When your next Oregon coastal tour is drawing to a close, carve out some time for a quick visit to one of these three fantastic natural coastal areas, all located just minutes from beloved seaside towns.

Ecola State Park: Just minutes from downtown Cannon Beach the park tops the list of viewpoints on the North Coast. Just north of Newport, Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area offers the best wildlife viewing on the Central Coast. Near Coos Bay, Shore Acres State Park is on the grounds of a former estate. This South Coast gem features formal gardens and expansive ocean views.

Each beachy enclave is teeming with marine wildlife, top-dollar vistas and easy-access hiking routes. Drop in for a quick look around and an extra photo or two, or stretch your legs and stay awhile. However long you linger, these serene stops are well worth the detour.