Our small fishing village of Depoe Bay makes for the perfect weekend on the Oregon Coast. Resting along the popular Highway 101, nestled between Oregon Coast hotspots of Lincoln City and Newport, Depoe Bay features rugged coastlines, white caps, and grey whales out at sea. Amongst this dramatic stretch of the Oregon Coast, the town of Depoe Bay is home to seafood shacks, postcard-worthy landscapes, and the world’s smallest harbor. Start planning your weekend on the Oregon Coast with our guide below.
Whale watching in Depoe Bay
Known as the whale watching capital of Oregon, Depoe Bay is the perfect location to spot them. Sometimes as close as 30 feet away from the shore, you will have prime viewing locations throughout the town. Whales can be seen any time of year, but the late fall and spring are when they are most common. The best months to spot them are in December & January as they migrate south and in late March & April, as they return north.
The best place to see the migration of the grey whale is anywhere in Depoe Bay. But there are some spots that favorite amongst the locals:
- Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint
- Rocky Creek State Scenic Viewpoint
- Otter Crest Viewpoint
- Devil’s Punch Bowl
Or enjoy the show from the comfort of your own room at Channel House, offering some of the best seats in town for whale watching.
Hire a fishing charter
Many visitors like to take to the open seas during their time in Depoe Bay, whether it’s to go whale watching or to go fishing. For travelers that want an Oregon Coast fishing excursion, there are a variety of fishing charters in Depoe Bay to choose from. Most charter companies start with a 5-hour bottom fishing trip or crabbing trip with fishing gear and instruction included in the price.
Take a hike
Warmer days, fewer rain showers, and more hours of sunlight; summers along the Oregon Coast offer ample opportunity for outdoor recreation, such as hiking. There are several hikes in town including the Depoe Bay hike, the Depoe Bay Scenic View Area, and Fishing Rock Trail. These are fairly easy hikes and can be done as a morning or afternoon hike.
Watch the sunset
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 a beautiful blend of color that slowly sets over the Pacific Ocean.
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.
Visit a local winery
Depoe Bay offers a few local wineries that are worth adding to your summer travel itinerary. With daily complimentary wine tasting, Depoe Bay Winery, known for their famous wine cave, is a classic Oregon Coast spot to enjoy a glass of wine as the sun sets on the Pacific Ocean. Or head out to Flying Dutchman Winery and savor sweet nodes from Oregon’s most unique winery.
See Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area
Along the Oregon Coast, the Devils Punchbowl is a large bowl naturally carved into the rock and opened into the Pacific Ocean and is a favorite among Depoe Bay attractions. This landmark is very interesting to watch as the waves come in and out of the bowl swirling and foaming inside as the water vigorously moves.
Stay at the Channel House
Complete your weekend on the Oregon Coast and book your stay at the Channel House. Our boutique hotel rests on the rugged coast, offering spectacular ocean views and front-row seats for whale watching. Choose from 15 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, each offering stunning views of the Oregon Coast with most accommodations offering private decks with an outdoor spa tub. Rest and relax after your adventures exploring this beautiful state with a stay at Channel House. Book your stay with us today!
