Must See Destinations on the Oregon Coast

If you are planning a road trip up, or down, the scenic Oregon Coast on the 101 then there are some must see destinations that you need to know about. The Oregon Coast provides some of the most beautiful coast line on all of the Pacific, with sandy beaches and steep, sheer, rock faces as well as beautiful rock outcroppings just a stone's throw from the shore for the Pacific's waves to break on. There are, however, a few destinations on the Oregon Coast more picturesque than others, learn about them here.

One of the most beautiful beaches on all of the Oregon Coast and a definite must see, is Cannon Beach. If you have ever seen a photograph of those huge rocks off the coast, jutting toward the sky like pillars, chances are it was taken at Cannon Beach. Additionally Cannon Beach offers some of the trendiest shopping and eating establishments on the northern coast. If you are looking for a day at the beach with a delicious meal and perhaps a little shopping then Cannon Beach is your Oregon Coast destination.

Further south is Lincoln City, Lincoln County's seat of power. While there are some beautiful beaches here Lincoln city is perhaps the Oregon Coast's most party friendly town. With a major highway just a short drive from Salem and Portland as well as a fabulous beachfront casino Lincoln City tends to draw the party crowd. If you are looking to do a little gambling and maybe hit up a bar or two then Lincoln City is the Oregon Coast's destination made especially for you. In addition Lincoln City offers a few blocks of quaint little shops where you are sure to find whatever you are looking for.

Continuing down the coast, a short drive south of Lincoln City is Newport. Newport just happens to be my personal favorite coastal destination, no matter what I am in the mood for. Boasting some of my favorite restaurants and a great wharf front shopping area Newport is fun for everyone. The beach here is spectacular, whichever side of the bridge you choose, as are the educational activities. Newport is home to a large aquarium where you can see, up close, many of the Pacific Northwest's sea animal in action. It is also known as "Coast Guard Town USA" for the large presence of Coast Guard personnel stationed there, this provides a great opportunity to see some watch towers, lighthouses, and frequent fly-bys of coast guard helicopters as well as a whole bundle of USCG history available in many historic locations. My other favorite stop in Newport is the Rogue brewery, now a national favorite beer producer; a tour and sampling here is the perfect end to the perfect day on Oregon's Coast.