Planning the Perfect Oregon Coast Day Trip from Portland

Planning an Oregon Coast day trip from Portland? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know and our suggested itinerary for the perfect Portland day trip. 

The Oregon Coast offers one of the best day trips from Portland, combining stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities with charming small towns and historic landmarks.

In just a few hours, you can leave the city behind and explore a scenic route filled with dramatic coastal views, pristine beaches, and lush forests. 

This itinerary takes you from Astoria to Tillamook, with must-see stops like the famous Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach, the serene coves of Oswald West State Park, and the delicious local cheese at Tillamook Creamery. Along the way, you’ll discover quaint small towns that exude the charm and creativity of Oregon’s coastal communities.

While our guide focuses on what you can see in a day trip from Portland to Oregon Coast, it also offers flexibility—whether you want to extend your stay for a weekend or prioritize certain stops over others.

With practical tips, suggested routes, and recommendations for swoon-worthy stays, this complete guide ensures that you’re ready to enjoy one of the best day trips the Oregon Coast has to offer.

*This ‘oregon coast day trip from portland’ post contains affiliate links meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to book at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with top-quality content for free.

Know Before You Go

How Long Do You Need for an Oregon Coast Day Trip from Portland?

While this post focuses on what can be comfortably enjoyed in a single day, it’s important to note that a day trip from Portland covering the Oregon Coast, from Astoria to Tillamook on a scenic circular route, offers plenty to explore.

The total drive time is about four to five hours, allowing you to experience highlights like the historic charm of Astoria, the dramatic coastline near Cannon Beach, and the artisanal delights of Tillamook. 

However, if you plan to head further south beyond Tillamook, or want to thoroughly enjoy each stop along the way, including a short hike or extended beach visits, you’ll most probably need more time. 

In the winter, shorter daylight hours may also limit how many stops you can realistically make, so plan accordingly if you’re embarking on this coastal adventure during the colder months. 

How to Get to the Oregon Coast from Portland

There are several scenic routes to reach the Oregon Coast from Portland, each offering its own unique experience depending on your destination.

We recommend driving to Astoria and heading from north to south before looping back to Portland, but if you have already explored some destinations on the Oregon Coast, you may want to start elsewhere. 

So how far is Portland, Oregon from the coast? Let’s see below.

• Astoria: Take US-30 W, a direct and beautiful 1 hour and 45-minute drive along the Columbia River, leading you to the historic town of Astoria at the northern tip of the coast.
• Cannon Beach Oregon from Portland: Head west via US-26 W, also known as the Sunset Highway, which offers a quick and easy 1 hour and 30-minute drive through the lush forests of the Coast Range.
• Seaside: Similar to the route for Cannon Beach, you can take US-26 W and then US-101 N, arriving at Seaside in about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
• Tillamook: Take OR-6 W from Portland, a scenic 1 hour and 40-minute drive through the Tillamook State Forest, bringing you directly to the cheese-famous town of Tillamook.

Each route delivers a different scenic perspective, whether it’s forest, river views, or coastal landscapes.

The best way to visit the Oregon Coast from Portland is by car. If you don’t have a private vehicle, you can rent a car in Downtown Portland for a reasonable daily fee. Driving gives you the most flexibility to enjoy all the destinations on the Portland Oregon Coast at your own pace. 

We highly recommend both Rental Cars and Discover Cars and use them both on every trip we take. I suggest checking both sites to see which prices are the most favorable and going with the better deal. Check car rentals with Rental Cars here. |  Check rental cars with Discover Cars here. 

Places to Visit on an Oregon Coast Day Trip from Portland

The Oregon Coast offers a wealth of breathtaking scenery and charming towns, all within a day’s reach from Portland. From the historic allure of Astoria to the stunning cliffs and beaches near Tillamook, this itinerary takes you through some of the most iconic spots along the northern coastline.

While these are all fantastic stops, feel free to skip a few if you want to spend more time at particular destinations such as Cannon Beach. 

Places to Visit on the North Oregon Coast in Summary

This route offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and picturesque coastal towns.

Astoria

The first stop on this Oregon Coast day trip is Astoria. Perched on the northernmost tip of Oregon’s coast, Astoria is a charming town steeped in rich history, offering a delightful blend of maritime heritage, Victorian architecture, and scenic beauty.

As the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies, Astoria has an old-world charm that attracts visitors looking to immerse themselves in Oregon’s coastal past.

The town sits where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean, providing sweeping waterfront views, stunning bridges, and a unique sense of place shaped by the maritime industry that still thrives today.

One of the highlights of Astoria is its well-preserved Victorian homes, many of which are perched on steep hills overlooking the river.

The historic downtown area is equally captivating, with charming boutiques, art galleries, and eateries lining the streets, all set against the backdrop of the majestic Astoria-Megler Bridge, which stretches 4.1 miles across the Columbia River into Washington State.

When visiting for a day trip, there are several key attractions you won’t want to miss.

For those perhaps doing this itinerary in reverse and find they want to spend longer in Astoria you can also spend the night. The Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa is the top property in town, built on a former pier, extending over the Columbia River, offering unparalleled views and a peaceful, refined stay.

Guests can enjoy complimentary wine and cheese receptions, luxury spa services, and beautifully appointed rooms that capture the maritime spirit of Astoria.

Seaside

A 25-minute drive from Astoria, south along the Oregon Coast will bring you to Seaside, one of Oregon’s most popular beach destinations, known for its family-friendly atmosphere, wide sandy beaches, and lively promenade. 

This charming coastal town offers plenty of natural beauty and classic seaside fun, making it a perfect stop on your Oregon Coast day trip. It has a laid-back vibe and plenty of activities to enjoy, -an ideal destination for visitors of all ages looking to relax or indulge in a bit of adventure.

One of the most iconic features of Seaside is its Promenade, a 1.5-mile paved walkway along the beach, which provides stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Strolling or biking along the “Prom,” as locals call it, is a must-do activity, with easy access to the beach, shops, and restaurants. It’s also the perfect place to watch a beautiful Oregon Coast sunset.

If you’re interested in history, a visit to the Seaside Museum & Historical Society gives a fascinating look into the town’s past, including its role as a stopping point for the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

In fact, the nearby End of the Trail Monument commemorates the explorers’ historic journey to the Pacific.

Another popular spot is Seaside’s Turnaround, located at the end of Broadway Street, where you can take in the panoramic beach views, snap a photo with the Lewis and Clark statue, or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is one of the most picturesque and iconic coastal destinations in Oregon, known for its dramatic shoreline, lush coastal forests, and vibrant art scene. Cannon beach is also one of the most popular beaches in Oregon near Portland.

Located just a short drive south of Seaside, this small beach town has a refined yet laid-back atmosphere, making it a favorite for travelers seeking both relaxation and natural beauty. The town is named after a cannon that washed ashore from a shipwreck in the 19th century, adding a historical touch to its already captivating appeal.

The star of Cannon Beach is undoubtedly Haystack Rock, an impressive 235-foot sea stack that rises majestically from the shoreline.

The rock and the surrounding tide pools, home to colorful starfish and other marine life, are part of a protected marine sanctuary, making them a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. On clear days, the sunsets over Haystack Rock are nothing short of superb. 

Cannon Beach also has a thriving art scene, with numerous galleries, boutiques, and local shops offering handmade crafts and fine art. The town’s walkable downtown is lined with cozy cafés, upscale restaurants, and charming inns, making it a delightful place to explore on foot.

Read more: 15 Wonderful Things to Do in Cannon Beach, Oregon

Some of the best things to do in Cannon Beach include:

For those looking to stay a while longer, The Ocean Lodge is one of Cannon Beach’s most luxurious options. Located right on the beach, this hotel offers cozy, rustic-inspired rooms with breathtaking ocean views, fireplaces, and balconies.

Hug Point

A short scenic drive south of Cannon Beach, you’ll find Hug Point, a hidden gem along the Oregon Coast that’s perfect for a quick but memorable stop on your Oregon Coast day trip from Portland.

Hug Point’s name comes from the days when travelers had to “hug” the cliffs during low tide to navigate the coastal route before highways were built. 

Today, visitors can enjoy a peaceful beach with stunning natural features. One of the highlights here is the beach waterfall, a small but beautiful cascade that flows directly onto the sand, especially striking after periods of rain. 

At low tide, you can also explore fascinating sea caves and tide pools, adding to the sense of adventure. The wide sandy beach offers plenty of space for a scenic stroll, and the dramatic cliffs make for fantastic photo opportunities.

Hug Point is a great place to pause, take in the serene beauty of the coast, and soak up the quieter side of the Oregon shoreline before continuing your journey south.

Oswald West State Park

The next stop on this Oregon Coast itinerary is Oswald West State Park, a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers on an Oregon Coast day trip. This sprawling park stretches over 2,400 acres and offers a mix of coastal forests, secluded beaches, and dramatic cliffs.

It’s a perfect place to immerse yourself in the wild beauty of the Oregon Coast, with a variety of hiking trails that lead through lush rainforests to breathtaking ocean views.

The park’s most famous beach is Short Sand Beach, often called “Short Sands” or “Shorty’s” by locals. Tucked into a secluded cove, this beach is surrounded by towering trees and cliffs, offering a tranquil setting for beachcombing, picnicking, or simply relaxing by the shore. It’s also a popular spot for surfing, with gentle waves that attract surfers year-round.

Oswald West State Park offers more than just beach access, however. The park is crisscrossed with miles of scenic hiking trails, including sections of the Oregon Coast Trail, which offers spectacular viewpoints and leads you through old-growth forests.

One of the standout hikes is the trail to Cape Falcon, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning vistas of the rugged coastline and the Pacific Ocean stretching endlessly into the horizon.

Some of the best things to do at Oswald West State Park include:

Oswald West State Park is a beautiful, serene stop on your Oregon Coast adventure, offering a perfect balance of forest and beach scenery. Whether you’re hiking the trails or lounging on Short Sand Beach, this park provides a memorable experience of Oregon’s natural beauty.

Manzanita

Just south of Oswald West State Park, is another charming coastal town, Manzanita, a peaceful and scenic stop on an Oregon Coast day trip. Manzanita is also known for its laid-back atmosphere, wide sandy beach, and stunning views of Neahkahnie Mountain.

Manzanita offers a more tranquil, off-the-beaten-path experience compared to some of the more touristy spots along the coast. It’s the perfect place to take a breather, enjoy the scenery, and soak in the slower pace of life.

Manzanita’s beach stretches for nearly seven miles, providing ample space for beachcombing, kite flying, or simply taking a long walk along the shoreline.

With fewer crowds than nearby beaches, it’s an ideal spot for those seeking a more serene coastal experience, especially at the height of summer. The backdrop of Neahkahnie Mountain towering above the beach adds to the breathtaking scenery, making Manzanita a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.

The town itself is quaint and welcoming, with a small but vibrant collection of cafés, boutique shops, and art galleries. Manzanita’s local businesses reflect the town’s creative spirit, making it a great place to stop for a coffee, browse some local art, or pick up a unique souvenir.

The town’s friendly vibe makes it easy to feel at home, whether you’re exploring the beach or wandering through its charming downtown.

Some of the best things to do in Manzanita include:

Cape Meares

One of my personal favorite stops along the Oregon Coast is Cape Meares. This scenic, less-traveled gem offers breathtaking views, fascinating history, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes it a standout on any Oregon Coast day trip.

Perched on rugged cliffs, Cape Meares is part of the Three Capes Scenic Route and is known for its panoramic ocean vistas, wildlife viewing opportunities, and rich natural beauty. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to connect with the coastal landscape and enjoy some of Oregon’s most iconic sights.

A highlight of any visit to Cape Meares is the short walk to the Cape Meares Lighthouse, one of the smallest but most charming lighthouses on the Oregon Coast.

Built in 1890, the lighthouse stands just 38 feet tall, but its vantage point atop the cape gives it sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. On a clear day, you can often spot migrating whales, playful sea lions, and a variety of seabirds from the surrounding viewpoints, making it a fantastic spot for wildlife enthusiasts.

Another must-see feature at Cape Meares is the famous Octopus Tree, a massive Sitka spruce with multiple sprawling trunks that resemble the tentacles of an octopus.

This unusual tree, believed to be hundreds of years old, has deep cultural significance and is a striking natural landmark. A short, easy walk will take you right to this fascinating site, which offers a perfect blend of coastal forest beauty and mystery.

If you have time to venture a bit further, consider a stop in the nearby village of Oceanside, a quaint coastal town with stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere.

One of its hidden treasures is Tunnel Beach, accessible through a man-made tunnel carved into the cliffs. On the other side, you’ll find a secluded beach with dramatic rock formations and sea stacks, offering a peaceful and scenic retreat away from the crowds.

Some of the best things to do at Cape Meares and nearby include:

Tillamook

Famous for its rich dairy heritage and wind-swept coastal surroundings, Tillamook offers a unique blend of natural beauty, local culture, and delicious food, making it a must-visit and the last destination on your Oregon Coast day trip from Portland.

Located between lush farmland and rugged coastline, Tillamook is known for more than just its famous cheese – it’s a gateway to some of the coast’s most scenic spots and offers plenty of activities to enjoy.

A visit to the Tillamook Creamery is a highlight for many travelers. This iconic stop offers an inside look at the cheese-making process, with interactive exhibits, self-guided tours, and, of course, plenty of free samples of their world-renowned cheeses.

The onsite café serves up delicious dishes featuring their products, including fresh grilled cheese sandwiches and ice cream made with the creamiest local milk. It’s the perfect stop for food lovers looking to savor the local flavors.

Some of the best things to do in and around Tillamook include:

An Oregon Coast Day Trip from Portland Without a Car

For those who don’t have access to a car or simply don’t want to do this coastal road trip in a car alone, there are a few tours you can take from Oregon to the Oregon Coast for the day.

One popular option is small-group tours, run by local, quality, guided tour companies which take you to key spots such as Cannon Beach and Ecola State Park, providing expert insights along the way. 

This Full Day Guided Oregon Coast Tour will take you to Cannon Beach and Oswald West and Ecola State Parks in one day with a naturalist guide. This Small Group Hiking Tour to Cannon Beach on the Oregon Coast is perfect for those who want to focus more on Cannon Beach and it’s surrounding and have more of an active day. 

This fantastic Oregon Coast Tour and Wine Tasting Tour From Portland will take you to Cannon Beach, Oswald State Park and Manzanita with a lunch stop at the superb Wayfarer restaurant in Cannon Beach. 

Finally, for those not looking to focus on Cannon Beach, this Full Day exploring Astoria through Seaside Tour, will take you through the delights on Seaside and Astoria on the Oregon Coast. 

Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, the above tours offer an excellent way to experience the Oregon Coast’s beauty without the need for a car.

Read more: The Best Oregon Coast Wineries for Tastings & More

Top Tips for your Oregon Coast Day Trip from Portland

Planning a day trip to the Oregon Coast from Portland can be a breeze with the right preparation. While this itinerary is packed with must-see spots, there are a few key tips to help you make the most of your coastal adventure.

↠ This coastal itinerary can easily be done in reverse, starting in Tillamook and ending in Astoria, allowing for flexibility in your trip planning.

↠ Feel free to skip some destinations if you want to spend more time in areas that appeal to you, like lounging longer at Cannon Beach or hiking more in Oswald West State Park.

↠ Dress for the season! The weather on the Oregon Coast is highly changeable, so make sure to bring a rain jacket, windbreaker, and layers, even in the warmer months.

↠ The best time to visit the Oregon Coast is in late spring or the summer months, when daylight hours are longer, giving you more time to explore the coast’s beauty.

↠ If you want to slow down and truly savor the coastal experience, consider spreading this trip over a weekend. This will allow you to see more, enjoy leisurely meals, and relax in the charming towns along the way.

↠ Fantastic lodging can be found all along the coast, but we especially love The Ocean Lodge and Stephanie Inn and Dining Room in Cannon Beach for their luxury accommodations and excellent dining options.

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Have any comments or questions about this Oregon Coast day trip from Portland? Let me know below!