The Ultimate Pacific Northwest Road Trip: Top Places to See Driving From Astoria to Bandon
The Pacific Northwest is a region full of stunning landscapes, rugged coasts, and quaint seaside towns. If you're looking for a scenic drive that showcases the best of what this region has to offer, look no further than the drive from Astoria, Oregon, to Bandon, Oregon. This stretch of coastal highway is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the state, and there's no shortage of natural wonders, charming towns, and quirky attractions along the way.
Whether you're a nature lover, a foodie, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, this road trip has something to offer. From the famous Cannon Beach to the charming town of Yachats, here are the top places to see when driving from Astoria to Bandon.
Cannon Beach
Located just south of Astoria along the Pacific coast, Cannon Beach is one of Oregon's most famous and picturesque beaches. Best known for its towering Haystack Rock, which stands nearly 235 feet tall just offshore, Cannon Beach is a popular destination for photographers, surfers, and beachcombers. Take a stroll along the beach, explore the town's boutiques and galleries, or hike the nearby trails for stunning views.
Tillamook Cheese Factory
A little bit inland from the coast, the Tillamook Cheese Factory is a must-visit for cheese lovers. This iconic factory has been producing some of Oregon's best dairy products since 1909, and visitors can take a self-guided tour to see the cheese-making process in action. Sample some of Tillamook's award-winning cheeses, indulge in a grilled cheese sandwich from the on-site cafe, or visit the gift shop for some souvenirs.
Cape Meares Lighthouse
Just a short drive from Tillamook, Cape Meares is a beautiful state park that's home to one of Oregon's most unique lighthouses. Built in 1889, the Cape Meares Lighthouse stands just 38 feet tall and boasts a distinctive octagonal shape. Take a tour of the lighthouse, explore the park's trails and beaches, or keep an eye out for whales and seabirds offshore.
Yaquina Head Lighthouse
Continuing south along the coast, Yaquina Head is another state park that's worth a stop. This park is home to one of the tallest lighthouses in Oregon, as well as a variety of other natural wonders. Take a tour of the lighthouse, explore the tide pools and beach, or head to the nearby interpretive center to learn more about the area's history.
Newport
Just south of Yaquina Head, the town of Newport is a charming coastal community that's filled with fun things to do. Tour the world-renowned Oregon Coast Aquarium, take a stroll along the historic bayfront, or indulge in some fresh seafood at one of the town's many restaurants. Newport is also home to several breweries and wineries, making it a great destination for foodies and craft beer lovers.
Yachats
As you continue south along the coast, the town of Yachats is a delightful surprise. Nestled in a cove at the base of Oregon's Coastal Range, Yachats is a charming community that's surrounded by some of the most beautiful coastline in the state. Explore the nearby Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, dine on local cuisine at one of the town's unique eateries, or simply relax and soak in the natural beauty of the area.
Heceta Head Lighthouse
Just a short drive south of Yachats, the Heceta Head Lighthouse is another must-see attraction. This stunning lighthouse boasts a unique Fresnel lens that's considered one of the most important in the world, and it's surrounded by some of the most beautiful coastline on the Oregon coast. Take a tour of the lighthouse, hike the nearby trails, or simply snap some photos of this iconic landmark.
Siuslaw National Forest
As you get closer to Bandon, the Siuslaw National Forest is a beautiful area to explore. This 630,000-acre forest contains some of the most diverse ecosystems in Oregon, including old-growth forests, sand dunes, and scenic rivers. Take a drive along the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway, hike one of the forest's many trails, or simply stop for a picnic amidst the natural beauty.
Bandon
Located on the southern coast of Oregon, the town of Bandon is a charming and picturesque community that's known for its beautiful beaches and quirky attractions. Check out the town's many art galleries and studios, stroll along the beach and watch the sunset over the Pacific, or try your hand at crabbing or fishing. Bandon is also home to several championship golf courses, making it a popular destination for golfers from around the world.
Conclusion
From scenic beaches to historic lighthouses, there's no shortage of stunning sights to see when driving from Astoria to Bandon. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, this stretch of coastal highway has something for everyone. So pack up your car and hit the road for the ultimate Pacific Northwest adventure!