Cruise from Gold Beach to Gearhart to discover the unfettered beauty of the Oregon Coast with its gorgeous lighthouses, secret beaches, and charming small towns.
Travel back in time on a self-guided tour of this living restoration of a prehistoric temperate rainforest. Follow the dinosaur tracks to spy 23 life-size dino replicas, as well as old-growth trees, gigantic ferns, and more plant life evocative of Jurassic Park (minus the danger).
Since its construction was complete in 1870, this lighthouse has regally shone its beam from rugged Cape Blanco State Park.
Visitors can ascend the interior spiral staircase up to the lantern room to see the Fresnel lens up close and take in the perch's amazing views.
Located on the northern end of the 40-mile swath of Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, this geological wonder is fun to explore on foot or by ATV.
For a unique glimpse of the coastal region's wildlife, make a stop at this year-round shelter for Steller sea lions north of Florence. Hundreds gather inside the sea cave (the largest in the country) primarily in wintertime, while in spring through summer they move to the outer coastal ledges for breeding and birthing. Sea lions aren't the only attraction here: the wildlife preserve also happens to be an excellent vantage point for gray whale and sea bird sightings.
The dramatic coastal cliffs along Oregon's 101 are nothing short of spectacular. Lush greenery, vibrant wildflowers, and peekaboo views of pocket beaches where the waves crash make for endless photo opps.
Tucked inside Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint, Devils Elbow gives you easy access to the lighthouse as well as a trail affording a spectacular view of the coast north to Cape Perpetua. But coastline isn't all you'll spy here. Puffins, cormorants, gulls, and other birds flock to nearby wildlife refuge islands, while whales and sea lions and whales can be spotted from the shore.
The Oregon Coast Highway traverses this iconic arch bridge, located a few miles south of Heceta Head Lighthouse.
The 56-foot-tall lighthouse shines the strongest beam on the Oregon Coast and has stood sentry on the shore since 1888. The lighthouse and adjacent keepers quarters are on the National Register of Historic Places.
The scenic lighthouse doubles as a quaint B&B. Nestled between Florence and Yachats, the property offers unparalleled views of the wild waves and rugged coastline.
Get equal helpings of nature and culture in this small-town gem located at the base of the Coastal Pacific Range. From exploring the old-growth forests and tidal blowholes of nearby Cape Perpetua Scenic Area to tasting wine and seafood back in town, Yachats is a favorite place to unwind on the state's central coast.
One of the most unique geological features of the region, the dramatic sand dunes can sometimes tower as high as 500 feet above sea level.
This small coastal city has many maritime activities to offer: the excellent Oregon Coast Aquarium, the interactive Hatfield Marine Science Center, top-notch fishing and crabbing, and of course, a scenic stretch of shore. Need a break from the seaside theme? Check out the city's quirky art scene and sample pints at local favorite Rogue Brewery.
Stroll the quaint downtown of this village located at the nexus of the Pacific, the Nehalem River, and Nahalem Bay. Activities on the water feature prominently here, while galleries, antique shops, and a winery round out the experience.