Stretching approx 362 miles from the California border to Columbia River, the Oregon Coast is nature at its best. From the stunning views, to the awesome sea stacks, to the beautiful beaches, this is one road trip that should be on your bucket list.
LessRock formations in the ocean in the shape of arches make another unique spot along the dynamic Oregon coast. There is a sign on Oregon Coast Highway that guides you to the small parking area. You will see the wooden boardwalk that takes you to the viewing deck. There is a hiking trail down to the beach if you have time to spare.
Secret Beach with its sea stacks and tidepools is located just a stone's throw from the waterfall, both right off Oregon Coast Highway. It's best to go when the tide is low so check the tide schedule before you go. The trail leading to the beach is short, but very steep and rocky so pack the sandals in the bag and put on a pair of sturdy sneakers.
1881 steamer Mary D. Hume was built by pioneer R.D. Hume. She was in service for almost a hundred years, hauling freight along the West Coast from Oregon to San Francisco and then as a whaler in Alaska. She retired in 1977, returning to her place of christening, but sank in the Rogue River in 1985. She has remained here ever since near the Isaac Lee Patterson Bridge.
The conical shaped sea stack and the mystical fog surrounding the beach impart an eerie beauty. This area of Oregon is known for its amazing sea stacks, the Wizard's Hat being just one of them. The best time to go is low tide at sunset when the sky is a myriad of watercolor hues reflected perfectly in the tide pools left behind. Take Beach Loop Road to Face Rock Scenic State Park for beach access.
This stunning emerald botanical preserve is dedicated to ensuring the continued existence of an extremely rare…and carnivorous…plant. The innocently named Darlingtonia californica, a.k.a. cobra lily, thrives here - feasting on insects with its forked tongue. If you decide to visit this state park, the golden rule here is, "Look, but don't touch!"
The sea-level caves on the coast of the Pacific is also a protected preserve for sea lions. They breed, hunt, swim, and languish as they please. 14 bucks will get you a close-up view of these blubbery creatures and parking is free. Those of you with RVs will have ample space to park your mobile home.
Any place magnificent enough to be named after the Norse god of thunder is a must-see on a road trip. A yawning wound on Cape Perpetua along the Oregon Coast, this hole in the ocean seems to be endless but in reality it is only about 20 feet deep. Still the area can be as treacherous as any place located on the wild Pacific coastline. For the safety of visitors there is a sitting area near the gaping hole.
Over thousands of years strong waves cut an inlet into the shoreline creating the violent water movement known as Devil's Churn. The walk down to the shoreline is steep, but thankfully a staircase is there to guide your descent. Be prepared for a long climb down and back up the staircase! The parking lot to the staircase is easily accessible via the 101. Needless to say, take care when you're standing near the inlet.
This 800-foot spot is the highest viewpoint on the Oregon coast. From this high visitors have a bird's eye view of the Northwestern forests meeting the rocky shoreline against the backdrop of the sun dappled Pacific.
Just off the beaten path of the 101, is a sharp, rocky, naturally carved out pool that empties and fills with water via Pacific Ocean waves. When it empties, you can stand on the sandy floor, and admire the sea creatures that the exiting water leaves behind. If you're taking a coastal drive, this state park should surely be on your checklist.