The Most Breathtaking 30 Miles on the Oregon Coast: Cannon Beach to Garibaldi
The Oregon Coast is renowned for its dramatic beauty, but one particular stretch stands above the rest. The 30-mile span between Cannon Beach and Garibaldi offers an unrivaled combination of coastal cliffs, forested headlands, and ocean vistas that captivate visitors at every turn. From the iconic Ecola State Park to the striking Twin Rocks Arch in Rockaway Beach, this stretch of Highway 101 (the Oregon Coast Highway) is, without a doubt, the most picturesque portion of the entire Oregon Coast.
Ecola State Park
Beginning at the north end of Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park offers one of the most awe-inspiring views along the coast. The park’s scenic overlook provides a sweeping panorama of Haystack Rock, Tillamook Head, and the vast Pacific. The rugged cliffs, misty ocean waves, and deep green forests create a picture-perfect landscape that is nothing short of magical. Ecola’s short hikes, such as the trail to Indian Beach, lead visitors through dense coastal rainforest to secluded, postcard-worthy shorelines.
Silverpoint Viewpoint and Arcadia Beach
As you continue south on Highway 101, Silverpoint Viewpoint provides a lesser-known but equally breathtaking perspective of the coastline. The elevated vantage point reveals an uninterrupted view of Cannon Beach’s iconic seastacks, creating a scene that is especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
A few miles down the road, Arcadia Beach State Recreation Area offers a more intimate encounter with Oregon’s rugged coastline. This tranquil spot features tide pools, sandy shores, and impressive basalt formations, making it a perfect place to soak in the natural beauty away from the crowds.
Hug Point
Hug Point is one of the most unique stops along this stretch. Named for the days when stagecoaches had to “hug” the rocky headland at low tide, this area boasts a small waterfall, sea caves, and striking sandstone formations. At low tide, visitors can walk along the exposed beach, where the mix of historical intrigue and natural beauty makes for an unforgettable experience.
Oswald West State Park and the Iconic Neahkahnie Viewpoint
Further south, Oswald West State Park offers some of the most stunning coastal scenery in Oregon. The park is home to the popular Short Sands Beach, a secluded cove surrounded by lush rainforest and towering cliffs. Whether you're hiking through the old-growth forest or watching surfers catch waves, Oswald West is a must-visit.
Just beyond the park, the Neahkahnie Viewpoint provides what many consider the single best view along the entire Oregon Coast. From this high vantage point, visitors can take in the sweeping panorama of Manzanita and Nehalem Bay below. The winding coastal highway leading down from this viewpoint is nothing short of cinematic.
Nehalem Bay and the Nehalem River
As you pass through the cute coastal town of Nehalem, you’ll head across a bridge spanning the Nehalem River. From the bridge, you’ll get a spectacular view of the valley, the river, the Oregon Coast mountain range, and Nehalem Bay. Have your camera ready!
The Three Graces and Twin Rocks Arch
Approaching Garibaldi, the Three Graces rock formations near Barview stand as timeless sentinels in the bay, creating a striking contrast against the blue waters. Finally, Twin Rocks Arch in Rockaway Beach offers a dramatic and fitting conclusion to this breathtaking stretch. The enormous rock arch rising from the ocean is a classic symbol of the Oregon Coast’s raw beauty.
Garibaldi and Tillamook Bay
Garibaldi sits at the north end of Tillamook Bay. Take in the beauty of the bay at the historic Coast Guard boathouse, which was built in 1936 and is the last of its kind in the Pacific Northwest.
If you’re planning a trip to the Oregon Coast, this is the route that you’ll remember forever.
Twin Rocks, off the coast of Rockaway Beach, Oregon