Ten Classic Coastal Adventures

Welcome to the Oregon Coast, where mild weather and dramatic coastlines are host to adventures all year long. Make the most of your getaway with these ten classic coastal adventures you won't want to miss. 

1. Heceta Head Lighthouse

Heceta Head Lighthouse's original job was to be a warning, but in retirement has become a beacon welcoming you to Oregon's central coastline. With its iconic red roof and amazing view of the Pacific Ocean, you won't want to miss the brightest light on the Oregon Coast. Stay in the bed and breakfast next to the lighthouse that used to be home to the assistant lighthouse keeper and be treated to a seven-course breakfast each morning – there's no better way to start a day of coastal adventures. 

2. Cape Perpetua Lookout

In terms of effort and reward, there's no better payoff than Cape Perpetua, the highest viewpoint on the Oregon Coast accessible by car. A dirt path takes you a short distance to the stone lookout 800 feet (244 km) above sea level, the perfect place to watch for boats, whales and sea lions or catch the sunset reflecting over the ocean. If you're looking for more adventure, continue on past the shelter to Amanda's Trail, a memorial to the indigenous peoples who were relocated to the Siletz Reservation in the 1800s.

3. Historic Old Town Florence

No visit to the coast would be complete without spending time in a coastal community. Florence's Historic Old Town features everything you're looking for, from fresh sea food to gift shops. Visit Wind Drift Kites to grab a kite and sand castle building supplies, River Roasters for a pick-me-up and Books 'n' Bears to find that perfect beach read. Head down to the docks to see people crabbing in season, and even get some fresh crab for yourself at Novelli's. Grab some of their crab chowder or fuel up at 1285 Restobar for something casual or get cozy at The Waterfront Depot (reservations required).

4. Thor's Well & Spouting Horn

For views of mythological proportions, explore Thor's Well and Spouting Horn. Just south of Cape Perpetua, these two unique formations are a must-see as you explore the central coast. At high tide, Thor's Well looks like a drain in the earth as the ocean streams in endlessly to a massive sea cave out of sight. Just across Cook's Chasm, Spouting Horn shoots geysers of water into the air as the waves roll in and the ocean air forced through the rock creates a haunting horn sound. 

5. Sea Lion Caves

Since 1932, Sea Lion Caves has been welcoming coastal explorers to North America's largest sea cave, a favorite hang-out for the local sea lions. Steller sea lions flock to the cave to nap, play and lounge as the tide washes in and out. Learn more about the 25 million year old cave and the creatures that call it home as you watch (and hear!) the sea lions in their natural habitat. Don't miss the view of Heceta Head Lighthouse from the north end of the cave. 

6. Darlingtonia State Natural Site

The Darlingtonia californica, a pitcher plant also known as a cobra lily, is a carnivorous flower that only grows wild in select spots on the West Coast. Just off Highway 101, follow the short boardwalk loop to end up in a bog full of unique Darlingtonia blooms.

7. Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

Take your adventure up a notch at the Oregon Dunes, with plenty of ways to explore miles of shifting sand. Book a guided dune buggy tour or rent an ATV to race across the sands or ask for a leisurely pace to take in the sights. Head over to Sand Master Park to learn to sandboard down the dunes 

8. Exploding Whale Park

In 1970, a sperm whale carcass washed up on the coast of Florence, leaving locals with a whale of a problem. The event went down in infamy after a half ton of dynamite was used to blow up the whale, shooting debris up to 800 feet (244 km) away and still leaving most of the whale intact on the beach. Exploding Whale Park is not the site of the incident but it does pay tribute to the event. The views of the Siuslaw Bridge and the sand dunes on the far side definitely make this park a blast.

9. Whale Watching 

Winter is the best time to see Gray whales off the Oregon Coast, especially in December as they head south and March as they return to northern waters. Head to a viewpoint (like Heceta Head Lighthouse or Cape Perpetua) in the morning for the best lighting to spot blows as the whales skim just under the surface of the waves. Visit during Whale Watch Week (in winter or spring) when volunteers at Cape Perpetua can fill you in on the best tips on spotting whales and up-to-date information on their movements. 

10. Cleawox Lake

For getting in the water, the perfect place is Cleawox Lake. Surrounded by sand dunes and trees, this lake is a great spot to splash around and swim, take a spin in a paddleboat, fish and soak up the day. Rent canoes and paddleboats onsite and picnic on the shores. Cleawox is located in Jessie M. Honeyman State Park, so reserve a camping spot in advance for a perfect basecamp.