Oregon Coast on US 101 Road Trip

Take a journey along US 101 and explore the stunning Oregon Coast. Start in Astoria and head south for 600km to Brookings, with stops in Tillamook, Florence and Gold Beach. The best time of the year to drive is in the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny. You'll experience beautiful landscapes and beaches, and enjoy excellent road conditions along the way. This road trip provides a memorable experience for all drivers, and can be managed with a moderate budget. So get ready to explore the Oregon Coast and make some amazing memories.

Astoria, Oregon is the perfect starting point for your scenic road trip down the Oregon Coast on US 101. Located at the mouth of the mighty Columbia River, Astoria is a picturesque port city with a rich maritime history. As you explore the city, you’ll find a variety of attractions to enjoy. Visit the Columbia River Maritime Museum to learn more about the area’s history and culture. You can also take a tour of the Flavel House Museum, a beautifully preserved 1885 Queen Anne style home. Or head to the Astoria Riverfront Trolley, a popular tourist attraction that takes you through the town’s historic downtown. If you’re flying in, the closest international airport is Portland International Airport (PDX). From there, you can rent a car and make the two-hour drive to Astoria. Once you’ve arrived, you can continue your road trip down US 101, taking in the stunning views of the Pacific Coast. Make sure to stop at the popular attractions along the way, including Cannon Beach, Cape Meares Lighthouse, and Sea Lion Caves. With its stunning views, rich history, and great attractions, Astoria is the perfect place to start your Oregon Coast adventure.

Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Astoria to Tillamook? This 65-mile drive will take you less than two hours and you can expect to find some interesting places along the way. Start your journey in Astoria, the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies. Here you can explore the Astoria Column, a 125-foot tower with amazing views of the Columbia River and the surrounding area. You can also visit the Flavel House Museum, the oldest house in Oregon. As you drive along the coast, you will be able to admire the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the lush forests of the Oregon Coast Range. Make sure to stop at Oswald West State Park, a stunning park with miles of hiking trails and beautiful beaches. Continue your trip to Tillamook and explore the Tillamook Cheese Factory, where you can learn more about the cheese-making process and sample some delicious cheese. Don't forget to visit the Tillamook Air Museum, home to a collection of vintage aircraft. The journey from Astoria to Tillamook is sure to be a memorable one! For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Have a great trip!

Welcome, road-trippers! Let's take a journey from Tillamook to Florence, a 148-mile drive that will take you fewer than 7 hours. Begin your journey in Tillamook, where you can explore the area's rich history. Visit the Tillamook Air Museum, where you can learn about the area's aviation heritage, or take a tour of the Tillamook Cheese Factory. Continue your journey to Yachats, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Coast. Visit the Yachats State Park, where you can explore the area's scenic trails. For a unique experience, try whale watching at the Yachats Ocean Road State Natural Site. Finally, end your journey in Florence. Take a stroll along the historic Old Town Florence, where you can explore the area's old-fashioned charm. Visit the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum, where you can learn about the area's past. As you drive along this scenic route, be sure to take in the historical sites along the way. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary for this stage of your road trip. Happy travels!

Start your road trip in Florence, Oregon, and take the scenic route to Gold Beach. On the way, you will visit the coastal towns of Bandon and Port Orford. This 132-mile stretch takes less than three hours, and you will be mesmerized by the beautiful landscapes and the rugged coastline. In Bandon, explore the picturesque harbor and the beach, and don’t miss the Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint where you can take in the breathtaking views. In Port Orford, take a stroll in the Port Orford Heads State Park, and take in the beauty of the rugged cliffs and the beach. End your journey in Gold Beach, where you can explore the beach and the Rogue River. Here you can also find the historic Gold Beach Lighthouse, which is a great spot for taking pictures. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Welcome to the Gold Beach - Brookings road trip stage! This 28 mile journey is full of breathtaking views and historical sites, and will take you less than an hour to complete. Start your journey in Gold Beach, where you can find the Rogue River, the Rogue River National Recreation Trail, and the Jerry's Rogue Jets boat tours. Continue your journey to Brookings, where you can visit Harris Beach State Park, the Chetco Valley Historical Society Museum, and the Port of Brookings Harbor. Be sure to keep your eyes open for the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, the Chetco River, and the Oregon Coast mountain range. You'll also be able to spot some of the wildlife that inhabits the area, like bald eagles and sea lions. This is just one of the stages of the larger tour, so be sure to keep your eyes open for more attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. For more information, check out the "Itinerary" section of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

The road trip "Oregon Coast on US 101 Road Trip" is a journey of a lifetime. Starting from the beautiful city of Astoria, the trip takes you on a journey of spectacular coastal views, quaint small towns, and breathtaking landscapes. The final stop of this incredible road trip is the city of Brookings, located in the state of Oregon. Located on the southern Oregon coast, Brookings is a city of stunning natural beauty. Visitors to Brookings can explore the nearby beaches, hike in the nearby forests, or take a boat ride on the Chetco River. Brookings also offers a variety of other attractions, including the Harris Beach State Park, the Brookings Harbor Lighthouse, and the Winchuck River Estuary. For those looking to spend a few days in Brookings, the city offers a variety of lodging options. From luxurious hotels to cozy cabins, visitors will find the perfect place to stay. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from, offering a wide variety of local and international cuisine. For those traveling by car, Brookings is easily accessible from the US 101. The closest international airport is Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR), located about an hour and a half from the city. No matter the reason for visiting Brookings, it is sure to be an unforgettable experience. With its stunning natural beauty, wide variety of attractions, and convenient access to the US 101, Brookings is the perfect destination for a road trip.

Before you set off

Embark on a picturesque 600-kilometer journey along the renowned US Route 101, exploring the splendid Oregon Coast from the historic city of Astoria in the north to the charming town of Brookings in the south. This iconic Road Trip showcases spectacular landscapes, captivating coastal towns, and a route celebrated for its stunning natural beauty and easy access to diverse attractions.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Astoria: Kick off your adventure at the mouth of the mighty Columbia River by visiting the Astoria Column for panoramic views, and delve into maritime history at the Columbia River Maritime Museum.
• Tillamook: Indulge in dairy delights at the Tillamook Cheese Factory and take a detour to the scenic Three Capes Loop, offering dramatic ocean views and quaint villages.
• Florence: Discover the expansive Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area—where dunes rise up to 500 feet tall—and marvel at the Heceta Head Lighthouse, one of the most photographed lighthouses in the United States.
• Gold Beach: Experience the rugged beauty of the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor and Gold Beach, where you can embark on jet boat tours along the Rogue River.
• Brookings: Conclude your expedition with the spectacular coastal vistas at Harris Beach State Park, where tide pools and sea stacks abound, and enjoy the serene beauty of Azalea Park with its blossoming flowers and native plant species.

Best Time to Go:

The most favorable time for a Road Trip along the Oregon Coast is from June to September, during the summer season. Enjoy warm, sunny weather that enhances the experience of sightseeing, beach activities, and outdoor exploration.

Potential Risks:

Be mindful of occasional fog that may obscure visibility, especially during early morning or late evening hours. The chance of rain increases outside the summer season, and the coastal Roads may be winding and require attentive driving. Always be prepared for variable weather conditions along the coast.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The Oregon Coast is renowned for its ecological diversity, with environments ranging from sandy beaches and temperate rainforests to vast dune fields.
• Accommodations along the coast cater to every preference, with options including cozy bed and breakfasts, campgrounds with ocean views, and upscale resorts.
• Savor the local cuisine by trying the fresh seafood, especially the Dungeness crab, oysters, and clam chowder.
• The coast is dotted with over 80 state parks and recreation areas, each offering unique viewpoints, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
• The entire route is RV-friendly, featuring numerous dedicated spots where travelers can park to soak in the scenery or spend the night.

A good choice for:

The Oregon Coast Road Trip along US 101 is a journey through a corridor of unparalleled natural wonders combined with enriching cultural experiences. It promises a treasure trove of memories for travelers of all types, from those sticking to a tight budget to those who wish to indulge in luxury. Whether you're seeking solitude on a windswept beach or mingling with locals at a bustling seaside festival, this coastal adventure has something for everyone.