Depoe Bay, Oregon is one of the more unique and quaint Oregon Coast towns that should be added to anyone’s Oregon Coast road trip. To understand what makes us so special, read here for five fun facts about Depoe Bay, Oregon!
The Spouting Horn
A naturally occurring phenomenon, the Spouting Horn is an oceanic geyser that sprays water 40 or more feet in the air. The Spouting Horn is a fissure in the basalt rocks that line the coastline of Depoe Bay. As forced waters make its way through the crevice, water launches into the air, creating a beautiful display of mother nature at her best. The best time to see this show is during the fall and winter season when storms frequent the Oregon Coast.
Depoe Bay Bridge
Designed in 1926, the Depoe Bay Bridge is one of a series of significant bridges along the Oregon Coast Highway. Spanning a length of 312 feet, the bridge was originally only 18 feet wide, making it one of the hardest navigable harbors for ships. It was widened in 1940, with the added section remaining a part of the National Register of Historic Places.
Resting along Highway 1, the drivable bridge beautifully connects the town of Depoe Bay with a pedestrian sidewalk, allowing for the chance to walk across or even under the bridge.
Located just on the south end of the bridge, lies the Channel House. From the Channel House, enjoy views of both the coastline and the historic Depoe Bay Bridge for the full Oregon Coast experience.
Depoe Bay Harbor
Named “the world’s smallest natural navigable harbor,” the Depoe Bay Harbor used to sit at just 30 feet wide until it was expanded over 55 years ago. Today the channel covers roughly six acres with a 50-foot wide opening. Part of the expansion came with the expansion of the Depoe Bay Bridge due to ships crashing up against the coast’s rough rocks, especially during an Oregon Coast winter storm.
Whale watching capital of the world
Named the “whale watching capital of the world,” Depoe Bay is THE place for whale watching along the Oregon Coast. Due to a group of gray whales who are regular residents of the waters of Depoe Bay, there is always a chance to see a spouting or breaching whale. While the group itself shifts and changes over time, there is always a permanent residency here in our waters.
So, what keeps these whales here year-round? Due to the abundance of kelp and shrimp, which are easy food choices for the gray whale, they tend to stick around for the food.
Oregon’s first aquarium
One of the more unique facts about Depoe Bay, Oregon is that it used to be home to the oldest privately-owned aquarium. Opening in 1927, the aquarium was the first one in Oregon. Over the years it took some hard hits and eventually closed in 1998, the building is now the local Silver Heron Art Gallery.
Stay at Channel House
Soak up all there is to do and see in Depoe Bay with a stay at the Channel House. With some 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. Take in coastal views from your oceanfront deck, relaxing whirlpools, exceptional amenities, and a bit of peace and tranquility at the Channel House.
