The Ultimate 4-Day Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary (2025)

I’ve been wanting to share my favorite Oregon coast road trip itinerary with you! Living here for two years, this coastline still amazes me every time.

You can see all the best spots in just 4 days – I promise! I’ve taken this exact route with so many friends. You’ll discover cute coastal towns with real fishing village vibes, endless beaches, and cliffs that make you feel tiny against the vast ocean.

Driving Highway 101 is an adventure itself – sometimes hugging curves right above crashing waves, other times winding through misty forests before revealing another stunning view.

If you’re patient, you might spot gray whales (I saw a whole pod last summer!). And those sunsets? Grab a blanket and some local wine, sit on the sand, and watch nature’s best show.

Pack your bags and let’s hit the road! This’ll be a trip you’ll remember for years.

Oregon Coast Road Trip Map

Day 1 of Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Driving time: About 1 hour 15 mins

Distance: ~37 miles

Astoria

I always kick off my coastal trips in Astoria. This little port town sits right where the Columbia River meets the Pacific, and it’s got this old-timey charm that’s hard to resist.

Did you know Astoria is actually the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies? Founded back in 1811! I love grabbing coffee and just wandering around, imagining what life was like for those early settlers.

The Astoria-Megler Bridge is seriously impressive – like three times longer than the Golden Gate! My favorite spot to view it is from the Maritime Memorial Park.

On foggy mornings, when the bridge disappears into the mist halfway across… man, that’s something special.

If you’ve seen The Goonies (who hasn’t?), you’ll recognize spots all over town. My husband and I once spent an entire rainy afternoon tracking down filming locations with soggy maps and too much caffeine. Worth it!

Fort Stevens State Park

Next stop is always Fort Stevens State Park. There’s something eerily fascinating about exploring the old military bunkers that once protected the Columbia River mouth.

I like running my fingers along the cold concrete walls, peering through narrow slits where soldiers once kept watch. The place has this heavy silence that makes you whisper without knowing why.

Before leaving, walk down to the beach to see the Peter Iredale shipwreck. This massive four-masted cargo ship ran aground in 1906, and now its rusted skeleton rises from the sand like some ancient sea creature.

I’ve photographed it countless times, but it looks different with every visit – sometimes barely visible in thick fog, sometimes glowing golden at sunset.

Ecola State Park

Continuing south, you’ll reach Ecola State Park – honestly one of my favorite spots on the entire planet.

The park sits high on a headland with these panoramic views that’ll make your heart skip. Last time I brought my mom here, she literally gasped and grabbed my arm when we reached the viewpoint. That’s the kind of place it is.

Take the trail to Indian Beach if you have time. It winds through this lush Sitka spruce forest that feels like something out of a fantasy movie.

Last summer, I hiked there and stumbled upon a family of deer grazing in a sunlit clearing. I sat on a fallen log watching them for almost an hour, completely forgetting I had other plans that day. Some moments you just can’t schedule.

Cannon Beach

I always time it so I reach Cannon Beach for sunset. The iconic Haystack Rock stands 235 feet tall and feels like an old friend I’m visiting.

Pro tip from a local: Skip the downtown parking nightmare and go straight to the Tolovana Beach lot. It’s right by the shore without the crowds, and there’s usually space even in peak season.

My favorite ritual is finding a good piece of driftwood to sit on, kicking off my shoes, and just watching the sun sink behind Haystack Rock while the tide pools around it reflect all those crazy pinks and oranges.

I’ve probably taken a thousand photos here, but none capture that feeling of actually being there with the salty breeze and seagulls crying overhead.

Dinner spot: After sunset, head to The Driftwood Restaurant for what I swear is the best clam chowder on the coast.

They make it with bacon and it’s ridiculously creamy. Follow it up with ice cream from Suzy’s Scoops – their marionberry cheesecake flavor is insanely good!

Where to crash: After trying practically every place in town, I keep coming back to:

• Tolovana Inn when I’m watching my budget
• Hallmark Resort & Spa when I need some luxury
• The Ocean Lodge when I want that cozy cabin feeling

Day 2 of Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Driving time: About 3.5 hours

Distance: ~141 miles

Cape Lookout State Park

I love starting day two with misty morning views from Cape Lookout State Park. Standing 400 feet above the ocean on those dramatic cliffs makes you feel tiny in the best possible way.

My favorite hike here is the 5-mile Cape Trail through ancient spruce and hemlock forests. Parts of it get narrow with steep drops to the ocean below – definitely gets your heart racing!

Last March, I spotted gray whales migrating north from this very spot. Watching those massive creatures glide through the water from so high up is something I’ll never forget.

Neskowin Beach

Next, I always stop at the tiny village of Neskowin. This place feels frozen in time with its quiet beach hiding two incredible treasures.

The Ghost Forest fascinates me – ancient Sitka spruce stumps exposed by winter storms, telling stories of forests from 2,000 years ago.

I love touching these weathered remnants and imagining what the world was like when these trees were alive.

Then there’s Proposal Rock, rising from the beach like a mini island. A ship captain supposedly proposed to his sweetheart here long ago.

I’ve actually witnessed couples get engaged at this very spot – something about this place just inspires romance, I guess!

Don’t miss walking the pristine 3-mile beach stretching from Nestucca River to Cascade Head. I once found a perfect sand dollar here – it still sits on my bookshelf next to other beach treasures.

Lincoln City

Lincoln City always lifts my spirits, especially during their Summer Kite Festival. The sky becomes this canvas of wild colors – giant octopus kites dancing alongside whales and traditional Japanese designs.

I have a personal tradition of hunting for glass floats along the shore. Local artists hide these beautiful handcrafted treasures for beachcombers to find. My growing collection reminds me of each visit – every float has a story of the day I found it.

Food stops: Barnacle Bill’s smoked salmon makes the perfect picnic lunch. For sweets, My Petite Sweet bakery’s sea salt caramel cookies are absolutely worth every calorie.

When I’m celebrating something special, I head to Kyllo’s Seafood Grill for fresh-caught fish and those killer sunset views.

Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint

Continuing south, I never skip Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint. Named after a shipwreck from 1910, this rugged stretch of coastline shows nature’s raw power.

I’ve learned to identify seabirds here – murres, cormorants, and sometimes tufted puffins through my binoculars. During winter storms, I’ve watched waves explode 100 feet into the air against these rocks!

Depoe Bay

In nearby Depoe Bay, the Whale Watching Center has become my classroom.

I’ve befriended several volunteers who’ve taught me to spot the subtle signs of whales – that slight change in water texture, the tiny puff of a blowhole in the distance.

Last year, I splurged on a chartered boat tour and found myself within yards of a mother gray whale and her calf.

They surfaced right beside our boat, their barnacle–covered backs glistening in the sun – a moment that still gives me goosebumps thinking about it.

Even without whale sightings, peering into the World’s Smallest Harbor always brings a smile. And I can’t leave without stopping for saltwater taffy in those wild coastal flavors.

Rocky Creek State Scenic Viewpoint

The dramatic shift in coastline becomes clear at Rocky Creek State Scenic Viewpoint. I come here when I need to clear my head – something about these panoramic ocean views puts everything in perspective.

On lucky days, I’ve spotted harbor seals lounging on exposed rocks below, looking like lazy sunbathers enjoying their private beach.

Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area

Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area houses my favorite lighthouse on the entire coast.

Fun fact: This striking black and white lighthouse appeared in the movie “The Ring” – though I prefer to remember happier times here! The guided tour inside reveals fascinating details about the lightkeepers’ isolated lives.

Nearby Cobble Beach, with its perfectly rounded black stones, makes the most soothing sound as waves roll in and out. The stones clicking together create what I call “nature’s wind chimes.”

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area takes me to new heights – literally! Standing 800 feet above the ocean at Oregon’s highest viewpoint accessible by car, I’ve watched fog roll in below my feet like some magical carpet.

On clear days, I can see nearly 70 miles of coastline stretching north and south. The visitor center once helped me identify different marine ecosystems visible from this vantage point – from rocky shores to kelp forests.

Thor’s Well & Spouting Horn

I end day two watching sunset at Thor’s Well – a mysterious sinkhole about 20 feet deep that seems to drain the entire ocean.

When high tide coincides with sunset, this natural wonder puts on an unforgettable show of crashing water and vibrant sky.

Local legend says Thor created this feature with a mighty blow from his hammer – at least that’s the story I tell my visiting friends!

Just steps away, Spouting Horn erupts like a geyser when waves crash into the volcanic rock. I’ve been completely soaked misjudging the wind direction here more than once! Bring a change of clothes – trust me on this one.

Where to sleep: After all this exploration, I usually stay in Yachats at:

• The Silver Surf Motel when I’m watching my budget
• The Fireside Motel for that perfect ocean-view balcony
• Overleaf Lodge & Spa when I need serious relaxation (their soaking tubs with ocean views are heavenly!)

Day 3 of Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Driving time: About 2 hours

Distance: ~83 miles

Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint

My third day begins watching morning light illuminate Heceta Head Lighthouse. Built in 1894, this working lighthouse sits 205 feet above the ocean, its beam reaching 21 miles out to sea.

I once stayed at the lighthouse keeper’s house (now a B&B) and fell asleep to the rhythmic flash of light through century–old windows. Definitely worth the splurge!

From the viewpoint, I’ve spotted harbor seals playing in the protected cove below. The nearby bridge marks what locals call the “million-dollar mile” – one of America’s most expensive road–building projects due to the crazy engineering challenges.

Florence

Just a short drive away, Florence charms me every time with its perfect balance of river and sea.

This coastal town along the Siuslaw River hosts the century-old Rhody Festival each May, celebrating rhododendron blooms that paint the town in brilliant pinks and purples.

I love wandering Old Town’s wooden boardwalk, chatting with shopkeepers who recognize me from previous visits, and watching fishing boats navigate the river mouth.

There’s this weird sense of homecoming I feel here even though I’ve never actually lived in Florence.

Lunch must-have: Novelli’s Crab and Seafood never disappoints.

Their crab chowder showcase the freshest catch, and sitting on their deck watching boats pass by transforms lunch into something more meaningful than just a meal.

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area offers an otherworldly landscape unlike anywhere else on the coast. Massive sand mountains – some towering 500 feet high – stretch for 40 miles along the coastline.

I’ve tried everything from heart-pounding ATV rides (totally flipped one once, don’t tell my mom) to peaceful hikes through this constantly shifting terrain.

My favorite is the 2-mile trail that winds through diverse ecosystems before opening onto a pristine beach that typically has few footprints besides my own.

The contrast between golden dunes, deep blue ocean, and green forest creates a landscape that seems impossible yet perfect.

Cape Arago State Park

I conclude day three at Cape Arago State Park, where the historic Cape Arago Lighthouse watches over the coastline. Established in 1866, this landmark has guided countless sailors through these challenging waters.

The real highlight for me is always the colony of sea lions and seals that call these rocky outcroppings home. Their barking conversations echo across the water as they lounge, squabble, and play in the sunshine.

The sound and smell (let’s be honest, it’s pretty pungent!) create this immersive wildlife experience you won’t forget.

During migration seasons, I’ve watched gray whales feed remarkably close to shore here. Something about their ancient journey along this coastline humbles me every time.

Where to rest: In Coos Bay I recommend:

• The Best Western Holiday Hotel for convenience
• The Mill Casino Hotel when I’m feeling lucky
• The Edgewater Inn for waterfront relaxation

Day 4 of Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Driving time: About 2.5 hours

Distance: ~107 miles

Bandon Beach

The final day begins at breathtaking Bandon Beach, where massive sea stacks rise from the shoreline like ancient guardians.

Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint offers the perfect overview, but I always make time to walk among these formations at low tide.

According to local legend, Face Rock preserves the profile of a maiden trapped by an evil spirit – I can definitely see her face gazing skyward from certain angles.

Wizard’s Hat Rock genuinely resembles something straight from Harry Potter. The hidden cave at Gravel Point requires timing your visit with low tide, but exploring its mysterious interior by flashlight feels like discovering a secret world.

Morning fuel: Bandon Coffee makes the perfect starting point for rich espresso and fresh–baked bagels. For lunch, I never miss Tony’s Crab Shack – their crab sandwich has ruined me for all others!

Meyers Creek Beach Viewpoint

The scenic drive continues to Meyers Creek Beach Viewpoint. This 2-mile stretch of pristine sand remains one of the coast’s most photogenic yet least crowded spots.

I’ve spent entire afternoons here watching brave surfers tackle impressive waves. The combination of dramatic headlands, perfect sand, and relative solitude makes this a special place for reflection.

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

The grand finale of my Oregon coast road trip is always the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. This 12-mile stretch near the California border showcases Oregon coastal beauty at its most intense and pristine.

Jagged cliffs plunge into turquoise waters, secluded beaches hide between towering headlands, and unique rock formations demonstrate nature’s artistic genius. Each visit reveals something new in this ever–changing landscape.

Arch Rock

First stop is always Arch Rock, where ocean forces have carved a perfect archway through solid stone. Walking the short trail through wind-sculpted shore pines to this viewpoint feels like entering another realm.

I love pondering the immense time and power required to shape these formations – waves patiently sculpting headlands over countless centuries.

Natural Bridges

The seven rock formations known as Natural Bridges literally stopped me in my tracks the first time I saw them.

These perfect arches rise from emerald waters surrounded by lush forest – a landscape that seems designed rather than randomly formed.

The viewing platform offers the perfect vantage point just a short walk from the parking area. Every photo I’ve taken here looks like a professional postcard!

Indian Sands

The Indian Sands Trail winds 1.2 miles through diverse coastal environments. This moderately challenging hike rewards effort with breathtaking views of rock formations, a hidden arch, and panoramic ocean vistas.

I once hiked this trail as storm clouds gathered offshore. Watching lightning illuminate distant waters while standing safely above created one of my most vivid coastal memories.

Whaleshead Beach

Whaleshead Beach earned its name from the distinctive rock formation resembling a whale’s head rising from the surf. This sheltered cove feels like my own private discovery each visit.

I’ve spent hours here beachcombing, finding perfect agates, unusual driftwood pieces, and once, a glass fishing float that had drifted all the way from Japan – my most prized beach discovery ever!

Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint

My journey concludes at Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint. A short forest walk opens suddenly onto a windswept meadow overlooking miles of rugged coastline.

This spot offers perfect whale–watching opportunities and bird–spotting chances. It’s where I sit quietly, mentally cataloging memories from the journey before reluctantly heading home

Final night’s stay:

• Wild Rivers Motor Lodge for a simple, comfortable stay
• Mermaid’s Muse Bed and Breakfast for personalized attention (the owner makes these incredible scones with local berries)
• Beachfront Inn for those ocean views I never tire of

Oregon Coast Road Trip Essentials

Best Time to Visit

The best time to travel the Oregon coast is from May to September. The weather’s usually pleasant, and rain is pretty rare during these months.

Oregon’s climate is different from California’s, with warm summers perfect for exploring but enough cool days to keep you guessing!

Portland to Coast Distance

Getting to the Oregon coast from Portland is about 80 miles, and it usually takes around 1.5 hours by car.

Since Portland is in the northern part of Oregon, the drive to the central and southern coast takes longer. I always tell friends to plan for extra time – you’ll want to stop at random viewpoints along the way.

Nicest Part of the Coast

The Oregon coast is gorgeous throughout, with Cannon Beach being a standout spot. But honestly, the whole coastline has something special, so it’s hard to pick just one favorite.

Personally, I love the dramatic cliffs and rugged shores of the southern coast, but each section has its own magic.

Final Thoughts on 4-Day Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Driving Oregon’s Pacific Coast Highway remains one of life’s great joys for me. Each journey reveals new facets of this beloved coastline – sometimes wild and dramatic, other times gentle and soothing.

The key is slowing down enough to notice details – the perfect spiral of a shell, the way fog filters sunlight through ancient trees, or the exact moment when sunset turns the ocean to liquid gold.

I hope my experiences inspire your own Oregon coast road trip. Create your own traditions, find your own secret spots, and make memories that will call you back to these shores again and again.

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