Oregon’s Highway 101 is a road trippers’ dream. Spanning the entire 363 miles of the Oregon Coast, this stretch of highway takes you through some of the state’s most beautiful sights. To help you plan the perfect road trip, The Seashore Inn on the Beach has come up with 10 must-see stops, including charming beach towns, natural wonders, and scenic state parks!
Discover the Oregon Coast: Highway 101
For our Highway 101 road trip guide, we will be starting at the northernmost point in Astoria. Then, take you down the highway through the central and southern sections of the Oregon Coast. Check out our suggestions below:
1. Astoria
One of the oldest cities in Oregon, Astoria, is a charming town where history and nature collide. Stop in Astoria and stroll along the riverfront, learn about maritime history, explore Fort Stevens State Park, and soak in panoramic views from the Astoria Column.
2. Seaside
Continue down the coast and experience fun for the whole family in Seaside. Walk down the famous Promenade and enjoy views of the Pacific, stop at the Seaside Aquarium to feed the seals, and enjoy kid-friendly attractions. Spend the night in Seaside at The Seashore Inn on the Beach!
3. Haystack Rock
No trip on the Oregon Coast is complete without stopping at the famous Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach. Featured in iconic movies like The Goonies, this sea stack is the perfect place to stop and take a picture together.
4. Ecola State Park
Ecola State Park offers some of the best views on the Oregon coast. Explore the hiking trails and be rewarded with panoramic views of the rock formations, capes, Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, beaches, and the Pacific.
5. Depoe Bay and Devils Punchbowl
Stop in Depoe Bay for the best whale watching on the Oregon Coast. Then, head to Devils Punchbowl State Natural Area and see the unique natural rock formation shaped like a punch bowl. This is a popular spot for sightseeing, tide pooling, and wildlife watching.
6. Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area
Stop in Newport and see Oregon’s tallest lighthouse, the Yaquina Head Lighthouse. Explore the natural area surrounding the lighthouse, where you can observe seals, watch whales, explore tidepools, walk along dramatic cliffs, and learn about maritime history.
7. Thors Well
Located in Yachats, Thor’s Well is a unique natural phenomenon that has to be seen to be believed. This collapsed sea cave appears to swallow waves into a bottomless pit, creating a spectacular effect during high tide.
8. Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
One of the most treasured parts of Oregon is its diverse landscapes, including one of the largest expanses of temperate coastal sand dunes in the world. Visit the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area and enjoy hiking, boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
9. Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor
Stop for a picnic or sightsee along the 12-mile stretch of road known as the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. The corridor is known for its craggy bluffs, secluded beaches, and offshore rock formations.
10. Brookings
One of the last towns before you reach California, Brookings, is a charming community where you can experience warm temperatures, views of the Coastal Range Mountains, the Chetco River, and the Pacific. Explore these incredible sights at Harris Beach State Park.
Oregon’s Highway 101 is your gateway to all of the coast’s top attractions. Start or end your adventures in Seaside, Oregon, with The Seashore Inn on the Beach. Our beachfront hotel offers the perfect location for all your Oregon Coast adventures!