7-Day Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary (2025) – Scenic Stops from Astoria to Bandon

Setting out on an Oregon Coast road trip is the ideal way to experience stunning ocean views, charming small towns, and the beauty of nature all in one journey. The route runs along Highway 101, covering around 363 miles of scenic coastline. In 2024, Oregon saw over 29 million visitors, and the coast remains one of the state’s most visited areas, especially during summer. From historic sites to hidden beaches, this 7-day plan helps you see the best parts of the coast without rushing. Get ready to explore lighthouses, sand dunes, tide pools, and more.

Day 1: Astoria – Begin with History and Views

Start your road trip in Astoria, the oldest town in Oregon, founded in 1811. It sits near the Columbia River and is full of interesting places to see.

• Columbia River Maritime Museum: Learn about shipwrecks, the Coast Guard, and local sea history. The museum welcomes over 100,000 visitors per year.

• Astoria Column: Climb 164 steps to see wide views of the river, ocean, and town.

• Riverwalk and Downtown: Walk along the water and stop by coffee shops, seafood spots, and local stores.

• Goonies Film Locations: Fans of the movie can check out famous scenes filmed here, as tourism linked to the movie still draws thousands annually.

Day 2: Seaside and Cannon Beach – Classic Coast Vibes

Head south about 30 minutes to Seaside, a popular beach town that welcomed over 1 million visitors in 2023.

• Seaside Promenade: A flat walkway perfect for biking, walking, or watching the waves.

• Seaside Aquarium: Feed seals and check out sea creatures in this small but fun spot.

• Wide Sandy Beach: Great for building sandcastles or flying kites.

Then, continue to Cannon Beach, just 10 miles away.

• Haystack Rock: This 235-foot rock is home to puffins and other birds. Explore tide pools at low tide.

• Art Galleries and Cafes: Relax with coffee and view local art.

• Ecola State Park: Take short hikes for sweeping views of the coastline. In 2024, it received a major trail update, improving accessibility.

Day 3: Tillamook and Three Capes Scenic Route

Tillamook is best known for its cheese, but there's a lot more to see.

• Tillamook Creamery: Tour the facility and enjoy free cheese samples and ice cream. The creamery attracts more than 1.3 million visitors each year.

• Three Capes Scenic Route: A quiet drive off Highway 101 with amazing views.

  • Cape Meares: Visit the lighthouse and take a short trail to the "Octopus Tree."

  • Cape Lookout: Hike a moderate 5-mile trail with ocean views.

  • Cape Kiwanda: Climb dunes and watch fishing boats launch from the beach.

Day 4: Lincoln City and Depoe Bay – Beaches and Whales

Drive an hour south to Lincoln City, a destination for beachcombers and kite flyers.

• Finders Keepers: Look for hidden glass floats on the beach, part of a year-round art project. Over 3,000 floats are placed annually.

• Lincoln City Outlets: A good stop for shopping with over 40 brand-name stores.

• Roads End State Recreation Site: Quieter beach with tide pools and rocky outcrops.

Then head to Depoe Bay, about 20 minutes south.

• Whale Watching: Look for gray whales from the viewing area on the bridge. Oregon State Parks report year-round sightings, with spring and fall migrations being peak times.

• Devil's Punchbowl: A rock bowl where waves crash in from the ocean.

• Small Harbor: Watch boats enter the smallest navigable harbor in the world.

Day 5: Newport – Sea Life and Lighthouses

Newport is a busy coastal town with lots to do.

• Oregon Coast Aquarium: One of the best aquariums in the Pacific Northwest, with over 500,000 visitors annually.

• Yaquina Head Lighthouse: The tallest lighthouse in Oregon at 93 feet. Offers ranger-led tours and has active tide pool research.

• Historic Bayfront: See sea lions resting near docks, eat local seafood, and shop for gifts.

• Nye Beach: A cozy beach area with art shops and local eateries.

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Day 6: Florence and the Oregon Dunes

Keep driving south to Florence.

• Sea Lion Caves: Take an elevator down to see sea lions inside a giant cave. This is the largest sea cave in the U.S.

• Heceta Head Lighthouse: One of the most photographed lighthouses in the U.S. Now fully restored as of late 2023.

• Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area: Rent ATVs, try sandboarding, or hike through the dunes. Covers over 40 miles of shifting sand and draws thousands for outdoor recreation.

Day 7: Bandon – Rugged Beauty and Small Town Charm

End your journey in Bandon, a peaceful town with dramatic coastline.

• Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint: Look out over sea stacks and crashing waves.

• Coquille River Lighthouse: Built in 1896, it marks the entrance to the river.

• Old Town Bandon: Walk around shops, try fresh crab, and enjoy the laid-back vibe.

• Bandon Beach: Stroll along the beach and take photos of the unique rock shapes. Sunset photography is very popular here year-round.

Travel Tips for Your Oregon Coast Road Trip

• Plan for all weather: The Oregon Coast can shift from sunny to rainy quickly. Pack layers, including a waterproof jacket and extra socks.

• Book early in summer: Hotels and campsites fill up fast between June and August. Reserve ahead, especially in places like Cannon Beach and Newport.

• Tide tables matter: Check local tide charts before visiting tide pools or beach caves. Low tide is best for exploring safely.

• Gas up when you can: Some stretches of Highway 101 are remote. Fill your tank in larger towns like Tillamook or Florence.

• Bring reusable bags and bottles: Oregon has banned single-use plastic bags and charges for paper ones. Reusable bottles are handy at parks and towns with refill stations.

• Watch for wildlife: Sea lions, whales, puffins, elk, and bald eagles can all be spotted along the coast. Bring binoculars if you have them.

• Respect nature: Stick to trails, pack out trash, and keep a safe distance from wildlife and cliffs.

Conclusion

An Oregon Coast road trip is one of the best ways to see the Pacific Northwest. This 7-day journey includes popular places and hidden treasures, from Astoria to Bandon. You’ll see lighthouses, forests, dunes, beaches, and wildlife. In 2024, Oregon’s coast saw a rise in eco-tourism and park visits, with more than 10 million visitors reported by Oregon State Parks. Whether you're going solo, as a couple, or with family, this route brings plenty of fun and views without feeling rushed. With many towns less than an hour apart, it’s easy to enjoy each stop while still moving forward.

FAQs

1. When is the best time to go?

Answer: Summer (June–September) is best for warm weather and fun outdoors.

2. How many days do I need?

Answer: 7 days is perfect to see the top places without rushing.

3. Do I drive on one main road?

Answer: Yes, Highway 101 goes along the whole coast.

4. Are there gas and food stops?

Answer: Yes, but fill up in big towns like Tillamook or Florence.

5. Can kids and pets come too?

Answer: Yes! The trip is great for families and dogs on leashes.