The Ultimate Highway 101 Road Trip Itinerary!
500+ Miles Along the Oregon & Washington Coast is the ultimate road trip to add to your bucket list!
If you're craving breathtaking ocean views, charming coastal towns, and a healthy dose of "Wow, this place is unreal"? Well, buckle up, because the Highway 101 road trip from Oregon to Washington is perfect for you! With over 500 miles of stunning coastline, this trip has something for everyone, from natural rock arches to wild jet boat tours. Here’s a complete guide to some of my favorite spots along the way, with tips for tours and gear recommendations to make your journey unforgettable. I recommend setting aside at least 4-5 days to truly take it all in.
Southern Oregon: Where the Adventure Begins
📍 Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor - Natural Bridges
Your first stop is the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. Translation: epic coastal views and “wow” moments at every turn. This stretch of the highway features one turnoff after another, each with access to picnic areas, viewpoints and trailheads. One such is the Natural Bridges! These massive rock arches you feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet. You can see them from a viewpoint right off the road or take a short, steep and muddy hike down below.
Pro tip: Try not to lose your hat in the ocean while getting those pics —this place gets windy!
Here is the Alltrails link https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/oregon/natural-bridges-viewpoint-trail
The Natural Bridges from the viewpoint
📍 Meyers Beach
The next stop is Meyers Beach, where the coast just keeps outdoing itself. It’s like the ocean is showing off—sand, surf, dramatic cliffs, the works. This is the kind of beach where you take a deep breath and realize, “Okay, I could totally live here. Or at least camp here for a while… forever maybe?”
Meyers Creek Beach on Trip Advisor
The kids and I had a fantastic time exploring the tide pools here! I recommend a good pair of muck boots to keep your feet dry. I love these ones from Bogs footwear because they're not only waterproof but also insulated for colder days.
📍 Visit Gold Beach
Tucked between the ocean and the Rogue River, Gold Beach is one of those small towns where I could totally see myself owning a cozy little beach house someday—if I won the lottery, of course. But until then, you can just visit and enjoy the scenery. It's a fabulous little town and the perfect little Oregon coast getaway destination!
Gold Beach on Trip Advisor
And If you're feeling wild, hop on Jerry’s Rogue Jets and zoom up the Rogue River like you’re a bat out of… you get it. These 60-104 mile jet boat tours come with stops for lunch or dinner at riverside lodges—because who doesn't want to chase thrills and then eat good food? They are a blast & a super fun way to see the Wild and Scenic Rogue River.
Book your experience on Trip Advisor
Gear tip: If you take this tour your going to get splashed. And if you take it in summer rafters like me will float by and take every opportunity to spray the boat with a water gun. Check out some waterproof gear that’ll keep you dry while you hang on for dear life!
My favorite choice : https://rei.rockporch.com/prdlink/otYMzYIX2l
What I use: https://rei.rockporch.com/prdlink/JsIIL2fMhG
Oregon Dunes and Lighthouses: Sand for Days
📍 John Dellenback Dunes
Next up is the John Dellenback Dunes, where you'll find towering sand dunes that stretch for miles. It’s like the beach decided to go all desert on you—except, thankfully, you’re still near the ocean. Whether you're hiking the dunes or just trying not to get sand in your shoes (spoiler: you will), this place is a must-see. It gives, lost in the desert vibes.
Find it on AllTrails here!
It is very exposed on this trail & I personally hate slathering in sunblock so I recommend a good sun shirt to keep the burn away.
📍 Yaquina Head Lighthouse
This is one of those “stop and stare for a while” spots. The Yaquina Head Lighthouse is tall, historic, and overlooks some of the most rugged coastal views you’ll ever see. Bonus points if you spot some adorable puffins while you’re here! Wildflowers bloom in the spring and summer, making it extra magical—like nature’s little gift to you for taking the road trip.
Check it out on Trip Advisor!
Thor’s Well: Nature’s Bathtub of Chaos
📍 Thor’s Well
Imagine a giant ocean toilet bowl (but way cooler). Thor’s Well is a natural blowhole that sends water shooting into the air like it's trying to show off. For the best view, check it out during high tide or stormy weather when the waves are extra dramatic. Don’t stand too close, unless you enjoy being drenched head to toe—consider yourself warned!
Check it out on AllTrails here!
📍 Cannon Beach
Famous for its huge rock formations and epic sunsets, Cannon Beach is what postcards dream of becoming. Take a stroll along the beach, snap some pics of Haystack Rock, and grab a pint at Pelican Brewing. Because, nothing says “vacation” like a beer with an ocean view.
More info on Travel Oregon!
This is also right near Ecola State Park! Which has excellent hiking, views, and tide pools to explore!
Northern Oregon to Washington: Quirky Charm and Seafood Dreams
📍 Astoria, Oregon
The final stop in Oregon is Astoria, a town thats cute and quirky. It'll steal your heart faster than you can say “Goonies.” (Yes, the movie was filmed here!) Victorian houses, hip coffee shops, and quirky shops, Astoria is a gem. And the food— if you want the best, head straight to Bowpicker Fish & Chips. A local favorite that many tourists who don't know any better pass right by. (They serve it out of an old boat, which just adds to the charm, but also makes it easy to brush off).
Check out my YouTube video for the top 7 things to do in Astoria!
📍 Cape Disappointment State Park
Crossing into Washington, make sure to hit Cape Disappointment (don’t worry, it’s not disappointing at all). This park sits right at the mouth of the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean, offering jaw-dropping views and some fascinating history. And hey, it’s a great spot to stretch your legs and pretend you’re an explorer mapping out the coast for the first time.
Here are some of my favorite spots to check out:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/bells-view-overlook-trail
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/cape-disappointment-trail
The Olympic Peninsula: Nature’s Theme Park
Moving on up to the Olympic Peninsula, where things get even more jaw-dropping. Bring your rain jacket and fern gully vibes because this place is as lush and green as it gets.
Check out my YouTube video on the Ultimate Olympic National Park Adventure for more tips!
📍 Ruby Beach
Ruby Beach has it all: fog, driftwood, and an otherworldly atmosphere that makes you feel like you're in a fantasy novel. This is the spot for moody, dramatic photos—or just walking and wondering why you don’t live here already.
Ruby Beach at Sunset
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/ruby-beach-trail
📍 Hoh Rainforest
This is one spot you absolutely CANNOT miss. It's wildly famous for a reason. (I won't brave crowded and/or busy areas very often.. But this is one of those places i'll make an exception for.)
When you picture the ultimate rainforest, this is it. The Hoh Rainforest is draped in moss, towering trees, and mystical vibes. Whether it’s raining or shining, this place is stunning. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale.. Or fern gully.
Here I am in the Hall of Moss!
The two trails I recommend you making time to hike are
Hall of Mosses (ofcourse.) https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/hoh-rain-forest-hall-of-moss
And the Hoh River Trail (dont miss it. It runs along the river and is just as beautiful as the Hall of Mosses
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/hoh-river-trail
Here are the hiking boots I like to use because they can handle the rain and mud + they're super comfy.
Where to Stay: Lake Quinault Lodge
After all that exploring, you deserve a bit of relaxation. Lake Quinault Lodge is a historic spot right on Lake Quinault and is an absolute dream. Even if you don’t stay the night, swing by for the views, a cozy fire, and maybe a cup of coffee.
Book a Stay at Lake Quinault Lodge
Final Note: Road Trip Vibes & Must-Haves
So there you have it—a road trip full of stunning views, delicious food, and adventure at every turn. But before you pack your bags, I have to leave you with two of my absolute favorite road trip essentials:
Comfy Travel Travel Blanket – Because even the best co-pilot deserves a nap. Trust me, you’ll thank me when you’re all cozy during those long stretches of road. https://rei.rockporch.com/prdlink/Lxomiyyxcq
Roll up Table – Because its really annoying to haul a big table around or arrive somewhere and there is no picnic table to put your lunch together. This one comes with me everywhere! https://rei.rockporch.com/prdlink/5xZlKun648
Want to see more trips in action? Head over to my YouTube channel for a full vlogs on my adventures —plus some extra tips and behind-the-scenes moments you won’t want to miss. Happy road tripping!
Affiliate disclosure: Many posts contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission from any qualifying purchases through clicks on these links (which I greatly appreciate, and at no extra cost to you). All opinions are, as always, completely my own.