The Oregon Coast is known for breathtaking views, charming small towns, and dramatic cliffs. And, of course, stunning waterfalls. To help you experience some of the best waterfalls along the Oregon Coast, including many of my personal favorites, we've created this two-day road trip designed specifically with waterfall chasers and nature lovers in mind. There is already so much to love about the Oregon Coast, and this road trip takes this beautiful state area to the next level.
Visit 5 Waterfalls Along the Oregon Coast on This Dreamy 2-Day Road Trip
Day 1
Just south of Astoria is the first stop on this enchanting road trip — Youngs River Falls, a 54-foot waterfall that falls into a natural pool. The discovery of this natural wonder dates back to the late 1700s when a Lieutenant of the Vancouver Expedition came across it and named it after Admiral Sir George Young of the Royal Navy. There is a short walk to see these falls up close — approximately 0.25 miles. If you don’t mind a more distant view, this waterfall can be seen right from the parking lot.
The next stop on our road trip is Blumenthal Falls in Oswald West State Park. This gorgeous, scenic waterfall tumbles down a rock wall into the ocean below. Head to Short Sand Beach in this Oregon state park to admire the falls and magnificent ocean views. Remember that when the water flow is low in the summer, this waterfall becomes more of a trickle.
Just a short drive off Highway 101 and south of Tillamook is one of my favorite waterfalls along the Oregon Coast. Munson Creek Falls tumbles nearly 320 feet, making it the tallest waterfall in the Coast Range. There is a short 0.5-mile hike to reach the falls that is quite easy and family-friendly. My young children had no problems tackling this trail, and the waterfall finish is certainly worth the short distance you have to trek.
If you are a bit hungry before you tackle this hike, I recommend a stop at the bucket-list-worthy Tillamook Creamery. Take the self-guided tour and watch how some of your favorite Tillamook products are made. Then, stop at the dining hall for a grilled cheese, macaroni and cheese, and ice cream. My favorite items on this creamery's menu are the fried cheese curds — they are delicious!
Where to Stay
After a few short hikes and some breathtaking waterfall views, you need to rest your head, and this oceanfront Airbnb in Lincoln City is the perfect stop. It’s large enough that your entire family can stay, as there are three bedrooms and 1.5 baths. You can spend your evening enjoying sunsets, soaking in the hot tub, or even watching your favorite movie on the large indoor screen. While you will certainly have some fantastic sights along your drive, enjoy a slower morning with your favorite beverage, admiring the Oregon Coast views. This is one of my favorite sights.
Day 2
Just outside of Lincoln City in the Siuslaw National Forest is Drift Creek Falls, one of the more popular waterfalls in this stretch of the Oregon Coast. You’ll undoubtedly want to come well-rested and ready to explore, as you must hike approximately three miles to see the 75-foot falls. But, you’ll not only be rewarded with a waterfall view, but the trail also features the Drift Creek Suspension Bridge, a 240-foot suspension bridge.
There’s something magical about Sweet Creek Falls and the journey to reach these falls. The trail is just under two miles and a short drive east of Florence. While Sweet Creek Falls is the main waterfall you’ll observe on this Oregon waterfall hike, you’ll also capture views of smaller falls along the way. I love the lush forests you’ll trek through and the beautiful natural pool that the Sweet Creek Falls flows into at the end of your hike.
It's Time to Chase Waterfalls
This Oregon Coast road trip takes you along one of the most beautiful drives in the country. You can certainly complete this trip in a weekend, but if you want to spend even more time in the state parks and small towns along the coast, or you want to tackle even more hiking trails and visit gorgeous beaches, extend this trip for as long as needed. Here are some of our favorite hotels along the Oregon Coast with breathtaking ocean views if you want to stay for several days. Why rush to visit natural wonders and breathtaking beauty? It doesn’t get much better than this.
Photo Credits (from top to bottom): RevelInRoaming.com/AllTrails, michaelschober / iStock / Getty Images Plus, Photo by Courtnie Erickson for Only In Your State, Airbnb, svetlana57 / iStock / Getty Images Plus, AndrewSoundarajan / iStock / Getty Images Plus










