Spectacular Side Trips
Published: 09/26/2014 Updated: 08/16/2019

Rocky spires on the beach in Bandon Oregon
Photo by Gary Hayes
You don't have to venture far off Oregon's stretch of Highway 101 to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Oregon Coast, but these side trips will make you glad you took the road less traveled.
It doesn't have to be the perfect day for a scenic drive. It doesn't even matter if it's raining sideways. These side trips off Coast Highway 101 will offer some of the coast's best views just steps from your car and even some from the driver's seat. Get off the highway and you'll discover a lighthouse that sits over 200 feet above the surf on a sheer cliff. You'll watch sea lions by the dozens, barking, basking and swimming along a rocky near-shore reef. You'll stand at the edge of an enormous sandstone cauldron where the ocean's waves roll in to create a frothy brew. And, don't be surprised if you spot the spout of a passing whale as you gaze out at spectacular scenes.
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Click to read about how to love Cannon Beach like a local. There is magic here!
Activities & Attractions
Cannon Beach’s 20th Annual Spring Unveiling will be a virtual event presented by video June 27.
Lincoln City Activities & Attractions
Demonstration and hands-on style recreational cooking classes.
Published: 09/26/2014 Updated: 08/16/2019

Rocky spires on the beach in Bandon Oregon
Photo by Gary Hayes
You don't have to venture far off Oregon's stretch of Highway 101 to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Oregon Coast, but these side trips will make you glad you took the road less traveled.
It doesn't have to be the perfect day for a scenic drive. It doesn't even matter if it's raining sideways. These side trips off Coast Highway 101 will offer some of the coast's best views just steps from your car and even some from the driver's seat. Get off the highway and you'll discover a lighthouse that sits over 200 feet above the surf on a sheer cliff. You'll watch sea lions by the dozens, barking, basking and swimming along a rocky near-shore reef. You'll stand at the edge of an enormous sandstone cauldron where the ocean's waves roll in to create a frothy brew. And, don't be surprised if you spot the spout of a passing whale as you gaze out at spectacular scenes.
Ecola State Park lets you take in miles of scenic coastline, watch waves crash on an historic offshore lighthouse and enjoy the perfect vantage... [read more]
Oregon's oldest lighthouse still shines atop Oregon's westernmost headland on the South Oregon Coast. The Cape Blanco Lighthouse sits on ocean's edge near Port... [read more]
If you've been mining the central coast in search of an easy-access beach that will accommodate the entire family, this well-loved 135-acre park may... [read more]
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Oregon’s walkable, bikeable, lovable beach town with lots to see and do. It’s easy to Seaside.
Cannon Beach Lodging
Situated oceanfront, enjoy stepping onto your deck, feeling the sea mist & gazing at Haystack Rock.
Cannon Beach Art Galleries
Specializing in limited edition bronze sculpture and works by more than 30 award-winning artists.
Cannon Beach Art Galleries
Fine Art presented in a friendly and unpretentious environment. Original Art by Regional Masters