Slow Travel the Oregon Coast
With 363 miles of public coastline, the Oregon Coast isn’t a destination to rush through. This spectacular stretch of the Pacific Northwest deserves to be savored slowly. While many travelers attempt to experience it all in a few hurried days, the true magic of the Oregon Coast reveals itself to those who linger.
This four-week itinerary from Astoria to Crescent City embraces the art of slow travel, allowing you to discover little known coastal communities, hidden coves, and experience the dramatic changes in scenery as you move from the northern beaches to the southern cliffs.
Want to savor the coast at an even slower pace? This plan is flexible enough to extend your time in any location.
By spending a week in each base location, you’ll experience the Oregon Coast. Whether you’re a retiree with time to spare, a digital nomad seeking inspiration, or someone who simply believes that travel is about the journey rather than the destination, this itinerary will help you experience the Oregon Coast at its authentic best.
TL;DR This four-week slow travel itinerary along the Oregon Coast starts in Astoria and ends in Brookings, with week-long stays in Gearhart, Newport, and Bandon serving as home bases for daily adventures. From these strategic locations, you’ll explore iconic coastal towns, state parks, and natural wonders through relaxed day trips, including visits to Cannon Beach, Tillamook, Cape Perpetua, the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, and optionally continue on to the majestic redwoods near Crescent City.
Week 1: Northern Oregon Coast Base – Gearhart
Assuming you are starting from Portland, head over to Gearhart via Hwy 26 or 30.
Gearhart is a charming small coastal town (pop. 1800) just north of Seaside and Cannon Beach known for quiet beaches & serves as the perfect launch point for exploring the northern Oregon coast. This understated neighbor to bustling Seaside offers peaceful mornings strolling nearly empty beaches and evening sunsets over the ocean.
Now, there isn’t much to do in Gearhart unless you are a golfer, but that’s why it makes a great base. It allows you to settle into a slower pace while still being within easy distance of the north coast’s top spots.
Other home base options:
All of the following do offer more amenities than Gearhart.
- Seaside: best bet for oceanfront accommodations without breaking the bank completely
- Astoria: most economical; consider a cabin or yurt at Ft. Stevens State Park or the next door KOA campground to save even more.
- Cannon Beach: the favorite of many, this small town is more upscale but with a NW vibe and charm.
Day Trip: Exploring Historical Astoria
Start your coastal journey in Astoria, where the Columbia River meets the Pacific. Begin at the Astoria Column for panoramic views of the river, ocean, and surrounding mountains.
Recommended things to do include:
- Columbia River Maritime Museum: Plan to spend at least two hours exploring the Pacific Northwest’s premier maritime museum
- Fort Clatsop: Step back in time to a site commemorating where Lewis and Clark spent a winter
- Astoria Riverwalk: Watch massive cargo ships pass while enjoying local craft beer at a riverside brewery
- Flavel House: This National Historic Landmark is open to the public and an impressive example of Queen Anne architecture
- Film location tours: Visit iconic spots from “The Goonies,” “Kindergarten Cop,” and other movies filmed here
Day Trips to Cannon Beach and Seaside
Cannon Beach deserves a full day of exploration. Arrive early to photograph Haystack Rock without crowds. During low tide, explore the tide pools with local naturalists who often share their knowledge of the marine life. Explore the artsy shops of the town and splurge on a meal at one of its fabulous restaurants.
Seaside is a classic beach town and more kid friendly than Cannon Beach.
- Seaside Promenade: Perfect for an oceanside stroll without getting sand in your shoes
- Pick up some souvenirs in town, including some saltwater taffy at the Seaside Candyman
- If you’re with kids, check out the Carousel Mall, the arcade, or miniature train.
- If you’re not afraid of heights, the High Life Adventure Park (um, what a suitably Northwest name) has a series of elevated obstacles and climbing challenges
Ecola State Park and Local Attractions
Ecola State Park offers some of Oregon’s most dramatic coastal views. Hike the Clatsop Loop Trail (2.9 miles). Pack a picnic to enjoy at Indian Beach while watching surfers tackle the waves.
Closer to your Gearhart base:
- Walk the Gearhart Ocean State Recreation Area at sunset
- Golf at the historic Gearhart Golf Links
- Browse at Pacific Crest cottage, a charming gift shop filled with a diverse selection of vintage furniture, handmade soaps, and unique home goods, all curated by a friendly owner.
- Have a drink at McMenamins, an Oregon based hospitality company specializing in re-purposing historic locations into hotels and restaurants.
Spend the Day in Tillamook on Your Way to Newport
As you transition to your next base, allow yourself several hours to explore Tillamook. Beyond the famous cheese factory, discover:
- Tillamook Air Museum: Housed in a WWII blimp hangar
- Cape Meares Lighthouse: Home to the Octopus Tree and stunning ocean views
- Blue Heron French Cheese company if you prefer brie, and browse their wonderful gift shop of NW jams, wines, sauces, and more
- De Garde Brewing: Sample unique wild-fermented beers and wines made with natural methods
- The Fish Peddler at Pacific Oyster in Bay City: Stop for fresh oysters and fresh seafood. Don’t just roll on through Bay City (iykyk), Kilchis trail reserve has historical markers telling First Nations and pioneer history, or take a pedal tour on old rail track.
Tip: The Tillamook Creamery is least crowded during the first hour after opening or two hours before closing. Plan your visit accordingly to avoid the longest lines, especially for ice cream.
Week 2: Central Coast Haven – Newport
Newport perfectly balances working waterfront charm with tourist-friendly amenities. This authentic fishing town offers everything from fresh-off-the-boat seafood to world-class marine research facilities. It is also very centrally located, making it an ideal base for exploring Oregon’s central coast.
Newport’s Maritime Culture and Activities
The heart of Newport beats along its historic Bayfront, where sea lions lounge on the docks and fishing boats unload their daily catch.
While in Newport, check out:
- Oregon Coast Aquarium: Plan for a full morning exploring one of the nation’s top aquariums
- Hatfield Marine Science Center: A good complement to the aquarium, with a more educational slant
- Newport’s Historic Lighthouses: Visit both Yaquina Head and Yaquina Bay lighthouses for contrasting architectural styles
- Local Seafood Scene: as a fishing town, expect to find fine & fresh seafood dining options here
Tip: Book a seat on a Marine Discovery Tour to spot whales and other sea life, learn about the local fishing industry, and see the coastline from a new perspective on their 65′ vessel with a heated cabin.
Exploring Lincoln City and Pacific City
Dedicate at least two days to exploring north of Newport. In Lincoln City, time your visits around low tide to:
- Treasure hunt for hidden glass floats on the beach made by local artisans, part of Lincoln City’s Finders Keepers program (read more about the rules)
- Explore the tide pools at Roads End State Recreation Site
- Design your own glass souvenir at Lincoln City Glass Center
- Hike the Cascade Head Trail for spectacular coastal views, especially popular for birders and wildlife seekers
- Indulge in some tax free shopping at the Lincoln City Outlet Mall
Further north in Pacific City:
- Watching dory boats launch from the beach (or charter one and go fishing)
- Climbing the sand dune at Cape Kiwanda
- Dining at Pelican Brewing, a beachside pub with views of Haystack Rock (a different one from the famous one at Cannon Beach)
- Horseback riding along the beach (book in advance)
- Hiking to Munson Creek Falls, at 300+ feet, the tallest waterfall in the Oregon Coast range
Cape Perpetua and Yachats Adventures
South of Newport, the coastline becomes increasingly dramatic–more windswept and different trees.
Plan for a full day exploring the Cape Perpetua area:
- Start at the Cape Perpetua Visitor Center for trail maps and tide tables
- Time your visit to Thor’s Well with incoming tide for the most dramatic photos, staying a safe distance of course, also check out Spouting Horn & and Devils Churn for dramatic wave induced moments
- Hike the St. Perpetua Trail (2.8 miles) for one of the best viewpoints on the Oregon Coast
In Yachats:
- Walk the 804 Trail or the the public footpath crossing the Gerdemann Botanical Garden
- Shop local art galleries and eclectic shops
- Visit Yachats Brewing for craft beer and fermented foods
- Explore the tide pools at Yachats State Recreation Area
Tip: The central coast’s weather can change rapidly. Pack layers and plan indoor alternatives like the museums of the Lincoln County Historical Society for rainy days.
Exploring sand dunes & More on your way to Bandon
Moving further south, be sure to take your time moving on to Bandon. Along the way consider stops at:
- Sea Lion Caves. Descend by elevator down into the cave and view sea lions in their natural habitat. It’s a bit of a tourist trap, but it’s worth seeing once.
- Oregon Dunes National Recreation area. I once had my car keys fall out of my pocket rolling down a sand dune here. Pre-cell phone era. Thank goodness I noticed it or I’d still be there. One of the largest coastal sand dunes on the continent this is worth a walk, and/or an ATV/dune buggy ride as it is unlike the scenery along the rest of the coast.
- Stop in Florence and explore the historic old town and the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum for a look at early pioneer life in the area
- View elk at the Dean Creek Elk Viewing area, home to a herd of 60+ elk. Or if flora is more your thing, and you are here in April May, see if you can enjoy the rhododendrons at the Hinsdale Garden (open only certain dates of the year to the public)
Week 3: Southern Oregon Coast – Bandon
Bandon represents the best of the southern Oregon coast: dramatic sea stacks, uncrowded beaches, and a charming Old Town district. The pace here slows noticeably from the central coast, allowing you to fully embrace the wild beauty of this region.
Bandon’s Beaches and Wildlife
Begin your exploration at Bullards Beach State Park and enjoy the beaches, hiking trails and historic Coquille River Lighthouse.
- Admire the sea stacks and interesting rock formations like Face Rock and Elephant Rock
- Go birdwatching at Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge
- Old Town Bandon: Explore the quaint shops, art galleries, and restaurants in this historic district.
- Golfers shouldn’t miss playing a round at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort
- Take a horseback ride along the beach
- View art created from beach debris at Washed Ashore gallery
Day Trips to Coos Bay and Charleston
The Coos Bay area offers a different perspective on coastal life.
- Visit the University of Oregon’s Charleston Marine Life Center for hands-on exhibits
- Take the Cape Arago Scenic Drive, making stops at Bastendorff Beach and Sunset Bay
- Charter a fishing excursion or go crabbing in Charleston
- Stroll the boardwalk along the river in Coos Bay
- While there are plenty of art galleries along the coast, there is only one art museum along the coast–the Coos Art Museum
- Catch a film at the Egyptian Theater
- Stop at Shore Acres State Park‘s botanical gardens (spectacular holiday lights in winter). A former estate, this is one of the more unique state parks along the coast with its manicured gardens juxtaposed against the wild and vast ocean
Exploring the Port Orford Area
Port Orford, the oldest townsite on the Oregon coast, offers unique experiences in a dramatically beautiful setting:
- Port Orford Heads State Park: This park features stunning views of the ocean and historical sites, including the Port Orford Lifeboat Station.
- Cape Blanco State Park: Located just north of Port Orford, this park features hiking trails, a historic lighthouse, and stunning coastal views. The Cape Blanco Lighthouse is the oldest standing lighthouse on the Oregon coast
- Go agate hunting. The beaches between Port Orford and Cape Blanco are known for good agate hunting
Week 4: The Southern Journey – Brookings
Your final week transitions from coastal wonders to inland adventures, combining Oregon’s most dramatic coastline with ancient redwood forests and mysterious cave systems.
While the last town on the Oregon Coast is Brookings, you can extend your time in a couple ways.
- Make your way down to Crescent City, CA. From there, you can take in the redwoods as you return to Oregon
- If you are returning to Portland, you can get back along I-5 in a day from the Medford area
- Or continue down the California coast and fly out of the San Fransisco area.
But before we talk about ending this trip, spend a few days on Oregon’s southern coast. By now the landscape is very different from where we started. Drier and less fog.
Choose Gold Beach (my preference) or Brookings as your base for a few days.
Gold Beach
- Browse one of the Oregon Coast’s largest bookstores, the simply named Gold Beach Books
- Take a jet boat excursion up the Rogue River
- Take your sweetie to Kissing Rock and give them a smooch at sunset, and legend has it you will be together forever (use at your own risk!)
- See a replica of a 1900’s general store at the Curry Historical museum
- Take a quick look at the shipwreck of the Mary D. Hume
Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor
The Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor stretches 12 miles along Oregon’s southernmost coast, offering the state’s most dramatic coastal scenery. Plan at least two full days to explore:
• Natural Bridges: Take the short but steep trail for the iconic viewpoint
* Secret Beach: Time your visit at low tide to explore hidden coves
* Arch Rock: Easy access to spectacular ocean vistas
* Indian Sands: Unique geological formations and rare plant species
Hiking tip: The Oregon Coast Trail connects all 18 viewpoints in the corridor. While you can drive between parking areas, the best views are accessed by foot.
Brookings
The last town before you hit the California border, Brookings has several festivals and events throughout the year including summer artwalks, Art at the Port, Azalea Festival, Holiday Light Festival and a music festival. The town of Brookings maintains an events calendar.
- Azalea Park is a 33-acre park featuring native azaleas, scenic views.
- Whaleshead Beach features a unique sea stack that resembles a whale’s head, lush vegetation, beach walks and forest trails.
- The Mt. Emily Bombsite Trail has historical significance in that it commemorates the first bombing of the U.S. mainland during World War II.
- Check out the unforgettable vistas from a 100 ft. high plateau at Chetco State Park
Where Next?
Exploring the Redwoods near Crescent City
Cross into California to experience the majesty of coastal redwoods. Continue on to Crescent City for easy access to:
- Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
- Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park
Oregon Caves and Cave Junction Area
Head back inland to Cave Junction along Hwy 199 where mountains replace ocean views. The area around Cave Junction offers:
- Oregon Caves National Monument
- Wine tasting (Bridgeview Winery makes a delicious Riesling in a pretty blue bottle)
Planning note: Cave tours can sell out during peak season. Make reservations before arriving, and bring a light jacket – cave temperature stays at 44°F year-round.
Making the Most of Extended Stays
Extended stays along the Oregon Coast offer opportunities that rushed visitors miss entirely.
Connecting with Local Communities
Immerse yourself in coastal life by:
Visiting farmers markets (most run only in the summer months):
- Astoria (Sundays)
- Cannon Beach (Tuesdays)
- Bandon (Friday & Saturday)
•Supporting local businesses:
- Shop at independent bookstores
- Visit local art galleries
- Choose family-owned restaurants over chains
Planning Your Extended Oregon Coast Journey
A month-long coastal adventure requires more preparation than a weekend getaway.
Best Seasons for Slow Travel Along the Oregon Coast
September and early October offer the coast’s most reliable weather, with warm days, clear skies, along with fewer tourists. These months combine the best of summer warmth with early fall’s tranquility, making them ideal for extended stays.
Spring (March to May) brings some storm watching opportunities and the first whale migrations of the year. While summer (July-August) guarantees the warmest temperatures, it also brings peak crowds and higher accommodation rates.
Winter stays (November-February) reward brave travelers with stunning storm displays, empty beaches, and the lowest rates of the year. Just be prepared for frequent rain and the possibility of highway closures during severe weather.
Packing List for Long-Term Coastal Stays
Beyond the basics, here’s what experienced coastal travelers consider essential:
- Layer-friendly clothing: The coast can swing from sunny to foggy within hours
- Rain gear: A waterproof jacket, pants, and sturdy boots
- Binoculars: Essential for whale watching and bird spotting
- Beach gear: Sand mat, portable chairs, and a windbreak
- Camera gear: Including weather protection for your equipment
- Hiking poles: Helpful for beach walks and coastal trails
- Cooler: For picnics and storing local seafood purchases
Transportation and Accommodation Considerations
A reliable vehicle is essential for coastal exploration. Consider one with decent ground clearance for accessing some of the more remote beaches and viewpoints.
For accommodations, you have several options:
- Vacation rentals: Ideal for week-long stays, offering full kitchens and laundry facilities
- Deluxe yurts: Available at several state parks these offer a unique glamping experience with heating, electricity, and beds. Reserve early.
- Extended-stay hotels: Often offer weekly rates and kitchen facilities
- Coastal B&Bs: Perfect for those seeking local connections and insider knowledge
Tip: Book accommodations well in advance, especially for summer stays. Many coastal properties offer discounts for stays of a week or longer, so don’t hesitate to ask about extended-stay rates.
Embracing the Slow Travel Experience
A month along the Oregon Coast transforms you from tourist to temporary local. You’ll discover that the real magic isn’t just in the dramatic viewpoints or famous landmarks—it’s in the quiet moments and unexpected discoveries that you’ll find when you take time to slow down and observe.
The Oregon Coast doesn’t just offer scenery—it offers a different way of living. By the end of your journey, you might find yourself checking real estate listings (raises hand) or planning your next extended stay. That’s the effect this magnificent coastline has on people who take the time to truly know it.
Whether you follow this itinerary exactly or use it as a framework for your own coastal adventure, remember that the best moments often come when you least expect them. Leave room in your schedule for spontaneity, accept invitations and recommendations from locals, and don’t rush past something that catches your interest.