The North Coast

Distinctive coastlines, historic towns, old folk tales, and thriving, eclectic communities. Where the Columbia River meets the swells of the Pacific Ocean, the North Coast is the convergence of the past and the present, the old and the new.

Distinctive coastlines, historic towns, old folk tales, and thriving, eclectic communities. Where the Columbia River meets the swells of the Pacific Ocean, the North Coast is the convergence of the past and the present, the old and the new.

North Coast
Towns & Cities

map regions north

Oregon’s North Coast has a lot of history, and you can see it everywhere you go. In the names of towns and landmarks, the distinctive coastal architecture, in shipwrecks and the lighthouses built to prevent them. Exploring the North Coast feels like (and is) exploring Oregon’s past.

Yet while the past leaves its mark, the present brings new opportunities, endeavors, and ideas. When a region holds both — one in each hand — then you have a special place. See the artistic and rugged coastal towns, the long stretches of uninterrupted sandy beaches, and the powerful winter storms that sank unwary ships. Taste the bounty of the sea, prepared in old family recipes and fresh, experimental dishes. Find a secluded spot and reflect on the power and vastness of the sea. It’s all on Oregon’s North Coast.

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Views of Oregon's
North Coast

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Travel Stories

Oregon Coast’s Most Peaceful Places to Paddle

There’s nothing like the thrill of a fast boat excursion or shredding mountain bike trails on the Oregon Coast, but sometimes slow, leisurely outdoor enjoyment is the perfect day out. Whether you’re kayaking or paddleboarding, using rental gear or booking an expert guide, these peaceful spots are a great place to start. You’ll find wind-protected lakes and meandering rivers with close-up views of marshlands, birds and wildlife; read on for these and more pleasures of spending time on the water.
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Travel Stories

Summer Resident Whale Watching

While plenty of people flock to the Oregon Coast in winter and spring to see migrating whales and participate in Whale Watch Week events, the summer season brings plenty of opportunities to spot whales, too. While most Pacific gray whales spend their lives migrating between the nutrient-rich waters off the coast of Alaska and the warmer lagoons of Baja California, ideal for breeding and calving, you’ll find about 200 that stick around and feed in Oregon Coast waters in summer and fall.
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Travel Stories

Celebrating Pride on the Oregon Coast

On the Oregon Coast, we’re committed to welcoming all, and that includes celebrating LGBTQ+ visitors and residents during Pride month and all year round.  “Here on the coast, Pride isn’t just a parade or a party—it’s a commitment,” says Scott...
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Travel Stories

What’s New in Mountain Biking on the Oregon Coast

For years mountain biking on the Oregon Coast has existed quietly alongside the region’s better-known draws: wide beaches, cold-water surf and fog-draped headlands. But a wave of new trail development, events and long-term planning is beginning to change that. From newly opened public trails near Pacific City to shuttle-served descents near Gold Beach, the Coast is shaping a mountain bike experience that pairs well with everything else people already love about being here.
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Travel Stories

Protecting the Western Snowy Plover

Spring on the Oregon Coast brings not only warmer weather but also more wildlife — migrating gray whales, raucous colonies of common murres on cliff ledges and charismatic tufted puffins perched on sea stacks. While all wildlife should be viewed from a safe distance, one species in particular requires extra care: western snowy plovers.
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Travel Stories

The Coast’s Quiet Season

Winter is a time for slowing down and cozying up, and few places are better suited for doing just that than the Oregon Coast. While many visitors come to the Coast for outdoor activities like storm-watching and spotting whales, it’s good to keep in mind that winter brings a host of indoor delights, too, designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. Here’s how to make the most of the quiet season on the Coast.
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Events on the North Coast

May 16, 2026

Love, Oregon, the Salmonberry Trail Foundation, and Helioterra Wines at the Garibaldi Boathouse

1209 Bay Ln
Garibaldi, OR
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May 16, 2026

Annual Spring Festival at the Wildlife Center of the North Coast

89686 OR-202
Astoria, OR
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