In the US state of Oregon, there is a long stretch of land that’s known as the Oregon Coast. Hugging the Pacific Ocean, these 362 miles of land are home to lots of small towns with charming atmospheres, incredible landscapes, and seafood that’ll make you salivate.
The small towns along the Oregon Coast lure in travellers with the magic of falling asleep to the sounds of the ocean (the real ocean, not through your headphones!). You’ll find hikes, sea views, state parks and Redwoods lining the coast. A nature-lovers paradise.
Oh and don’t miss the sunsets – watching the big ball of fire fall behind the Oregon Coastline horizon is etched into my mind as one of the best I’ve seen.
The only problem is that there are so many towns, you may have some trouble deciding where to stay on the Oregon Coast for your taste and of course, budget. A little bit of research may be in order…
That’s where I come in! I’ve made your life a heck of a lot easier but creating this ULTIMATE guide on the towns of the Oregon Coast. You’ll not only find out a bit about the town but I’ve included the best places to stay and things to do in each.
By the end of the article, you’ll be an expert on the towns of the Oregon Coast and rearing to book your trip.
So, without further ado. Let’s dive into the best place to stay on the Oregon Coast for you!
- Where to Stay in Oregon Coast
- Oregon Coast Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Oregon Coast
- Oregon Coast’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Oregon Coast
- What To Pack For Oregon Coast
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Oregon Coast
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Oregon Coast
Planning on staying in Oregon for a while? While not make the trip extra special with an epic accommodation? Check out the best treehouses and cabins in Oregon!
Or are you looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in the Oregon Coast.
Awesome Beach Getaway | Best Airbnb in Oregon Coast
This amazing house is a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in the Oregon Coast for nightlife and for the beach! It’s about a hundred yards from the water and nearby pubs and offers enough space for up to 6 guests. The house is beach-themed, large, and contains everything you’ll need during your stay.
Comfort Inn Newport | Best Hotel in Oregon Coast
Located in Newport, this hotel is a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in the Oregon Coast on a budget. The price is great, and the hotel still offers a range of facilities like a gym, laundry facilities, and rooms with fridges. The hotel is within walking distance of attractions like Nye Beach and Yaquina Bay Light.
The Landing at Newport Condominium Hotel | Best Luxury Hotel in Oregon Coast
Close to lots of local eateries with its own terrace, BBQ area, and laundry facilities, this hotel is a great choice whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in the Oregon Coast for one night or for a longer visit. The rooms are clean and include a small kitchenette and private bathroom.
Pacific City
Pacific City offers everything and more you could want from a coastal city. It’s at the south end of the Three Capes Scenic Route and one of the most popular areas for tourists to this part of the world.
Astoria
Astoria was founded more than 200 years ago by trappers and the logging and fishing industry. It’s located on the far northwest corner of the Oregon Coast and is now one of the cultural capitals of the area.
Newport
Newport is in the center part of the Oregon Coast and is incredibly popular among travelers. It, of course, offers great beaches and nature access, but the real charm of this area is the city itself.
Yachats
Yachats simply must be part of this Oregon Coast neighborhood guide. It’s in the middle of Newport and Florence and is a small town that tourists often miss on their explorations of the coast.
Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach is a popular spot for tourists, so you’ll have to make your accommodation bookings early if you want a good spot in the best area in the Oregon Coast to stay in.
The small towns and cities along the Oregon Coast are mostly based around the many estuaries that feed into the Pacific Ocean. As a result, many of the activities and even the food is based around what comes from the ocean. When you’re visiting, you have the choice of staying in one town or moving from one place to the other. Each choice has its benefits and will offer you a unique view of this beautiful part of the world.
YOu should also consider doing a road trip through Oregon to really soak up this stunning state! The more time you’ve got on your hands, the more you can explore.
Pacific City is the best choice when you’re deciding where to stay in the Oregon Coast for your first time. This city has everything from great shopping and eating to water access while still retaining the area’s famous laidback vibe.
If you like culture and history then you should think about Astoria. This smaller city is filled with museums and other cultural sites and activities while still being close to the water and to the Pacific Northwest’s beautiful nature spots.
If you’d prefer to be on the beach, then look for somewhere to stay on Cannon Beach. This small city has stunning scenery as well as beach access and is one of the best places in the Oregon Coast to stay if you want a more active holiday.
Newport, on the other hand, offers a little of everything. It has great scenery, beaches, shopping, and eating. It also has some good bars and clubs for travelers who are deciding where to stay in the Oregon Coast for nightlife. Basically, this location is a good all-rounder for all types of travelers.
And the final area is Yachats, a tiny town that offers staggering beauty and a small-town friendliness and welcome that’s impossible to pass up.
Oregon Coast’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Here’s where to look for the coolest places to stay in the Oregon Coast.
Our insider tip: Always make sure you plan your USA backpacking adventure ahead, no matter where you go. There is so much to explore that it can be quite overwhelming.
#1 Pacific City – Where to Stay in Oregon Coast First Time
Pacific City offers everything and more you could want from a coastal city. It’s at the south end of the Three Capes Scenic Route and one of the most popular areas for tourists to this part of the world. It’s a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in the Oregon Coast for your first time as it offers a huge range of places to stay, and things to do, see, and eat.
Obviously, many of the best attractions in Pacific City are based on the water. You’ll find amazing restaurants overlooking the ocean, whale watching, and a great beach in this city as well as friendly people. Pacific City has a great urban vibe but isn’t as crowded as fast-moving as other cities in the US and the rest of the world. This makes it one of the best areas to stay in the Oregon Coast if you want to kick back and relax near the ocean.
The Westerly #121 | Best Airbnb in Pacific City
With staggering views and direct beach access, there are few places that could match this Oregon Coast accommodation option. It’s an open, breezy home with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, perfect for a family or group of friends. It’s located right on the beach in a gated community and has a great deck where you can sit out and enjoy the views.
Surf & Sand Inn | Best Hotel in Pacific City
This hotel on the Oregon Coast is right in the center of town, so you’ll be close to everything. It has plain but clean and modern rooms along with room service and free parking on site. The hotel also has a garden where you can relax in nature and is close to local attractions.
Inn at Cape Kiwanda | Best Luxury Hotel in Pacific City
This is one of the coolest places to stay in the Oregon Coast if you want to be close to the ocean. It’s close to the ocean and other attractions and offers a swimming pool, terrace, free Wi-Fi, and spacious rooms with all the necessities.
Things to See and Do in Pacific City
- Eat some great seafood at restaurants like Pelican Brewing or the Oar House Bar and Grill.
- Head down to the beach for a day on the sand and a bonfire at night.
- Go tide pooling to see amazing marine creatures at the foot of Cape Kiwanda.
- Explore Cape Kiwanda, which marks the northern border of the city.
- Go horse riding along the beach.
- Take the Three Capes Scenic Drive for seemingly endless ocean vistas.
- Head out to the ocean for some fishing.
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View on Osprey View on REI#2 Astoria – Where to Stay in Oregon Coast on a Budget
Astoria was founded more than 200 years ago by trappers and the logging and fishing industry. It’s located on the far northwest corner of the Oregon Coast and is now one of the cultural capitals of the area. This is what makes it a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in the Oregon Coast for one night or for a longer visit. No matter how long you’re there, you’ll get a good look at the Oregon Coast as it was and is today.
Astoria has it all, from great museums to local shops where you can grab something unique and amazing restaurants. And behind all of that is the stunning Pacific Northwest scenery that makes this part of the world so popular among nature lovers. So, if you’re looking for a busy, active trip, then this is one of the best areas to stay in the Oregon Coast.
Suite with River Views | Best Airbnb in Astoria
This is one of the best places to stay in the Oregon Coast if you just want to sit back and relax. Everything about the space is cozy, from the claw foot bath to the views of the river. It has enough space for up to 4 guests and is on the second floor of a private, Victorian home with its own bathroom and kitchenette.
Hotel Elliott | Best Luxury Hotel in Astoria
Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in the Oregon Coast for families or with friends, this hotel is a good choice. It’s right in the center of Cannon Beach’s restaurant and bar area, so you won’t have to go far for a drink or entertainment. And it offers a terrace, free Wi-Fi, and modern, comfortable rooms.
Cannery Pier Hotel | Best Hotel in Astoria
This hotel is in the best neighborhood to stay in the Oregon Coast if you want proximity to local attractions as well as the beauty of the ocean. The hotel has a terrace and luggage storage and 46 charmingly decorated rooms with all the usual amenities. Many of the rooms have water views which gives a vibe of luxury to this mid-priced hotel.
Cannery Pier Hotel is one of our favourites in Oregon Coast but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to See and Do in Astoria
- Check out some of the local museums like the Columbia River Maritime Museum, and the Captain George Flavel Home Museum.
- Take in the views from the Astoria Column.
- Visit the Astoria Riverfront Trolley.
- Experience the city’s history at sites like the Lewis and Clark National Historical Site.
- The best campgrounds on the Oregon Coast are in Astoria, so take advantage of this.
- Wander the streets and do some souvenir shopping.
#3 Cannon Beach – Best Neighborhood in Oregon Coast for Families
Cannon Beach is just 2 hours from Portland by car and home to some of the Oregon Coast’s best neighborhoods. It has some of the most stunning scenery around, from the beautiful white sand beaches to Ecola State Park in the North and Oswald West State Park in the south. Basically, this city is surrounded by the best that nature has to offer, and that’s really worth seeing. This is also the best area if you want to explore Oregon’s hikes a bit more.
Cannon Beach is a popular spot for tourists, so you’ll have to make your accommodation bookings early if you want a good spot in the best area in the Oregon Coast to stay in. The city also boasts some great shopping and eateries to keep you entertained when you aren’t out in nature.
Bright Townhouse | Best Airbnb in Cannon Beach
With bright, breezy spaces and proximity to the beach, this townhouse is a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in the Oregon Coast with kids. It offers enough space for 4 guests and it within walking distance of local shops and restaurants. The rooms are cheerfully furnished with everything you’ll need and really welcoming.
Hallmark Resort in Cannon Beach | Best Hotel in Cannon Beach
This cozy hotel in the Oregon Coast has a sauna and swimming pool, kids’ pool, fitness center, free Wi-Fi, and a day spa. It’s close to the beach as well as to local attractions like the Cannon Beach Farmers’ Market and offers comfortable rooms with private bathrooms and all the usual amenities.
Blue Gull Inn | Best Luxury Hotel in Cannon Beach
Located in one of the Oregon Coast’s best neighborhoods, this hotel is a great option if you have a little more money to spend and want a luxurious experience. The themed hotel is close to the beach and local attractions as well as restaurants and cafes. And the rooms are comfortable and contain all the usual amenities.
Blue Gull Inn is one of our favourites in Oregon Coast but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to See and Do in Cannon Beach
- Head down to Cannon Beach for sunbathing and relaxing on the sand.
- Make sure you see Haystack Rock and check out the adorable tufted puffins!
- Go hiking or exploring in Ecola State Park or Oswald West State Park.
- Check out the sea caves at Hug Point.
- Grab a meal at local spots like the Lazy Susan Café, the Irish Table, or the Cannon Beach Smokehouse.
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Grab an eSIM!#4 Newport – Best Area to Stay in Oregon Coast for Nightlife
Newport is in the center part of the Oregon Coast and is incredibly popular among travelers. It, of course, offers great beaches and nature access, but the real charm of this area is the city itself. Newport is a fun city, filled with activities that are aimed at the young and hip and the young at heart. So, if you’re looking for the best neighborhood in the Oregon Coast to stay in for an active holiday, then there’s somewhere in this city that will fit the bill!
By staying in Newport, you’ll also have access to the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area. This is where you’ll find Oregon’s tallest lighthouse as well as amazing wildlife viewing at Yaquina Head including migrating whales, harbor seals, and amazing rockpools filled with beautiful marine life.
And if you want to learn more about the area, then you can spend some time at the Interpretive Center, where there are exhibits that will teach you more about the natural attractions.
Nye Beach Cottage | Best Airbnb in Newport
A good choice when you’re deciding where to stay in the Oregon Coast for families, this cottage in Oregon is close to the beach and to local shops and attractions. The furnishings are clean but simple and include a kitchenette and everything you’ll need for a relaxing stay on the beach.
Hallmark Resort | Best Hotel in Newport
This hotel is one of the best places in the Oregon Coast to stay if you’re on a budget but still want comfortable accommodation. It offers a sauna, Jacuzzi, indoor pool, and a fitness center as well as rooms with modern furnishings and a fridge. Breakfast is served every morning at the hotel, which is also within walking distance of local beaches.
Elizabeth Oceanfront Suites Ascend Hotel Collection | Best Luxury Hotel in Newport
This lovely hotel is in the best area in the Oregon Coast to stay in for beach and city proximity. The rooms are luxurious, and the hotel offers room service, laundry facilities, and meeting rooms. And there are plenty of shops and restaurants close to the hotel where you can grab a bite or a cup of coffee.
Things to See and Do in Newport
- Head down to Nye Beach and wander the nearby streets for amazing shops, galleries, and restaurants.
- Spend some time at the Oregon Coast Aquarium.
- Head down to Yaquina Bay for stunning views and the architecturally incredible Yaquina Bay Bridge.
- Spend a day at the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area for exhibits and wildlife viewing.
- Explore Newport’s Historic Bayfront for amazing seafood restaurants, shops, and art galleries.
- Take part in the marine animal activities at the Hatfield Marine Science Center.
- Eat at the local seafood restaurants like the Clearwater Restaurant or South Beach Fish Market.
#5 Yachats – The Coolest Place to Stay in Oregon Coast
Yachats simply must be part of this Oregon Coast neighborhood guide. It’s in the middle of Newport and Florence and is a small town that tourists often miss on their explorations of the coast. But once you’ve spent time there, you’ll realize how big a mistake this is. Yachats is a charming small town surrounded by empty coastline and natural beauty. And the town itself has lots of attractions and activities you can do as well.
Yachats is a fairly small town, so you shouldn’t have much trouble finding the best neighborhood to stay in Oregon Coast while you’re there. Despite its size, there is a good range of accommodation options from camping to apartments and upscale hotels. There are also some great restaurants of course, so you can indulge yourself with plenty of fresh seafood.
Trail’s End Cottage | Best Airbnb in Yachats
This cottage is located in the best neighborhood in the Oregon Coast to stay in if you want to be out in nature and close to the beach at the same time. It’s located just steps away from the 804 Trail where it meets the beach and offers lovely views from the deck as well as clean, slightly rustic spaces and enough room for up to 4 people.
Fireside Motel | Best Hotel in Yachats
This hotel is a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in the Oregon Coast on a budget. It’s a charming, old world style motel with comfortable rooms that each boast a private bathroom and kitchenette. And the hotel is located close to local attractions and to the water as well.
Adobe Resort | Best Luxury Hotel in Yachats
With a kids’ pool and BBQ area, this hotel is a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in the Oregon Coast for kids. It also offers an indoor pool, laundry facilities, and a fitness center where you can work off all that seafood. There are 110 rooms available, all of them with modern furnishings and all the necessities.
Things to See and Do in Yachats
- Head south to the Suislaw National Forest and take in Cape Perpetua or go hiking on the Hobbit Trail.
- Make sure you check out Thor’s Well, an incredible sinkhole that seems to swallow the sea.
- Eat at local restaurants like the Ona Restaurant and Lounge or Luna Sea Fish House.
- Grab a beer at Yachats Brewing or a cup of coffee at the Village Bean.
- Go camping in one of the local campgrounds so you can wake up in nature.
- Explore the exhibits at the Little Log Church Museum.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Oregon Coast
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Oregon Coast and where to stay.
What To Pack For Oregon Coast
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Oregon Coast
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Oregon Coast
Whether you’re looking for a hotel or a hostel in the Oregon Coast, you’ll have lots of towns to choose from. And you can stay in one for your whole trip, or even better move from one town to the next. Each offers a unique experience as well as all the best that staying near the water can offer.
You’ll eat amazing seafood, gaze out at beautiful scenery, and drink in the deep peace that can only come when you spend your time to the sound of the waves. So, make your choice and enjoy your stay.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in USA.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in USA instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in USA to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
