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

Expert Guide to Oregon’s Sustainable Albacore Tuna

Every summer, sleek schools of albacore tuna migrate close to the Oregon coast, sparking one of the state’s most beloved seasonal harvests. Known for their winglike fins, these silver-sided speedsters have powered coastal economies from Astoria to Brookings for more than a century — and they are a must-try for visitors to the Oregon Coast. Here’s what you need to know about how and when to taste albacore on your next visit.
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Travel Stories

How to Coast Like a Local During Festival Season

Summer on the Oregon Coast is magical. The sunlight is sparkling, the cool breezes off the Pacific are ideal for kite-flying, the beaches are filled with families and outdoor events draw visitors from around the globe.
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Travel Stories

10 Places for Family Fun on the Oregon Coast

While the Oregon Coast’s expansive beaches, dune buggies and camping in forests are always a hit with kids, it’s also home to plenty of fun and educational attractions that visitors of all ages will love. From marine creatures to historic curiosities, you won’t want to miss these one-of-a-kind things to do on your family vacation.
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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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Events on the North Coast

July 4, 2026

Seaside 4th of July Celebration

Seaside, OR
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July 17, 2026 - July 19, 2026

Pacific City Dory Days

Kiawanda Community Center
Pacific City, OR
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