Top Fall Favorites on the Oregon Coast
Three of the best-kept secrets on the Oregon Coast are September, October, and November! Locals and visitors alike know that Fall is one of the most beautiful times on the coast. Vibrant yellow and orange hues dot the landscape against Oregon’s signature old-growth evergreens, temperatures are often mild and sunny – and there is the occasional Fall storm that gives you the perfect excuse to spend hours sitting by the fire with a good book.
It is easy to make memories this time of year, too – rain or shine. From whale watching to wine tasting to marveling at the fall foliage on one of the Coast’s many hikes, you will find plenty to discover on the Oregon Coast in Autumn. Looking to plan a memorable Fall getaway? We have put together a shortlist of our Fall favorites on the Oregon Coast to help you plan the perfect trip.
Hiking Along the Oregon Coast
Hiking in Oregon any time of the year is stunning, but with fewer crowds, epic scenery and the beginning of storm season, there is a lot to love about hiking along the Coast in the fall.
Check out 15 iconic hikes here.
Wine Tasting
The Oregon wine scene is not just located in and around the Willamette Valley. The location and climate of the Oregon Coast provides perfect conditions for many varietals and local winemakers love it! Sip, savor and see why Oregon winemakers are making their mark on the wine world. Here are two of our favorites:
- Nehalem Bay Winery – Founded in 1974 in the historic Mohler Creamery building, this small, family- owned winery offers a wide selection of fruit wines along with many traditional red and white grape varietals. Stop in for a taste and soak in the history of one of the ten oldest wineries in the State of Oregon and the first winery on the Oregon Coast.
- The Winery at Manzanita – Let an afternoon turn into a cozy evening at this kid and dog-friendly winery. The wines are small batch here – focusing on quality over quantity. They serve flights, so you can try all the styles, as well as craft Pacific Northwest beer and cider. You can also order DIY smores kit to toast over the fire pits. Order a bottle, settle in on an Adirondack chair and take in the views at this dreamy locale. Find out more things to do in Manzanita from our Area Guide >
Visit Yakina Head Lighthouse
A trip down the Oregon Coast’s Highway 101 is not complete without stopping to view its historic lighthouses. While anytime of the year is great to visit these iconic beacons, a trip in fall can be quite memorable with dramatic skies, breaching whales and fewer crowds. One of our favorite stops is the Yakina Head Lighthouse. Standing 93 feet tall, this lighthouse has been guiding ships along the west coast since it was first lit in 1873. There are also tide pools to explore and scenic trails to discover nearby, making for an easy outing the whole family will enjoy.
Fall Bounty & Seasonal Treats await at Oregon Coast Farmers Markets
Local vendors will be offering a wide variety of seasonal produce, cheeses, flowers, artisan foods, drinks and more! Come out and enjoy the fun, food, shopping, and live music. We encourage you to check for updates as events are subject to change.
Whale Watching
Mid-autumn is a wonderful time for whale watching, as the resident population of 200+ gray whales cruise the Oregon coast from June to mid-November, often less than one mile from shore! Some of the top places to see these majestic mammals are Neahkahnie Mountain Viewpoint, Cape Meares Lighthouse and Cape Kiwanda. For more info on whale watching, and to schedule a tour, visit our friends at Discover Depoe Bay.
Looking to book your perfect home base while exploring the Oregon Coast this Fall? We’ve got you! Meredith Lodging’s Oregon Coast collection offers beautiful homes of all sizes to help you plan a perfect Fall getaway.
