Where the Ocean Meets the Shore
Published: 02/02/2012 Updated: 08/08/2019

The hearty Sitka Spruce weathers the coastal storms and ocean forces.
Gary Hayes
Some of the worlds tallest trees grow right to the water's edge where they are shaped by punishing winds during the region's famous storms. The only trees that can survive being on the front lines of these oceanfront forces are the mighty Sitka Spruce.
There's no place more magical than where the ocean meets the shore and the Northwest coast is the perfect example. In this corner of the world, the landscape is dramatically sculpted by some of nature's most powerful forces. The constantly churning waters have carved ancient geologic formations into dramatic cliff-sides and created free-standing rock formations that punctuate the water's edge. These unique areas provide habitat for a mind-boggling array of marine creatures and birds that have adapted to these remarkable and often harsh ecosystems. Some of the worlds tallest trees grow right to the water's edge where they are shaped by punishing winds during the region's famous storms. The only trees that can survive being on the front lines of these oceanfront forces are the mighty Sitka Spruce whose roots cling to the edges of the shoreline and whose branches are as tough as nails. It's no wonder that spruce was the wood of choice for early aircraft structures. Those trees that are the first defense against the raging winds and driving rains often look like the inspiration for bonsai artisans. As you get further inland, spruce trees begin mixing with the other towering giants, Western Hemlock and Western Red Cedar, that dominate the upper canopy of the Northwest coast's rainforest. We invite you to enjoy the sheer beauty of this coastline, admire the inspiring views that seem to go on forever, observe the smallest creatures in the tidepools or walk among the mammoth trees of the rainforest.
SPONSORED LINKS
Featured Destination
Click to read about how to love Cannon Beach like a local. There is magic here!
Astoria Activities & Attractions
Three days of Scandinavian musical, dance and theater groups are scheduled to entertain.
Cannon Beach Activities & Attractions
Authentic Finnish sauna, professional therapeutic massages, acupuncture and aromatherapy services.
Published: 02/02/2012 Updated: 08/08/2019

The hearty Sitka Spruce weathers the coastal storms and ocean forces.
Gary Hayes
Some of the worlds tallest trees grow right to the water's edge where they are shaped by punishing winds during the region's famous storms. The only trees that can survive being on the front lines of these oceanfront forces are the mighty Sitka Spruce.
There's no place more magical than where the ocean meets the shore and the Northwest coast is the perfect example. In this corner of the world, the landscape is dramatically sculpted by some of nature's most powerful forces. The constantly churning waters have carved ancient geologic formations into dramatic cliff-sides and created free-standing rock formations that punctuate the water's edge. These unique areas provide habitat for a mind-boggling array of marine creatures and birds that have adapted to these remarkable and often harsh ecosystems. Some of the worlds tallest trees grow right to the water's edge where they are shaped by punishing winds during the region's famous storms. The only trees that can survive being on the front lines of these oceanfront forces are the mighty Sitka Spruce whose roots cling to the edges of the shoreline and whose branches are as tough as nails. It's no wonder that spruce was the wood of choice for early aircraft structures. Those trees that are the first defense against the raging winds and driving rains often look like the inspiration for bonsai artisans. As you get further inland, spruce trees begin mixing with the other towering giants, Western Hemlock and Western Red Cedar, that dominate the upper canopy of the Northwest coast's rainforest. We invite you to enjoy the sheer beauty of this coastline, admire the inspiring views that seem to go on forever, observe the smallest creatures in the tidepools or walk among the mammoth trees of the rainforest.
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]
Newport's Yaquina Bay Lighthouse is still a guiding light. On a wooden bluff overlooking the mouth of Newport bay sits the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse... [read more]
From the beach, to downtown attractions and activities all around town, you will find unforgettable fun the entire family will love in Seaside, Oregon... [read more]
SPONSORED LINKS
Featured Destination
Click to read about how to love Cannon Beach like a local. There is magic here!
Astoria Activities & Attractions
A local and national landmark depicts the Victorian era and family history of Captain George Flavel.
Cannon Beach Activities & Attractions
We offer treatments that restore your signature balance, using creative and advanced techniques.
Cannon Beach Activities & Attractions
Discover the hidden treasures of Cannon Beach at this museum, where history comes to life!