10-Day Adventurous Oregon Coast Itinerary with Your Furry Friends
Oregon's coast is a treasure trove of natural beauty, offering a diverse range of landscapes from rugged cliffs and sandy beaches to lush forests and charming coastal towns. Known for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures, the Oregon coast is a perfect destination for those seeking an adventurous getaway. With a moderate budget and a love for hiking, this 10-day itinerary is designed to provide an unforgettable experience for you and your two dogs as you explore the best of what Oregon has to offer.
Traveling with a travel trailer from Calgary, you'll have the flexibility to explore at your own pace, stopping at various dog-friendly locations along the way. From the iconic Cannon Beach to the serene beauty of the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, this itinerary covers the must-see spots and hidden gems of the Oregon coast. Be prepared for a mix of outdoor activities, scenic drives, and relaxing evenings by the campfire.
Day 1: Arrival in Astoria
Afternoon
Arrive in Astoria, a historic port city at the mouth of the Columbia River. Known for its Victorian architecture and rich maritime history, Astoria is a great starting point for your Oregon coast adventure. Settle into your campsite and take a leisurely stroll along the Astoria Riverwalk, a scenic pathway offering views of the river and the iconic Astoria-Megler Bridge.
Evening
Enjoy dinner at Fort George Brewery, a dog-friendly spot known for its craft beers and delicious pub fare. Afterward, explore the charming downtown area and visit the Astoria Column for panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
Day 2: Exploring Astoria
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Columbia River Maritime Museum, where you can learn about the region's maritime history. Then, head to Fort Stevens State Park for a morning hike with your dogs. The park offers miles of trails and a historic shipwreck on the beach.
Afternoon
Take a guided Tour of Astoria to delve deeper into the town's history and landmarks. After the tour, enjoy a picnic lunch at Coffenbury Lake, a serene spot within Fort Stevens State Park.
Evening
Relax at your campsite or explore the local dining scene. Consider trying Buoy Beer Company, another dog-friendly brewery with a great selection of seafood dishes.
Day 3: Astoria to Cannon Beach
Morning
Depart Astoria and drive south to Cannon Beach, a picturesque coastal town famous for its iconic Haystack Rock. The drive takes about an hour, offering stunning views of the coastline along the way.
Afternoon
Upon arrival, explore the charming streets of Cannon Beach, filled with art galleries, boutiques, and cafes. Head to Ecola State Park for a hike with your dogs, where you'll find breathtaking views of the coastline and opportunities to spot wildlife.
Evening
Enjoy dinner at Pelican Brewing Company, a dog-friendly spot with ocean views. Afterward, take a sunset walk along Cannon Beach, marveling at the beauty of Haystack Rock.
Day 4: Cannon Beach to Tillamook
Morning
Continue your journey south to Tillamook, a town known for its dairy products and scenic landscapes. The drive takes about an hour, with opportunities to stop at scenic viewpoints along the way.
Afternoon
Visit the Tillamook Creamery for a tour and tasting of their famous cheeses and ice cream. Afterward, head to Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint for a hike with your dogs and stunning views of the ocean and lighthouse.
Evening
Settle into your campsite and enjoy a relaxing evening. Consider dining at Pelican Brewing – Tillamook, offering a variety of craft beers and hearty meals.
Day 5: Tillamook to Newport
Morning
Depart Tillamook and drive to Newport, a vibrant coastal city known for its historic bayfront and marine attractions. The drive takes about two hours, with scenic stops along the way.
Afternoon
Explore the Oregon Coast Aquarium, a must-visit attraction showcasing the diverse marine life of the Pacific Northwest. Afterward, take a stroll along the historic bayfront, where you can watch sea lions basking in the sun.
Evening
Enjoy dinner at Rogue Ales & Spirits, a dog-friendly brewery with a wide selection of craft beers and pub fare. After dinner, take a walk along Nye Beach, a charming neighborhood with a relaxed atmosphere.
Day 6: Newport to Florence
Morning
Continue your journey south to Florence, a quaint coastal town known for its sand dunes and outdoor activities. The drive takes about an hour and a half, with opportunities to explore the scenic landscapes along the way.
Afternoon
Visit the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, where you can hike with your dogs and explore the vast sand dunes. Consider renting a dune buggy for an exhilarating ride through the dunes.
Evening
Settle into your campsite and enjoy a relaxing evening. Consider dining at Homegrown Public House, a dog-friendly restaurant offering locally sourced dishes and craft beers.
Day 7: Florence to Coos Bay
Morning
Depart Florence and drive to Coos Bay, a bustling coastal city known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. The drive takes about an hour, with scenic stops along the way.
Afternoon
Explore the Shore Acres State Park, a stunning park featuring beautifully manicured gardens and dramatic ocean views. Take a hike with your dogs along the park's trails, offering breathtaking vistas of the rugged coastline.
Evening
Enjoy dinner at 7 Devils Brewing Co., a dog-friendly brewery with a lively atmosphere and delicious food. After dinner, take a stroll along the Coos Bay Boardwalk, enjoying the sights and sounds of the harbor.
Day 8: Coos Bay to Bandon
Morning
Continue your journey south to Bandon, a charming coastal town known for its stunning beaches and rock formations. The drive takes about 30 minutes, offering beautiful views of the coastline.
Afternoon
Visit Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint, where you can explore the beach with your dogs and marvel at the unique rock formations. Afterward, head to West Coast Game Park Safari, a petting zoo and wildlife park offering interactive experiences with animals.
Evening
Settle into your campsite and enjoy a relaxing evening. Consider dining at Bandon Brewing Company, a dog-friendly spot offering a variety of craft beers and wood-fired pizzas.
Day 9: Bandon to Brookings
Morning
Depart Bandon and drive to Brookings, a picturesque coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. The drive takes about two hours, with scenic stops along the way.
Afternoon
Explore the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, a stunning stretch of coastline offering breathtaking views and hiking trails. Take a hike with your dogs along the Natural Bridges trail, offering spectacular views of the ocean and rock formations.
Evening
Enjoy dinner at Wild River Pizza, a dog-friendly restaurant offering a variety of pizzas and craft beers. After dinner, take a sunset walk along Harris Beach, a beautiful spot known for its dramatic rock formations and tide pools.
Day 10: Departure from Brookings
Morning
Spend your final morning exploring the charming town of Brookings. Visit Azalea Park, a beautiful park offering walking trails and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Afternoon
Begin your journey back to Calgary, reflecting on the incredible adventures and memories made along the Oregon coast. Safe travels!
This 10-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and exploration along the stunning Oregon coast. With a focus on dog-friendly activities and breathtaking landscapes, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience with your furry companions.