If you’ve ever watched the sun slip away behind the dramatic 235-foot tower of Haystack Rock, you instantly know why it’s one of Oregon’s most treasured landmarks.
But it’s not until you get a bit closer that you see all the treasures surrounding this massive rock. Its colorful tidepools are protected as one of Oregon’s seven Marine Gardens. And above the high tide line, Haystack provides protected habitat for seabirds like the Tufted Puffins.
Haystack is just one of the many treasures you’ll find along the Oregon Coast, 363 miles of public coastline dotted with lighthouses, fishing villages and dramatic scenery. There are endless dunes to climb, tidepools to explore and agates to search for. In fact, there are so many coastal treasures that it can be difficult to know where to start. Here are some suggestions of how to make the most of your time on the Oregon Coast.
Top 10 Don’t-Miss Spots on the Coast
If you want to see the best of the Coast, make sure to put these 10 places on your itinerary.
The Oregon Coast Rocks
It’s surely Oregon’s most photographed rock. And Cannon Beach’s beloved Haystack Rock is joined by nearly 2000 small islands and sea stacks along the Oregon coastline, formed by lava flows millions of years ago.
Hiking Tour of the Oregon Coast
There are endless trails awaiting hikers on the Oregon Coast. This itinerary travels north to south and traverses rainforest, sand dunes and offers plenty of ocean views.
6 Little-Known Spots in Seaside
Venture just slightly from the busyness of Seaside’s popular Broadway Street and discover another side to this picturesque community that resonates with wildlife watchers, treasure hunters and solitude seekers. Here are six ways to explore Seaside’s quieter secrets.
Pacific Coast Scenic Byway
Oregon’s Pacific coastline stretches for 363 magnificent miles — and this world-class route traces it from border to border. A landmark state law ensures every inch of it is open to the public, and every inch is worth exploring.
Charleston to Bandon Tour Route
Like a tiny tide pool brimming with life, this short 41-mile route off the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway packs a lot of natural wonders into a concentrated coastal area.
Three Capes Scenic Loop
Venture off Highway 101 and drink in the dramatic view of the Three Capes Scenic Loop.
