Do you want to experience all of what the Oregon coast has to offer? Well, you’re in luck!! I’m filling you in on Oregon’s most iconic locations which includes amazing beaches, attractions, hikes, food & places to stay/camp right off highway 101! As an outdoor enthusiast and raised by a family in aviation, I’ve been blessed with lots of travel opportunites, but the one place I come back to every single year is the Oregon coast. It holds a special place in my heart for so many reasons, and I want others to experince the secrets and wonders that Oregon holds. This is my entire road trip guide that I've pieced together from over the years.
1. CANNON BEACH
This small but very popular beach town holds the best vibes and is a great spot for a family getaway! I’ve been coming to Cannon Beach every year since 2013, so out of all the beaches and towns on the coast, I’m pretty knowledgeable about this one. The most iconic attraction in Cannon Beach is Haystack Rock, which is a giant rock formation towering at 235 feet. This is where most people tend to gather. As a parent, something I really enjoy about this beach is that the ocean forms a mini river called Ecola Creek throughout the day when the tide comes in, seperating the south side of Cannon Beach from the north end. This is where families can enjoy the ocean and keep an easy eye on their kids without having to face huge waves.
You can walk aross the river to the other side to Chapman Beach, which has a lot more solitude, sand dunes and exploration opportunities; but the water can get as deep as 2-3 feet depending on the tide. Once you get to the other side, keep walking north and you’ll get to Chapman Point where more sealife and rock formations awaits you! If the tide is low enough, you are able to walk through the large gap in between the rocks that takes you to Crescent Beach which leads to Ecola Point. There is also a short and easy 1 mile trail from Crescent Beach that leads to Ecola State Park if you want views from a higher elevation.
S Hemlock St. is the main drag of Cannon Beach, so if you'd rather stay dry, you can easily drive or walk to Chapman Beach if you keep following Hemlock. You’ll evenutally go over a small bridge, take a left here and Les Shirley Park will be on your immediate left. If you are coming for day use this is probably where you will find parking. If the lot is full take a left onto N Larch St. which is a wayside street connected to the parking lot of Les Shirley. There is a path leading right down to Chapman Beach. Picture bellow is of Chapman Point during sunset.
FOOD
One of my favorite things about Cannon Beach is how almost all of the shops and restaurants are on one street and within very short walking distance to the beach. Crepe Neptune in my opinion is by far the superior breakfast walk-up spot! They have everything from sweet and savory crepes to coffee & bubble tea. But they do not have any seating & if you have small kids that are picky eaters and are looking for an all breakfast restaurant I would maybe choose something else such as the Pig'N Pancake! Lots of great choices, so children are sure to find something they love!
If you want the best fish & chips you’ve ever had, The Screw & Brew is the spot to go! Seriously… don’t get fish n chips anywhere else but here, we’ve done our research, lol! This place gets extremely busy even on week days during the summer. We waited over an hour for food around 7:30pm so if you can, come for an early lunch to beat the crowds! Getting there does require driving, but its just right up the main street. Another great spot is Pizza’ A Feta, where they serve pizza by the slice to go! Moe’s seafood & chowder house is another good sit down restraunt if you enjoy seafood. And again, if you’re just looking for a good, family oriented restaurant that serves everything, don’t skip The Public Coast Brewing!
Alright now let’s talk COFFEE! I don’t know about you guys, but one of my favorite things to do in the morning is walk to get coffee then go to the beach and watch the fog slowly burn off. You seriously can’t go wrong with any coffee shop here in Cannon Beach (and that’s coming from a coffee connoisseur) but some of the ones I’ve tried that I love are Island Grinds Coffee & Insomnia Coffee.
Have a sweet tooth? Check out Bruce’s Candy Kitchen! It’s basically a candy factory, so grab a bag and fill it up!! Also Schwietert's Cones & Candy has amazing ice cream! But you can’t go wrong with any ice cream you find at Cannon Beach. Every shop you go to will have amazing flavors!
ACCOMMODATIONS
Hotels in Cannon Beach are usually all booked for the summer months in advance. They are also pretty pricy, which is why we’ve only stayed in 1 hotel over the last 9 years! But, if you’re looking for a campground, the Ranch RV park is right in town on Ecola Creek and can accommodate tents, RV sites, cabins and yurts.
Now, if your anything like me and was considering sleeping in your car or truck in the town of Cannon Beach, think again. Up until last year we had been sleeping in our car on a wayside street as shown in the picture below. It was incredible, but we also found out it’s illegal. We we’re nicely informed of this by a police officer last year. Thankfully, we didn’t get fined, but we did have to move our car at 3am and sleep on the side of the highway the rest of the night. So just something to keep in mind, there might not be any signs, but it doesn’t mean you can just park anywhere overnight.
2. HUG POINT STATE RECREATION SITE
Just 10 minutes south of Cannon Beach is Hug Point. This is a fun little area to show your little ones cuz there is a river that creates a wide but short waterfall that streams into the ocean as pictured below. After you park and walk down the staircase turn right and walk down the beach to the waterfall (only takes a couple minutes).
3. ELK FLATTS TRAIL & DEVILS CAULDRON
This short (yet usually muddy) hike will take you to spectacular views & insane seaside cliffs! It’s 2.9 miles round trip with a total of 616 feet of elevation gain making it to Short Sands beach; but the most jaw dropping views come way before that. To see the cliffs you take the first left on the trail which is only about 100 feet past the trailhead. There are some overgrown areas but it’s a well defined trail and easy to navigate. After taking in the views of the cliffs come back the way you came and continue on the trail to the right to see the Devils Cauldron (there will be signs) and then if you wish, all the way to Short Sands Beach. Just be sure to wear proper boots and attire. You will not be disappointed! You can find all the info about this hike on the AllTrails App. There are no bathrooms at the trailhead.
4. CAPE KIWANDA & PACIFIC CITY
About an hour and half south of Cannon Beach is Cape Kiwanda; one the Three Capes Scenic Route, which includes Cape Meares and Cape Lookout. If you have time I suggest stopping at all 3 capes, but if you are crunched on time Cape Kiwanda is the most scenic and has more to do since its a town. Cape Kiwanda is known for its huge towering sand dune on Pacific City Beach. At the top of the dune you can see all the incredible sand stones and how the wind and water has formed and eroded the coastline! There are many places to explore at the top, please stay inside the fenced area— the cliffs edges can crumble without warning and people have died after climbing over the safety fences.
The views are just as spectacular from the safe zones! Looking north from the top of the dune is McPhillips Beach where all street-legal vehicles are allowed from the north of the cape to Tierra Del Mar, and between Pacific Avenue and Porter Point.
FOOD
Pelican Brewing is one of the most popular family oriented restaurants on the coast of Oregon, although our experiences conflict with the 4.5 star rating it’s been given. I’d give it a solid 3.5. Food is decent, but not amazing. Their cocktails are subpar. If you order any basic cocktail that’s not on their menu, such as a margarita, it will not be what you are expecting. They are served in what looked like an 8oz glass for $10+ dollars and did not taste good. Also, if you are wanting real beer battered Fish & Chips, I recommend going some place else. There are so many spots along the coast that make it better. They also do not have a kids menu for coloring but they have kids servings on the main menu. Service has always been great though.
Check out Stimulus Coffee + Bakery for morning coffee! We had a great experience at this little shop and their lattes are amazing, but you may wanna skip getting breakfast here and go right across the street to Ben & Jeff’s burgers and tacos! They have the most amazing breakfast burritos, burgers, beer and cocktails! And their burritos are HUGE, so you can definitely feed two! They serve it all, so satisfy your hunger at any time of day! The marketplace also has great ice cream but be aware that they close at 6pm on weekdays and 8pm on weekends so plan accordingly.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Cape Kiwanda has a few hotels but we decided to go the primitive route and stay at Cape Kiwanda’s RV Park! We’ve been there twice now and love it! They have about 10 spots in the back of the park that can accommodate a car and tent! They also have a few cottages & cabins as well. Our site was around $50 and they fill up quick during summer so calling a couple months ahead would be a smart choice. They also have staff after hours if you arrive late!
5. DEVILS PUNCHBOWL STATE NATURAL AREA
About another hour south from Cape Kiwanda is Devils Punchbowl. We didn’t come during a winter storm but I’ve read that’s the best time, as the restless water slams into the hollow rock and mixes a violent brew inside the bowl. Scientists think the punch bowl was created by the collapse of the roof over two sea caves, then shaped by wave action. There is an awesome viewing area and scenic picnic spot atop the shoreline. During low tide you can actually go inside the punch bowl. There is supposedly a trail on the north side of the beach that leads down to it. If you are able to make it down there, don’t forget your camera!! This spot is also popular spot for wale watching. We snagged some ice cream at Cliffside Coffee & Sweets which is right on the main road. Be aware that there is not a lot of parking.
6. THE OREGON COAST AQUARIUM
If you don’t have kids you may wanna skip the aquarium, but if you do it’s definitely worth checking out! They have a lot more marine life then other aquariums that ive been to! Tickets are $24.95 & kids are $14.95! Visit their website for more info.
7. THORS WELL
If you don’t stop and check out Oregon’s massive sinkhole you’re doing it all wrong! This 20 foot deep hole gives the illusion of endless draining water into the ocean. Some researchers believe the Well started out as a sea cave dug out by the waves, before the roof eventually collapsed and created openings at the bottom and top through which the ocean sprays! This site is most spectacular during high tide or storms when the water violently washes over the rocks and down into the sinkhole and also from underneath filling the bowl up with water and creating a huge spray. There is a very short, paved trial from the parking lot that leads to a viewing area. If you are feeling risky and have the proper foot wear, you can walk along the rocks and view the sinkhole to get a different and closer perspective.
8. SEA LION CAVES
Did you know that the largest cave in the US is right on the Oregon coast?! Pretty cool huh? Located just north of Florence this 25 million year old cave is definitely an experience you won’t wanna miss out on, especially if you have kids! My daughter had so much fun seeing all the sea lions! Tickets are only $15 for this self guided tour. You pay inside the gift shop and are directed down to the stairs to two viewing points— one above ground and the other below!
The Cave system is at sea level and the ocean continually washes into the main cavern. This room has a floor area of about two acres and a vaulted rock dome about 125 feet high. Southward from the main chamber a low passage runs 1,000 feet to a sea level opening. This corridor and the western entrance are flooded at high tide and free of water at low tide. From the north, a third entrance opens into the main cave, about fifty feet above the ocean. This entrance serves as an elevated observation area from which one may view the entire underground cave system and its wildlife. Be sure to buy some delicious fudge inside the gift shop! You won’t be disappointed!
9. BANDON
Alright, I can’t give you much info on the this little town because all we had time for was to check out the beach, but I can say that it was gorgeous and I will definitely be coming back to explore some day and check out all the cute shops and scenic areas that we missed! Bandon is most commonly known for its historic lighthouse and the highly acclaimed golf courses at the Bandon Dunes Golf Resort. There is also a massive park within walking distance to Bandon beach called Bandon City Park, so make sure you save a little time to let your kids play!
10. BROOKINGS
And last but most certainly not least is Brookings! Between the beaches, food, places to stay and overall atmosphere, this small beach town surpasses any other place I’ve been on the Oregon coast. And here’s my reasons why—
First, the beaches and attractions! Brookings has miles and miles of coastline to wander and hike. Harris Beach State Park is right in the heart of Brookings. They have year round camping with lots of trails and rocky outcroppings to explore. The Rockaway Beach Trail, which is the route we took to get down to the beach, was such a uniquely made trail. It’s only .4 miles, winding in and out of huge boulders with grasses and wildflowers! It was absolutely stunning and a fun and challenging adventure for kids! This route is the most scenic way to get down to Harris Beach but there are many other short trail options!
Next is Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor. 12 miles of rugged and massive rock formations, secluded beaches and hikes right off highway 101. The entire corridor will give you jaw dropping scenery whichever wayside viewpoint you stop at. The Natural Bridges is one of the most iconic spots in the corridor. From this parking lot the trial to the left will take you to the Natural Bridges viewpoint. This is the most safe viewing area, especially if you have children or dogs. In fact, most of the hikes in the corridor are questionable for kids and pets so please be safe and choose other options like staying near the viewpoints.
But if you don’t have children and are feeling adventurous and want to escape the crowds a bit, you can take the trail to the right of the parking lot. When you get to the intersection, staying to the left will take you down on top of the natural bridges. This is where you will get the best views of the corridor; but the hike to get there is not for the faint of heart. It is incredibly steep with loose dirt and very narrow with drop offs on both sides. I was using my hands to help me climb back up some parts. Picture below is of the natural bridge about half way down the trail. You can see the tiny person for scale in the photo. Photographers flood this area from all over the nation for its magnificent views. The Natural Bridges is also a common elopement spot.
Another great location along the corridor is Secret Beach! The parking lot is only .2 miles north from where the Natural Bridges lot is. Secret Beach is 1.6 miles RT with just under 400 feet of elevation gain. I recommend checking tide charts because you will not be able to explore all of the beach during hide tide! Downloading the AllTrails app will be very useful for navigation.
FOOD
Tropicalia Brazilian cuisine is a great breakfast spot. Such a cute small cafe with a great intimate atmosphere. They have lots of crepes, smoothies, street food, mimosas, açaí bows and more! Pacific Sushi & Grill has the best sushi I’ve ever had in my life. No exaggeration! It is a bit pricey but if you love sushi this place is an absolute must! Their servings are also massive and they have a wild variety of sushi to choose from that I haven’t experienced at other sushi establishments.
Fat Irish Kitchen & Pub. Boy oh boy, this place blew my freaking mind!! We had an exceptional dinner experience here. Between the service, food and overall atmosphere, you will not want to miss out on dinner at this place. The only thing I can say I regret is how much money I spent haha, it was by far our favorite restaurant in Brookings.
ACCOMODATIONS
As mentioned previously Harris Beach State Park is a beach front campground that offers day use as camping. RV sites, yurts and tent sites available all year round. There is also Beachfront RV Park just south of Harris Beach as well as multiple other campgounds in the area. Normally, we like to go the cheap and primitive route, but due to the chance of rain and having my daughter with us, we decided to rent an airbnb! And holy wow, im so glad we did!!
We stayed in the cutest and most beautiful little rental suite with views you’d think you would only see in your dreams! The house is gated in a quiet neighborhood and is nestled right at the edge of a cliff overlooking the entire ocean. From the porch there is a long switchback staircase leading right down to the beach; so tons of exploration opportunities await you at your convenience. The first night we arrived we went and grabbed some sushi and sat outside on the porch of the main house and watched the sunset. And as you can see from the pictures below, our eyes were assaulted with beauty at every direction. The hosts were also very communicative and accommodating and provided us with all the snacks which my daughter loved! I cannot recommend this place enough. I will put a link below.
2 days was not enough time to experience everything Brookings has to offer, so we will definitely be coming back! I hope this itinerary was helpful for anyone wanting to explore the Oregon coast.
Coastal Cliffs Suite: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/48232433?check_in=2022-08-18&check_out=2022-08-25&guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=7e975305-fcc4-4850-90eb-3c8713252939
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