Just don't even think about calling it "the beach". To Oregonians (both natives and transplants), all 363 miles of rocky cliffs, white sandy shores, and unbelievably panoramic views lining the Pacific Ocean is simply known as "the coast". And Oregon loves her coast. Since 1967, the entire stretch has been preserved as free, publicly accessible land, essentially creating one incredibly diverse public park that includes bustling seaports, windswept sand dunes, pine-covered cliffs, and romantic lighthouses.

The coast is informally divided into three sections: north, central, and south. The northern coast stretches from historic Astoria on the Columbia River to Cascade Head, a prominent headland jutting out into the ocean just south of Neskowin. In between, the well-traveled region is home to many of the coast's most popular tourist destinations: bustling Seaside, charming Cannon Beach, and the famous cheese factory of Tillamook. Families and fishermen alike flock to scenic Rockaway Beach.

For those seeking peace and quiet, smaller villages like Manzanita, Oceanside, Arch Cape, and Netarts offer a more laid-back pace of life. Quintessential northern coast experiences include exploring the tidepools at Haystack Rock, photographing historic lighthouses along the scenic Three Capes Drive, and stopping for the state's freshest seafood in a fishing village like Barview or Garibaldi. Don't miss the fresh pints at the Pelican Pub and Brewery and lively dory boats at beautiful Pacific City.

The central Oregon coast is wildly diverse, encompassing state parks perched along rugged cliffs and tourist towns dotting sandy beaches before giving way to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. Lincoln City in the north draws thousands of visitors with its dining scene, casinos, and shopping, along with a long stretch of gorgeous sandy beach. Heading south along Highway 101, the central coast includes the Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coast at Depoe Bay, the lively harbor of Newport and its famous aquarium (not to mention the Rogue brewery), and world-class crabbing in Waldport. Scenic Cape Perpetua soars above the ocean for some of the coast's finest views and clifftop hikes, while further south, the towering sand dunes make for a delightful summer playground and the town of Yachats boasts a lively arts scene and some excellent dining options.

The southern Oregon coast is much further from the state's population centers of Portland, Salem, and Eugene, and accordingly is much less traveled. After bustling Coos Bay, the southern coast is dotted with only a few small towns along the miles of sandy coastline stretching down to California. Visitors to this region often make the pilgrimage to the famous courses at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, take a jet boat ride up the Rogue River, or simply find their private stretch of beach and soak up the southern coast's more abundant sunshine.