Oregon coast at sunset.

Featuring rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and picturesque seaside villages, the Oregon Coast is a popular vacation destination that attractions travelers from all over the world. Stretching for 363 miles, the coast offers over 80 state parks, 12 historic lighthouses, and endless amounts of recreational areas for hiking, biking, fishing, camping, and more. Rich with beautiful scenery, wildlife, and history, there are tons of incredible places to see on the Oregon Coast – you just have to get out there! Here are some of our picks for the most memorable area attractions.

Our Favorite Places to See on the Oregon Coast

  1. Seaside Beach: Dating back to the 1800’s, Seaside is Oregon’s first seashore resort and has a rich history that’s just waiting to be discovered. Visitors can spend the day at the 75-year-old Seaside Aquarium, experience the world’s largest beach volleyball tournament in August, or stroll the 1.5-mile promenade and enjoy a day of shopping and dining before watching the sunset.
  2. Haystack Rock: One of the most famous Oregon Coast must-see sights, Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach is claimed to be the third largest of it’s kind and is a whopping 235 feet tall. The massive stone can be accessed by foot during low tide, and tide pools that surround it are home to many types of sea animals, from starfish and crabs to sea slugs and chitons. The rock also serves as a nesting site for beautiful birds like puffins and terns.
  3. Manzanita Beach: Located about 25 miles south of Seaside, the city of Manzanita offers seven miles of sandy beach and various trails for hiking and biking. Guests can enjoy fishing on the Nehalem River, perusing the many art galleries and studios, or shopping at local boutiques. This coastal village also boasts the third most photographed scenery in the state, so don’t forget to bring your camera!
  4. Lincoln City Beach: Known for its abundant sea treasures, Lincoln City is an ideal destination for sightseeing and souvenirs. Visitors can admire exotic creatures like orange starfish, purple sea urchins, barnacles, and anemones, and can even search for glass floats, which are beautiful, brightly-colored spheres used by Japanese fisherman to float their nets.
  5. Depoe Bay: Just ten minutes south of Lincoln City, Depoe Bay is the official whale watching capital of the world and offers observation spots, boat charters, and even a Whale Watching Center. A resident pod of Grey whales make their home off of Depoe Bay from March through December, so be sure to visit during the summer and fall months!
  6. Oswald State Park: This sprawling 2,484-acre park features a secluded beach, breathtaking ocean views, and miles of hiking trails. A favorite trek of visitors is the hike to Short Sand Beach, which will take you through dense rainforests that are edged with volcanic rock and sandstone cliffs. Once you reach the end, enjoy resting in the beautiful picnic area overlooking the beach.
  7. City of Newport: Seafood lovers, rejoice! Newport Beach, Oregon, is the Dungeness crab capital of the world and offers tons of award-winning restaurants right on the historic Bayfront. After your meal, spend the day outdoors and enjoy surfing, hiking, or biking, or check out the Yaquina Head Lighthouse, the Oregon Coast Aquarium, or the Hatfield Marine Science Center.

Stay with Starfish Vacation Rentals!

Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat or an action-packed weekend with the family, be sure to book your stay with Starfish Vacation Rentals. Our beautiful Oregon Coast vacation homes are the perfect homestead when traveling up the coast, and feature luxurious amenities like plush linens, crackling fireplaces, and decks with incredible ocean views – so you’re guaranteed to have the vacation of a lifetime. We can’t wait to hear all about your adventures!
Photo Credit: Purestock | Thinkstock