Last Updated on October 20, 2025 by Lauren Belzer Sanford
Stretching along the stunning Pacific coastline, the Oregon Coast is a mesmerizing destination known for its rugged cliffs, gorgeous beaches, and charming coastal towns. Among the various gems of the Oregon Coast, the Lincoln City to Newport stretch stands out as a must-visit destination, offering an unforgettable blend of beauty, outdoor adventures, and true coastal experiences.
For as long as I can remember, this stretch of the coast has held a special place in my family’s hearts thanks to our cherished beach house nestled in Gleneden Beach, a small town just south of Lincoln City. I was introduced to the sights, sounds, and sensations of coastal living from early on, as my parents, my twin sister, and I lived at this beach house for some of the first months of my life. I may not remember those early months, but I’ve always loved the ocean, and I know that it is thanks to that early exposure and sleeping with the window open to the sound of the waves.
In 2021, I had the opportunity to live at our beach house for about a year. It was a much slower pace of life than Max and I were used to but was a chance to immerse ourselves in the rhythm of slow, coastal life, waking up to the sound of seagulls and the scent of fresh ocean air.
In this detailed guide, we’ll dive into the wonders of the Oregon Coast, with a particular focus on the enchanting stretch from Lincoln City to Newport.
Getting to the Oregon Coast
If you’re from out of state, the easiest way to embark on your Oregon Coast adventure is to fly into the Portland International Airport (PDX) and rent a car. Lincoln City and Newport are both easily accessible by car, located along Highway 101, which runs parallel to the coastline.
Traveling from the Portland area, the drive takes roughly 2.5 hours through the various terrains of western Oregon. If you’re not in a hurry, there is a more leisurely route available via the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway, winding through quaint seaside towns.
Where to Stay
Lincoln City and Newport offer an array of accommodation options for every preference and budget. From oceanfront stays to cozy bed and breakfasts or private vacation rentals, there’s something for everyone! For a more luxurious stay, there are various hotels and resorts along the coast, like Salishan Coastal Lodge in Lincoln City and Whale Cove Inn in Depoe Bay. Newport is home to charming boutique hotels and vacation rentals, too.
For budget-conscious travelers, there are plenty of campgrounds and RV parks scattered along the coast, allowing you to immerse yourself without breaking the bank. Whether you prefer beachfront camping or forested campsites, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from.
Salishan Coastal Lodge
Salishan Coastal Lodge is a luxurious destination in south Lincoln City, offering guests a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Situated just south of Lincoln City, this iconic coastal retreat boasts breathtaking ocean views, world-class amenities, and unparalleled hospitality, making it the perfect destination for a getaway.
Stay: Salishan has a range of elegant accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs, from spacious guest rooms to luxurious suites. Each room is thoughtfully furnished with plush bedding and modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and restful stay.
Eat & Drink: At Salishan, there are a few different dining options to choose from. The resort’s signature restaurant, The Bay House, has become a culinary landmark on the Oregon coast since its opening in 1979. It was in 2020 that The Bay House relocated to Salishan Coastal Lodge.
For a more casual dining option, Provisions Market offers a relaxed atmosphere and a menu of sandwiches, salads, and smoothies, perfect for a light lunch or afternoon snack. After dinner, unwind with a craft cocktail or local wine at The Attic, where live music and sunset views create the perfect ambiance for an evening on the Oregon Coast.
Things to Do: Salishan offers a wealth of recreational activities for their guests, like tennis and golf. Tee off on the resort’s 18-hole championship golf course with views of the coastline as you navigate through forests and fairways.
For those seeking relaxation and pampering, the resort’s Spa at Salishan is the epitome of relaxation, with a list of treatments inspired by the Oregon Coast. From massages and facials to body wraps and hydrotherapy, the spa offers a variety of wellness services to help guests unwind and rejuvenate during their stay. You do not need to be staying at the lodge to visit the spa, however, you will need an appointment as the spa books up fast.
If you’re looking for something leisurely to do, The Marketplace at Salishan is home to eateries and shops, located just across Highway 101 from Salishan Coastal Lodge. There is everything from art galleries to craft beer, candy shops, and small boutiques.
Visiting the Coastal Towns
The coastal towns are what make this stretch of the Oregon Coast so fun to explore. They are all full of character, so similar but so different in many ways.
Lincoln City
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the coastal forests, Lincoln City is the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts and beachgoers. This seaside town offers miles of pristine coastline and endless opportunities for adventure, or relaxation! One of the most interesting things about Lincoln City is that it is home to the world’s shortest river, the D River, which spans just 120 feet from Devils Lake to the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can stroll along the sandy shores, fly kites in the ocean breeze, or simply bask in the beauty of the coastal landscape.
Dining in Lincoln City: One of my family’s favorite spots on the coast is in Lincoln City, and has been there since I was extremely young. That restaurant is called Kyllo’s Seafood & Grill. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Lincoln City, Kyllo’s Seafood & Grill is renowned for its spectacular views and delicious seafood dishes.
Related: Best Restaurants on the Oregon Coast
Shopping at the Outlets: For those seeking a bit of retail therapy, Lincoln City Outlets offers shoppers popular retailers like Nike and Coach, and some specialty stores, where you can score great deals on everything from apparel and accessories to home goods and outdoor gear.
Gleneden Beach
Gleneden Beach is perfect for slowing down. Spend a leisurely day soaking up GB, a serene and secluded stretch of beach located just south of Lincoln City. Gleneden Beach provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing day by the sea. Build sandcastles, fly kites, or simply stroll along the shoreline and collect seashells as you enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Pacific Northwest coast.
Small-Town Feel: During the summer months, Gleneden Beach comes alive with a variety of community events and celebrations that showcase the spirit of the coastal community. From outdoor concerts and art fairs to farmers’ markets and fireworks displays, there’s always something happening in Gleneden Beach to entertain and inspire visitors of all ages.
Summer Celebrations: Growing up, the beach house in Gleneden Beach became synonymous with summertime. Each year, as the Fourth of July approached, my family would pack up the car and make the 2.5-hour journey. From building sandcastles and taking bike rides to roasting marshmallows around a crackling fire, our early July days were filled with cherished traditions that created lasting memories for all of us, including Gleneden Beach’s special 4th of July parade, which we participated in a few times in our younger years!
Dining in Glenden Beach: Gleneden Beach, while small, is also home to one of the tastiest restaurants on the coast, Side Door Cafe. Side Door Cafe is a cozy bistro specializing in gourmet sandwiches, salads, and homemade baked goods. Stop in for a leisurely lunch and enjoy a delicious meal made with locally sourced ingredients, served with a side of warm hospitality. Brooke, the owner and chef, makes the best Marionberry Cobbler of all time!
Depoe Bay
Nestled between Lincoln City and Newport lies the charming town of Depoe Bay, a hidden gem along the Oregon Coast. Known as the “Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coast,” Depoe Bay offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness majestic gray whales as they migrate along the Pacific coastline. For outdoor enthusiasts, Depoe Bay offers plenty of opportunities for adventure, from fishing and crabbing to hiking and kayaking. Rent a kayak and paddle out into the bay for a closer look at the dramatic coastline, or join a guided fishing charter and try your luck at catching salmon, halibut, or rockfish in the deep waters offshore.
Whale Watching: One of the main attractions in Depoe Bay is its renowned whale-watching excursions. From mid-December to mid-January and late March to June, thousands of gray whales journey along the Oregon Coast as part of their annual migration. Depoe Bay’s proximity to deep water and its natural seawall create ideal conditions for whale watching, making it one of the best spots on the coast to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures.
Numerous charter companies in Depoe Bay offer whale-watching tours led by experienced captains and guides. Visitors venture out into the open ocean, where they can observe whales breaching, spouting, and playing in their natural habitat. Whether you’re aboard a traditional fishing vessel or a modern tour boat, the experience of witnessing these giants up close is something people always rave about!
For those who prefer to stay on land, the Depoe Bay Whale Watching Center provides an excellent viewpoint for spotting whales from shore. Perched atop the seawall overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the center features panoramic windows and outdoor viewing decks where visitors can watch for signs of activity. Inside the center, guests can learn about whales through interactive exhibits, displays, and educational programs led by volunteers. From the migration patterns of gray whales to information about other marine animals, the Whale Watching Center is a great educational resource.
Dining in Depoe Bay: No visit to Depoe Bay would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. From freshly caught seafood to gourmet cuisine, the town boasts a diverse array of dining options. Indulge in a seafood feast at one of the waterfront restaurants like Tidal Raves. You can find everything from savory mouthwatering dishes like Dungeness crab, Halibut fish and chips, and grilled salmon while enjoying stunning views!
Newport
Continuing south along the coast from Depoe Bay is the town of Newport with its historic waterfront district and bustling marina. Known as the “Dungeness Crab Capital of the World,” Newport is a paradise for seafood lovers! Beyond the seafood, there’s quite a bit to do and see:
Devil’s Punchbowl: Located just north of Newport, Devil’s Punchbowl is a collapsed sea cave formed by the erosion of the surrounding cliffs by the waves of the Pacific Ocean. Over time, the roof of the cave collapsed, creating a large circular opening that now serves as a natural amphitheater, where visitors can observe the ebb and flow of the ocean. The name “Devil’s Punchbowl” is thought to have originated from the churning waters and swirling currents that resemble a cauldron or punchbowl, particularly during periods of high tide and stormy weather.
Yaquina Head Lighthouse: For history buffs, the Yaquina Head Lighthouse is a must-see, offering guided tours of Oregon’s tallest lighthouse and views of the coast. Be sure to explore the surrounding Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, where you can hike along scenic trails, observe wildlife, and marvel at the cliffs that line the shore.
Yaquina Bay: No visit to Newport would be complete without exploring its iconic Yaquina Bay Bridge, a huge bridge that spans Yaquina Bay and offers views of the surrounding coastline. Take a leisurely stroll across the bridge, or embark on a boat tour to experience it from the water!
Oregon Coast Aquarium: If you’re interested in the fascinating world of marine life, take a visit to the Oregon Coast Aquarium, located in Newport. Home to a diverse array of sea creatures, from playful sea otters and majestic sharks to colorful fish and delicate jellyfish, the aquarium offers a glimpse into the wonders of the ocean. Explore interactive exhibits, attend dive shows and animal feedings, and learn about marine conservation efforts through educational programs and workshops. Whether you’re a marine enthusiast or simply curious about the creatures that inhabit our oceans, a visit to the Oregon Coast Aquarium is sure to be a highlight of your Oregon Coast adventure!
Dining in Newport: Newport, Oregon is where fresh seafood and farm-to-table cuisine take center stage. Dine at waterfront restaurants overlooking the harbor, where you can feast on locally caught Dungeness crab, Oregon oysters, and other Pacific Northwest specialties paired with Oregon wines and craft beers. Newport is also home to the annual Newport Seafood & Wine Festival!
From the sandy shores of Lincoln City to the historic waterfront of Newport, the Oregon Coast is rich in experiences waiting to happen and full of endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful seaside retreat or an action-packed outdoor getaway, this region offers something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare to be captivated by the wonders of the Oregon Coast!