Whether you are passing through for the day or planning to stay a while, Depoe Bay has plenty to offer the curious traveler. From whale watching and harbor seal encounters to shopping and dining, here’s how you can spend one day in Depoe Bay.
Whale watching capital
As the whale watching capital of Oregon, Depoe Bay is home to the Whale Watching Center. Here you can watch for Gray whales spouting and sometimes ‘fluking’ which is when whales show their tails as they dive down to feed. You may even be lucky enough to see one breach! It is also a great place to learn more about the area’s most famous resident: a pod of gray whales who feed in the bay. Or take a stroll at the Whale Watch Park and pack a picnic for your whale-watching adventures.
For an even better whale-watching view, stay at the Channel House. Located along the rugged Oregon Coast, Channel House is a short walk across the bridge over the Depoe Bay channel to the Whale Watching Center. Guests will enjoy front-row views from their private balconies with binoculars – perfect for whale watching in Depoe Bay.
Read here for tips about whale watching in Depoe Bay, Oregon.
World’ smallest navigable harbor
As soon as you enter Depoe Bay, travelers are greeted with a sign stating, “the world’s smallest navigable harbor.” Passing under the Depoe Bay Bridge, the entrance to the harbor used to be only 30 feet wide until they expanded it to its current size of 50 feet. Pedestrians can view the harbor up close by walking underneath the bridge to cross HWY 101.
Visit art galleries
Shop in the quaint town of Depoe Bay for everything from glass floats to kites to tchotchke’s that will delight your family and friends as gifts when you return home. One art gallery that is a must for your one day in Depoe Bay is the Silver Heron Gallery. The once Depoe Bay Aquarium is now home to fine art pieces ranging from oil paintings and watercolors to bronze sculptures and elegant glassworks.
Wine tasting
What vacation would be complete without a stop at a local winery? When spending one day in Depoe Bay enjoy savory nodes at the Depoe Bay Winery, which is located on the east side of 101 in the center of your Depoe Bay shopping experience! Or head a little further south to Otter Rock, just outside of Depoe Bay, and gain beautiful views of the coast from Flying Dutchman Winery while you enjoy your glass of pinot on their outdoor patio.
A sunset stroll along the Depoe Bay waterfront
Maybe one of the best ways to end your one day in Depoe Bay is with a stroll along the town’s beautiful sea wall. Watch out for the spouting horn and keep your eyes peeled for the local seals that often play in the harbor. There is plenty to keep your eyes entertained.
Dining
Grab a casual quick bite for lunch at Gracie’s Sea Hag for some fresh seafood or the Chowder Bowl for a delicious bowl of classic chowder. If you are staying for dinner, step it up a notch for a night out at Restaurant Beck. This culinary collision of excellent taste and fresh ingredients offers an in-season menu that changes frequently – all prepared by their award-winning chef for a truly spectacular dining experience.
Stay at the Channel House
Located in the heart of Depoe Bay, Channel House is the perfect place to rest your head at night after spending one day in Depoe Bay. We offer 15 different rooms and suites with stunning views of the Oregon Coast. Many accommodations have private decks overlooking the expansive ocean with outdoor spa tubs with cozy indoor seating and gas fireplace. So, what better way than to end your day in Depoe Bay than with a stay at the Channel House.
