Packing a Punch
Published: 12/12/2009 Updated: 08/14/2019

The Devil's Punchbowl viewpoint at Otter Rock offers views into the natural rock formation that can become a churning cauldron of foam when the surf is up.
Photo by Gary Hayes
At Otter Rock, a unique natural rock formation makes for great wild wave watching suited to its name: Devil's Punchbowl.
If you want to find an unusual place that strikes you with a sense of wonder and awe, then Devil's Punchbowl State Park is a perfect choice. Wild winds and thunderous waves of the beautifully rugged Oregon coast have sculpted the sandstone headland into a giant cauldron where foamy waves crash and roiling waters surge with the tides within the giant crater. Standing at the edge of the Punchbowl is mesmerizing, as breakers rush to the surrounding rocks and waters entering the cauldron through the original hole on the west side. Devil's Punchbowl was formed when the roof of what was once a sea cave collapsed, leaving a huge open crater. Seals and sea lions snooze on nearby rocks and many varieties of seabirds roost on lofty perches. Gray Whales are frequently seen in the area as they feed in kelp beds close to shore. Devil's Punchbowl State Park is at Otter Rock, about four miles south of Depoe Bay and nine miles north of Newport. There is plenty of parking at the overlook with convenient picnic spots. While you're there, don't miss a visit to the adjacent Flying Dutchman Winery where you can taste and purchase award-winning wines made right there.
SPONSORED LINKS
Featured Destination
Official Lincoln City visitor information and trip planning resources.
Lincoln City Activities & Attractions
Blow your own glass art or explore the one-of-a-kind on-site gallery featuring local artists.
Published: 12/12/2009 Updated: 08/14/2019

The Devil's Punchbowl viewpoint at Otter Rock offers views into the natural rock formation that can become a churning cauldron of foam when the surf is up.
Photo by Gary Hayes
At Otter Rock, a unique natural rock formation makes for great wild wave watching suited to its name: Devil's Punchbowl.
If you want to find an unusual place that strikes you with a sense of wonder and awe, then Devil's Punchbowl State Park is a perfect choice. Wild winds and thunderous waves of the beautifully rugged Oregon coast have sculpted the sandstone headland into a giant cauldron where foamy waves crash and roiling waters surge with the tides within the giant crater. Standing at the edge of the Punchbowl is mesmerizing, as breakers rush to the surrounding rocks and waters entering the cauldron through the original hole on the west side. Devil's Punchbowl was formed when the roof of what was once a sea cave collapsed, leaving a huge open crater. Seals and sea lions snooze on nearby rocks and many varieties of seabirds roost on lofty perches. Gray Whales are frequently seen in the area as they feed in kelp beds close to shore. Devil's Punchbowl State Park is at Otter Rock, about four miles south of Depoe Bay and nine miles north of Newport. There is plenty of parking at the overlook with convenient picnic spots. While you're there, don't miss a visit to the adjacent Flying Dutchman Winery where you can taste and purchase award-winning wines made right there.
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]
Oregon's tallest lighthouse has stood guard over the Pacific shore north of Newport at Yaquina Head for 135 years. The lighthouse stands 93... [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]
SPONSORED LINKS
Featured Destination
Official Lincoln City visitor information and trip planning resources.
Lincoln City Activities & Attractions
Demonstration and hands-on style recreational cooking classes.
Depoe Bay Art Galleries
Capture the detail, beauty and wisdom of the Creation. Work at Silver Heron Gallery.
Newport Dining
Discover Newport's favorite new restaurant, Pacific Kitchen and experience Northwest fare with a casual flair.