Why the Oregon Coast Is Better in the Rain—Here’s How to Plan the Ultimate Off-Season Roadtrip

There is something uniquely beautiful about a place that still shines in the worst weather. Instead of faltering in the rain, the Oregon Coast almost sparkles it in. The sun still sets just as brightly along the water and the waves still crash just as hard. 

A raincoat feels almost like a satisfactory uniform, a rite of passage for travelers along this strip of the Pacific Northwest. If you decide to make the trip in what I would argue is the prime time, here’s exactly what you should explore on your PNW adventure. 

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Where to Stay

There are a number of motels that dot the coast and are ready to serve road-trippers, but the area also boasts a number of tranquil and relaxing resorts and hotels for travelers.

Surfsand Resort is an oceanfront property in Cannon Beach and a stone’s throw away from Haystack Rock. Guest have access to a number of different amenities apart from the beach, including a heated pool and freshly baked cookies served every day at 3:30 p.m.

Stephanie Inn is another elevated option, blending a modest elegance with expansive ocean views. The perfect place for a romantic weekend away or a peaceful escape to the coast.

If you prefer vacation rentals, Vacasa is one rental service with a number of gems at affordable rates along the coast, many of them located on the oceanfront or walking distance from the water. Staying in a house offers you the opportunity to get off the beaten path, without losing any access to the beach. 

I recently stayed in a small but charming rental right in the heart of Cannon Beach, across the street from a quiet gravel pathway to the beach. Each day, we were often greeted with deer and a reliably picture-perfect view of the sunset. 

What to Do

It feels mandatory to visit Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock during this road trip, but Arcadia and Pacific City are alternative options offering just as much beauty (and fewer crowds). Pacific City Beach provides a refuge from the typical tourist crowd at locales like Cannon Beach. The area has more of a local vibe, and is crowded with fishermen and surfers instead. But really, any beach you spot to pull over along this coast offers something beautiful and is worth seeing. 

Most of these beaches are not only set against a backdrop of evergreens and rolling cliffs, but will also host miniature tide pools at low tide. If you look, you may be able to spot urchins, sea anemones, or starfish.

Beyond the beaches, there is no shortage of activities that run along the coast. Notably, you can’t miss a visit to the Tillamook Creamery in Tillamook, no matter your age. Watch from above how each block of Tillamook cheese gets made, stop for ice cream or a grilled cheese, and maybe even grab a stuffed cow on your way out. It’s wholesome, enjoyable, and richly delicious pit stop. 

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If you’re a die-hard Goonies fan, consider stopping Astoria, the setting of the iconic 1985 film. Take photos outside the Goonies house, or duck into the Oregon Film Museum for more Goonies history and memorabilia. It’s a sweet way to spend an afternoon, and feels even more quintessentially Oregonian under the fall of thick rain drops. 

Where to Eat

Besides Tillamook Creamery, the Oregon Coast offers a number of more modest spots that are well worth a visit. Order a basket of onion rings Ruby’s Roadside Grill in Seaside or chow down on a corndogs at Pronto Pup in Rockaway Beach for the area’s best comfort food. These restaurants are as endearing as they sound, and Ruby’s is made even more special if you bring your canine companion along (furry friends are welcome to join you at the table). 

Elena Scott

Ben and Jeff’s Burgers and Tacos in Pacific City serve up an excellent breakfast burrito, but be warned, it’s known to attract long lines. Also in Pacific City is Pelican Brewery, offering a sweeping selection of craft beers. 

If you find yourself walking along Cannon Beach, the pink- and white-striped exterior at Bruce’s Candy Kitchen will give you a delightful opportunity to indulge on homemade salt water taffy or chocolate truffles. 

Even under gray clouds, the entirety of the drive along the coast is stunning. Much of the trip will be right along the water, never letting you forget exactly where you are. Take it from me—don’t let the rain stop you from embarking on this iconic roadtrip. If anything, let the drizzle give you a fresh perspective on the natural wonders of the PNW.