After spending a week in Seattle, Kel and I set out on our first Oregon Coast road trip together, a four-day journey that would take us from the city to the sea and down one of the most scenic coastlines in America.
Kel was especially excited to revisit Oregon's north coast and show me more of the central coast, while I was eager to see filming locations from one of my favorite childhood movies, "The Goonies."
View of Cannon Beach and sea stacks from Ecola State Park
At 7:30 a.m. on a Sunday, we picked up our rental car (a sexy red minivan) in downtown Seattle and drove three hours south to Astoria, Oregon. We spent two nights in Cannon Beach and one night in Otter Creek before heading inland to Portland.
Although the coast offers nearly endless opportunities for hiking and outdoor adventure, this trip was more about taking in the views, coastal towns, and easy scenic drives-an accessible and rewarding way to experience the Oregon Coast in just a few days.
To give you a bird's-eye view of our route, I've put together the highlights from our trip in the map below.
Welcome to Astoria
As we rolled into Astoria, I played "So Long, Astoria" by The Ataris. Founded in 1811, Astoria is the oldest American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains.
Strategically located where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean, it played a key role in the fur trade, fishing, and timber industries that fueled the region's early growth.
Today, Astoria is known for its Victorian architecture, steep hills, and maritime culture, which is showcased at the Columbia River Maritime Museum.
The city also draws visitors for its arts scene, craft breweries, and pop culture fame as a filming location for "The Goonies" and other hit movies (including "Short Circuit," "Kindergarten Cop," and "Free Willy").
Pier 39
Our first stop in Astoria was Pier 39. It was once home to the Union Fish Cannery, one of many canneries that lined the Columbia River in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
At its peak, the cannery processed large quantities of salmon caught in the river's strong currents, helping Astoria earn its nickname as the "Salmon Canning Capital of the World."
Today, the restored pier preserves that legacy with a mix of shops and the Rogue Public House (craft brewery), offering visitors a chance to experience Astoria's working waterfront history firsthand.
Kel joined me as I grabbed a cappuccino at the busy Coffee Girl cafe, which was named in honor of the women who used to work at the cannery.
Another reason I wanted to stop at Pier 39 was the chance to see sea lions. And while we could hear them barking from a nearby dock, they were too far away to get a good look.
Mikey's house in "The Goonies"
Next, I visited the house featured at the beginning of "The Goonies," which is perched on a hill at 368 38th St. Signs at the bottom suggest they've been receiving curious film fans for many years.
The signs instruct you to park at the bottom of the hill and walk up, keep pets on a leash, maintain a low noise level, and be respectful.
News of a sequel to "The Goonies" has been circulating online throughout 2025. According to Deadline, the scriptwriter submitted a first draft by August, and several of the original actors expressed enthusiasm for the project.
The northern shore of Astoria is full of restaurants, bars, and cafes, so deciding where to eat lunch wasn't an easy decision.
I suggested the two-story Fort George Brewery, where we got a delicious hot-from-the-oven pizza and cold cider. If you prefer to be on the river, there's also Astoria Brewing Company.
Oregon Film Museum
After lunch, we visited the Oregon Film Museum, whose facade features in the opening of "The Goonies." Here you can see the original black 4x4 owned by the Fratelli's, complete with bullet holes in the back.
The museum costs $6 to enter, which I was happy to pay. Inside, you'll see memorabilia from the movie in a couple of tiny jail cells.
The Astoria Column
Our last stop in Astoria before continuing south along the Oregon Coast was the Astoria Column. Completed in 1926, it stands 125 feet tall atop Coxcomb Hill.
The column commemorates key moments in Oregon's early history, from the Lewis and Clark Expedition to the arrival of settlers via the Oregon Trail. Its spiral mural wraps around the column in a continuous frieze, telling the story of the Pacific Northwest's development.
Visitors who climb its 164 steps are rewarded with panoramic views of Astoria, the Columbia River, and the Pacific Ocean.
View of the Columbia River from the parking lot.
It took us about 45 minutes to drive the 25 miles down U.S. Route 101 from Astoria to the Surfsand Resort at Cannon Beach, where we'd spend two nights. Having previously visited the area, Kel chose this hotel for its beachfront location and views of Haystack Rock.
It was mid-afternoon when we checked in, so we used some free time to do laundry (at the nearby RV Resort at Cannon Beach). Dinner was leftover pizza and slices of pie we picked up at The Berry Patch Restaurant in Westport (east of Astoria).
We concluded the day with a sunset walk on the beach. While the sky was grey and overcast, it didn't dampen my excitement to see the Oregon Coast's most iconic rock.
Cannon Beach as seen from our balcony (photo by Kelly Lemons)
Cannon Beach, one of Oregon's most photographed coastal towns, is best known for Haystack Rock, a 235-foot basalt sea stack rising dramatically from the shore. This protected marine garden is a part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge.
The town's name traces back to an 1846 shipwreck when a cannon from the Shark, a U.S. Navy schooner, washed ashore.
Once a quiet seaside village, Cannon Beach has evolved into a beloved getaway, renowned for its sandy beaches, tide pools, and arts scene. It also hosts an annual Sandcastle Contest, which has drawn visitors since the 1960s.
Dave at Haystack Rock (photo by Kelly Lemons)
Sunrise on Day 2 of our Oregon Coast road trip clocked in at 6:07 a.m.; however, it was still mostly cloudy. Around 7:30 a.m., with the tide out, we went tidepooling at Haystack Rock.
Mollusks and starfish were seen clinging to outcroppings around the base of the rock. The starfish were quite large and appeared in various shades of orange, red, and purple.
Low tide exposes mollusks and starfish at Haystack Rock.
Starfish
In addition to the marine life, Haystack Rock is a nesting site for several seabird species. The most notable are the adorable tufted puffins, which nest in burrows on the upper, grassy parts of the rock from spring through early summer.
Even if you're close to the rock, you'd be hard-pressed to see such small birds without binoculars. Common murres, pelagic cormorants, and western gulls also nest on its ledges.
Dave at Ecola State Park (photo by Kelly Lemons)
Next, we hopped in our rental car to visit Ecola State Park about three miles north of Haystack Rock. The Ecola Point Viewpoint provides a gorgeous view of Crescent Beach in the foreground, Cannon Beach, and the Oregon Coast.
Goonies fans may recognize this part of the park as the location of the Fratelli's hideaway in the movie. The wooden house was a temporary structure removed after filming. I believe the current restrooms located in front of a stand of trees occupy the same spot.
U.S. Highway 101 hugs the coast
Following our photo session at Ecola Point, we drove 14 miles south on U.S. Route 101 to Neahkahnie Viewpoint.
During this half-hour drive, we stopped only once at Sea Level Bakery + Coffee in South Cannon Beach. I was curious to check it out and left happy with a maple bourbon latte and a cookie with Woodblock Chocolate (from Portland).
Returning to Neahkahnie Viewpoint, it provides impressive views, not the least of which is the highway curving around Neahkahnie Mountain. The retaining wall holding it up reminded me of some of the wild roads I rode along on a jeep tour of Sikkim in northeastern India.
The Rockaway Big Tree Trail
Our next stop was about 15 miles south in Rockaway Beach. Here, you can stretch your legs on a one-mile round-trip walk through the Cedar Wetlands Reserve to visit one of North America's largest western red cedar trees.
The trail is an elevated boardwalk, so there's no risk of getting muddy as you walk alongside the Saltair Creek.
Kel looks up at the big western red cedar tree.
"The Big Cedar," as it's colloquially known, rises 154 feet above the ground and is thought to be between 800 and 1,200 years old. The ancient tree has a 50-foot circumference and is absolutely worth the brief detour to see in person.
Tillamook Creamery
Twelve miles south of Rockaway Beach, a cheese factory tour and lunch awaited us at Tillamook Creamery. Kel has been a fan of Tillamook's cheese and ice cream since we met, and deserves all the credit for turning me on to the brand.
We began our visit with a guided tour of the cheesemaking process and a brief tasting of several aged cheddar cheeses. Once we were on our own again, we ordered grilled cheese and cheese-topped chili in the cafeteria.
Tillamook Ice Cream flights (photo by Kelly Lemons)
The main event for me, though, was the ice cream flights for dessert. Kel and I each ordered one ($10) with three flavors, totaling six scoops altogether.
As I wrote in my story about our visit to the Tillamook Creamery for Feastio, the Brownie Batter flavor was our favorite. The Campfire Peanut Butter Cup was my runner-up, while Kel's was Oregon Dark Cherry.
If you visit Tillamook Creamery, it's also worth stopping by their neighbor, the Blue Heron French Cheese Company. Housed in a charming blue-and-white barn, this store offers a diverse selection of items, including cheeses, chocolates, and wines.
Cape Meares Lighthouse
After filling up on cheese and ice cream, we drove south through the town of Tillamook and west to the coast. Until now, our coastal adventure had been devoid of lighthouses, and that needed to be fixed.
The Cape Meares Lighthouse, built in 1890, sits on a cliff 217 feet above the Pacific Ocean. At just 38 feet tall, it's the shortest lighthouse on the Oregon Coast, but its vantage point gives it an impressive presence.
The lighthouse's first-order Fresnel lens, crafted in France, once guided ships navigating the rugged coastline until it was decommissioned in 1963. Today, it's part of Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, where visitors can explore the restored tower and spot migrating gray whales (December to January, and March to May).
Related: Lighthouses of Maine
This tree is a type of spruce.
If you visit Cape Meares Lighthouse as well, take the 0.1-mile path east to see the one-of-a-kind Octopus Tree (Sitka spruce). The 105-foot-tall tree has a 46-foot circumference with no central trunk. It's believed to be 250 to 300 years old.
By this time, it was mid-afternoon, and we were ready to make the 50-mile, 90-minute drive back to Cannon Beach.
Oregon Single Malt Whiskey
Happy hour awaited us at Pilothouse Distilling, a small-batch craft distillery known for its locally inspired spirits, including vodka, gin, rum, and whiskey.
Founded in nearby Astoria, it opened a cozy tasting room in Cannon Beach where visitors can sample handcrafted cocktails and learn about the distilling process behind these Oregon-made spirits.
I enjoyed an Azalea gin cocktail, and Kel got the Garden Patio G&T. While we were hanging out, the bartender chatted with guests about their limited-edition A-O Come Hell or High Water. This Oregon single malt whiskey "is aged in-house, then put on local fishing vessels for a minimum of 6 months to a year."
We celebrated our anniversary with a low-key, beachside dinner at The Wayfarer Restaurant next to Surfsand Resort. It has been serving beachgoers for nearly 50 years. I got roasted halibut over wild mushroom risotto for my entree, and we shared a chocolate buttermilk cake for dessert.
Sign with info about migratory birds.
Depoe Bay and Newport are two highlights along Oregon's central coast. Depoe Bay, often called the "Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coast," is home to the world's smallest navigable harbor and a resident pod of gray whales visible much of the year.
Just south, Newport offers natural beauty and maritime history. It's known for its historic bayfront, Yaquina Head Lighthouse, and the Oregon Coast Aquarium, one of the best in the Pacific Northwest.
Newport also supports a thriving fishing fleet and seafood scene, making it a great place to enjoy fresh-caught Dungeness crab with some local craft beer.
After checking out of our hotel on Cannon Beach, it took us about two hours and 15 minutes to drive the 90 miles south to Boiler Bay.
We stopped briefly at the Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint in Depoe Bay, but it was overcast, chilly, and windy. We didn't linger long.
It's a good vantage point for seeing gray whales and migratory sea birds such as the long-tailed Jaegers, which fly south from the Arctic.
View from Tidal Raves restaurant
As much as I'd like to claim credit for discovering Tidal Raves Seafood Grill on my own, I actually found it recommended in a Reddit thread. This coastal restaurant is open seven days a week, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., on a first-come, first-served basis.
We arrived at 11 a.m. on a Tuesday and were able to secure a table for two by the windows overlooking the frothy seas of Depoe Bay.
Fish tacos
A most wonderful lunch began with a glass of J Wrigley Pinot Gris (Willamette Valley), before proceeding to fish tacos, coconut shrimp, and a sizeable piece of tiramisu for dessert. It was one of the most memorable meals of our Oregon Coast road trip.
Sign for Bigfoot's Beach House
Maybe it was the name, or the colorful image of Bigfoot surfing. Perhaps it was all of the above that led me to Bigfoot's Beach House in Depoe Bay to pick up sandwiches for our dinner that night.
The Oregon berry turkey sandwich was so tasty that we returned the next day to pick up another for lunch. They also serve donuts, bagels, and a full complement of espresso-based drinks made with Stumptown Coffee (Portland).
High tide at the Devils Punchbowl Arch
Sandwiches in hand, we continued south another five miles and 10 minutes to reach the Devils Punchbowl State Natural Area. Geologists believe the Punchbowl was once two sea caves that eventually collapsed, likely several thousand years ago, when the rock between them gave way to the pounding surf.
The result is a bowl where waves crash and swirl with spectacular force. During low tide, visitors can explore tide pools teeming with marine life, while high tide transforms the Punchbowl into a roaring cauldron of churning water.
Our arrival on a Tuesday afternoon around 2 p.m. was timed to coincide with high tide, as we were curious to see this sea cave both when it was filled with water and when it as empty (the following morning).
The park is another excellent vantage point for whale-watching and enjoying the sunset.
We lucked out and were able to check in early to our room at the Inn at Otter Creek, a few minutes' drive north of Devils Punchbowl. We'd chosen it for its proximity to the stone arch and the ocean view from our room. Once we'd dropped our bags off, we hit the road again for more sightseeing.
Looking west toward the Yaquina Head Lighthouse
Drive 6.5 miles south of Devils Punchbowl along U.S. Route 101, and you'll reach the peaceful Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area in Newport.
This oceanfront park on a peninsula offers access to Quarry Cove, Cobble Beach, a visitor's center, and the Yaquina Head Lighthouse, which first lit up in 1873.
Standing 93 feet above its basalt headland, the lighthouse's powerful Fresnel lens casts a beam visible up to 19 miles offshore. It's also notable for being the tallest lighthouse on the Oregon Coast.
Tufted puffins
Fun for all ages (truly!) awaits at the Oregon Coast Aquarium, another six miles south of the Yaquina Head Lighthouse. Seeing the debonair tufted puffins up close was a joy, as was a ghost-white giant Pacific octopus clinging to the glass walls of its tank.
We also saw sea lions and harbor seals swimming outdoors, though we had no such luck with the sea otters. And you can walk through a glass tunnel that provides an up-close and personal view of several shark species (seven-gill, tope, and leopard among them).
Visitors watch the sea lions in Newport.
Next, we drove north across the Yaquina Bay Bridge to reach Newport's historic bayfront. SW Bay Boulevard is lined with restaurants and bars, but we were there for the California sea lions that congregate by the dozens on Port Dock One.
So many sea lions
Watching them from above, barking and hollering, and crawling over one and another made for a fun stop. It didn't hurt that the weather had improved and we were now enjoying blue skies and sunshine.
View toward Devils Punchbowl from our room.
We wrapped up a very long and busy Day 3 of our Oregon Coast road trip with sandwiches and sunset as seen from our room at the Inn at Otter Crest. I was a bit nervous about our hike into the Devils Punchbowl at low tide the following morning, but it turned out to be easier than I imagined.
Kel inside the Devils Punchbowl
Our final adventure on the Oregon Coast was a 0.3-mile beach hike to Devils Punchbowl at low tide. We timed it perfectly and carefully traversed the tidepools and rocks, which were slick with wet moss and algae.
Walking into the entrance of the collapsed cave from the beach is a genuinely awe-inspiring experience. Layers of sandstone and marine sediment took millions of years to build up here, only for it to come crashing down in multi-ton blocks a few thousand years ago (thanks, erosion!).
We had driven to a parking lot near the trailhead. However, on our walk back along the beach, I realized the Inn at Otter Crest provides beach access, and we hadn't even needed the car for our sea cave adventure.
Dave on Otter Crest Beach (photo by Kelly Lemons)
In just four days, our Oregon Coast road trip delivered sea stacks, lighthouses, sea lions, and plenty of small-town charm. It's an easy, scenic route that anyone can tackle, even with limited time.
Whether you're chasing "The Goonies" nostalgia like me, coastal views, or fresh seafood, this stretch of Oregon's Highway 101 makes for an epic adventure, and one I'd happily take again.
The post My Oregon Coast Road Trip: A 4-Day Itinerary appeared first on Go Backpacking.
Kel was especially excited to revisit Oregon's north coast and show me more of the central coast, while I was eager to see filming locations from one of my favorite childhood movies, "The Goonies."
View of Cannon Beach and sea stacks from Ecola State Park
At 7:30 a.m. on a Sunday, we picked up our rental car (a sexy red minivan) in downtown Seattle and drove three hours south to Astoria, Oregon. We spent two nights in Cannon Beach and one night in Otter Creek before heading inland to Portland.
Although the coast offers nearly endless opportunities for hiking and outdoor adventure, this trip was more about taking in the views, coastal towns, and easy scenic drives-an accessible and rewarding way to experience the Oregon Coast in just a few days.
Oregon Coast Itinerary
To give you a bird's-eye view of our route, I've put together the highlights from our trip in the map below.
Day 1 - Astoria
Welcome to Astoria
As we rolled into Astoria, I played "So Long, Astoria" by The Ataris. Founded in 1811, Astoria is the oldest American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains.
Strategically located where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean, it played a key role in the fur trade, fishing, and timber industries that fueled the region's early growth.
Today, Astoria is known for its Victorian architecture, steep hills, and maritime culture, which is showcased at the Columbia River Maritime Museum.
The city also draws visitors for its arts scene, craft breweries, and pop culture fame as a filming location for "The Goonies" and other hit movies (including "Short Circuit," "Kindergarten Cop," and "Free Willy").
Pier 39
Pier 39
Our first stop in Astoria was Pier 39. It was once home to the Union Fish Cannery, one of many canneries that lined the Columbia River in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
At its peak, the cannery processed large quantities of salmon caught in the river's strong currents, helping Astoria earn its nickname as the "Salmon Canning Capital of the World."
Today, the restored pier preserves that legacy with a mix of shops and the Rogue Public House (craft brewery), offering visitors a chance to experience Astoria's working waterfront history firsthand.
Kel joined me as I grabbed a cappuccino at the busy Coffee Girl cafe, which was named in honor of the women who used to work at the cannery.
Another reason I wanted to stop at Pier 39 was the chance to see sea lions. And while we could hear them barking from a nearby dock, they were too far away to get a good look.
Goonies House
Mikey's house in "The Goonies"
Next, I visited the house featured at the beginning of "The Goonies," which is perched on a hill at 368 38th St. Signs at the bottom suggest they've been receiving curious film fans for many years.
The signs instruct you to park at the bottom of the hill and walk up, keep pets on a leash, maintain a low noise level, and be respectful.
News of a sequel to "The Goonies" has been circulating online throughout 2025. According to Deadline, the scriptwriter submitted a first draft by August, and several of the original actors expressed enthusiasm for the project.
Lunch at Fort George Brewery
The northern shore of Astoria is full of restaurants, bars, and cafes, so deciding where to eat lunch wasn't an easy decision.
I suggested the two-story Fort George Brewery, where we got a delicious hot-from-the-oven pizza and cold cider. If you prefer to be on the river, there's also Astoria Brewing Company.
Oregon Film Museum
Oregon Film Museum
After lunch, we visited the Oregon Film Museum, whose facade features in the opening of "The Goonies." Here you can see the original black 4x4 owned by the Fratelli's, complete with bullet holes in the back.
The museum costs $6 to enter, which I was happy to pay. Inside, you'll see memorabilia from the movie in a couple of tiny jail cells.
Astoria Column
The Astoria Column
Our last stop in Astoria before continuing south along the Oregon Coast was the Astoria Column. Completed in 1926, it stands 125 feet tall atop Coxcomb Hill.
The column commemorates key moments in Oregon's early history, from the Lewis and Clark Expedition to the arrival of settlers via the Oregon Trail. Its spiral mural wraps around the column in a continuous frieze, telling the story of the Pacific Northwest's development.
Visitors who climb its 164 steps are rewarded with panoramic views of Astoria, the Columbia River, and the Pacific Ocean.
View of the Columbia River from the parking lot.
Drive to Cannon Beach
It took us about 45 minutes to drive the 25 miles down U.S. Route 101 from Astoria to the Surfsand Resort at Cannon Beach, where we'd spend two nights. Having previously visited the area, Kel chose this hotel for its beachfront location and views of Haystack Rock.
It was mid-afternoon when we checked in, so we used some free time to do laundry (at the nearby RV Resort at Cannon Beach). Dinner was leftover pizza and slices of pie we picked up at The Berry Patch Restaurant in Westport (east of Astoria).
We concluded the day with a sunset walk on the beach. While the sky was grey and overcast, it didn't dampen my excitement to see the Oregon Coast's most iconic rock.
Day 2 - Cannon Beach and Tillamook
Cannon Beach as seen from our balcony (photo by Kelly Lemons)
Cannon Beach, one of Oregon's most photographed coastal towns, is best known for Haystack Rock, a 235-foot basalt sea stack rising dramatically from the shore. This protected marine garden is a part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge.
The town's name traces back to an 1846 shipwreck when a cannon from the Shark, a U.S. Navy schooner, washed ashore.
Once a quiet seaside village, Cannon Beach has evolved into a beloved getaway, renowned for its sandy beaches, tide pools, and arts scene. It also hosts an annual Sandcastle Contest, which has drawn visitors since the 1960s.
Tide Pools at Haystack Rock
Dave at Haystack Rock (photo by Kelly Lemons)
Sunrise on Day 2 of our Oregon Coast road trip clocked in at 6:07 a.m.; however, it was still mostly cloudy. Around 7:30 a.m., with the tide out, we went tidepooling at Haystack Rock.
Mollusks and starfish were seen clinging to outcroppings around the base of the rock. The starfish were quite large and appeared in various shades of orange, red, and purple.
Low tide exposes mollusks and starfish at Haystack Rock.
Starfish
In addition to the marine life, Haystack Rock is a nesting site for several seabird species. The most notable are the adorable tufted puffins, which nest in burrows on the upper, grassy parts of the rock from spring through early summer.
Even if you're close to the rock, you'd be hard-pressed to see such small birds without binoculars. Common murres, pelagic cormorants, and western gulls also nest on its ledges.
Ecola Point Viewpoint (Goonies scene)
Dave at Ecola State Park (photo by Kelly Lemons)
Next, we hopped in our rental car to visit Ecola State Park about three miles north of Haystack Rock. The Ecola Point Viewpoint provides a gorgeous view of Crescent Beach in the foreground, Cannon Beach, and the Oregon Coast.
Goonies fans may recognize this part of the park as the location of the Fratelli's hideaway in the movie. The wooden house was a temporary structure removed after filming. I believe the current restrooms located in front of a stand of trees occupy the same spot.
Neahkahnie Viewpoint
U.S. Highway 101 hugs the coast
Following our photo session at Ecola Point, we drove 14 miles south on U.S. Route 101 to Neahkahnie Viewpoint.
During this half-hour drive, we stopped only once at Sea Level Bakery + Coffee in South Cannon Beach. I was curious to check it out and left happy with a maple bourbon latte and a cookie with Woodblock Chocolate (from Portland).
Returning to Neahkahnie Viewpoint, it provides impressive views, not the least of which is the highway curving around Neahkahnie Mountain. The retaining wall holding it up reminded me of some of the wild roads I rode along on a jeep tour of Sikkim in northeastern India.
The Big Cedar Tree
The Rockaway Big Tree Trail
Our next stop was about 15 miles south in Rockaway Beach. Here, you can stretch your legs on a one-mile round-trip walk through the Cedar Wetlands Reserve to visit one of North America's largest western red cedar trees.
The trail is an elevated boardwalk, so there's no risk of getting muddy as you walk alongside the Saltair Creek.
Kel looks up at the big western red cedar tree.
"The Big Cedar," as it's colloquially known, rises 154 feet above the ground and is thought to be between 800 and 1,200 years old. The ancient tree has a 50-foot circumference and is absolutely worth the brief detour to see in person.
Lunch at Tillamook Creamery
Tillamook Creamery
Twelve miles south of Rockaway Beach, a cheese factory tour and lunch awaited us at Tillamook Creamery. Kel has been a fan of Tillamook's cheese and ice cream since we met, and deserves all the credit for turning me on to the brand.
We began our visit with a guided tour of the cheesemaking process and a brief tasting of several aged cheddar cheeses. Once we were on our own again, we ordered grilled cheese and cheese-topped chili in the cafeteria.
Tillamook Ice Cream flights (photo by Kelly Lemons)
The main event for me, though, was the ice cream flights for dessert. Kel and I each ordered one ($10) with three flavors, totaling six scoops altogether.
As I wrote in my story about our visit to the Tillamook Creamery for Feastio, the Brownie Batter flavor was our favorite. The Campfire Peanut Butter Cup was my runner-up, while Kel's was Oregon Dark Cherry.
Blue Heron French Cheese Company
If you visit Tillamook Creamery, it's also worth stopping by their neighbor, the Blue Heron French Cheese Company. Housed in a charming blue-and-white barn, this store offers a diverse selection of items, including cheeses, chocolates, and wines.
Cape Meares Lighthouse
Cape Meares Lighthouse
After filling up on cheese and ice cream, we drove south through the town of Tillamook and west to the coast. Until now, our coastal adventure had been devoid of lighthouses, and that needed to be fixed.
The Cape Meares Lighthouse, built in 1890, sits on a cliff 217 feet above the Pacific Ocean. At just 38 feet tall, it's the shortest lighthouse on the Oregon Coast, but its vantage point gives it an impressive presence.
The lighthouse's first-order Fresnel lens, crafted in France, once guided ships navigating the rugged coastline until it was decommissioned in 1963. Today, it's part of Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, where visitors can explore the restored tower and spot migrating gray whales (December to January, and March to May).
Related: Lighthouses of Maine
Octopus Tree
This tree is a type of spruce.
If you visit Cape Meares Lighthouse as well, take the 0.1-mile path east to see the one-of-a-kind Octopus Tree (Sitka spruce). The 105-foot-tall tree has a 46-foot circumference with no central trunk. It's believed to be 250 to 300 years old.
By this time, it was mid-afternoon, and we were ready to make the 50-mile, 90-minute drive back to Cannon Beach.
Pilot House Distilling
Oregon Single Malt Whiskey
Happy hour awaited us at Pilothouse Distilling, a small-batch craft distillery known for its locally inspired spirits, including vodka, gin, rum, and whiskey.
Founded in nearby Astoria, it opened a cozy tasting room in Cannon Beach where visitors can sample handcrafted cocktails and learn about the distilling process behind these Oregon-made spirits.
I enjoyed an Azalea gin cocktail, and Kel got the Garden Patio G&T. While we were hanging out, the bartender chatted with guests about their limited-edition A-O Come Hell or High Water. This Oregon single malt whiskey "is aged in-house, then put on local fishing vessels for a minimum of 6 months to a year."
Dinner at The Wayfarer Restaurant
We celebrated our anniversary with a low-key, beachside dinner at The Wayfarer Restaurant next to Surfsand Resort. It has been serving beachgoers for nearly 50 years. I got roasted halibut over wild mushroom risotto for my entree, and we shared a chocolate buttermilk cake for dessert.
Day 3 - Depoe Bay and Newport
Sign with info about migratory birds.
Depoe Bay and Newport are two highlights along Oregon's central coast. Depoe Bay, often called the "Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coast," is home to the world's smallest navigable harbor and a resident pod of gray whales visible much of the year.
Just south, Newport offers natural beauty and maritime history. It's known for its historic bayfront, Yaquina Head Lighthouse, and the Oregon Coast Aquarium, one of the best in the Pacific Northwest.
Newport also supports a thriving fishing fleet and seafood scene, making it a great place to enjoy fresh-caught Dungeness crab with some local craft beer.
Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint
After checking out of our hotel on Cannon Beach, it took us about two hours and 15 minutes to drive the 90 miles south to Boiler Bay.
We stopped briefly at the Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint in Depoe Bay, but it was overcast, chilly, and windy. We didn't linger long.
It's a good vantage point for seeing gray whales and migratory sea birds such as the long-tailed Jaegers, which fly south from the Arctic.
Lunch at Tidal Raves Seafood Grill
View from Tidal Raves restaurant
As much as I'd like to claim credit for discovering Tidal Raves Seafood Grill on my own, I actually found it recommended in a Reddit thread. This coastal restaurant is open seven days a week, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., on a first-come, first-served basis.
We arrived at 11 a.m. on a Tuesday and were able to secure a table for two by the windows overlooking the frothy seas of Depoe Bay.
Fish tacos
A most wonderful lunch began with a glass of J Wrigley Pinot Gris (Willamette Valley), before proceeding to fish tacos, coconut shrimp, and a sizeable piece of tiramisu for dessert. It was one of the most memorable meals of our Oregon Coast road trip.
Buy Sandwiches at Bigfoot's Beach House
Sign for Bigfoot's Beach House
Maybe it was the name, or the colorful image of Bigfoot surfing. Perhaps it was all of the above that led me to Bigfoot's Beach House in Depoe Bay to pick up sandwiches for our dinner that night.
The Oregon berry turkey sandwich was so tasty that we returned the next day to pick up another for lunch. They also serve donuts, bagels, and a full complement of espresso-based drinks made with Stumptown Coffee (Portland).
Devils Punchbowl State Natural Area (High Tide)
High tide at the Devils Punchbowl Arch
Sandwiches in hand, we continued south another five miles and 10 minutes to reach the Devils Punchbowl State Natural Area. Geologists believe the Punchbowl was once two sea caves that eventually collapsed, likely several thousand years ago, when the rock between them gave way to the pounding surf.
The result is a bowl where waves crash and swirl with spectacular force. During low tide, visitors can explore tide pools teeming with marine life, while high tide transforms the Punchbowl into a roaring cauldron of churning water.
Our arrival on a Tuesday afternoon around 2 p.m. was timed to coincide with high tide, as we were curious to see this sea cave both when it was filled with water and when it as empty (the following morning).
The park is another excellent vantage point for whale-watching and enjoying the sunset.
The Inn at Otter Creek
We lucked out and were able to check in early to our room at the Inn at Otter Creek, a few minutes' drive north of Devils Punchbowl. We'd chosen it for its proximity to the stone arch and the ocean view from our room. Once we'd dropped our bags off, we hit the road again for more sightseeing.
Yaquina Head Lighthouse
Looking west toward the Yaquina Head Lighthouse
Drive 6.5 miles south of Devils Punchbowl along U.S. Route 101, and you'll reach the peaceful Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area in Newport.
This oceanfront park on a peninsula offers access to Quarry Cove, Cobble Beach, a visitor's center, and the Yaquina Head Lighthouse, which first lit up in 1873.
Standing 93 feet above its basalt headland, the lighthouse's powerful Fresnel lens casts a beam visible up to 19 miles offshore. It's also notable for being the tallest lighthouse on the Oregon Coast.
Oregon Coast Aquarium
Tufted puffins
Fun for all ages (truly!) awaits at the Oregon Coast Aquarium, another six miles south of the Yaquina Head Lighthouse. Seeing the debonair tufted puffins up close was a joy, as was a ghost-white giant Pacific octopus clinging to the glass walls of its tank.
We also saw sea lions and harbor seals swimming outdoors, though we had no such luck with the sea otters. And you can walk through a glass tunnel that provides an up-close and personal view of several shark species (seven-gill, tope, and leopard among them).
Sea Lion Docks
Visitors watch the sea lions in Newport.
Next, we drove north across the Yaquina Bay Bridge to reach Newport's historic bayfront. SW Bay Boulevard is lined with restaurants and bars, but we were there for the California sea lions that congregate by the dozens on Port Dock One.
So many sea lions
Watching them from above, barking and hollering, and crawling over one and another made for a fun stop. It didn't hurt that the weather had improved and we were now enjoying blue skies and sunshine.
Dinner at Inn At Otter Crest
View toward Devils Punchbowl from our room.
We wrapped up a very long and busy Day 3 of our Oregon Coast road trip with sandwiches and sunset as seen from our room at the Inn at Otter Crest. I was a bit nervous about our hike into the Devils Punchbowl at low tide the following morning, but it turned out to be easier than I imagined.
Day 4 - Otter Rock
Devil's Punchbowl (Low Tide)
Kel inside the Devils Punchbowl
Our final adventure on the Oregon Coast was a 0.3-mile beach hike to Devils Punchbowl at low tide. We timed it perfectly and carefully traversed the tidepools and rocks, which were slick with wet moss and algae.
Walking into the entrance of the collapsed cave from the beach is a genuinely awe-inspiring experience. Layers of sandstone and marine sediment took millions of years to build up here, only for it to come crashing down in multi-ton blocks a few thousand years ago (thanks, erosion!).
We had driven to a parking lot near the trailhead. However, on our walk back along the beach, I realized the Inn at Otter Crest provides beach access, and we hadn't even needed the car for our sea cave adventure.
Dave on Otter Crest Beach (photo by Kelly Lemons)
In just four days, our Oregon Coast road trip delivered sea stacks, lighthouses, sea lions, and plenty of small-town charm. It's an easy, scenic route that anyone can tackle, even with limited time.
Whether you're chasing "The Goonies" nostalgia like me, coastal views, or fresh seafood, this stretch of Oregon's Highway 101 makes for an epic adventure, and one I'd happily take again.
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