Make the most out of your Oregon Coast road trip and discover these day trips from Lincoln City, Oregon.
Depoe Bay
Known as the whale watching capital of Oregon, Depoe Bay is one of the best day trips from Lincoln City, Oregon to experience marine life. Nearly 20,000 gray whales migrate south in the winter and north in the spring, right here in our waters. Plus, Depoe Bay is home to about 40 resident gray whales who don’t make the migration, so there is a chance to see whales year-round!
Whale watching in Depoe Bay
Several places in town are perfect for whale watching. Visit the Whale Watching Center, or just stroll through town along the oceanfront seawall, or book a night’s stay at the Channel House. Nestled on an oceanfront bluff, our boutique hotel offers some of the best views in town. Most of our rooms and suites come with private balconies, complete with outdoor spa tubs, where you can sit and watch as the whales make their way through the ocean.
If you plan to stay a while, make a trip out of it and found out how you can spend the perfect weekend in Depoe Bay.
Otter Crest Scenic Drive
From Depoe Bay, just west of HWY 101, is a leisurely drive that takes travelers to some of the coast’s most interesting geological formations, known as the Otter Crest Scenic Drive. The one-way road veers from HWY 101, south towards the Otter Crest State Wayside. Along the way, be sure to stop at the Ben Jones Bridge, Devil’s Punchbowl, and top it off with a glass of wine from the Flying Dutchman Winery. The scenic route is just over four miles, the perfect day trip excursion.
Yaquina Head Lighthouse in Newport
Just past Depoe Bay lies the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area in the town of Newport. Visitors easily enjoy the scenic views, a historic lighthouse, bird watching, and access to some of the best tide pools along the coast. Next, spend some time at the historic bayfront, where you can shop and dine, plus take in the sites and sounds of the sea lions that make their home at the docks there.
Cape Perpetua
For another day trip from Lincoln City, Oregon head even further south from Newport to the beautiful Cape Perpetua Scenic Area. Here, visitors can see natural wonders including, the Spouting Horn, Thor’s Well, and Devil’s Churn. The Cape Perpetua Headland, towering 800 feet over the marine garden shoreline below, is the highest viewpoint accessible by car along the coast. There are hiking and biking trails throughout the area to continue your exploration.
Three Capes Scenic Route
And if you are heading north from Lincoln City, be sure to tag on the Three Capes Scenic Route to Cape Lookout and Cape Meares. The 40-mile loop guides travelers along some of the most beautiful views of the Tillamook Coast. The route begins in downtown Tillamook and continues to the forested roads of Cape Meres. With plenty to see in between, this is a scenic drive you can’t miss.
Tip: while you are in Tillamook, be sure to schedule a tour of the famous Tillamook Creamery.
Let the journey begin and start planning your day trips from Lincoln City, Oregon today!
