Depoe Bay takes “on the water” to a new level: a huge sea wall runs the length of the downtown area and gives the (correct) impression that the ocean is always only a few steps away.
Known as the “whale watching capital of the Oregon Coast”, Depoe Bay seems to draw whales to its horizon like clockwork every March through December. The town anticipates those migrations, with a Whale Watch Center, shore observation decks, and charter boats for an up-close view. Depoe Bay’s harbor is noteworthy for being the smallest natural navigable harbor in the world. During storms and turbulent seas, the area’s distinctive geological features result in a phenomena called a “spouting horn” where, much like a whale, the sea itself spouts a massive spray of water into the air above Main Street.
Featured Spots
Central Coast
Depoe Bay Winery
Depoe Bay Winery is one of the 10 oldest wineries in Oregon with three generations of Oregonians producing Oregon Wine on the Coast since 1974. The winery produces traditional white and red wines, as well as unique sweet fruit wines.
22 US-101Depoe Bay, OR
541-765-3311
Central Coast
Whale Watching Center
Perched on a seawall with expansive ocean views and a large viewing deck, the Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay is the perfect spot to see whales. Park staff and volunteers are ready to answer your questions and help you...
119 SW Hwy 101Depoe Bay, OR
541-765-3304
Email us (morris[dot]grover[at]state[dot]or[dot]us)
Central Coast
Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint
A miraculous and rugged, basalt-rimmed bay, Boiler Bay is a great place to watch wild surf action on the rocky spurs. This splendid panoramic viewpoint presents a good opportunity to see gray whales year round. Take your binoculars — this...
Depoe Bay, OR541-265-4560
Central Coast
Rocky Creek State Scenic Viewpoint
Rocky Creek is a spectacular ocean-front park on a forested bluff overlooking the ocean. Offshore rocks provide spectacular wave action in storms and are nesting areas for birds and sea lions and harbor seals. The viewpoint is an official Whale...
Depoe Bay, OR541-265-4560
Central Coast
Whale, Sea Life and Sharks Museum
The only Whale Museum in the state and the only museum in the world that focuses on individual gray whales. The museum features a section on Oregon’s summer resident gray whales, a whale, dolphin and porpoise room, a shark room,...
Ellingson St. & U.S. 101Depoe Bay, OR
541-912-6734
Central Coast
Otter Crest State Scenic Viewpoint
Soak in the view from 500' above the ocean on the breathtaking crescent sweep of white sandy beach stretching to the south. Cape Foulweather is stunning and inspirational with its picturesque panoramic views. This popular whale watching spot also provides...
Depoe Bay, OR541-765-2270
Central Coast
Whale’s Tail Charters
Whale’s Tail Charters is dedicated to ensuring that your time spent whale watching is the highlight of your Oregon vacation. Their boats provide passengers with the adventure of a lifetime through excellent customer service, seamanship, first class vessels, and highest...
Depoe Bay, OR
(541) 921-1323
Email us (whalestail115[at]yahoo[dot]com)
Central Coast
Beluga Beads
Beluga Beads is the largest bead store on the Oregon Coast with a fabulous selection of natural stone, glass, and seed beads, as well as Swarovski crystals, findings and artisan jewelry. They also have a designated bike rest area provided...
3150 Fogarty AvenueDepoe Bay, OR
541-764-5040
Email us (jill[at]belugabeads[dot]com)
Central Coast
Fogarty Creek State Recreation Area
Where the creek and ocean meet, you'll find ingredients that make the spirit soar. Discover this park's perfect wind-sheltered picnic areas. In case of rain, head for the covered picnic shelter. Walk the wooden footbridges arching through the Sitka spruce,...
Depoe Bay, OR541-265-4560
Central Coast
Mariner Charters LLC
For nearly 30 years, Capn’ Dan has been providing “Top Deck” ocean adventures for sport fishing, scenic cruises, whale watching and more.
Depoe Bay, OR
(541) 270-6163
Email us (twmariner[at]gmail[dot]com)
Central Coast
Woody’s Northwest Fishing & Fun
Depoe Bay, OR
(503) 812-4031
Email us (woodysnorthwestfishingfun[at]gmail[dot]com)
Central Coast
Devils Punchbowl State Natural Area
Surfers and surf watchers energize this area! During winter storms, water from the restless ocean slams with a thundering roar into a hollow rock formation shaped like a huge punch bowl. The surf churns, foams, and swirls as it mixes...
Depoe Bay, OR541-265-4560