Best Places to Watch the Sunset on the Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast is home to many beautiful scenes with its rugged coastline, towering cliffs, sandy beaches, and unique natural formations. But what also makes the Oregon Coast unique are its spectacular sunsets. Simply magical, our coastal sunsets glow with a beautiful blend of colors as the sun slowly sets over the Pacific Ocean. For spectacular views, here are the best places to watch the sunset on the Oregon Coast.

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

Often referenced as the most scenic 12 miles along the Oregon Coast, the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is one of the best places to watch the sunset on the Oregon Coast. While there are 11 designated stops along the scenic corridor, one, in particular, stands out for watching sunsets – Whaleshead.

Sunset Bay

Make sure to add the Cape Arago Beach Loop to your Oregon Coast road trip and stop at Sunset Bay State Park for an unforgettable sunset. Soak up stunning cliffside viewpoints, leisurely walking paths, with hiking trails that connect the three parks of Sunset Bay, Shores Acres, and Cape Arago. Sunset Bay State Park features sandy beaches protected by towering sea cliffs – the perfect setting for a coastal sunset.

Yaquina Head Lighthouse

Located just south of Depoe Bay, in the town of Newport, the Yaquina Head Lighthouse is Oregon’s tallest lighthouse and one of the most photographed. Visit the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area at sunset and witness a color explosion paired with the statuesque lighthouse and rugged coastline for a picture-perfect sunset.

Astoria-Megler Bridge

Found along the far reaches of the northern Oregon Coast, where the mouth of the Columbia River begins, the Astoria-Megler Bridge is a massive steel bridge that spans the lower Columbia River – between Astoria, OR and Megler, Washington. It is the longest continuous truss bridge and is one of the more notable landmarks along the Oregon Coast. The contrast of the steel bridge and soft colors from the sunsets make for one of the best places to watch the sunset on the Oregon Coast.

Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach

Perhaps one of the more recognizable natural landmarks that dot the Oregon Coast is Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach. The expansive beaches of Cannon Beach make for the perfect evening stroll along the sandy shoreline to watch the sunset on another beautiful day along the coast.

Ecola State Park, Cannon Beach

See Cannon Beach from a different perspective from Ecola State Park. Spanning nine miles long along the northern coastline, sunset viewers can enjoy several vantage points. Enjoy from the sandy beaches or head up to one of the overlooks, like Cape Lookout, for even better views.

Sunsets in Depoe Bay

One of the best places to watch the sunset on the Oregon Coast is from the comfort of your room at the Channel House in Depoe Bay. Perched high on an oceanfront bluff, our Oregon Coast hotel brings you as close to fresh ocean breezes and sunset views as you can get, all without having to leave your suite.

Where to stay in Depoe Bay

For a perfect weekend in Depoe Bay, unwind with us! Channel House is a boutique oceanfront hotel with spectacular views, private spa tubs, and front-row whale watching.

Please note: Channel House is undergoing a major remodel from February 1 to September 1, 2026.

During this time, our Allyn House rooms (13–15) will still be available to book.