Wildlife Wonders and Coastal Charms: Exploring the Beauty of the Oregon Coast
Many versions of me exist between the wind and the waves of the Oregon Coast. I learned to dig sand castles there when I was two years old, and 16 years later, my interest in wildlife photography grew after seeing a whale in Pacific City. On each visit, I found something new to love about the wildlife and nature. The drive from Portland to the Oregon Coast is always a highlight with its passage through stunning countryside and mountain roads.
Several hidden gems scattered along the Oregon Coast are worth a visit, despite Haystack Rock and Cannon Beach’s iconic status. Here are my top three favourite locations throughout all my years of visiting.
Gearhardt
Gearhardt is a charming, relaxed beach town with bakeries and boutiques- the beach is just a bonus. Before taking a stroll on the beach, it is well worth a stop in The Natural Nook and Pacific Crest Florist for a variety of stunning home decor. There are also several bakeries to choose from- you can’t go wrong with either By The Way or Ocean Bakery Cafe.
However, the main attraction is Del Ray Beach, which is a 10-minute walk away and an equally beautiful but less touristy alternative to Cannon Beach. Throughout the years, I’ve enjoyed walking towards Tillamook Lighthouse with the mountainous views of Ecola State Park. Del Ray Beach is also a seashell collector’s dream with its many shells and sand dollars.
Pacific City
Some of my fondest memories of the Oregon Coast were made in Pacific City. Each year, my family challenged each other to run to the top of the Cape Kiwanda Sand Dune. However, the best part is exploring beyond the top towards the Marine Garden. Some excellent wildlife, like birds and whales, can be found in this quieter section. Even if you think you can’t handle any more sand, it is absolutely worth it to head back towards the beach for the canvas of colours across the sky at sunset. It is also worth noting that Pacific City, with its near-perfect wave conditions, is known for its surfing.
In terms of food options, since 1996, Pelican Brewing Company has been Pacific City’s popular beach-front restaurant and beer hub. They offer many different kinds of beers, from ale with raspberries to their own line of hops-infused sparkling water. For those in need of a sweet treat, stop by Stimulus Coffee and Bakery or Grateful Bread Bakery. At Stimulus, there is an array of fresh baked bread, seasonal special drinks and classic but elevated cafe dishes while Grateful offers baked goods with an old fashioned-hippy vibe on the side.
Tillamook
Although Tillamook offers a wide array of activities, one of my fondest childhood memories obviously surrounds the delights of the Tillamook Creamery. Entry is free, and it’s the perfect place to learn about dairy production, including cheese-making. Take the self-guided tour through the farm exhibit hall with its viewing gallery to witness cheese production in action. However, the obvious highlight is the ice cream, with nearly 30 flavours to choose from.
Beyond the delights of ice cream await the numerous hiking and biking trails in the area. Visitors can explore the many single mountain bike or beach trails. One of the most popular beach trails is the Cape Lookout Main Trail. Visitors in December through April will be blessed with a deep green forest and a whale or two. For avid kayakers, the Nehalem river is a great location for beginners and animal lovers as you can enjoy the gentle waters and admire salmon, seals and birds.
The beauty and tranquillity of each visit never get old, although reflecting on these experiences has made me realize how much more there is to discover. As I look back on my adventures, I’m filled with gratitude for the moments of joy and connection with nature that this coastal paradise has offered me and will continue to offer new visitors.
For more information, head to Travel Oregon.
