How to Travel the Oregon Coast: A Budget-Friendly Guide to Iconic Spots, Local Eats, and Hidden Gems

The Oregon Coast is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, charming towns, and unforgettable experiences. Stretching over 360 miles, this scenic route offers everything from dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches to lush forests and quaint coastal towns. Best of all, it’s possible to explore this beautiful region on a budget. In this guide, we’ll take you through a seven-day itinerary that hits all the iconic spots while offering tips on where to sleep for free or at low-cost alternatives—and where to grab some delicious local food along the way.

Day 1: Astoria to Cannon Beach**
- Explore:
- Start your journey in Astoria, a historic town where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean. Visit the Astoria Column for panoramic views and explore the Columbia River Maritime Museum.
- Drive down to Cannon Beach, home to the famous Haystack Rock. Spend the afternoon strolling the beach and exploring the tide pools.

- Dine:
- Astoria: Grab lunch at Bowpicker Fish & Chips, where they serve up some of the best beer-battered albacore tuna fish and chips straight from a converted fishing boat.
- Cannon Beach: For dinner, head to Ecola Seafood Restaurant & Market for fresh seafood options. Their clam chowder and fish tacos are local favorites.

- Sleep:
- Free: Stay at the Nehalem Bay State Park campgrounds, where you can find free dispersed camping in the surrounding forested areas.
- Cheap: The Sea Breeze Court in Cannon Beach offers affordable lodging with easy access to the beach.

Day 2: Cannon Beach to Tillamook
- Explore:
- Head south to Ecola State Park, where you can hike the Crescent Beach Trail for breathtaking views of the coast.
- Continue to Tillamook, known for its dairy products. Visit the Tillamook Creamery for a tour and enjoy some cheese samples.

- Dine:
- Tillamook: Have lunch at Pelican Brewing Company in Tillamook. They offer a great selection of craft beers and a menu featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Don’t miss their fish and chips or the Dory Catch burger.

- Sleep:
- Free: Tillamook State Forest offers several dispersed camping spots where you can camp for free.
- Cheap: Consider staying at the Cape Lookout State Park campground, which is budget-friendly and offers easy beach access.

Day 3: Tillamook to Newport
- Explore:
- Visit Cape Meares Lighthouse and Three Arch Rocks for stunning coastal views.
- Stop by Depoe Bay, the whale-watching capital of Oregon, and if you're lucky, spot some gray whales.
- Arrive in Newport, where you can explore the Oregon Coast Aquarium and the historic Yaquina Bay Lighthouse.

- Dine:
- Newport: Treat yourself to dinner at Local Ocean Seafoods. Known for its fresh, sustainable seafood, this waterfront restaurant offers a variety of dishes like grilled fish, shrimp ceviche, and their famous fish tacos.

- Sleep:
- Free: Look for free camping spots in the Siuslaw National Forest or along the Alsea River Corridor.
- Cheap: The South Beach State Park campground offers affordable sites and is close to Newport’s attractions.

Day 4: Newport to Florence
- Explore:
- Spend the morning at Devil’s Punchbowl and then head to Cape Perpetua Scenic Area. Hike to the Cape Perpetua Overlook for panoramic views of the ocean.
- Visit Heceta Head Lighthouse, one of the most photographed lighthouses on the coast.

- Dine:
- Florence: Stop for lunch at Mo’s Seafood & Chowder in Florence, an iconic spot along the Oregon Coast. Their clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl is a must-try.

- Sleep:
- Free: Dispersed camping is available in Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area just south of Florence.
- Cheap: Stay at the Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park campground, which is situated near the Oregon Dunes.

Day 5: Florence to Coos Bay
- Explore:
- Start your day with a visit to the Oregon Dunes, where you can hike, rent ATVs, or simply take in the otherworldly landscape.
- Head to Coos Bayand explore Shore Acres State Park, famous for its beautiful gardens and dramatic cliff views.

- Dine:
- Coos Bay: Enjoy dinner at 7 Devils Brewing Co., a local favorite known for its craft beers and hearty menu. Try their fish tacos or the clam chowder, both popular with locals and visitors alike.

- Sleep:
- Free: Check out dispersed camping opportunities in the Elliott State Forest.
- Cheap: The Sunset Bay State Park campground is a budget-friendly option with close proximity to Coos Bay attractions.

Day 6: Coos Bay to Bandon
- Explore:
- Drive south to Bandon, known for its stunning rock formations along the coast. Visit Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint and take a walk on the beach to see the sea stacks.
- Stop by West Coast Game Park Safari to get up close with animals or explore Bandon Old Town for a taste of local culture.

- Dine:
- Bandon: Grab a meal at Tony’s Crab Shack, a casual spot right on the harbor. Their crab sandwiches and fish tacos are well-loved by both locals and tourists.

- Sleep:
- Free: Dispersed camping is available in Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest near Bandon.
- Cheap: Consider staying at the Bullards Beach State Park campground, which is a short drive from Bandon’s attractions.

Day 7: Bandon to Brookings
- Explore:
- End your journey in Brookings, the southernmost town on the Oregon coast. Visit Harris Beach State Park for some of the best coastal views and tide-pooling opportunities.
- If time allows, take a detour to the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, a must-see stretch of rugged coastline with numerous viewpoints and trails.

- Dine:
- Brookings: Finish your trip with dinner at The Hungry Clam, a cozy spot known for its clam chowder, fish and chips, and friendly service.

- Sleep:
- Free: Dispersed camping is available in the Chetco River area near Brookings.
- Cheap: Stay at the Alfred A. Loeb State Park campground, known for its proximity to the Chetco River and beautiful myrtle trees.

Final Tips for Traveling the Oregon Coast on a Budget
Pack a tent: Many of the free and cheap camping spots require you to be self-sufficient, so having a tent is essential.
- Bring your own food: Save money by packing your meals. Many state parks have picnic areas where you can enjoy your meals with a view.
- Check the weather: The Oregon Coast can be unpredictable, so pack layers and be prepared for rain.

Exploring the Oregon Coast doesn’t have to break the bank. With careful planning, you can experience the beauty of this iconic region while sticking to a budget. Whether you’re camping for free in a forest or staying in a budget-friendly state park, the adventure of a lifetime is waiting for you.