1 Yaquina Bay Newport OR
Winter on the Oregon Coast offers a serene and enchanting experience. With fewer crowds, you can truly immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of this stunning coastline. The picture above offers a glimpse of a golden sunset over Yaquina Bay, casting a warm glow over the water. The iconic Art Deco architecture of Yaquina Bay Bridge stands proudly in an area that seamlessly blends the wonder of nature with impressive human craftsmanship. From dramatic storm-watching to peaceful beachcombing, winter unveils a quieter, more introspective side of the Oregon Coast, making it the perfect season for exploration.
2 Portland
Portland blends urban charm with natural beauty, offering a wide variety of activities, from exploring Forest Park’s trails to visiting Powell’s City of Books to enjoying the vibrant food cart scene. The city is also home to highlights such as the Portland Japanese Garden, Lan Su Chinese Garden, and the iconic Pittock Mansion with panoramic views.
From Yaquina Bay Bridge, take US-20 E to Corvallis, then OR-34 E to I-5 N. Continue north on I-5 for about 85 miles to reach Portland. Total drive time: ~2.5 hours.
3 Ecola State Park Clatsop County OR
Ecola State Park offers breathtaking natural landscapes with lush forested trails and myriad outdoor activities, including hiking along portions of the historic Oregon Coast Trail, tide pooling, surfing, and wildlife (including whale) spotting. Perched along the rugged Oregon Coast, you’ll find some of the most breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Exploring scenic viewpoints like Indian Beach, a favorite for surfers and photographers alike, and sweeping vistas from Ecola Point, which showcase iconic landmarks like Tillamook Rock Lighthouse and the jagged coastal cliffs.
From downtown Ecola, take State Road 40 E for about 7 miles to reach the park’s main entrance. The drive takes approximately one hour.
4 Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach is one of Oregon’s most iconic coastal destinations, famous for its stunning Haystack Rock, tide pools, and expansive sandy beaches. Visitors can enjoy activities such as beachcombing, tide pooling, kite flying, and photography. After soaking up all the natural surroundings, you can then head into town to stroll through charming art galleries and shops.
From Portland, take US-26 W for approximately 75 miles to reach Cannon Beach. The drive takes about an hour and a half.
5 Nehalem Bay
Nehalem Bay is a haven for fresh-caught Dungeness crab, a local delicacy that draws seafood lovers year-round. Looking for a hands-on experience? Visitors can rent crabbing gear, cast pots from the docks, or head out on a crabbing boat. No desire to catch your own? Many local restaurants serve freshly steamed crab, offering a true taste of the Oregon Coast.
From Cannon Beach, head south on US-101 for about 17 miles to reach Nehalem Bay. The drive is only about 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to slow down and enjoy the views or stop and explore along the way.
6 Cape Meares
Cape Meares is a stunning coastal destination known for its historic lighthouse, breathtaking ocean views, and abundant wildlife. The Cape Meares Lighthouse, one of the shortest on the Oregon Coast, offers fascinating history and photo opportunities. The area is part of the Three Capes Scenic Loop and features several walking trails, including the path to the famous Octopus Tree, a centuries-old Sitka spruce. Much to their delight, birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will have a chance to spot puffins, pelicans, and even migrating whales in the winter.
From Nehalem Bay take US-101 S for about 30 miles to Tillamook, and then follow OR-131 W for 10 miles to Cape Meares. The drive takes just under an hour.
7 Thors Well Yatchats OR
Thor’s Well, a natural sinkhole along the Cape Perpetua coastline, is one of Oregon’s most mesmerizing sights. Carved by centuries of powerful waves eroding the volcanic basalt shoreline, this dramatic feature appears to drain the ocean during high tide. Visitors can marvel at the well’s surging water and cascading waves, making it a favorite spot for photography. Activities include tide pooling and exploring nearby trails such as the Captain Cook Trail, which offers additional views of this unique geological formation. That said, Thor’s Well is best viewed during high tide, but be cautious of strong waves and slippery rocks. Keep a safe distance to avoid being caught by unexpected surges.
From Cape Meares, head south on US-101 for about 80 miles to Yachats. Continue three miles south to Cape Perpetua Scenic Area and follow signs to Thor’s Well. The drive takes about two and a half hours.
8 Gold Beach
Gold Beach is a charming coastal town where the Rogue River meets the Pacific Ocean, offering a blend of adventure and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy views of the Rogue River, fishing, hiking through lush forests, or simply strolling along the pristine winter beaches. The area is also known for its stunning sunsets and proximity to Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, featuring
dramatic cliffs, sea stacks, and hidden coves. Don’t miss the chance to visit the historic Isaac Lee Patterson Bridge, a stunning Art Deco structure that spans the Rogue River and adds to Gold Beach’s unique charm.
From Thor’s Well, continue south on US-101 for approximately 140 miles to reach Gold Beach. The scenic drive takes about 3 hours.
9 Coquille Point Bandon OR
Nestled in Bandon, Coquille Point Beach is a serene and picturesque destination, perfect for wrapping up your Oregon Coast adventure. Known for its dramatic sea stacks and tide pools teeming with marine life, this beach offers an ideal setting for quiet reflection and nature exploration. The scenic overlook at Coquille Point provides breathtaking views of the coastline and is a favorite spot for birdwatching, photography, and catching the last light of the day. As your journey along the Oregon Coast comes to an end, Coquille Point Beach invites you to pause and savor the tranquility of the Pacific in the cooler months. Whether you’re marveling at sea stacks or enjoying a peaceful walk along the shore, it’s the perfect finale to a trip filled with unforgettable landscapes and coastal wonders.
From Gold Beach head north on US-101 for about 55 miles to Bandon. Follow signs to Coquille Point. The drive takes roughly one hour.
