The Oregon Coast is one of the most scenic road trip destinations in the United States, offering breathtaking ocean views, charming coastal towns, and countless attractions along Highway 101. This 7-part video Series and guide takes you on an unforgettable journey from Astoria → Seaside → Cannon Beach Sprint, Oregon.
After that, we continue on from Lincoln City, Oregon to Crescent City, California, along the whole Oregon Coast, highlighting the top stops, hidden gems, and natural wonders that make the Oregon Coast road trip a bucket-list adventure.
Check out this 7 Video Series of Highway 101 on the Oregon Coast. At the Northeast Corner of Oregon, the first 2 videos highlight the beautiful coastal towns, Astoria and Seaside, Oregon. Then the next section highlights the entire Oregon Coast along Highway 101.
FAQ – Oregon Coast Road Trip Guide
Drive Time
How long does it take to drive the entire Oregon Coast on Highway 101?
Approximately 10–12 hours of nonstop driving from Astoria in the north to Brookings in the south—though we recommend spreading it over 3–5 days to fully explore each stop.
Must-See Stops
What are the must-see stops on an Oregon Coast road trip along Highway 101?
- Depoe Bay – “Whale Watching Capital” with its tiny harbor and natural spouting horns.
- Devil’s Punch Bowl – a collapsed sea cave at Otter Rock with dramatic wave action and tide pools.
- Cape Perpetua – home to Thor’s Well, Devil’s Churn, and panoramic ocean overlooks.
- Heceta Head Lighthouse – one of the most photographed lighthouses in the U.S., perched above steep cliffs.
- Oregon Dunes NRA – expansive coastal sand dunes near Florence, perfect for sunset ATV rides or dune hikes.
- Bandon – Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint’s sea stacks, charming art galleries, and cozy cafés.
- Samuel H. Boardman Corridor – 12 miles of rugged coastline with Natural Bridges and Arch Rock.
Best Time
What is the best time of year to visit the Oregon Coast?
Late spring through early fall (May–September) offers the driest weather and clearest skies; July and August typically have the least rain and mild daytime temps in the 60s–70s °F.
Weather
What is the weather like on the Oregon Coast?
Summers average 60–70 °F days and 50 °F nights; autumn cools into the 50s; winters bring frequent rain and highs in the 40s. Layers and a rain jacket are essential year-round.
Camping
Where can I camp along the Oregon Coast?
- Fort Stevens State Park – North Coast near Astoria, with beach campsites.
- Nehalem Bay State Park – Classic bayside camping just south of Manzanita.
- Honeyman State Park – Dunes camping outside Florence, with freshwater lakes.
- Devils Lake Campground – Near Lincoln City, perfect for fishing & paddle sports.
- Samuel H. Boardman NRA – Primitive sites at Harris Beach SP, near Brookings.
Beach Access
Is beach access and tide pooling readily available?
Yes—most towns have public beach parking and access points: Cannon Beach, Pacific City, Yachats, Bandon, and more. Tide pools are best at Haystack Rock (Cannon Beach), Devil’s Punch Bowl, and Cape Perpetua at low tide.
Distances
How far are the major segments of the Oregon Coast route?
- Astoria → Cannon Beach: ~25 miles
- Cannon Beach → Newport: ~90 miles
- Newport → Florence: ~50 miles
- Florence → Coos Bay: ~80 miles
- Coos Bay → Bandon: ~25 miles
- Bandon → Brookings: ~60 miles
- Total: ~360 miles end to end
Pro Tip: lock in the cheapest wheels, rooms & tours with our partner deals (paid links).
Astoria → Seaside → Cannon Beach Sprint, Oregon
This area is iconic and a place we visit often from nearby Washington. Astoria, Seaside, and Cannon beach all are their own must-see destinations for a weekend getaway or a full on vacation, there is always something new to see.
Astoria, Oregon
This Bridge is amazing, it is actually scary tall, see the beautiful Columbia River that Divides Oregon and Washington’s forested ridges ahead—an unbeatable intro to river‑delta scenery.
| Miles / Time | 25 mi / 45 m |
| Highlight reel | Astoria–Megler Bridge, Seaside arcade boardwalk, Haystack Rock at sunset. |
Where else can you cross the **longest continuous truss bridge in North America**, grab salt-water taffy under neon Seaside signs, and still have daylight left to photograph Haystack Rock bathed in pink? Our 5-part 4 K playlist stitches the whole sprint together.
Seaside, Oregon
Join us as we journey through Seaside, Oregon, capturing its classic coastal charm—think vintage shops, oceanfront cafes, and art deco architecture—while soaking in the seaside vibes that make this Pacific NW gem a must-visit road trip stop.
Near Seaside is Cannon Beach, Don’t miss it!
Shot on a rain-lashed spring afternoon, this 60-second vertical reel captures Oregon’s iconic Haystack Rock half-hidden by sea spray. Listen for the gulls, watch the mist roll across the tide-flats, and see why Cannon Beach delivers postcard magic in every forecast.
Lincoln City → Crescent City Grand Run, OR & CA
See our 5 Part Hwy 101 Oregon Coast Road Trip Drive from Lincoln City, OR to Crescent City CA. After this drive we head into the Mysterious Redwood Forest and Lake Shasta Area. Then off to the Magical Lake Tahoe, Don’t Miss It!
Part 1: Lincoln City to Depoe Bay to Devil’s Punch Bowl | Hwy 101 Oregon Coast Road Trip
![[4K] Part 1 - Hwy 101 Oregon Coast Road Trip Drive Lincoln City to Depoe Bay to Devils Punch Bowl](https://sandtastictravels.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FuPM29MPObqE%2F0.jpg "Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip Guide: Must-See Stops Along Highway 101 6")
Highlights Hwy 101 Oregon Coast Road Trip Parts 1-5
Our journey begins in Lincoln City, a bustling town known for its sprawling beaches, vibrant arts scene, and local charm. This stretch of Highway 101 showcases some of the coast’s most dramatic ocean vistas, interspersed with lush forested landscapes.
- Depoe Bay: Dubbed the “Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coast,” Depoe Bay’s small harbor and spouting horns offer an up-close encounter with nature. Keep an eye out for migrating gray whales as you pass this stunning spot.
- Devil’s Punch Bowl: This striking geological formation near Otter Rock draws visitors with its swirling waves and tide pools teeming with marine life. It’s a must-see stop for anyone driving along this section of the Oregon Coast scenic drive.
Part 2: Yachats to Florence to Reedsport | Hwy 101 Oregon Coast Road Trip
![[4K] Part 2 - Hwy 101 Oregon Coast Road Trip Drive- Yachats to Florence to Reedsport Drive](https://sandtastictravels.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2Ft7fhzLNSgks%2F0.jpg "Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip Guide: Must-See Stops Along Highway 101 10")
Continuing south, the drive leads to Yachats, a quaint coastal village often called the “Gem of the Oregon Coast.” Here, dramatic rocky shores meet the forest, creating a unique and serene atmosphere.
- Cape Perpetua Scenic Area: Just south of Yachats, Cape Perpetua offers incredible viewpoints and natural attractions like Thor’s Well, a mesmerizing natural sinkhole. This area is one of the highlights of any Oregon Coast itinerary.
- Florence: Famous for its proximity to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, Florence is a hub for outdoor adventure. Stroll through its charming Old Town, or explore nearby attractions like Heceta Head Lighthouse, an iconic and picturesque landmark.
- Reedsport: This small town on the Umpqua River is a gateway to serene dunes and beaches. It’s a peaceful stop that contrasts with the busier towns further north.
Part 3: Reedsport to North Bend to Bandon | Hwy 101 Oregon Coast Road Trip
![[4K] Part 3 - Hwy 101 Oregon Coast Road Trip Drive - Reedsport to North Bend to Bandon Driving Tour](https://sandtastictravels.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2Fydo_CtVAL_Q%2F0.jpg "Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip Guide: Must-See Stops Along Highway 101 11")
As you journey further south along Highway 101, the coast becomes even more enchanting. This segment offers a mix of cultural and natural attractions.
- North Bend & Coos Bay: These twin towns combine coastal charm with industrial history. Visit the Coos Bay Boardwalk or enjoy fresh seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants.
- Bandon: Bandon is a true highlight of the Oregon Coast road trip. Its pristine beaches, such as Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint, are dotted with sea stacks, making it a paradise for photographers. The town itself features art galleries, cozy cafés, and local shops.
Part 4: Port Orford to Gold Beach | Hwy 101 Oregon Coast Road Trip
![[4K] Part 4 - Hwy 101 Oregon Coast Road Trip Drive - Port Orford, OR to Gold Beach, OR #oregon](https://sandtastictravels.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FFAbIXmqr-_0%2F0.jpg "Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip Guide: Must-See Stops Along Highway 101 12")
South of Bandon, the drive grows more remote and wild, with fewer towns and more opportunities to immerse yourself in nature. Port Orford marks the beginning of this rugged stretch.
- Humbug Mountain State Park: Near Port Orford, this park offers excellent hiking trails with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
- Gold Beach: Nestled where the Rogue River meets the sea, Gold Beach is known for jet boat excursions and its tranquil beauty. The nearby Otter Point State Recreation Site provides breathtaking coastal views and trails.
Part 5: Gold Beach to Crescent City | Hwy 101 Oregon Coast Road Trip
![[4K] Part 5 - Hwy 101 Oregon Coast Road Trip Drive - Gold Beach, Oregon to Crescent City, California](https://sandtastictravels.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FB0Bt_u8kVOQ%2F0.jpg "Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip Guide: Must-See Stops Along Highway 101 13")
The final stretch of the Oregon Coast road trip leads you into Crescent City, California, blending Oregon’s rugged coastline with the grandeur of the redwood forests.
- Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor: Spanning 12 miles of untouched coastline, this corridor features jaw-dropping spots like Natural Bridges and Arch Rock, making it a must-see part of your Oregon Coast itinerary.
- Crescent City: Known as the gateway to Redwood National and State Parks, Crescent City is the perfect ending to your trip. Walk among towering redwoods, or enjoy a relaxing moment along Crescent Beach.
Don’t Miss the Redwood Forest!
Tips for Your Oregon Coast Road Trip
- Plan Extra Time: The Oregon Coast is packed with scenic viewpoints, hidden gems, and must-see attractions. Allow time to explore beyond your planned itinerary.
- Dress in Layers: Coastal weather can change quickly. Be prepared for sunshine, rain, and brisk ocean breezes all in one day.
- Explore Local Favorites: Small towns along the way, such as Florence and Bandon, have unique local flavors, from fresh seafood to artisan shops.
Watch the Journey
Want to see the beauty of the Oregon Coast firsthand? Check out our full video playlist for a detailed look at each leg of the drive. From Lincoln City to Crescent City, this road trip along Highway 101 is a journey you’ll never forget.
Once you are done exploring all the amazing things that the Oregon Coast has to offer, check out The Reno/Tahoe area with our ultimate guide Historic Downtowns: Reno, Lake Tahoe, Virginia City, and Truckee
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