5 Must-See Attractions on an Oregon Coast Road Trip

The Oregon coast offers family travelers some of the most dramatic scenery and exciting attractions in the country. With so much to see and do, a road trip along this stunning coastline is a must for adventurous families. While there will be no shortage of breathtaking scenery and amazing photo opportunities, these five attractions are a must-see for your trip.

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

This destination gives visitors a glimpse into the unique landscape of the Oregon coast. Gently rolling sand dunes offer a mesmerizing landscape for exploring. It is the perfect place to stretch your legs, enjoy the sea views and stop for a picnic lunch.

Sweet Creek Falls

Just a short ride inland from the coastal road is Sweet Creek Falls. True to its name, this sweet hiking spot within Siuslaw National Forest is the perfect place to get out of the car and stretch your legs. With an easy 2.2-mile hike meandering along Sweet Creek, this trail features 11 separate waterfalls that offer fantastic photo opportunities.

Sea Lion Caves

This fun excursion gives you the opportunity to view some of nature’s most beautiful marine creatures relaxing in their natural habitat. The caves are open daily 9 a.m.–4 p.m. and tickets run $16 for adults and $10 for children aged 5–12. Parking is free.

Heceta Head Lighthouse

Just a short drive beyond the caves is Heceta Head, home of the famous Heceta Head Lighthouse. The lighthouse is prominently featured on a rugged headland standing 1,000 feet above the Pacific. making for an impressive landmark day and night. The site also features a charming bed and breakfast that lets you experience what it is like to live at a lighthouse.

Cape Perpetua and Thor’s Well

Cape Perpetua offers an incredible glimpse into the mysteries of Mother Nature with Thor’s Well. This site along the rocky waterfront appears to swallow the sea into a bottomless hole and spit it back out. While the hole is not actually bottomless, the visual is hypnotic and offers incredible photo opportunities.