The Only Oregon Coast Roadtrip Guide You Need

I never knew how amazing and beautiful the Oregon Coast was until I saw it for my own eyes. And if you are reading this blog, chances are you are planning to take a trip to the Oregon Coast as well! No matter what pictures, videos, blogs, etc. you see, nothing will ever do justice to how beautiful Oregon really is.

If you are overwhelmed by the planning process of what to do and see while traveling along the Oregon Coast, you have come to the right place! In this blog post, you will learn where to stay, what to do, and so much more!

Wondering how I would know anything about this trip?! Well I am able to write this post because my husband and I traveled this route while completing a month long roadtrip from Montana to Tennessee!

I am not sure where you will be coming from, but can I suggest something crazy?! Okay good- if you want the most amazing roadtrip, I would suggest starting in Canada from Whistler, Vancouver, then crossing back into the U.S. at San Juan Islands, North Cascades National Park, Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier National Park, then arriving to the Oregon Coast!

Don’t have enough time to complete that type of roadtrip, no worries! The roadtrip along the Oregon Coast is amazing enough to fulfill your travel needs! Okay let’s get into it!!

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What is the Oregon Coast Roadtrip

In short, this is the sweetest, purest, and most beautiful coastal roadtrip ever!

In long, a road trip along the Oregon Coast is a breathtaking journey filled with rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming seaside towns. Starting in Astoria, a historic port city known for its iconic Astoria Column and the Columbia River’s dramatic views, the drive winds south along the Pacific Coast Highway. You’ll pass through picturesque towns like Cannon Beach, home to the famous Haystack Rock, and Newport, with its lively harbor and renowned Oregon Coast Aquarium. The journey ends at the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, where vast sand dunes meet the sea, offering opportunities for hiking, sandboarding, and off-road adventures. This coastal road trip blends natural beauty, adventure, and serene moments, making it an unforgettable experience!

When to Visit the Oregon Coast

There is never a wrong time to visit the Oregon Coast, buuuutt there are times that are better than others to visit.

Summer:
- It is no shock that probably the best time to visit the coast is in the summer. If you want the full experience of the beaches, sun, and lively coastal towns, summer season is the time to roll down the windows for this roadtrip!
Fall:
- Fall would give you the best of both worlds- warm air and low crowds! If you are someone that likes to travel during off seasons, this is when you would want to go. You can still enjoy the beauty of the coast while actually getting to enjoy it.
Spring:
- Spring would be another great time to visit with low crowds. Spring is tricky for the weather; however. But I am sure you will enjoy the blooms of beautiful flowers along the coast.
Winter:
- If you are someone that enjoys a chilly, very low crowd coast, then this is the time for you to go!

How Many Days Should I Spend on the Oregon Coast Roadtrip

My husband and I spent 1- day completing the Oregon Coast! Now, this may not be what everyone can do. We like to get in as much as possible meaning we are up at the crack of dawn and setting up camp in the dark while eating packed lunches on the way! If you are not that type of traveler, I would suggest at least 2- days total to complete the coast!

How to Get to the Oregon Coast Roadtrip

To start the roadtrip, we will begin in Astoria and end at the Oregon Sand Dunes National Recreation. So with that, take this route into account with where you decide to fly in. You may have to flip the order of events that will be posted below if you are wanting to end in Astoria. But for ease of the matter, here is where you need to fly in to start in Astoria.

Astoria, Oregon, doesn’t have a major airport but is accessible via nearby airports. Here are some options for getting to Astoria by plane:

Portland International Airport (PDX):
- Located about 95 miles southeast of Astoria, PDX is the closest major airport. From Portland, you can rent a car and drive approximately 2 hours to Astoria.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA):
- Located about 3.5 hours north of Astoria, SEA is another option if you’re traveling from farther away. You’ll need to rent a car and drive south along I-5 to reach Astoria.
- If you decide to do fly out of Seattle, make this road trip even MORE epic by following this route:
  - North Cascades National Park, Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier National Park, and arrive to the Oregon Coast!

Where to Stay on the Oregon Coast Roadtrip

There are many options of where to stay on the Oregon Coast! From the dirt to cabins, there is something for you. Here are some options!

Camping on the Oregon Coast Roadtrip

If camping is your preferred style, we can be friends 😉 Car camping is what we love to do while traveling! If there is a campground with an open spot, we are there! Here are some options for camping while on the road.

Fort Stevens State Park
- This is where we started our Oregon coast roadtrip! We drove into Astoria from Mount Rainier. It was late so we went straight to our campground. In case you are in the same position with your arrival, this is a great campground to start the journey!
- Location: Astoria
- Highlights: Beach access, historic shipwreck, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing.
- Campsites: Full hookups, tent sites, and yurts available.
Circle Creek RV Park & Campground
- Location: Seaside
- Highlights: Close to Seaside’s beach and promenade, peaceful riverside setting.
- Campsites: RV and tent camping.
South Beach State Park
- Location: Newport
- Highlights: Beach access, hiking trails, and proximity to Yaquina Head and Newport attractions.
- Campsites: Full hookups, tent sites, and yurts.
Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park
- Location: Florence
- Highlights: Access to sand dunes, freshwater lakes, and trails for OHV enthusiasts.
- Campsites: Full hookups, tent sites, and yurts.

Hotels on the Oregon Coast Roadtrip

If staying in a hotel is more of your style, there are plenty of options along the route! Here are some choices:

Astoria Riverwalk Inn
- Location: Astoria
- Highlights: Waterfront location with private balconies overlooking the marina, close to the Astoria Riverwalk.
The Ocean Lodge
- Location: Cannon Beach
- Highlights: Cozy beachfront accommodations with ocean views and warm hospitality.
Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa
- Location: Pacific City (near Tillamook)
- Highlights: Upscale lodge with ocean views, fine dining, and a relaxing spa experience.
Hallmark Resort Newport
- Location: Newport
- Highlights: Stunning ocean views, easy access to Yaquina Head, and pet-friendly rooms.
Best Western Pier Point Inn
- Location: Florence
- Highlights: Riverfront hotel with great views, an indoor pool, and easy access to the dunes and Old Town Florence.

Airbnb/VRBO on the Oregon Coast Roadtrip

If you are wanting a more unique experience during your roadtrip, an Airbnb or VRBO will be your best option!

What to Pack for the Oregon Coast Roadtrip

This does depend on the time of year you are visiting, but here is a basic list of things that will be beneficial! The most important thing is layers- clothing you can pack to bundle and take off easily!

Camping Equipment: I may be biased, but I think everyone should camp while in WLNP to experience the pure beauty of the Lord’s creation of this park. Need to know what equipment you need? Here’s your resource of products!
Hiking Shoes: Wearing appropriate shoes is imperative to having a good experience while hiking. These are my favorite hiking boots that I have owned for over 6 years- and they have had a lot of wear and tear from many hiking trips. AND they are waterproof- important for your trip to the rainiest state!
Jacket: You will want to make sure you pack layers to prepare for changes in weather.
Camera: With all the beauty you will be seeing, you will want to bring your camera! I have recently purchased this camera and I LOVE it. I am still learning how to use it, but it is a fun hobby to get in to with so much beauty surrounding you!
Water Bottle: Whether you are biking, hiking, or driving the scenic route, you will want to make sure to stay hydrated!
Portable Phone Charger: You will be using your phone a lot to take pictures, navigate, and send many texts to your family/ friends telling them how much of a great time you are having 😉 Make sure you have these battery packs so your phone does not die!
Hydration Backpack: There will be hikes you will want to take part in while you are visiting here. So make sure you are prepared with this hydration pack that is also a backpack!
Tent: This will definitely depend on how you choose to lodge for your trip. In case you are planning to tent camp, you will need to make sure you have your camping necessities. This is the exact tent we use. It is quick, easy, and literally takes 2- seconds to pop up!
Sleeping Bag: Whether you are car camping or tent camping, you will want to bring your sleeping bag! We car camped here in mid- September and this sleeping bag kept us nice and toasty!
Sleeping Mat: This is the best sleeping mat on the market! No electric pump required, just your foot! AND it rolls/ stores very compact saving room with packing.

What to Do on the Oregon Coast Roadtrip

Now to the fun stuff!! Here is everything you will want to do on the Oregon coast roadtrip. Grab your sunglasses, roll down the windows, and let’s go!

Make sure to get an early start to your day as there is so much to cover. And I want to make sure you have enough time to enjoy at each stop.

Here are the main areas we will be visiting along the route: Astoria, Cannon Beach, Oswald West, Tillamook, Newport, Oregon Sand Dunes. Like I stated before, this itinerary will be starting in Astoria ending at Oregon Sand Dunes National Recreation Center. If it is better for you to end in Astoria, then follow this itinerary backward!

Astoria
- Here in Astoria, take time to take in the views of the Columbia river and the coast.
- Climb the Astoria Column (125-foot-tall column) for panoramic views of the Columbia River, Pacific Ocean, and surrounding forests.
- Walk the Astoria River Walk for a nice stroll with beautiful views.
Cannon Beach
- If you want a once in a lifetime experience, get here early. Like really early close to sunrise. There is a chance you could see elk on the beach! When we arrived here, I thought people were joking about this. But then I saw their footprints in the sand and was blown away! Unfortunately we did not see any elk when we were here.
- Even if you do not get to see the elk, you will still be pleased with the beauty of this beach. This was my favorite stop along our roadtrip. The Haystack Rock against the ocean with tide pools around is so amazing to see and experience. AND there was a bald eagle sitting on top of Haystack Rock while we were there! SO beautiful.
- While here, take time to relax on the beach and sand. Look up the tide pool schedule to not miss seeing the sea creatures up close. The tide was out when we were visiting so we were thankfully able to see starfish and other sea creatures.

Walk the Strip
- While visiting Cannon Beach, take time to explore the strip of shops, restaurants, bakeries, boutiques, and so much more! It is the cutest coastal town that is right next to the beach.

Oswald West State Park
- Take a short hike (0.5 miles) through lush forest to find a serene beach.
- The hike is so peaceful through green trees. Then you come to a beach with long stretches of sand and rocks to sit on to watch surfers catch some waves.

Tillamook Creamery
- Okay, if you are traveling along the Oregon Coast, you HAVE to stop in at Tillamook. I did not think much of this but thought we should stop since it was on the way to our next destination. I am so glad we did!
- Tillamook Creamery is a great place to stop to grab a bite to eat to sample the local cheese, ice cream, and so much more!
- Shop around and/ or take the self- guided tour to learn about the family and production behind Tillamook.

Cape Meares Lighthouse
- Next stop is the Cape Meares Lighthouse. This does cost money to enter (unless you have the America The Beautiful pass), so I would say this one can be skipped if you are on the fence. It is a very pretty view of the coastline!

Oregon Dunes National Recreation
- This is the final stop along the Oregon Coast Roadtrip. Enter the national recreation to admire the beautiful views of the sand dunes that stretch for miles. There is an upper parking lot that has a viewpoint that allows you to oversee the dunes.
- We arrived to the dunes at sunset and it was perfect timing. Sunset along the sand dunes was breathtaking.

Where to Next?

Looking for where to go next? Crater Lake National Park is 3.5 hours from Oregon Dunes. If seeing all the national parks is on your bucket list, this is the time to visit this park! If you want to see a stunningly deep blue lake formed within the remnants of an ancient volcano, then you will want to visit this park!!