The Oregon Coast

Astoria is the oldest town in the United States west of the Rocky Mountains. First founded in 1811, the city is named after John Jacob Astor, who owned the American Fur Company; it was these pioneers who founded Fort Astoria at the current site.

The most recognizable landmark of Cannon Beach is the iconic Haystack Rock. At 72 meters tall, this substantial igneous rock juts out of the sea and acts as a natural signpost for Cannon Beach. It’s accessible at low tide, but Haystack Rock is nevertheless part of a protected marine sanctuary.

Visited as much for its surf breaks as for its amazing conditions for Pacific razor clams, Seaside began life in the 1870s as a resort built under the name “Seaside House.” It grew from there, and now its history is clear to see: there’s even a 1920s era promenade for perfect sunset strolls along this wide stretch of Pacific coastline.

Situated in the Central Coast area, Lincoln City is known for the Nelscott Reef, once named one of the best places to surf in the entire Pacific Ocean. This reef is the only place in Oregon for big wave surfing. Naturally, these two accolades earn it a great name as a prime spot for surfing in the Oregon Coast area. Since 2005, Lincoln City has been home to the Nelscott Reef Big Wave Classic, a surf competition.

This helps preserve the beauty of the stunning beaches that Oregon has to offer, filled as they are with postcard-perfect rock formations, dunes, and marshes. They are as perfect for hikes – with many state parks offering vast networks of trails – as much as they are for leisurely sunset strolls.