
- #13. Rockaway Beach
- #12. Brookings
- #11. Neskowin
- #10. Yachats | Central Oregon Coast Town
- #9. Bandon | Southern Oregon Coast Town
- #8. Florence | Central Oregon Coast Town
- #7. Lincoln City | Central Oregon Coast Town
- #6. Seaside | Northern Oregon Coast Town
- #5. Astoria | Northern Oregon Coast Town
- #4. Depoe Bay | Central Oregon Coast Town
- #3. Pacific City | Northern Oregon Coast Town
- #2. Newport | Central Oregon Coast Town
- #1. Cannon Beach | Northern Oregon Coast Town
- The Best Oregon Coast Towns (Post Summary)
Where to stay at the Oregon coast: Several readers have asked for my advice on where to stay while visiting the Oregon coast. If helpful, this is my favorite hotel at the northern coast and my go-to hotel in at the Central Oregon coast.
#15. Tillamook
I’m going to start this list with one of my favorite Oregon coast towns, Tillamook, and it boils down two reasons: ice cream and cheese. The Tillamook Creamery is reason alone to swing by. 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.” It worked like a charm.
Once primarily a logging and dairy farming community, Tillamook is a hot-spot for outdoor recreation. From hiking old-growth forests (I suggest the Cape Lookout Trail) to picnicking in picturesque state parks, the town’s activities span the gamut.
If you’re a history buff, I suggest visiting the Tillamook Naval Air Museum to admire vintage aircraft and learn about the town’s role in naval aviation during World War II. If you’d like to experience a favorite coastal pastime, try you hand at crabbing in Tillamook. We try to go once a year with a large group of friends, it’s hard to imagine a better way to spend a day at the Oregon coast.
You might enjoy reading: 5+ Great Oregon Coast Crabbing Spots (Helpful Guide for First Timers)
#14. Coos Bay
Famous for being the meeting point between the Coos River and Pacific Ocean, Coos Bay is considered the largest town on the Oregon Coast (population nearing 16,000).
Historically, Coos Bay was a bustling hub for the timber and fishing industries, serving as a vital gateway for shipping goods along the west coast. The remnants of the town’s maritime history can be explored at the Coos History Museum.
Nature enthusiasts are drawn to the area’s stunning landscapes and rugged cliffs, on full display at Cape Arago State Park and Shore Acres State Park, some of the most beautiful state parks at the Oregon coast. This artsy town is a great home base while exploring the southern portion of the Oregon coast.
Interesting Coos Bay Fact: Steve Prefontaine, who set the American record in the 5,000 meters at the 1972 Olympics, was born and raised in Coos Bay. When he died in a car accident at the age of 24, he held every American distance running record from 2-miles through 10,000 meters. The town has a few murals in his honor.
Don’t Miss: The John Dellenback Trail Near Coos Bay
Few know that the Oregon coast is home to the largest expanse of coastal sand dunes in the country, Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. Explore this natural wonder for yourself by hiking the John Dellenback Dunes Trail, a small portion of the recreational area reserved exclusively for hikers (no sand buggies allowed).
The trail offers such a unique hiking experience because of the varied terrain. The hike starts in the woods, takes you past massive sand dunes and meanders through a second forest before spitting you out at the beach. You’ll get jaw-dropping views of never-ending sand dunes along the pristine coastline, it’s very memorable.
You might enjoy reading: The 10 Best Hikes at the Oregon Coast
#13. Rockaway Beach
If your ideal day at the Oregon coast doesn’t entail hordes of people crowding the beach, may I suggest Rockaway Beach? Quieter than its famous neighbor to the north (Cannon Beach), with a population of approximately 1,400 residents, Rockaway Beach maintains a laid-back coastal vibe with limited amenities.
Best described as “a little Oregon coast town with a big beach,” Rockaway Beach is quite small but the town has an interesting claim to fame. This is the birthplace of the corn dog! Yep, the iconic summer classic was invented in this town in 1946 at the Pronto Pup.
Corn dogs aside, Rockaway Beach is a popular destination for vacationers seeking respite from city life, with pristine beaches and natural attractions like the iconic sea stacks Twin Rocks. Additionally, the town hosts the Rockaway Beach Kite Festival and Pirate Festival, adding to the town’s festive atmosphere.
#12. Brookings
Brookings is a sleepy Oregon Coast town found a mere six miles from the California border. This is the southern-most coastal town in Oregon, so the area doesn’t see many visitors.
Brookings is known as the “Banana Belt” of the coast due to the area’s mild climate, which is warmer and sunnier than most most Oregon Coast towns. With long stretches of sandy beaches, this is a great place to enjoy breathtaking views and stretch your legs on various trails. Harris Beach State Park is a great starting point.
The town’s downtown area has a handful of local shops, galleries, and restaurants. One of my favorite spots is Chetco Brewing Company. Refusing to use additives, extracts or anything artificial, Chetco clarifies their beer using Irish moss.
All ingredients used in the beer-making process are grown on the property without the use of pesticides or herbicides. The beer is fantastic! I consider this one of the best breweries at the Oregon coast.
You might enjoy reading: 10+ Best Things to Do at Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor
Don’t Miss: Natural Bridges Trail Near Brookings
In terms of beauty, the Natural Bridge Viewpoint Trail has tops the list of best hikes at the coast because of the jaw-dropping views. The best part? The hike is short (around half a mile).
The hike has grown in popularity thanks to social media, and a lot of hikers choose to hike on top of the natural bridge (pictured above) but in my opinion it’s a bit too steep and dangerous, not worth the risk.
#11. Neskowin
Somehow, the quaint town of Neskowin has been able to skirt the commercialization taking most other coastal towns by storm, so the area has a much calmer vibe.
The beach itself is a sight to behold! Home to the Ghost Forest, a collection of 2000-year-old stumps from ancient Sitka spruce, and Proposal Rock, an iconic sea stack popular with photographers, the area is ripe for exploration.
If you’re looking for a short (heart-pumping) hike, climb Proposal Rock. Find the rope hanging down the side of the rock and make your way up for a unique vantage point. If you’re in an adventurous mood, strap on your hiking boots and take in the splendor of the vast Pacific Ocean from the Cascades Head trail.
Avid golfer? Try your hand at the 9-hole Neskowin Beach Golf Course, which offers striking views of the coast.
#10. Yachats | Central Oregon Coast Town
Pronounced: YA-hots
If you’re a sucker for natural wonders (me too!), Yachats is one of the best Oregon coast towns you can visit. Nestled in the backyard of Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, this town is a worthy addition to any Oregon coast road trip itinerary.
Stop along random waysides to comb the beach for agates, petrified wood and interesting rocks. Try to arrive in Yachats on an empty stomach, because Luna Sea Fish House has some of the best fish and chips at the coast. I never pass on the chance to get my grubby little hands on that meal.
After lunch, burn off some calories while exploring tide pools or taking in the ocean views. My favorite pullout is the Strawberry Hill Wayside where you can walk down some stone steps to the sand to admire the powerful waves crashing among the volcanic cliffs.
#9. Bandon | Southern Oregon Coast Town
Once you reach the small town of Bandon you’ll start to notice that the crowds are sparse and the views are plenty. With a slew of beaches, state parks, and hiking trails further inland, this part of the Oregon coast road trip offers the highest chance of solitude.
Whether that means sitting quietly on the sand watching the waves ebb and flow or gazing up at the ancient canopies of thickly-growing spruce along cliff-hugging hiking trails, peaceful memories are bound to ensue.
There’s tons of dining options in Bandon’s Old Town which is worth taking some time to stroll through–the shops are charming. It’s also a good idea to check out both Cape Arago State Park and Face Rock State Park to photograph the famous sea stacks that lurch up from the sea in abstract formations.
While you’re in town, visit the Bandon Marsh for some bird-watching then hit up Tony’s Crab Shack for some delicious fresh seafood. Afterwards, take the scenic Beach Loop Drive and explore Circles in the Sand.
Tip: Face Rock Creamery is a great option for lunch and ice cream. The creamery makes great sandwiches and some mean paninis. Plus, the cheese is so good! But heads up, the ice cream portions are huge (I suggest splitting a single scoop between two people).
#8. Florence | Central Oregon Coast Town
During our Oregon coast road trip, Florence surprised us more than any other town. We couldn’t believe how quaint it felt! We strolled Bay Street, the town’s main street, which is full of colorful storefronts, art galleries and restaurants. We ended up staying an extra night because we found the town so endearing.
For those feeling in an adventurous mood, Florence offers outdoor recreational opportunities such as dune buggy rides on the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, hiking in nearby state parks, and exploring tide pools along the coastline.
If you’re visiting the various Oregon coast towns with children in tow, make sure to swing by the Sea Lion Caves (the largest sea lion cave in America), spring and winter are the best seasons to visit.
Then, make your way to Heceta Head Lighthouse, the most photographed lighthouse in Oregon (for good reason). Perched atop rugged cliffs overlooking the sea, reaching this beauty requires a little hike.
#7. Lincoln City | Central Oregon Coast Town
Lincoln City’s charming downtown area is full of boutiques, art galleries and restaurants. The town is home to seven miles of pristine beaches and is popular year-round. While exploring the area, visit D River State Recreation Site for the annual sandcastle contests and kite-flying competitions.
Siletz Bay is a must-visit for birders and kayakers, Pelican Brewery recently built a state of the art restaurant on the bay and it’s the perfect place to spend a summer evening with friends. If you’re in the shopping mood, swing by the Lincoln City Outlets to score a deal or two.
The most beloved event at this great Oregon coast town is a fun event called Finders Keepers. Glass balls are hidden along the beach from October to May, waiting to be discovered by lucky beach-goers. As the name suggests, finders, keepers!
You might enjoy reading: 10 Fun Things to Do in Lincoln City, Oregon (Local’s Guide)
Don’t Miss: God’s Thumb Hike Near Lincoln City
This moderate/difficult trail starts near Lincoln City and winds through lush forests and rolling hills before culminating at the summit of God’s Thumb, a dramatic sandstone promontory that overlooks the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean.
Along the way, the trail meanders through diverse ecosystems, including coastal forests and meadows adorned with wildflowers, providing ample opportunities for wildlife spotting and birdwatching. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with unparalleled views of the ocean and Lincoln City. It’s an incredible experience.
Note: Good hiking boots are a must on this hike because the trail is steep and gets slippery even during dry days. Here’s my tried-and-true hiking boots (I’ve had them for 8+ years now).
#6. Seaside | Northern Oregon Coast Town
Often billed as the most touristy town at the Oregon coast, Seaside gets a bad rap. But as someone that grew up playing at Funland Seaside Arcade and enjoying one too many ice cream cones from Zingers Ice Cream, I think it’s a great spot to visit during a trip to the Oregon Coast.
Heck, I consider this one of the best towns at the Oregon coast for families with young kids. There’s so many great family-friendly attractions to choose from, like the Seaside Aquarium (kids love feeding the seals) and the carousel at the Seaside Carousel Mall. P.S. the elephant ears from We’re All Ears cannot be missed!
History buff? The turnaround at Seaside is designated as the official end of the Lewis and Clark Trail, reason alone to visit. If you’re a beach bum, there’s plenty of space to spread out on the sand and enjoy some lively people-watching while the sun sets.
#5. Astoria | Northern Oregon Coast Town
Astoria is the oldest city in Oregon, but the city’s biggest claim to fame is being the filming location for The Goonies. While technically not a beach town because the city sits at the mouth of the Columbia River, it still warrants an addition on this list.
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.
Today, remnants of the city’s maritime heritage can be viewed at the Columbia River Maritime Museum. But you they city’s wealth from the fur trade is evident simply strolling through town. The charming downtown area features Victorian-era architecture, quaint shops, and waterfront restaurants.
You can easily spend a full day exploring this charming Oregon coast beach town, start at the historic Astoria Column and then make your way to Fort George Brewery. Set within a repurposed auto garage, the brewery’s outdoor patio swells with locals during the summer months.
While exploring the greater area, I suggest visiting Fort Clatsop, a replica of the winter encampment used by Lewis & Clark during their expedition, the fort was recreated using notes from the expedition journals. After that, head over to Fort Stevens State Park to see the most iconic shipwreck at the coast, the Wreck of Peter Iredale.
Astoria is one of my favorite weekend trips from Portland, we visit the city often. Here’s my favorite hotel. I also recently shared my list of the 10 Best Things to Do in Astoria.
#4. Depoe Bay | Central Oregon Coast Town
Depoe Bay harbor is known as the smallest natural navigable harbor in the world. Often referred to as the whale watching capital of the Oregon coast, this lovely coastal town draws whales like clockwork from March through December.
Humpback whales, grey whales, orcas, and more can be viewed here along with a bevy of other sea life. Whale sightings are all but guaranteed during the migrating season and there’s plenty of viewpoints to chose from. Check out the Whale Watch Center, hop on a charter boat or keep a distance from an observation deck.
Depoe Bay is also home to beautiful waterfront hotels, like this lovely option, where one of our friends generously gifted us a stay for our honeymoon. We absolutely LOVED it and can’t recommend it enough!
#3. Pacific City | Northern Oregon Coast Town
Of all the Oregon coast towns I’ve grown to love, Pacific City feels like the most tranquil of the bunch. But don’t get me wrong, it’s an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, especially if you enjoy hiking and surfing.
Visit Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area and hike to the top of the dune field if you’re feeling adventurous, it’s one of my favorite hikes at the Oregon coast. Afterwards, pop into Pelican Brewery for delicious brews and breathtaking views of the sea.
Local’s Recommendation: We stay in Pacific City often, here’s my go-to hotel in the area. But, if I had married for money (not love), I’d definitely stay here.
#2. Newport | Central Oregon Coast Town
With a population of approximately 10,000 residents, Newport is one of the most populous towns at the Oregon coast. It was originally established in the late 19th century as a port town, with roots deeply intertwined with the fishing and maritime industries.
I spent many childhood weekends exploring the historic Bayfront in Newport. The sea lions on the dock are always a hoot and there’s a plethora of shops, art galleries, seafood markets to explore and restaurants to discover. If you’re into a little recreational crabbing there are several public docks to try your luck for Dungeness crabs.
A more recent addition to the town, Newport Brewing Company can’t be missed! There’s a full-service restaurant on site with a menu focused on elevated pub fare. The clam chowder hit the spot and the burger was excellent.
Worth the effort, head out to Yaquina Head Lighthouse to see the tallest lighthouse in Oregon. It’s also a great area to see harbor seals, explore tide pools or go birding year-round.
Local’s Recommendation: If you’re looking for a place to eat, Local Ocean Seafoods is my favorite restaurant in town (the seafood is so fresh and delicious).
#1. Cannon Beach | Northern Oregon Coast Town
You better believe I’m saving the best for last, who wouldn’t want to visit Oregon’s most famous coastal town? Cannon Beach is a mere 1.5-hour drive from Portland, making it a popular weekend destination for locals. Due to the town’s popularity, there’s plenty of hotels and restaurants to choose from.
Renowned for Haystack Rock, towering 235 feet above the shoreline, the area is a haven for diverse marine life, including colorful tide pools teeming with starfish and anemones. The town’s charming village atmosphere, full of art galleries, boutiques and restaurants, makes this the most picturesque Oregon coast town on the list.
Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Cannon Beach for activities ranging from hiking in nearby Ecola State Park to surfing or kite flying on the expansive sandy shores. Moreover, Cannon Beach hosts several annual events, like the famous Sandcastle Contest and the Savor Cannon Beach Wine & Culinary Festival.
As you continue south along the highway from Cannon Beach you’ll see signs for Hug Point State Park and Oswald West State Park. These two stops are non-negotiable during an Oregon coast road trip.
Most first time visitors to the Oregon coast choose to stay in Cannon Beach (for good reason!). If you’re in the same boat, here’s the hotel I highly recommend.
You might enjoy reading: 15+ Charming Things To Do In Cannon Beach, Oregon
The Best Oregon Coast Towns (Post Summary)
In sum, here’s a quick overview of the best Oregon coast towns, based on firsthand experience.
- Yachats
- Bandon
- Florence
- Lincoln City
- Seaside
- Astoria
- Depoe Bay
- Pacific City
- Newport
- Cannon Beach
- Neskowin
- Brookings
- Rockaway Beach
- Coos Bay
- Tillamook
Best Oregon Coast Towns Map
Explore More at the Oregon Coast
- 5 Best Whale Watching Spots at the Oregon Coast
- 11 Iconic Lighthouses on the Oregon Coast (+Interesting History)
- 5+ Great Oregon Coast Crabbing Spots (Helpful Guide)
- All 15 Breweries at the Oregon Coast (Ranked)
- Local’s Take: Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary (Here’s How I’d Do It)
- 10 Epic Tide Pools at the Oregon Coast (Worth the Drive)
- 15 Irresistible Oregon Coast Beaches to Explore By Summer’s End
- 10 EPIC Spots for Wildlife at the Oregon Coast (Seals & Sea Lions)
- 12 Epic Campgrounds at the Oregon Coast
Until next time,
Antonina
In Yachats, you must stop at the Adobe Hotel. Stop and read the story of how the Hotel came to be. The owner of the land along with his large family lives in one of the small rooms off of the hotel. The man and his family made by hand the Bricks that built the hotel. The story is posted on the walls of the hotel and restaurant lobby.
It is a beautiful story and couples who have celebrated their anniversary back when still go yearly to share that time and the family of the hotel. You won’t forget it even if you are going to eat lunch there.
Hi Julie, I looked up the Adobe Hotel on your recommendation and wow – it looks like a great hotel! I’m so glad you shared this with other readers, what an interesting history. Thank you!
Another theme or story line. Is all the small towns that are gone and learn the history of how these towns disappeared. I watch several channels on YouTube and I have lived in Oregon since the 70s with a 33 year break while living in Washington State.
One Summer I took my 2 Children on a trip from Astoria to The Red Tree forest of California. I was living in Washington and would often tell stories of all the different places in Oregon to visit if they ever took a trip to the Oregon Coast. So my thought was travel 101from top to bottom and find the neatest places to visit like Mos and its history.
Back to an idea. There have been a lot of towns in Oregon that has all but disappeared except their stories. I hope you will check out the channels and decide for yourself, its worth the time. Good luck and have lots of fun.
Thank you for this suggestions, Julie!
I have read many “best of Oregon Coast” stories. This one is typical in that people seem to forget the Southern Oregon Coast below Bandon. Langlois was settled by pioneers who arrived in wagons. Port Orford is beautiful albeit windy. Then Gold Beach with the Rogue River jet boats that take you up into the wild and scenic wilderness area. And ocean views to fulfill all your dreams. Continuing your way south you pass Hunter’s Creek and Pistol River before arriving in Brookings, the home of the Azalea Festival. All these little towns are part of Oregon’s history.
Hi Karen, wow! These are such wonderful suggestions. I visited Port Orford during my last trip and have to agree, it’s a beautiful area. Pistol River is another fan favorite in our household. I haven’t had the chance to experience the Azalea Festival in Brookings yet, but you better believe I’m adding that to my list!
Thank you for the lovely article. We missed our vacation in 2020 due to Pandemic. We totally missed our week in La Pine, Bend and Central Oregon camping + fishing. However we missed our annual trip staying once at Umpqua Lighthouse state park outside of Reedsport where there is elk viewing, crabbing fresh oysters and all those others little places you mentioned on the coast.
We do this every year in the fall. And the pandemic halted that after almost 40 years. Also like to go to special places in Wa and BC Canada where I met my husband. My soul has been missing for over a year now. Camping anywhere in Oregon is great.
I miss the wildlife, the birds and scenery of God’s country. I hope it is not ruined by visitors who were wrecking our trails + not picking up disposing their garbage. MINTING the beauty and appreciate what’s here for all of us to enjoy.
Hi Vallie, it seems that you have such beautiful memories at the Oregon coast, thank you for sharing your lovely experience. Sounds like you appreciate Oregon’s stunning landscapes to the fullest, what an amazing place to live and explore!
I can’t imagine why anyone would consider Seaside as a nice coastal town. It is all tourist, no thank you.
You should include Oceanside Oregon, and as mentioned already Brookings
I lived in Warrenton for years. We NEVER went anywhere on summer holiday weekends. We stayed home, did the 4th of July parade and bbq’d.
Hi Antonina,
Your article was great and you could have mentioned the 50 best places to visit and I’m sure some opinionated Karen would have something sniveling to say about what was left out. I have explored Oregon and its many coastal towns and they all have something unique to offer. Keep up the good travel writing and come stay again soon!
Enjoy
Hey Obediah, your kindness made my day! I love sharing my knowledge/passion for Oregon and yeah, everyone has differing opinions, but hey — at the end of the day I’m just trying to share the love. 🙂
While the towns/cities listed are fine and fun, most of these aren’t quaint or little. As an Oregonian living on the coast I was hoping for insider tips on the lesser known little towns one tends to bypass.
That’s a valid point! But the very small towns don’t have many amenities (like hotels and restaurants). As such, I hope the towns on this list are great for first time visitors looking for quaint towns to visit. But I can see what you’re saying, thanks for your feedback! 🙂
I Would qualify Yachats, Manzanita and Depoe Bay as little and quaint. Definitely not Astoria, Lincoln City, Newport or Seaside, as these are 4 of the largest Oregon Coast cities. Bandon and Cannon Beach are both midsized towns.
I would highly recommend Neskowin if you’re going for quaint and small towns. It’s between Lincoln City and Pacific City – so you get a little bigger towns but Neskowin itself is adorable and quaint. The market is wonderful, Hawk Creek Café is delicious and so fun with their ice cream cart in the summertime, and every Saturday is a lovely farmer’s market!
Hey Emily, you are completely right! I decided to add it to the list after my last visit, what a wonderful place to explore!
Brookings should have been #1. Hands down most beautiful beach in all of Oregon and best little coastal town in Oregon. I really can’t understand how it ended up dead last on the list. Weird…but probably a good thing so it stays the small beautiful hidden beach town it is.
We are looking for a small town under 3,000 people where we can swim,collect shells, whale watch. We would like a small somewhat secluded town. Any suggestions.?
Waldport. Between Newport and Yachats.
Best Bakery – on the coast- Pacific Sourdough. Only open to public Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
Hidden gem!
Winchester bay is pretty amazing for recreation! The whales come by, and the dunes and lakes are all gorgeous.
I agree. Gold Beach is my favorite
This article was very interesting and informative
absolutely beautiful, so serene can’t wait to visit.
Thank you for not making Astoria number one. We are absolutely inundated with tourists. Although we love tourists, enough already! We have gridlock here in our tiny town of only 10k. Most Astorians avoid downtown like the plague due to the influx of tourists. Sad, that.
Amen to that I’ve lived between Cannon Beach and Westport since I was 10 years old I’m 64 now loved every minute of it
Great list. I would add the Shore Acres state park to the Coos Bay/North Bend itinerary. Especially during storm and whale seasons! The waves at the viewpoints are beyond amazing.
I think all of Oregon Coast is beautiful
But my favorite city in Oregon is Oregon City. Full of history and quirkiness.
As a Rockaway Beach resident I can say we’re definitely a small town, but #14?
Our 4th of July fireworks show and other events are the biggest around. What about Garibaldi?
Thanks for the list I’m interested in moving from CA to the coast of Oregon and I will take a look at all the towns mentioned.
Been there, done that. I live in Montana (West) Flathead Lake, but Oregon has always fascinated me. I have horses, where would be a nice little place for me and my horses? Thanks for the info, it’s absolutely great!
Hermie.
I am a current resident in Northeast Oregon but in all my years in Oregon(20 plus years), the darling little wind blown fishing shack town and the furthest point west in the continental united states’ is Port Orford Oregon. Just south the Bandon. Port Orford us not all to touristy. There is life teaming in almost every square in of the place and there aren’t to many locals nor tourists. Mostly just seniors and fishermen. Beautiful place as long as you realize nothing ever truly dries out there.