Oregon Coast Road Trip: The Perfect 7-Day Itinerary

Rugged coastlines. Towering redwoods. Charming seaside towns. The Oregon Coast is a feast for the senses—and one of the most scenic drives in the U.S. With pine-scented breezes, crashing waves, and world-class seafood, it’s the perfect destination for reconnecting with nature and slowing down.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy couples escape or an unforgettable family adventure, this 7-day Oregon Coast itinerary from Portland to Brookings and back will help you make the most of every mile.

Where to Stay Along the Oregon Coast

Coast Cabins • Manzanita, Oregon

Day 1: Arrival and Overnight in Portland

Multnomah Falls and Downtown Stay

Fly into PDX and pick up your rental car—it’s time to hit the road! Before settling into the city, drive along the Columbia River Gorge to Multnomah Falls for your first taste of Oregon’s natural beauty. The falls are easily accessible with an optional hike to the overlook bridge. Be sure to reserve a parking pass ahead of time if you are traveling during peak season.

By sunset, head into Portland and check in to The Heathman Hotel (read my review of this hotel!) Dine in-house at The Tavern (don’t skip the burger + parmesan fries combo), then wind down by the fire in The Library—a cozy lounge filled with over 2,700 curated books. The perfect start to your trip.

Multnomah Falls • Columbia River, Oregon

Day 2: Portland → Astoria → Manzanita

Movie Landmarks and Seaside Sunsets

Fuel up with breakfast downstairs or grab a bite at nearby Voodoo Doughnut or Starbucks. Fans of Twilight and Halloweentown should detour through St. Helens, home to several recognizable filming locations.

Next, head to Astoria, a historic town perched along the Columbia River. Explore The Goonies and Kindergarten Cop filming spots, then grab lunch at Bridgewater Bistro with views of the Astoria–Megler Bridge.

Continue south, stopping at Indian Beach and Cannon Beach (La Push and Haystack Rock for movie buffs) before arriving in Manzanita. Check into Coast Cabins and enjoy a laid-back dinner at Marzano’s Pizza.

Haystack Rock • Cannon Beach, Oregon

Day 3: Manzanita → Newport

Creamery Tours and Cliffside Views

Start the day at Manzanita Coffee before walking the beach and browsing shops in this sleepy seaside town. Then head to Tillamook Creamery for a tour, cheese tasting, and ice cream flight. Don’t miss the charcuterie-worthy gift shop!

On your way south, pause at Devil’s Punchbowl and Depoe Bay for lunch at Tidal Raves—a cliffside gem with panoramic views.

In Newport, visit the Oregon Coast Aquarium, then check into the Inn at Nye Beach. End the day with a cozy movie night in your room or by the fire pit with snacks from Tillamook and board games borrowed from the lobby.

Views from Tidal Raves • Depoe Bay, Oregon

Day 4: Newport → Brookings

Coastal Wonders and Sunset Hikes

Enjoy breakfast delivered to your room at the Inn at Nye Beach (try the burritos!) before heading south for a full day of sightseeing. Highlights include:

  • Sea Lion Caves

  • Cape Perpetua (don’t miss Thor’s Well and the Spouting Horn)

  • Bandon Beach and Face Rock

  • Scenic lunch stop at 7 Devils Brewing Co. in Coos Bay

Arrive at the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor near Brookings just in time for golden hour. Hike one of the many trails for unbelievable coastal views. Check into the Beachfront Inn, then enjoy dinner at Black Trumpet Bistro in downtown Brookings. Drift to sleep with the sound of ocean waves.

Spouting Horn at High Tide • Cape Perpetua, Oregon

Sunset at Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor • Brookings, Oregon

Day 5: Brookings → Newport

Redwoods, Tide Pools and Coastal Charm

After breakfast at the Beachfront Inn, drive south into California to explore Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. Hike among ancient giants along the Smith River.

On your way back north, explore tide pools at Harris Beach and have lunch in Old Town Bandon. Stop again at Cape Perpetua before returning to Newport for dinner at Georgie’s—a local favorite with oceanfront dining.

Spend another night at Inn at Nye Beach. Enjoy the hot tub or s’mores by the fire pit before turning in.

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park

Tide Pooling at Harris Beach • Oregon Coast

Day 6: Newport → Portland

Silver Falls and Scenic Stops

Ease into the day with a hearty breakfast (stuffed French toast is a standout). Stroll Nye Beach, then head inland to Silver Falls State Park and hike the Trail of Ten Falls. Recharge with lunch at The Lodge Café on site.

Optional stops on the way back to Portland:

  • Frank Lloyd Wright’s Gordon House

  • Willamette Valley Wineries

  • Oregon Rose Garden in Eugene

Once back in the city, return to The Heathman Hotel. Enjoy dinner at The Tavern or explore Portland’s culinary scene one last time.

Trail of Ten Falls • Silver Falls State Park, Oregon

Day 7: Explore Portland and Departure

Books, Bites and Goodbyes

Savor breakfast at The Tavern or swing by Voodoo Doughnut or Starbucks. Before heading to the airport, visit Powell’s City of Books and nearby boutiques. If you have time, revisit Multnomah Falls for one last nature moment.

At PDX, grab a farewell meal at Tillamook Market—grilled cheese and tomato soup recommended! Browse local shops for last-minute souvenirs and start dreaming about your next Oregon adventure.

 

Travel Tips

  • When to go: Fall is the perfect time to visit. The foliage is stunning, crowds are fewer, and coastal towns feel slower and more intimate.

  • Getting around: A rental car is essential for this road trip—it’s all about the scenic drives.

  • For film fans: The coast is dotted with filming locations from The Goonies, Twilight, Halloweentown, and more—great for themed stops.

  • Prefer a more leisurely pace? Consider adding a night near Florence along the southern coast or staying multiple nights in your favorite area.

 

Ready for an Oregon Coast roadtrip?

Let me help you plan your Oregon Coast adventure—custom routes, handpicked stays, and insider tips included.


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