The Oregon coast

The Oregon Coast - Original Painting by the author

If you like visiting wild and rugged beaches, driving on huge rocky bluffs overlooking the ocean or peering into beautiful coves searching for seals, the Oregon coast is the right place for you. Don't go there expecting LA beaches; Go there to experience the ruggedness and untouched beauty of the Oregon coast. It is different and charming in its own way. It is perfect for a day-trip or a weekend getaway from Portland. Dress for the weather. Choose a sunny day; but still carry a wind-cheater and hat. Ofcourse, don't forget your camera and binoculors :)


Here is the Gameplan -

Gameplan for a day-trip to the Oregon Coast

Namaste Vineyard

Head from Portland towards Lincoln city.

1)  Vineyards - There are numerous vineyards on OR-18 along the way for a quick wine tasting break.We stopped at the interestingly named Namaste Vineyard for some refreshing Riesling and more.
OR-18 leads you to US-101 S, which pretty much hugs the coastline from Lincoln city to depoe bay.

View from rocky creek state park

2) Rocky creek state park -  A great viewpoint with expansive views of the ocean and distant headlands. Take the small path into and over the rocks to peer into a beautiful cove.

A beautiful cove as seen from
rocky creek state park

 Lookout for seals swimming in the water. We spotted a bunch of them playing around.


3) Depoe Bay whale watch center - Learn about different types of whales and try your luck at spotting them. 

Caught in action

4) Cape foulweather overlook - Another bluff overlooking the ocean to one side and some amazing beaches and beach-cities  to the other.This is another spot to watch out for whales. Keep an eye out for other marine life also. We spotted these birds swooping into the water to catch fish.

Cape Kiwanda beach

Continue onto Otter Crest Loop or Head back on101N towards the Three Cape loop.
5) Cape kiwanda - A beautiful beach. Take a walk on the beach; Listen to the waves crashing at your feet; Feel the wind in your face! Or drive right onto the beach if you have a 4WD. For the adrenaline junkies you can sandboard on the dunes seen in the distance.

6) Cape Meares - A lighthouse perched on a rocky cliff. Expansive views of the ocean from here. Watch out for cormorants (penguin look-alikes). We saw hundreds of them nesting on a rock right across the lighthouse in the ocean. Soak in the scenery around you while listening to waves lapping against the cliff and the birds chirping at the distance. Quite therapeutic!

Sunset from Oceanside beach

7) Oceanside - Watch a spectacular sunset from the beach. Bring a blanket if you want to stay cozy as you watch the sun drape a blanket of golden colors all around you. A perfect way to end the day! Head back home with a smile basking in the glory of a day well spent :).