Things to do in the Oregon Coast in November

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Overview

November is a good time to visit the Oregon Coast.

The Oregon Coast has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your November trip to the Oregon Coast. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to November. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

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Best events and things to do in the Oregon Coast in November

Top experiences in November
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Holidays in the Oregon Coast in November
November

There are no holidays in the Oregon Coast in November

Other notable holidays

Best attractions for the Oregon Coast in November

Besides the array of exciting events and activities the Oregon Coast has to offer for travelers in November, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in the Oregon Coast that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in the Oregon Coast for November.
Haystack Rock
1. Haystack Rock
4.8
(10129)
Outdoor Activities
Beaches
Soaring shoreline rock formation in a dramatic setting offering low-tide access & marine activity.
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In August 2025, we visited Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach, Oregon. Haystack Rock is spectacular, as it accessible to the public, no cost to visit, and close to the beach. Birds fly around it and onto it, and the Pacific Ocean waves crashing on the rocks add to the ambiance. The surrounding rocks have visible starfish and seashells on them, as it was likely low tide. The Cannon Beach sand is packed down and easy to walk on. We went early in the morning, so the morning sun was behind us, and that improved our photography. Haystack Rock is an amazing place to visit and experience first-hand.
Haystack Rock is absolutely breathtaking! Standing on the beach with this giant sea stack in front of you feels magical. At low tide, the tidepools are full of colorful starfish, anemones, and other sea life, which makes it a great spot for families and nature lovers. The sunsets here are unforgettable — watching the sky change colors behind the rock is a must-see experience. The beach itself is wide, clean, and perfect for a long walk. It’s one of those iconic Oregon Coast landmarks that you just can’t miss!
Oregon coast is so beautiful! Nature at its finest straight out of the Goonies movie. The town is quaint and has a nice selection of shops and restaurants. Very relaxing and scenic. I hope to be able to come back again and stay overnight. Perfect spot for a vacation on the Pacific Ocean.
Haystack Rock is absolutely breathtaking! The towering rock formation rising out of the ocean is a true natural wonder, and the surrounding beach is stunning. Walking along the shore and watching the waves crash while seagulls and tidepool creatures thrive nearby is an unforgettable experience. The sunsets here are magical, casting incredible colors across the sky and water. A must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates the beauty and power of nature!
Beautiful place! The locals who live here are very lucky. We got to see at least 20 elk just chilling by the parking lot. Just watch out with the tides. We noticed a lot of people were trying to take pictures by the beach and were almost taken out the high tide waves. Also, there's quite a crowd in the evening for the sunset. Warning: my husband grabbed a "pebble" at the beach, but it wasn't a pebble, it was elk dookie.
Beautiful place. Difficult to find parking. You'll have to hike awhile along the road but when you get back to downtown, you can get a coffee and take a breath. We'll worth the steep stairs and trek up the hill to get down to the beach.
Cannon Beach is one of those rare places that feels almost unreal — a coastline carved by wind, mist, and time, yet soft enough to hold the most intimate moments with effortless grace. As a wedding photographer, I return here constantly — almost every month — drawn by its quiet luxury and the way the landscape transforms love into something cinematic. There’s a certain magic in the air: the whisper of the tide, the elegance of Haystack Rock rising like a monument, the endless horizon that makes every couple look like they’re standing inside a dream. This beach doesn’t just create a backdrop — it creates a feeling. A feeling of calm. Of depth. Of something timeless. The light here is extraordinary. Soft, diffused, almost velvety — the kind of light that wraps around a bride’s dress, catches a single tear, or turns a simple touch into the most ethereal moment. Every time I shoot here, I’m reminded why Cannon Beach is one of my favorite places on earth for love stories. And the people… gentle, warm, open. Couples come here to breathe, to reconnect, to escape the noise of the world — and my job is simply to honor that beauty with my camera. Some of my most iconic wedding images were born on this coastline. Cannon Beach is not just a location. It’s an experience. A luxury of nature. A place where emotions feel bigger, and love feels quieter — but deeper. And every time I leave, I already know I’ll be back again soon.
Great visit! Pro tip, we pulled into the neighborhood streets and asked to park there. Residents were so friendly they just said don't block a driveway. From there, any set of steps to the beach and you're there with a quick walk. Check the tide pools for starfish, crabs, and sea creatures. They're everywhere! Look for the birds on top of the rocks and on the sheer sides of the rocks as well. Also, we saw a Bald Eagle across the street in the tree lines. Definitely a great visit with iconic photos.
The Astoria Column
2. The Astoria Column
4.8
(9686)
Historical landmark
Nature & Parks
Built in 1926, this 126-ft. column features murals of Oregon history & an observation deck.
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Very nice! I went about a month ago and the views were very nice. The stairs really freaked me out, they seemed a bit rickety, but the view at the top was worth it. You can see the whole city ! The column was very pretty in itself, wonderful graphics on the exterior that reminded me a bit of the Coit Tower in San Francisco.
Beautiful 360 degree view of the area and Port Townsend from this vantage point. You can climb the "Column" for even a more unobstructed view, its 164 steps to the top, fairly narrow, but rest landings every 32 steps up the column. Nice diversion from downtown. There's a $5 admission charge, but I think its well worth it. There's a gift shop for souvenirs and refreshments. Go and enjoy.
I had a fantastic time visiting the Astoria Column! For just five bucks, you get plenty of parking and a chance to climb the 164 steps to the top. The view up there is absolutely stunning—you get this amazing panorama of lush green forests, the water, and the charming little town of Astoria below. The weather was perfect when I went, which made it even better. There’s also a cute little souvenir shop nearby where I picked up a hat as keepsakes. Overall, it was an amazing experience and I’d definitely recommend it!”
Like many I find Astoria to be a magical place. Home of the Goonies, Kindergarten Cop, and many other classics from the 80-90s. This city is also where the Colombia River meets the Pacific Ocean. The Astoria Column is yet but another Gem in the treasure of experiences to be discovered in this once pirate hub. In a nutshell, for a small fee ($5 I think) you can park at the column, enjoy a beautiful view, walk up the column and witness an even more breathtaking view. And. Yes. Be. Prepared. And. Bring. A. Toy. Paratrooper. Or. Airplane. In fact bring 2. Once at the top of the column you can launch them in to the air, watch, and be transformed back into a child, and bubble with delight. If you have the capacity (and you will as you are now a child once again), run back down to retrieve your flying toy (or find a new one on the ground), run back up, and launch it off the column again! This is a simple and magical experience for all ages. Consider having a picnic there as well. Enjoy! Hot Tips! *Yes there are bathrooms and clean ones at that. *There is a gift shop to buy airplanes. Paratroopers must be bought elsewhere though. (Gift shops in Seaside sell them). *Another must visit is the Wreck of the Peter Iredale. *Another must visit is the museum/Fratelli’s jail. Film your own movie clips and get behind the scenes of Goonies. *Another must visit is the Astoria bowling alley and another key Goonies location. *Yet another must visit is Fort George Brewing. They have at least 2 different kitchens. The top restaurant makes fantastic pizza (open different hours), family friendly, and spacious.
Beautiful view. They charge $5 per vehicle which is reasonable. The column itself is work of art. I did not climb up the steps to go to the top. The gift shop had a variety of items for sale. Very panoramic views on the sunny day I visited. Definitely worth doing once.
The Astoria Column is a pretty remarkable spot! Perched high above Astoria, Oregon, it gives sweeping views of the Columbia River, Youngs Bay, the Coast Range, and even out to the Pacific on clear days. The location is famously windy (many visitors bring or buy the small wooden gliders sold on site just to launch them from the top), which adds to the fun. The 125-foot column itself is decorated with a spiral mural illustrating major events in Pacific Northwest history, from Native cultures to the arrival of explorers and settlers. Climbing the spiral staircase to the top is a bit of a workout, but the payoff is the 360° panoramic vista—definitely one of the best in Oregon. It’s a spot that blends history, art, and natural beauty. Perfect for photos, picnics, or just watching the clouds roll across the river.
The view exceeded my expectations for sure. The payoff for climbing the 164 step spiral staircase is a fantastic panoramic view in every direction. This was on a clear summer day with visibility to the horizon. Highly recommend if you're in the area and can handle the narrow stairs. The column is bigger than you think and the detailed mural on the sides is impressive.
I hadn’t planned to visit the Astoria Column, but it’s clearly a local favorite — and for good reason. The $5 parking fee is a minor downside, but the panoramic view from the top more than makes up for it: you can spot four bridges spanning the river and surrounding landscape. I loved lounging on the sun-warmed slope below the tower; the gentle breeze was so relaxing I almost fell asleep. A peaceful, picture-perfect stop — well worth it.
Cannon Beach
3. Cannon Beach
Outdoor Activities
Beaches
Cannon Beach is a small coastal city in northwest Oregon. It’s known for its long, sandy shore. Standing tall in the ocean, Haystack Rock is a seasonal haven for tufted puffins. On a headland to the north, trails in Ecola State Park offer sweeping views of the ocean, coves and a lighthouse. South is Arcadia Beach, with tide pools and a picnic area. Nearby Hug Point has sea caves. Boutiques and galleries dot downtown.
Oregon Coast Aquarium
4. Oregon Coast Aquarium
4.3
(4024)
Aquarium
Nature & Parks
23-acre facility with northwestern birds & fish, seals, sea lions, jellyfish & a deepwater tank.
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One of the best aquariums I have been too. The aquarium is compact, with little to no walking time between exhibits. There is an outdoor section with the larger animals and an indoor with more smaller fish. There is a cool tide pool exhibit, and overall the experience was great! The staff were friendly and welcoming and answered all questions. They also have feeding times and presentations on the animals at each exhibit every few hours or so. Definitely recommend!
The aquarium was a really enjoyable experience. We especially loved the underwater tunnels and the creatively designed rock structures — they added a fun, immersive touch. The layout was spacious and open, which made it easy to explore without feeling crowded or constantly brushing past other visitors. One downside, though, was the limited number of exhibits. While the displays they do have are beautifully done and feature a few unique ocean creatures we haven’t encountered at other aquariums, we found ourselves finishing the entire visit in about 30 minutes. The art installations made from ocean trash were visually striking and carried an important message, but we would have preferred to see more live marine animals. Overall, it’s a well-designed space with a few standout features, but the small variety of exhibits left us wanting more.
This is a nice aquarium but very small. It was perfect for my 3 yr old grandson to get some exposure to sea life. Touching a starfish and experiencing the shark tunnel were his favorite things. While very nice, it’s no where near my favorite aquarium in Monterey Bay, CA.
Jellyfish, eels, sharks, anemone, sea otters, and perhaps most alarmingly, sturgeon! (Do you know how big those things get? And they are in the rivers around here.) Ample parking though it is a walk, even from ADA. Restrooms are nice and easy to find. Much of the interior path is gravel and can be a little uneven. Benches always seem easy to find. I would like to see more regular presentations and information about the wildlife. it would also be nice to know when those presentations were going to happen in advance, but I was not able to easily access that information. The gift shop seems nice, you are directed to walk through it on the way to leave, I did not stop to look at the prices. The price to get in is reasonable if a bit tough. They do have discounts for individuals in financial need with documentation, so you may want to look into that if you’d like to take your family, you can get half off of the regular price, but you have to buy your tickets there. The half off program does not apply to annual memberships.
The aquarium we visited was truly remarkable! We arrived just in time for the highly anticipated otter show, which captivated both kids and adults alike. The presentation delved into the fascinating history of otters and how these playful creatures came to reside in this particular aquarium. During the show, we witnessed expertly timed feedings and engaging discussions about sea otters, all of which were a delight to watch. As we continued our exploration of the aquarium, we were amazed by the incredible diversity of marine life on display. From the charming puffins, flapping their wings and diving into their habitats, to the sleek eels coiling through their tanks, and the graceful bat rays gliding elegantly through the water, there was something for everyone to marvel at. The entire experience is definitely worth a stop if you find yourself along the coast. It's an ideal destination for visitors of all ages, ensuring that everyone leaves with a sense of wonder and appreciation for the ocean's inhabitants!
After reading the reviews I was very excited about visiting here. $30 per person entrance is a little on the high side, but it's for the animals. They have much fewer exhibits than I expected and the number of animals was minimal. The touch tank is substantial with knowledgeable staff. Passages of the Deep was impressive, walking through the tunnel and being surrounded by fish, sharks and other creatures of the ocean. The have a lot of sculptures that are made from ocean trash which brings much needed awareness. The gift shop was completely off putting. Everything was WAY over priced. Many items were just generic that I could get anywhere. I my expectations also might have been higher after experiencing NYC, San Diego, Seattle & Vancouver, and unfortunately this couldn't hold candle to any of those. Overall it wasn't bad, but I wouldn't go back.
Highly recommend visiting UNLESS you have a disabled person in your party. Several parents also complained about stroller accessibility. The paths are small gravel, most of it NOT hard packed. So it is nearly impossible to push a wheelchair through. The restrooms labeled handicap also do not allow a wheelchair to get in, much less into a stall. I'm pretty disappointed for such a modern facility and one such as this. I would have still rated higher but im pretty disappointed the person who sold us our tickets didn't warn us. Also there is no warning that I saw online. These days, it's pretty safe to assume a public facility like this would be handicap accessible. It just plain is not. It left a bad taste in my mouth that the gift shop staff just sat there watching us struggle to open the door against the wind and push the wheelchair out. There was nobody in line to pay. A little thoughtfulness would have gone a long way. It's sort of chaps your hide when they have a kid in a wheelchair as part of their display and they do that. Throughout the park, several staff apologized and explained part of the two year plan is to pave the paths. Again...we would have appreciated knowing that before purchasing tickets. Only other negative comment is I wish they had staff more spread throughout the aquarium. Not just to educate but also to help control the badly parented children who shriek nonstop, bang on the glass and stomp on the floor glass. It actually ruined the experience completely. Screaming kids is one thing but paying to be stuck in a glass tunnel with them squealing at the top of their lungs nonstop is entirely another. I get that kids are a part of the targeted customer group but they shouldn't be allowed to wreck the experience for adults. It wasnxt just a few, excited outbursts, which is to be expected. It was all-out screaming nonstop from a handful of kids. That really needs to be managed by staff if the parents won't. It isn't acceptable. They shouldn't be allowed to wreck it for other paying customers like that. Other than that, the place is absolutely gorgeous and the staff is knowledgeable and eager to share their knowledge.
Cool Aquarium 😎 🦈🐙🦭🪼 No overly large attractions, but the displays and smaller attractions were worth the trip. Definitely worth taking the kids, our son had a great time 👨‍👩‍👦
Ecola State Park
5. Ecola State Park
4.8
(4206)
State park
Nature & Parks
Dramatic 7-mile trail with views of Haystack Rock, a lighthouse & isolated beaches.
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Beautiful park with incredible views. The drive into the park was really nice with the lush green and ocean views the entire way. I went after Cannon Beach and didn't have much time but the viewpoints and short trails to the water was worth the trip. I wish I had more time to explore the park, but the small part I saw was worth the trip.
Beautiful park with stunning views and the drive to the trails were lush with trees, ferns and thick with forest floor undercover. The trails are just as thick with trees and ferns. We're out of state and gladly paid the $12.00 to park. Since we're new to the area we weren't quite sure if we were turning on the correct road to enter. As we were turning slowly into the park we were met by a park ranger leaving and he motioned for us to roll our window down. He proceeded to tell us "that it would be nice if we used our blinker when we turned." It would've been "nice" if he chose to be "nice". Next time when we come to Oregon and visit your beautiful park we'll make sure we use our blinker since we will be familiar where to turn. Have a "nice" day!
Always enjoy our visit to this park. Beautiful drive from Cannon Beach thru moss covered forest. The road is narrow with lots of curves and they recommend no trailers. There is plenty of parking especially at Indian Beach. Lots of open space at the park along with picnic tables. Spectacular views of the lighthouse, ocean, Haystack rock and rhe Needles. Parking permit required and can be purchased at self-service kiosk.
A gorgeous view! The drive through the trees to get here is so lovely, too. A must visit spot if you're in the area. Very short drive out of Cannon Beach.
I'm a Goonie at heart and this is what brought us here but.... It's simply breathe taking. Clean public restrooms, pay to use park, and you could just take it all in all day. I can see why this place was chosen to be in a movie!! Definitely a must just to take in the pure beauty of Oregon!
We went here on our weekend in Oregon. Easy to find with Google maps, there is a $5 entrance fee. After walking around and taking in the views we walked down the trail to Indian Beach. Worth the stop!
Such a beautiful place! Gorgeous nature, interesting spots to see, and plenty of space for a nice walk. Truly worth visiting
The drive in was beautiful, paved all but about a 10th of a mile. We went all the way out to a large parking lot and found a spot - was surprisingly busy for a Tuesday at noon (but maybe thats normal?) We went just to view the lighthouse and were not disappointed! Luckily we only had to walk a hundred or so feet into the grass to see the lighthouse, we had a twisted ankle in the group. Part of the movie The Goonies was filmed from up there, reccomend any fan stop for a peek! Can see haystack rock too! Next time we'll take a trail out farther! There are restrooms by the parking lot - no need to hike almost to the point!
Columbia River Maritime Museum
6. Columbia River Maritime Museum
4.7
(4206)
Museum
Nature & Parks
30,000-object collection covering fishing, shipping & military history in a harborfront building.
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In June 2025, we crossed the extensive Lewis & Clark Bridge across the Columbia River and arrived in Astoria, Oregon. The Columbia River is beautiful and many miles wide at this point. We continued to drive on the Astoria Main Street, and we stopped to look at the Columbia River Maritime Museum. It was about 8 PM or so, and the Maritime Museum was closed. However, the Maritime Museum outdoor scenery and decorations were amazing and captured our attention. I would love to patronize this Maritime Museum someday in the future, and return to Astoria, Oregon to see more of the scenery and the mighty Columbia River. This Maritime Museum had great outdoor decorations and an amazing view of the Lewis & Clark Bridge.
Museum fees $18 adults $15 seniors. Estimated tour time 1-1.5 hrs. Includes pass to visit the "Colombia" and old Coast Guard cutter. American Cruise lines sternwheeler was in Port. Active vessel cruises to/from Richland. Approx 7 day trip on Columbia River.
Nice! Exhibits are spaced nicely with a good focus on Astoria. Although I look forward to the expansion, I was very disappointed in the payment system. The ancient slide wouldn't work for my card. A tap to pay system needs to be installed. The box office personnel were very friendly and helpful! Very much appreciated the welcoming attitude. Lovely variety in the gift shop. I learned a lot about the maritime history of this part of the coast!
September 2025 - Visited the museum and found it mostly interesting, but it seemed to be more of a 'dead ship' museum than a Maritime Museum, we liked the Garibaldi Maritime Museum as it gave more info and had better maritime displays. This museum seemed to be built around the various shipwrecks of the past decades and how each occured. It was somewhat heavy in Coast Guard operations as well.
Excellent Exhibits! The Lightship was cool to walk through. Ticket is included in admission or $5 on own. The movies are timed, select times at admission for ticket(s). The two 3D movies, additionsl $5, each. Poor 3D, but good films on arctic and aircraft carriers. You can reenter museum and take as long as you want. Plenty for kids to interact in pilot house exhibits and activity room. Give time to go through, watch movied, tour ship and experience exhibits. I was there 3-4 hours and did it all.
This place was amazing! There was so much to see and learn about. Give yourself a couple hours to be able to see it all. We also walked through the Lightship Columbia and toured the engine room. Such a great experience that even the kids loved.
Well presented history of the Coast Guard and Fishermen experience where the Colum loved thebia meets the Pacific. Loved the life sized exhibits and the detailed exhibit notes and commentary.
Spent 4 hours walking around and reading all their displays. Great mix of information and large scale displays. And our tickets got us access to the Lights hip. Take the engine room tour, worth the extra time
Yaquina Head Marine Garden
7. Yaquina Head Marine Garden
Wildlife refuge
Nature & Parks
Visitors can explore coastal sealife at this outcrop of the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area.
Sea Lion Caves
8. Sea Lion Caves
4.4
(7053)
Nature & Parks
Caverns & Caves
Sea lions frequent this privately owned wildlife preserve & bird sanctuary offering tours.
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10/10 highly recommend!! You may call in advance to get more information. The best time to visit is late November through April, when the seals are abundant. It is still a great place to visit during the off season. I highly recommend spending time (and money) in the gift shop. The staff are so friendly and so helpful! We appreciate them the most 🥰
We visited Valentine’s day weekend of ‘25 and it was so worth it! You can see hundreds of sea lions lounge in the caves while babies play together in the water. They also had an interesting documentary playing with other boards covered in fun facts. Viewing area is small so avoid peak hours! In the cave is also a stunning viewpoint of the cliffs of the gorgeous Oregon coast! Loved it!
A very cool stop! We were here in mid October and the sea lions weren't there. They let us know before we purchased the tickets and then gave us a ticket to come back within 12 months of our visit to try seeing them again, which was so nice. Still, the views were worth the stop! But!! If you want to see the sea lions, take a left out of the property (or a right if you parked across the street) and drive maybe 2-3 minutes of the road. There will be a pull off on the left hand side, same side as the water, where you can see (and hear) where the sea lions are hanging out! (Pictures attached)
One of the coolest places I’ve been! There is an admission price to take the elevator into the cave, but it was absolutely worth it even though the sea lions weren’t there this time of year. 100% worth stopping to check out, if only for the gorgeous views!
We were here in November = no seals in the cave. They did give us a $2 off each entry but I still feel it's a bit high priced. That being said, we did enjoy the cave itself and the lighthouse view even without the seals. There were a couple seals fishing outside the cave on way to the elevator. We will return to experience the seals
OVERALL: Fantastic experience. We were not sure if there would be many sea lions to see but we were wrong. There were sooo many sea lions! Apparently they are always around. Either hanging out in the cave keeping safe from predators, or sunning/mating outside in another viewing location. Most are not very active but there are always a few barking at each other and climbing around the rocks. PARKING: Depending on time if year I can see parking being challenging. There are 2 smaller lower parking lots, plus a larger upper. The upper is steep and requires a bit of hike back down so be prepared to walk a bit. DON'T FORGET: Bring a jacket or sweatshirt. Even during the summer it's still very windy and cool. Binoculars are also a great idea since the sea lions are still pretty far away. There were binoculars available for rental when we were there but I'm guessing they may also have a limited supply. ACCESSIBLITY: Pending where you park it's a bit of a steep walk to the gift shop. Since this is all built on a hill side the walk down to see the sea lions is also a bit steep. Just outside the gift shop are 2 options, a view of the outside where dozens of sea lions are sunning, or down an elevator (+200ft) to the amazing cave with a deck for viewing the sea lions, small museum with a 6min video, fossils, a hike up several flights to see so many birds and a lighthouse off in the distance. GIFT SHOP: The gift shop has pop
Such a cool place to look at the sea lions!! I've seen them in San Diego and in Newport, Oregon, but this was super cool!! You pay to go down this cool elevator and actually enter a cave around sea-level where you can see the sea lions!! That was so unique, there aren't any other places that will take you down that far. There were so many cute sea lions when we were there, it was absolutely stunning to see them in their natural habitat!! There were also cool exhibits where you could see skeletons of real sea lions, and two great places for picture opportunities! When going back up the elevator, we went to another viewpoint and got to see even MORE sea lions from a distance!! I paid a quarter for the viewing machine, and wow, it was a great view!! Overall it's a great place to see the sea lions WITHOUT worrying about them being in captivity. Gift shop was also really cute too!
Was so awesome to go into the cave today, even though there was no sea lions in it. They gave us a rain check for another time free. Still the beauty of the cave was worth going!
Newport Historic Bayfront
9. Newport Historic Bayfront
4.7
(1110)
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Buzzing dockside area of gift shops, art galleries & seafood restaurants, with resident sea lions.
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Stunning bay views. Nice walk deck and lots of benches to sit down and enjoy views. Always smells like sea food but what do you expect.
It’s always worth a stop in Historic Newport Bay on a beautiful day. Walk around the shops, checking out the harbor seals and buying some fudge at 2 kids Candy store.
Great place to sit or to take a stroll. Plenty of stores to do a little window shopping and places to eat. We got to encounter some seals up close, which was pretty cool to experience.
What an awesome experience! We walked through the many stores and art galleries, bought fish from a fishing boat, and ate at the Clearwater Restaurant. The restaurant is on the bay with views of the seals and marine vessels coming in and out of the harbor. When you walk down the bay front, they have about a 100 benches dedicated to people who passed. There are historical placards that explain the history of the dedications and how the benches are being refurbished. This is well worth a day trip!
We visited Newport during weekdays. It was not crowded. We got to try food from the restaurants and walked around looking for sea lions. Lots of tourists made it a point to take photos with these sea lions. 😉
It's pretty cool, the sea lions were one of the main reasons for our trip there. Weather was nice and there were a lot of local sourced seafood restaurants.
Beautiful place, so many cool fishing vessels, bright colors and artwork! The sea lions were cool. Parking was only $1 per hour where I parked.
Loved it here. Has shops, food, and you can walk the docks. Great place to see the seals and sea lions.
Yaquina Bay Lighthouse
10. Yaquina Bay Lighthouse
4.6
(1138)
State park
Sights & Landmarks
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This historic lighthouse is definitely worth a quick visit. It has a great view and lots of interesting historically accurate artifacts. There are lots of signs that explain things and there was also a nice volunteer who was available to answer questions when I was there. I really enjoyed learning about the family that lived there and the duties of the keeper. The building was recently restored so now is a great time to visit even if you have seen it before.
At this time (Aug '25), the lighthouse is fenced off during refurbishment. Still, there the car park is open and the views are awesome!
Beautiful views, reasonably priced and very interesting
The lighthouse is newly renovated and is looking amazing! This has always been a must stop for my family on every trip to the Oregon Coast.
I have always loved this lighthouse. Since my youth this was always a fun place to visit. The ghost story was always a ton of fun. What's changed? No more access to the basement or the actual light. The gift shop is gone. The house is in desperate need of some tlc. The paint is suffering. But, it still holds all the imagination and fun wonderful things that have made this a life long go to spot. Beautiful places to take photos. Great picnic areas.
Beautiful setting. On the day we went, we couldn't go inside the lighthouse. But the tide pools down below are absolutely amazing. We spent the majority of our time down here. The have a nice dog area off the main parking area, so you can bring pups if you want, but not down to the tide pool area. Great for kids and adults alike. Plenty of parking.
Such a beautiful location. The lighthouse has been kept up nicely. Definitely brings you back in time. I believe that it is volunteers who are on site should you have any questions. You can not go up to the light but you can walk through the 2 floors of living space that gives you an ideas of the time period when people lived on site. There is a garden on site but it has not been kept up at this time. Restrooms on site is a good thing. It is in a park like setting that you can walk to from town or to the bay.
I like to park near park entrance and walk in. You see and explore more that way. Low tide is good tide pooling near lighthouse.
Seaside Aquarium
11. Seaside Aquarium
4.1
(5752)
Aquarium
Nature & Parks
Small aquarium opened in 1937 showcasing seals, an underwater exhibit & a touch tank.
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Great experience! We got to feed the seals for $2 a plate of fish! We also got to look at some of the aquatic life that is home to the area. In total we got the family bundle which was $36 for a maximum of 6 people. Great price!! Don't expect a huge huge Aquarium, small but sweet
My teen daughter LOVED feeding the seals. The giant pacific octopus was beautiful and active. The signage above all the tanks was helpful. The staff at the touch tanks were informative and patient. Would definitely recommend this place to visitors.
Was really fun to feed the seals 🦭. For two dollars for about six pieces of fish. Although the actual aquarium part I would describe as a moist cave. Was small dark wet and very smelly. Has a lot of interesting information about the aquarium life. All around I spent $20 to get in $12 in fish to feed seals and a fortune at the gift shop.
We just stumbled upon this aquarium while on our visit to the Oregon coast. If you’re looking for a conservation type aquarium and want to see happy animals, this is not it. It is dark and depressing inside. The tanks for the animals are small/crowded. The touch tank is small with a lot of starfish which was fun for probably 20 seconds. There is an open tank/enclosure in the center of the room that has small sharks that look dead. The seal enclosure has way too many seals and is very small. The aquarium hands you a pamphlet upon entry explaining the conditions for the seals. It says that the seals have a large dry space in the back but choose to be in the public viewing area. It also says that the seals are not released into the wild because studies show that after 1 year in captivity the seals would be less likely to survive in the wild. However, they explain that they have bred all their seals in captivity for years. Meaning these seals have never been outside, some being over 20 years old.
During our recent visit to the Seaside Aquarium, I had mixed feelings about the experience. On one hand, I appreciated the opportunity for our family to learn about a variety of marine life. It’s always good to have a place where children can be exposed to ocean species up close and gain a better understanding of the coastal ecosystem. That being said, there were some noticeable drawbacks that were hard to ignore. The biggest issue I observed was the seal enclosure, which felt far too small for the number of seals housed there. It seemed crowded, and I couldn’t help but wonder about the quality of life for the animals in such a confined space. Additionally, the overall condition of the aquarium left something to be desired. One of the tanks appeared to be leaking, and there were several areas that looked worn down or in need of repair. The facility gave off the impression of being somewhat dated and in need of refurbishment. However, there were still some positives to our visit. I particularly enjoyed the story of Victor the Lobster, which added a fun and memorable element to the experience. Overall, while educational, the aquarium clearly could benefit from some upgrades.
Small but super fun aquarium right in the middle of downtown Seaside. Very reasonable price for admission and for the fish to feed the seals. The little octopus was very active when we were visiting, which was really awesome. Feeding the seals was also really cool. Definitely worth a visit.
It's a nice little aquarium. The displays tanks are clean and you can spot the fish and crabs easily. Be sure to purchase seal food to feed the seals. Watch out, they like to splash you. Tip: Look for the coupons in the aquarium brochures around town.
The aquarium is a pleasant stop along the promenade. The seals were especially entertaining, and the octopus was fascinating to watch. It’s reasonably priced and makes for a good short visit. Be aware there are no restrooms on site, so plan ahead.
Heceta Head Lighthouse
12. Heceta Head Lighthouse
4.8
(2474)
Sights & Landmarks
Hiking area
This working 19th-century lighthouse is now home to a B&B with 6 rooms offering scenic views.
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I have just returned from my daughter’s wedding that was held at the beautiful Heceta Lighthouse and B&B on the Oregon Coast. It was a very small wedding but boy was it a magical and amazing day! I cannot rave enough about the staff that went out of their way to make sure my daughter’s wedding day was a day to remember! The views from both the B&B and lighthouse are breathtaking taking, the 7 course breakfast and wedding dinner was simply excellent! Every detail was handled by the staff and chef’s like a well oiled machine! They were always professional and very detailed. I can’t thank them enough for making this very special event so magical! Thank you to Misty, Gary, David, Michelle, Jane and Cecily I hope I got the names correct and did not forget anyone. You all have a passion for what you do and really make your guests comfortable! I would strongly urge anyone to experience this location and checkout their different packages and stay options. You will not regret it.
As part of a family reunion trip we visited the Heceta Head Lighthouse with 16 people, including four children under 13 years old and a nine month old baby. We spent several hours at this magical place making lifetime memories. For older folks or anyone who struggles with uneven surfaces, the hike up the hill overlooking the lighthouse may be too challenging. There is bench seating, restrooms, and helpful park staff at ground level next to the lighthouse. You can visit the ground floor of the lighthouse to speak with wonderful volunteers about the lighthouse history. The stairs to the top of the lighthouse are not open to the public. Your experience at the lighthouse that overlooks Heceta beach will change with the weather. We arrived to overcast skies with fog and temp in the high 50s. Two hours later the sun was out with temp in the low 70s and we were peeling off layers of clothing. The parking lot in front of the beach was full. There is overflow parking across the street, under the bridge. We somehow missed any signs about paid parking ($10, I think) and had a ticket when we returned to our car. Not a big deal at all. We are happy to support Oregon State Parks. I highly recommend making time to visit Heceta. The drive from whichever direction you approach the park is also beautiful.
Heceta Head park and lighthouse are always amazing every time we visit. Typically fall is very quiet, but weather still wonderful and sunny. Trail to lighthouse is well kept, definitely an incline to get there, but not far. Spectacular views from the top. Well appointed gift shop midway if you need a stop. Visiting here never gets old!
One of the best places to visit in Oregon. Really lovely views and the hike from the lighthouse to Hobbit Beach is fun too! Make sure to pay the parking fee, but otherwise entry to the lighthouse is free when it's open and they might tell you about the history of the spot. We've visited several times over the last 3 years and we love it. There's a cute B&B on-site that we haven't stayed at but the photos are pretty and we've heard it's a nice place to stay from a couple we met on the trail once.
The hike up is not only fairly easy, but it’s scenic too! We went at around 10:00 - 11:00 am and it was foggy. The hike up is about half a mile, though it’s windy and goes uphill. There is no to very weak cell service, so be prepared. Once you get to the top, there’s also more trails that go further up the hill near the lighthouse itself. You’ll get better views there. However, there’s some steep drop-offs as you climb up with no barriers, and it might pose a risk if someone trips on a stick or something. Try not to drop anything if you’re climbing up those trails, and keep a close eye on children. Though I would’ve liked the weather to be clear and sunny, the fog just made things even better! There are picnic tables near the beach at the start of the trail, and there’s also a restroom.
I visited here the middle of august. By 10:00 a.m. there weren't any parking spots. You can park along the 101 in a large pull off. Southbound lane at the entrance of the park. There is an easy walk up to the lighthouse and another trail that goes up higher and above it for great vistas. Super busy in the summer but worth it. Great views of the historic Bridge built in the 1930s.
So beautiful! The parking can be tricky so get there early! Great beach access. Easy, short trail to the lighthouse. Amazing gift shop that’s 1/2 half way up the trail. Volunteers are super friendly and helpful.
It was a cool little destination. Short walk up the easy to find trail to the lighthouse and you can walk around inside and see all the history. The old lighthouse watchers home is now a bed and breakfast that is private. There is a cool bridge with a nice little beach river outlet area if you want to play in the waves too.
Chinook Winds Casino Resort
13. Chinook Winds Casino Resort
4.1
(14907)
Casino
Fun & Games
Beachfront property featuring a low-key hotel with an indoor pool & an adjacent 24-hour casino.
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Beach front rooms are unbelievable for what you can pay. Lots of room rate specials . The staff at front desk , Nick , and the rest of team fantastic. Clean beach , almost private like. Seafood Grill is a good America food restaurant. Big portions of homemade style dishes. Most of all ,Pet friendly !!! Casino and Golf Course not bad either. 20yrs and we go as often as possible.
We had the best time at Chinook Winds Resort! We stayed for the Battle4Eagle bodybuilding show and the staff was great but the highlight of our stay was the beds!!! They were the most comfortable beds we had ever had experienced. I brought my own sheets because of the tan which is already makes it awkward to sleep but those beds were so comfortable I actually fell asleep quickly! And that’s saying something coming from me who suffers from the worst insomnia that gets worse when I’m stressed. Thank y’all for the best sleep me and my husband have gotten in years!! Listening to the ocean all night helped too…. But the beds!!! Did i mention the beds??? The pic is the view from the room! It’s so beautiful and peaceful there🥰
Room was clean and comfortable with fireplace and oceanview balcony. Service was friendly, courteous and prompt. Our 2 queen beds were very comfy. Enjoyed the placement of couch near balcony and fireplace as it was cozy with a view of the ocean. Will stay here again.
This is specifically reviewed for Siletz Bay Cafe – who's mission statement should read something like this: "Siletz Bay Cafe: come for the food, stay for the disappointment. Expect terrible service, *false menu promises, bad math, and a manager whose attitude could give Gordon Ramsay a complex." What used to be a buffet still runs like one — complete with below-subpar buffet-style service, just minus the actual buffet. This was the single worst dining experience five of us have ever encountered. From painfully slow service and missing food to a bill full of errors, the entire experience was a masterclass in how not to run a restaurant. Once the order finally arrived, we were missing one of the four. We brought it to their attention, then we waited...and waited, and waited some more. Getting up to inquire about the missing order, it is brought to the table (after the meal was mostly finished) and then the bill came. When we were handed the bill, we were told we’d been erroneously charged for three items instead of two. The bill had supposedly been corrected — they added a “payment” for the extra item — and while the subtotal looked accurate, the grand total still included the overcharge. When the manager finally arrived to address the issues, she came in full-blown attitude mode, offering more questions than answers and managing to take absolutely zero accountability. *false menu promises: their “grilled cheesy cornbread toast” was grilled, vaguely cheesy, and absolutely not cornbread — just toast wearing the faint memory of cheese from the bottom of some frying pan.
The security guards do not know how to do their jobs! They also like to follow you and harass you if you look younger than 50. I’ve been here 3-4 times each time I spend over 200$ and win nothing. I wouldn’t come here. Whoever was in the patrol car at about 7pm on 10/31/25 needs to get some more training and possibly a work out routine. When we had enough of chinook and their profiling ways we went to spirit mountain and actually won money. If you want to have a good time and have a decent chance at winning at least something go to spirit mountain or three rivers. They obviously have the wrong priorities and busy nights and don’t know how to handle it.
Isn't in my top 10 favorite casino's. And I think if you drive all the way down to the beach with your family why would you want to go gamble? Spend quality time with family make good memories. That's my take on it.
After driving 8 hours to have an anniversary stay and promised a king room on the top floor and ocean view suite.....we were assigned a 3 Rd floor and double queen beds. Not cool. We were extremely disappointed and the desk held was sadly cold and uncaring. Don't be surprised if you end up sleeping in your car with this kind of Hotel.
Loved our stay here! The rooms are spacious, clean & comfortable! Plenty of towels and soap! Free coffee every morning. We had an ocean view and it was absolutely gorgeous!! Cons: -Rooms are Not in the casino itself (but view of the ocean makes up for it & shuttle on property) -pool is in another building -registration is in different building
Cape Perpetua Scenic Area
14. Cape Perpetua Scenic Area
5.0
(6)
Vista point
Outdoor Activities
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Breath taking beauty!
Great mix of waves and tide pools, alongside old growth forest, with wonderful views
High Life Adventures Zip Line Tours
15. High Life Adventures Zip Line Tours
4.9
(878)
Tours
Restaurant
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This place is absolutely amazing, my wife and I did the zip line tour for our anniversary. It's such a gorgeous place and the staff is great. Hannah and Carter were so patient and funny, they are wonderful teachers. I would recommend High Life Adventures Zip Lines to anyone. Thank you staff for making our anniversary that much more special.
This was a whole experience, the place was beautiful, the staff were extremely nice! This is a great place to take anyone to enjoy! They go over safety, and the staff are very witty. You can tell they love their job. I would recommend this place to everyone! If you've never ziplined before, this is a perfect place to go. You won't be disappointed.
If I could give 10 stars I would…and it still might not be enough. My wife and I had a blast!! Our first time zip-lining and this will definitely be a core memory for us. The course was amazing, putting you into the wilderness and experiencing different lengths, speeds, and abilities! We got a chance to speak with the owner and they have plans for more fun options as well! They are currently working on a rock climbing wall for adults and one for children. He even mentioned potentially getting a mechanical bull! Finally our instructors were amazing!! Carter and Ryan made the entire experience all the better. They were fun, personable, playful, and hilarious. They did a great job walking everyone through how to wear the gear, demonstrating what to do and not do, making sure we were safe and secure the entire trip. More than that, they kept it fun with their wit and humor. Truly one of the highlights of the entire experience! If you have the option to visit we would highly recommend it. You will have fun and an amazing experience to look back on. We will definitely be returning next time we are in the area!
Absolutely amazing experience from start to finish! This zip lining adventure was one of the highlights of our trip and something our whole family will remember forever. Safety was clearly their top priority, from the detailed briefing at the beginning to the constant attentiveness of the guides, we felt completely secure every step of the way. The staff was knowledgeable, professional, and incredibly friendly, making sure everyone felt comfortable and confident before taking off. And the views? Absolutely unreal. Soaring through the treetops with panoramic vistas stretching in every direction, it felt like flying. Each line had its own unique perspective, and the scenery was nothing short of breathtaking. What really stood out was how family-friendly the whole experience was. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or a bit more cautious, the team was great at encouraging everyone at their own pace. It was the perfect blend of adventure, fun, and nature. We can’t recommend this place highly enough. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with kids, this is a must-do. We’ll definitely be back!
Okay, this place is ACTUALLY amazing!! I've been ziplining in Big Bear, but that's nothing compared to the experience we had at High Life Adventures! We went on the 8-Line Tour, and paid extra to go on the Zwing at the end, and it was totally worth it!! First of all, our guides Logan and Carter, had a great sense of humor and were very informative on how to have the best time on the ziplines. In addition, and I can't state this enough, the VIEWS!! Wow, they were spectacular!! Zipping through all the beautiful trees and the huge lake nearby was so amazing! Lastly, the Zwing was something I'll never forget! It felt scary yet amazing to jump off of that ledge and zip back and forth over the lake and all the way to the other side. We just had the best time here, and I would recommend anyone to zipline here!! It was so fun and so worth it!! (also, getting wet during one of the ziplines and having a little surprise at the end was super fun!!)
This is such a fun place! We brought our kids here 10 years ago when we used to vacation up here from AZ, but now we live in Warrenton and I brought my 79 year old mother-in-law here for an adventure! It was every bit as fun as I remember! You start off with a quick safety and instruction period, and then get harnessed up. Each group has two guides, and ours were awesome! We had Ethan and ?? (I'm so embarrassed I can't remember her name!) and they were so fun and entertaining! There were 9 total people in our adventure group , which made it fun. There are 8 different zip lines, with the first 4 kind of designed to break you in, and the last 4 being longer and from higher ground. Be prepared to walk short distances with steep inclines. Some of them will have you breathing a little hard by the time you get to the next zip! At least half of them went over water at some point. One if them towards the end will allow you to get absolutely soaked, or you can choose to stay 100% dry. One kid in our group decided he wanted the full dunk, and Ethan did not disappoint! It was rather entertaining to the rest of us! The last zip releases from 80' up and allows you to add a 'zwing' free fall where tie like a 20' strap to your zip line, which allows you to free fall for a second and then swing wildly back and forth as you zip over a lake. My mother-in-law was a little hesitant to go on this adventure with me, but absolutely loved every aspect of it! She loved it so much she tipped our two guides $100! Although the price might seem steep, it's worth every penny! You won't regret it!
Great place, great people, great experience!!! D and Jake were our guides and they made the experience safe, humorous, and entertaining. I’d never gone ziplining before. It is terrifying and insanely fun! Also, did the zwing. Worth the little bit extra money! What a feeling flying through the air, safely! Jaycey was the handler on this line, she was also so friendly, thorough in her safety, and made it fun. Thank you High Life Adventures!
From my 12 year olds perspective: Logan and D make the tour much more fun with their jokes! They should get a raise! Especially D since he’s afraid of heights! We had an amazing time!!! We will definitely be back and will recommend to everyone we know!!
Fort Stevens State Park
16. Fort Stevens State Park
4.7
(7266)
State park
Nature & Parks
3,763-acre park with beaches, hiking & biking trails, a historic fortress & a 1906 shipwreck.
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What a beautiful place. If you’re in the area, it is a must. There are so many beautiful spots. You can literally spend all day here and never get bored. The beaches are great- the sand is unique and very dark, almost black. I definitely plan on visiting this state park again
Very cool state park with quite a few stops to see old bunkers. Dogs were allowed at the sites which was great for us. They have Hiking trails between each site that are completely paved. Across the street from the visitor center was an area to rent bikes. It would be very easy to ride between each site. The beach was incredible and you can drive on the beach. The old ship wreck is worth the stop. A huge highlight - we were also able to see whales off shore when at the beach! We visited in mid July.
Did my self-tour of Fort Stevens State Park on the only sunny day whole staying at the campground. Plenty of military history, but I most enjoyed the shipwreck beach, the south jetty, and the beaches along the mouth of the Columbia River. Worth your time and visit. (If you are already a paid guest at the campground, all other parking permit fees in the park are covered.)
What a great campground! We don't spend much time in campgrounds but we were thrilled with our experience here. Lots of walking and biking trails and the beach is just a thirty minute hike on great trails. My favorite part of our stay was the laughter from the groups of children as they played together and rode their bicycles.
Nice state park. Beautiful beach. The beach is 20-30 minute walk from the campground or a short drive. Fort Stevens historical site was fun and free to visit. Camping was nice and the staff are friendly and keep everything clean. The sunsets are wonderful!
Beautiful! So much to see and so much history. A large herd of elk was there to watch too. If you go remember to enjoy the elk from a safe distance only. Don't pit stress on them. They are strong, wild animals and can injure you!
Loved the biking trails and beaches! It gets busy on the weekends, it’s a popular park, but lots to do and enjoy! the visitors center folks were very helpful, and I bought my Oregon coast pass there. If you’re heading down the coast, it’s good to have as it gives you free access to most of the coastal state parks along the 101.
Beautiful Park , Well Maintained with Friendly and Efficient Park Personnel. *********Huge disc golf layout---stop at park office for loads of info!!!!!!!*************** Restrooms available in many locations--pick up a map at the ranger station. Elk viewing. Mushroom picking Final take---Highly Recommended
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