For the Oregon Coast, fall doesn’t mean falling leaves and cooler temperatures, well not yet. Discover below why the Oregon Coast in the fall is just as spectacular as it is in the summer.
Second summer
While it might seem that temperatures would drop along the coast come fall, they are actually a bit warmer by the time September rolls around. This “phenomenon” is caused by a unique interaction between warmer waters, cooler temperatures inland, and air flows from the east.
Fewer crowds
Crowds in the fall are sizably smaller than in the summer. While September can still pull in plenty of visitors, October and into November can offer half the crowds, even on weekends. So, you are apt to find beaches, roads, and trails all to yourself!
Attend the Depoe Bay Salmon Bake
For a unique fall event, make plans to attend the Depoe Bay Salmon Bake. For over 60 years this unique festival is one of Depoe Bay’s most popular event. Filled with culture, rich heritage, and delicious salmon, this festival is one not to miss.
Note: Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the 64th Salmon Back in 2020 will look a bit different this year. The event will begin September 19th with a series of activities including salmon specials from local restaurants like Gracie’s Sea Hag, The Horn, Tidal Raves, Bayview Thai Kitchen, and others. Shop storefronts decorated with salmon and/or Native American related products. The Depoe Bay Chamber of Commerce hopes the 65th Salmon Bake in 2021 will be able to resume back to normal.
Hiking along the Oregon Coast
Hiking in Oregon any time of year is beautiful, but it is particularly stunning during the fall. Plus, with perfect temperatures, fewer crowds, and the beginnings of some storm action there is a lot to love about hiking along the Oregon Coast in the fall.
Beginning of storm watching season
Oregon Coast in the fall offers up that time of year when the winter storms start to kick in and begin churning the ocean floor. While there are many places to catch an epic Oregon Coast storm like in Yachats, Newport’s Yaquina Head, or Cape Meares, Depoe Bay is one of the best places to watch the ocean in action. While the big storms don’t normally kick off until late December, you can sometimes begin to catch them in late November.
Visit here for more on Storm Watching on the Oregon Coast.
Visit Yaquina Head Lighthouse
While any time of year is great to visit this historic icon, a trip to Yaquina Head Lighthouse is particularly special this time of year. With potential dramatic skies, early signs of breaching whales, and fewer crowds, make this a favorite stop along the Oregon Coast in the fall.
Beyond the coast
Explore Oregon beyond the coast and enjoy some wine tasting and fall colors along the Willamette Valley Scenic Byway. Or take a hike amongst the Eagle Cape Wilderness of Wallowa Mountains in Eastern Oregon. If hiking isn’t your thing, then tour the Hood River County Fruit Loop and discover U-pick orchards and farms, pumpkin patches, and wineries along the way.
Stay at Channel House
Complete your vacation with a stay at the Channel House. As one of the most scenic accommodations in Depoe Bay, the Channel House combines the comforts of a first-class hotel with the welcoming charm of a local country inn. Enjoy coastal views from your oceanfront deck, invigorating whirlpools, exceptional amenities, and some peace and quiet all at the Channel House.
