KÜHL Weekend Getaways: Oregon Coast
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Nestled between the majestic Pacific Ocean and the lush green forests, the Oregon Coast offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. With its rugged beauty, charming towns, and a plethora of activities, the Oregon Coast promises a unique experience for travelers seeking a blend of hiking, fresh-local meals, craft breweries, and diverse beaches. Read on as we dive into some of the top spots to explore on this stunning stretch of the Pacific coastline.
Treat your Taste Buds
After a day of outdoor adventures, indulge in the diverse culinary scene along the Oregon Coast. Astoria, a charming coastal town, is known for its excellent seafood restaurants. Take advantage of your proximity to the ocean and savor freshly caught Dungeness crab at Bridgewater Bistro, a water-front, local favorite eatery. If you’re craving oysters, stop by JAndy Oyster Co. in Tillamook to try the freshest oysters that’ll ever breach your lips.
The craft beer culture thrives in Oregon, and the coast is no exception. Explore the local breweries that offer a wide range of unique brews. Pelican Brewing Company, with its flagship brewpub in Pacific City, is renowned for its award-winning beers and spectacular oceanfront views. Grab a pint of their signature Kiwanda Cream Ale and savor the taste of the coast. Stop by de Garde Brewing in Tillamook, Oregon if you're curious about spontaneous fermentation. De Garde Brewing utilizes the native yeast and bacteria in the microbe-rich air in Tillamook to ferment their ales. Any of your beer-nerd friends will envy your visit to this microbrewery.
Ready to pair adventure with local food? If you’re interested in catching fresh fish in the pacific ocean or a coastal river, book a day out on a dory fishing boat with OAR Angling. If you choose to book a fishing trip on the Pacific Ocean, the dory boat launches right off the beach. Kyle, owner, and witty fisherman, will take you out on a trip of your choice, assisting and teaching angling skills throughout the entire duration of your trip (lots of laughs included).
Choose your Adventure
Sleep Under the Stars
Camping enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice on the Oregon Coast, as the region offers numerous state parks and campgrounds available to book on private websites such as Hipcamp and Recreation. One of the most sought-after Oregon Coast camping destinations is Cape Lookout State Park. Perched on a sand spit between Netarts Bay and the ocean, this park boasts stunning ocean views and miles of hiking trails.
For an elevated experience, Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa offers some of the most exquisite waterfront lodging including deluxe rooms and family villas so close to the beach that you could spot migrating whales.
Beaches
The Oregon Coast offers a diverse array of terrain where the water meets the land. Pacific Beach is a must-visit, boasting the iconic Kiwanda Haystack Rock, which measures 340’ tall and rises dramatically near the shoreline. It's an ideal spot for beachcombing, tide-pooling, and witnessing colorful sunsets. In Bandon, discover a varied landscape of sea stacks and tide pools at the Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint, offering photographers and bird watchers an enchanting experience.
Hiking
An abundance of trails are yours to explore along the Oregon Coast. One of the most iconic hikes is the Tillamook Head Trail, starting from the town of Seaside. This moderate-to-challenging trail leads hikers through old-growth forests, offering breathtaking vistas of the coastline below. For a more leisurely stroll, the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area features easy hikes along dramatic cliffs with stunning views of the lighthouse and chatty seagulls.
Surfing
Rent a thick wetsuit and a surfboard at Moment Surf Shop in Pacific City to catch some PNW waves. If you’re new to surfing the Oregon coast, the folks at the surf shop are a great resource for tips to catch the swell and monitor the tides.
Whale Watching
The Oregon Coast is a fantastic location for whale watching. During the migration season, you can spot gray whales passing by on their way to Alaska (spring) and back to Mexico (winter). Head to Depoe Bay, known as the "Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coast," to witness these majestic creatures up close.
Biking
The Oregon Coast offers picturesque biking trails for those who enjoy exploring on two wheels. The Astoria Riverwalk, a 6.4-mile paved path, winds through the historic waterfront of Astoria, offering stunning river and bridge views. Alternatively, head to Newport and bike along the Yaquina Bay Historic Bayfront, which leads to beautiful vistas of the bay and charming shops to explore. Stimulate your adrenaline and take your mountain bike for a rip at Whiskey Run if you crave weaving through the lush coastal forest.
The Oregon Coast offers a diverse range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts and relaxed vacationers alike. Whether you're camping near the seashore, hiking in old-growth forests, savoring delicious cuisine, sampling craft beers, or exploring historical lighthouses, the Oregon Coast promises a unique beachy experience. Embrace the changing tides and coastal weather patterns and plan your next KÜHL adventure!
