Few crowds, excellent restaurants, and close proximity to the breathtaking views of Cape Perpetua: it's no wonder the picturesque village of Yachats is nicknamed "Gem of the Oregon Coast". Nestled along the mouth of the Yachats River, halfway between Newport and Florence, the town offers the all-too-rare combination of a charming downtown, beautiful beaches, and a sense of real tranquility.

While the town of Yachats itself is charming, the biggest draw in the area is Cape Perpetua, arguably the site of the best viewpoint along the entire Oregon Coast. The 803-foot-high viewpoint offers a panoramic view stretching 150 miles north-to-south, and almost 40 miles out to sea on a clear day. Just a few miles south of town, the official Cape Perpetua Scenic Area includes an informative visitor's center and over twenty miles of hiking trails leading to unforgettable scenic vistas. Nearby parks at Neptune Beach, Cummins Creek, and Smelt Sands offer additional spots for hiking, picnicking, wildlife watching, and fishing.

Before or after a long day of exploring the surrounding scenery, fuel up or unwind at one of Yachats' many eateries or pubs. There are a surprising number to choose from given the size of the town, but a few local favorites include the Green Salmon for organic coffee and pastries; the historic Drift Inn for drinks, pub fare and live music; Luna Sea Fish House for fresh, local seafood; and the Yachats Underground Pub & Grub for beers and burgers.

Yachats is just over three hours from Portland, two from Salem and Eugene, and just an hour and a half from Corvallis. It's a little more secluded than many of the Coast's other destinations, but still within an hour of Newport's bustling attractions, Florence's photogenic scenery, and plenty of deserted beaches and sleepy fishing villages in between. It's easy to see how Yachats earned its nickname, and why many locals (and Arthur Frommer) consider it one of the top destinations along the Oregon Coast.