•  C A S C A D E   H E A D

A visit by car or with backpack is long remembered after experiencing the vistas, the forests and the wildlife of Cascade Head. This designated natural area is home to more than 250 species of birds and mammals. The lower hiking trails wind through a Hemlock forest before opening to old growth Sitka spruce found only in the Pacific Northwest and Douglas fir perched on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific.

•  D E V I L S   L A K E

This three-mile long, 678-acre freshwater lake offers many recreational activities as an alternative to the beach. Located in Lincoln City upstream from the ‘D’ River -- the world's shortest -- Devils Lake gained its name from Native American folklore. A popular spot for fishing, water skiing and swimming. Rental kayaks, mountain bikes, boats and fishing gear are available.

•  S I L E T Z   B A Y   E S T U A R Y

A prime location for bird watching and observing harbor seals, Siletz Bay forms the transition from the meandering Siletz River to the rough-and-tumble Pacific. The estuary is a habitat for a collection of wildlife and extends into one of the nation’s wildlife refuges.

•  W H A L E   W A T C H I N G

A number of whales make the Central Oregon Coast their year-round residence, with phenomenal spring and winter migrations bringing in even more curious travelers from all over. Depoe Bay and Newport charter boat companies offer many opportunities for whale-watching tours.

•  N A T U R E - B A S E D   T O U R S

Tours are available from Depoe Bay, Lincoln City and Newport for those interested in learning about the natural and human history of the Lincoln County coastline, harbors, lakes and trails highlighting many scenic features and giving travelers a unique coastal perspective away from Highway 101.

•  S P O U T I N G   H O R N S

Depoe Bay's seawall and the shoreline at Yachats are favorite spots for watching the ocean (literally) shoot into the air as a true demonstration of nature’s power. These photographic "spouting horns" are especially active during stormy winter weather.

•  Y A Q U I N A   H E A D
   O U T S T A N D I N G   N A T U R A L   A R E A

This historic and picturesque lighthouse site north of Newport is one place most associated with the Oregon coast. The Bureau of Land Management manages the constructed tidepool area at Yaquina Head, which is one of the only handicap-accessible tidepools in the world. Another tidepool area near the lighthouse is popular due to strange and enchanting sounds caused by waves and basalt pebbles at high tide as well as the abundant wildlife there.

•  Y A Q U I N A   B A Y

One of the most photographed bays in the country, the 4,000-acre Yaquina Bay is a rare blend of the natural and fabricated. The classic design of its large, half-moon bridge arches beyond a working bayfront that combines its fleet of fishing and charter boats, seafood processors and restaurants, art galleries and family attractions. The bay is home to everything from oyster beds to bayside lodging.

•  A L S E A   B A Y   A N D   R I V E R

This coastal estuary boasts excellent sites for bird watching and marine wildlife viewing, with crabbing and fishing as main draws for boaters in Alsea Bay. Numerous public docks, marinas and riverfront restaurants line the Alsea River along Highway 34.

•  C A P E   P E R P E T U A

The highest point on the Oregon coast (at 803 feet), Cape Perpetua, has both historic and natural significance. The visitor center, hiking trails and overlook drive provide spectacular views (up to 150 miles on a clear day) of the coastline and its lush coast forests.

•  S I U S L A W   N A T I O N A L   F O R E S T

This 625,000-acre forest is home to more than 350 animal species, including elk, bear and mountain lion. The forest holds a store of recreational and scenic pleasures, including hiking, fishing, camping, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, bird watching and hunting as well as the Drift Creek Wilderness area.