Oregon Coast Planning & Tips

Getting There and Around
If you're traveling from out of state, Oregon's main airport, Portland International Airport (PDX) is approximately two hours, or 97 miles, southeast of the North Coast's Astoria. Rental cars are easily available upon your arrival at PDX.

A sturdy set of wheels is a necessity in order to cruise the north-south coastal route of Highway 101, stretching from Washington to California, from the northernmost seaside cities of Warrenton and Astoria to the southern tip of Brookings and Harbor. The actual drive-time minus stops is between 10-12 hours. Though the highway is well-maintained, since it often parallels the coastline itself, drivers need to expect curving roads (highest speed is 55 mph), and should be prepared to brake for the occasional animal that might dart out into traffic.

The Art of Smart Timing
Though summer is always a popular time to visit The People's Coast, most of Oregon's seaside visitor associations suggest vacationing in early fall. From September through mid-October, the winds are mild, the weather is consistently fair, summer crowds have dispersed, and hotel rates can be friendlier to the pocketbook.

But even when the clouds gather in winter and early spring, there are plenty of indoor activities to keep the family busy. Aquariums, covered skateboard parks, experiential museums, lighthouses (seven are open to the public), cooking classes and glass-blowing studios are just some of the Oregon Coast's inclement weather offerings. Not to mention the views from your own hotel room or restaurant window as a spectacular storm plays out directly in front of you. And who knows? If you're in the right time and at the right place, you just might spot a whale!

Off the Radar
The Rockclimbing Wall in Lincoln City's Recreation Center
New in 2008, very popular, allowing even the younger climbers to join in the fun.

Wreck of the Peter Iredale
Located in the 3700-acre Fort Stevens State Park at the mouth of the Columbia, this sailing vessel that ran aground in 1906 can still be explored today. Due to her accessibility, the Peter Iredale continues to be one of the most photographed shipwrecks in the world.

Visitor's Bureau
Oregon Coast Visitors Bureau