From the blog

Storm Watching on the Oregon Coast

Image of an Oregon coast storm.

It’s winter here in Depoe Bay, Oregon and that also means it’s winter storm watching season! Ok, we know it seems a bit odd to get excited about thunderstorms but around here dramatic storms light up Oregon’s coast for one spectacular show! Storm watching on the Oregon Coast sits amongst the best winter recreation activities along the coastline. Watch as violent, churning ocean waters crash against headlands and sea stacks, making for one very dramatic entrance.

So, pack your camera and rain jacket and head out to these spots near Depoe Bay for storm watching on the Oregon Coast.

Cape Perpetua

Thor’s Wall

The various landscapes of Cape Perpetua are what make this place so special for storm watching. Cook’s Chasm is a narrow opening in the basalt, where waves break their way through creating what is known as a spouting horn. Thor’s Well almost has the opposite effect, as it sucks the ocean water in and then push it back out. These naturally occurring events plus the dramatic rocky shoreline, make Cape Perpetua one of the best places for watching winter storms.

Boiler Bay

Just slightly north of Depoe Bay, the Boiler Bay State Park is a popular destination for bird watching and whale watching. In the winter this lookout point is known to see quite a display as giant waves crash up against the shore.

Depoe Bay

Coastal storm in Depoe Bay

Perched atop the rocky cliffs of the north-central coastline, Depoe Bay offers a fantastic vantage point for storm watching on the Oregon Coast. Waves are dramatically sprayed from our town’s spouting horn and crash against the giant sea wall for one dramatic show.

Devils Punch Bowl

A real feast for the eyes no matter what time of year, Devils Punch Bowl is a not-to-miss site for winter storm watching. Shaped like a huge punch bowl, water from the unsettled ocean slams into the hallow rock formation, churning up quite the foamy brew. This is also a great spot for winter whale watching so be sure to bring your binoculars as well.

Rocky Creek

This oceanfront park just south of Depoe Bay sits on a bluff overlooking the ocean, offering sweeping views of the ocean. Its offshore rocks supply unbelievable wave action during storms and are known nesting areas for birds, sea lions, and harbor seals.

Channel House

One of the best ways to enjoy storm watching on the Oregon Coast is from the comfort of your luxurious suite or private balcony at the Channel House. Our 15 beautifully appointed rooms and suites offer stunning views of the Oregon Coast and are the perfect haven for watching winter storms.

Most accommodations have private decks overlooking the ocean with outdoor spa tubs, plus indoor comforts like a warming fireplace and cozy seating area. Browse our accommodations and stay with us for some of the best views for storm watching on the Oregon Coast.

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