The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Astoria, Oregon to San Francisco, California
There's no denying that driving along the Pacific Coast Highway is one of the best road trip experiences in the world. From stunning coastal views to quaint towns and hidden gems, there's a lot to discover when driving from Astoria, Oregon to San Francisco, California. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway or a family vacation, this stretch of the coast promises to be a journey to remember. In this blog post, we've put together a list of the top places to see and things to do along the way.
The Oregon Coast: A Scenic Drive
The Oregon coast is known for its rugged beauty, charming lighthouses, sandy beaches, and picturesque towns. As you leave Astoria and head south towards California, here are some top places to check out and explore.
Cannon Beach Cannon Beach is a perfect place to start your Oregon coast road trip. This classic coastal town is known for its iconic Haystack Rock, a 235-foot tall rock formation that is one of the most photographed sites in Oregon. The beach is wide and long, so it's ideal for walks and beachcombing. Spend some time at this beautiful spot before heading further down the coast.
Yaquina Head Lighthouse As you continue driving south, be sure to stop at Yaquina Head Lighthouse, located near Newport. This 93-foot tall lighthouse sits atop a basalt headland and is one of the tallest lighthouses on the Oregon coast. Take a tour of the lighthouse and learn about its history, or walk the trails and enjoy the coastal views.
Thor's Well Located in Cape Perpetua, near Yachats, Thor's Well is a natural wonder that's worth stopping for. This mysterious hole in the rock formation is actually a saltwater fountain. During high tide, water shoots out of the hole and creates a spectacular display that is both mesmerizing and thrilling to watch.
Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor As you approach the California border, don't miss the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. This 12-mile stretch of coastline offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Oregon coast. The corridor is dotted with trails that take you through forests, waterfalls, and rocky headlands. Don't forget to pack your camera for this leg of the journey.
California Dreaming: Coastal Gems
Once you cross the California border, you're in for a treat. The next stretch of the drive is dotted with charming towns, unspoiled beaches, and must-see attractions. Here are some of the top spots to check out.
Redwoods National and State Parks If you're a nature lover, you'll want to stop at the Redwoods National and State Parks. This park is home to the tallest trees on earth, including the coast redwoods, which can grow up to 380 feet tall. Take a hike, bike ride, or scenic drive through these towering trees, and experience one of the most otherworldly places on the planet.
Mendocino Mendocino is a charming Victorian-style town located on the rugged Northern California coastline. It's known for its beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, local art galleries, and historic inns. Stroll through the town's streets and enjoy the local shops and restaurants, or take a hike along the Mendocino Headlands State Park trails.
Glass Beach Located in Fort Bragg, Glass Beach is a unique and unusual beach that is covered in millions of colorful glass pebbles. These pebbles are the result of years of trash dumping in the area, but today, they've turned into a beautiful and mesmerizing sight. Walk along the beach and collect some souvenirs, or simply take in the wonder of this beach.
Bodega Bay Bodega Bay is a charming fishing village that is surrounded by beautiful hills and rugged coastline. It's a great spot to enjoy fresh seafood, go kayaking, or simply take in the serene views. Make sure to visit the Bodega Bay Marina and explore the historical buildings in the area.
Conclusion: Make Your Coastline Journey a Memorable One
This journey from Astoria, Oregon to San Francisco, California is packed with scenic drives, quaint towns, and must-see attractions. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or nature, this drive promises to deliver. From the rugged beauty of the Oregon coast to the charming towns of Northern California, this stretch of the Pacific Highway has something for everyone. So pack your bags, fill up your gas tank, and hit the road for the ultimate Pacific Coast Highway trip.