What to see on Pacific Coast Highway in Oregon? You may be wondering, “What are the best places to see along the West Coast in Oregon?”, “What are the best stops along PCH in Oregon?”.
Welcome to my blog post about the best places to visit on the Pacific Coast Highway in Oregon! The Pacific Coast Highway is a scenic drive that stretches for miles along the Pacific Ocean coastline, offering breathtaking views and numerous attractions along the way. In this post, we’ll highlight some of the top destinations along the Pacific Coast Highway in Oregon, so you can plan your own adventure and experience the beauty of this iconic highway. So sit back, relax, and let’s explore the best places to visit on the Pacific Coast Highway in Oregon!
Oregon’s stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway is particularly stunning, with rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and charming seaside towns. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or a history buff, there’s something for everyone on this unforgettable road trip.
1. The Astoria Column
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 430 MI/ 692 KM ASTORIA, OREGON
GPS: 46.18132, -123.81752
ADDRESS: 1 Coxcomb Dr, Astoria, OR 97103
The Astoria Column is one of the most iconic landmarks along the Oregon Coast Highway and a must-visit destination for anyone traveling along this scenic route. Standing 125 feet tall atop Coxcomb Hill in Astoria, this towering column offers spectacular panoramic views of the Columbia River, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding forested hills.
The column itself is adorned with intricate murals depicting scenes from the history of Astoria and the surrounding region. Visitors can climb a spiral staircase to the top of the column and enjoy the stunning views from the observation deck. Along the way, visitors can also learn about the fascinating history of the region through interpretive displays.
2. Haystack Rock
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 454 MI/ 731 KM CANNON BEACH, OREGON
GPS: 45.88452, -123.96819
Haystack Rock is an iconic landmark located along the stunning Oregon Coast Highway, and is widely regarded as one of the best stops along the scenic route. Rising 235 feet above the ocean, this impressive rock formation is one of the most photographed and recognizable sights in the Pacific Northwest.
Located in Cannon Beach, Oregon, Haystack Rock is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The surrounding beach is perfect for strolling, picnicking, and relaxing, while the nearby town offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and accommodations to suit all tastes and budgets.
3. Yaquina Head Lighthouse
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 561 MI/ 903 KM NEWPORT, OREGON
GPS: 44.67679, -124.07956
ADDRESS: 750 NW Lighthouse Dr, Newport, OR 97365
Adding to my ever-growing list of the best stops along the stunning Pacific Coast Highway in Oregon, this gem proved to be another unforgettable destination. Yaquina Head Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located in Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, near Newport, Oregon, United States. It is one of the most photographed lighthouses on the Pacific Coast and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can climb the 114 stairs to the top of the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the Oregon coast. The Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area also offers other recreational activities, such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and tidepooling.
If you have a fascination for lighthouses and want to explore the most captivating ones along the Pacific Coast Highway, make sure to check out my blog post dedicated to this topic: Pacific Coast Highway: A Guide to BEST TOP 8 Scenic Lighthouses
4. Thor’s Well
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 590 MI/ 950 KM YACHATS, OREGON
GPS: 44.27836, -124.11347
Thor’s Well is undoubtedly one of the best stops along the Pacific Coast Highway in Oregon. This natural wonder is located near Cape Perpetua on the central coast of Oregon, and it is a must-see attraction for anyone traveling along the Pacific coast. Thor’s Well is a bowl-shaped hole in the rocky shoreline, where seawater rushes in during high tide, creating a spectacular display of water shooting up into the air. The hole is about 20 feet deep and is connected to the ocean through a series of underwater tunnels and channels.
Visitors to Thor’s Well can witness this breathtaking natural phenomenon up close, but it’s important to exercise caution and stay safe. The area can be dangerous during high tide, so it’s best to visit during low tide when the water is calmer and the hole is less active.
5. Sea Lion Caves
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 602 MI/ 969 KM FLORENCE, OREGON
GPS: 44.12181, -124.12685
ADDRESS: 91560 US-101, Florence, OR 97439
Sea Lion Caves is one of the most fascinating attractions on the Pacific Coast Highway in Oregon. Located just a few miles north of Florence on the central coast of Oregon, this natural wonder is the largest sea cave in America and the home to a large colony of Steller sea lions.
The sea lions can be seen lounging on the rocky ledges and barking loudly, and visitors can get a closer look from the observation deck that overlooks the cave. The observation deck provides stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding coastline, making it an excellent spot for taking photos and enjoying the scenery.
Visitors can also take a guided tour of the cave, which takes them down an elevator to the cave floor. The tour provides an up-close and personal experience with the sea lions and allows visitors to see the unique rock formations and marine life that call the cave home.
6. Arch Rock State Park
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 756 MI/ 1217 KM BROOKINGS, OREGON
GPS: 42.20495, -124.37387
ADDRESS: 22064 Oregon Coast Hwy, Brookings, OR 97415
Arch Rock State Park is one of the most amazing stops along the Oregon Coast Highway. Located in Curry County, Southern Oregon, this state park is known for its stunning natural beauty and incredible rock formations. The park is home to a natural arch that was formed by erosion from the Pacific Ocean. The arch is over 50 feet tall and 30 feet wide, and it offers a breathtaking view of the ocean. Visitors can take a short hike to the top of the arch and enjoy the panoramic view of the coastline.
Aside from the arch, the park also has several hiking trails that lead to scenic overlooks, secluded beaches, and a variety of wildlife habitats. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by bike and enjoy the rugged beauty of the southern Oregon coast.
👍 Find out more:
Discover the best stops along the PCH in my travel guide, “Pacific Coast Highway Travel Guide – 202 Best Stops”, which is available on Amazon. This is the ultimate travel guide and pocket reference for anyone wishing to experience the adventure and wonder of THE PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY! MUST-HAVE for all West Coast travelers. Visit 202 places on the PCH with “Scan QR and go” for easy navigation.
Author:
Mark Watson is a California-based member of a Los Angeles motorcycle club and an avid traveler. He has completed seven full journeys along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway on his Harley-Davidson and is passionate about promoting this historic drive to others. Mark has also explored the Alaska Highway and Route 66, and has authored three bestselling travel guides on Amazon: “Route 66 Travel Guide – 202 Amazing Places,” “Alaska Highway Travel Guide – 202 Best Stops,” and “Pacific Coast Highway Travel Guide – 202 Best Stops.”