Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast spans 363 miles of publicly accessible shoreline along US 101. We began exploring the Oregon coast while Kellie, Rafael and River were still with us. It is a beautiful stretch of coast featuring amazing sea stacks and wildlife.

Rafael and River climbing a sea stack at low tide.

Pacific Northwest drift wood is massive!

Samuel H Boardman State Corridor Natural Bridge.

Samuel H Boardman Thunder Rock viewpoint.

Spouting Horn is spectacular natural blowhole where waves force seawater high into the air, sounding like a giant whale exhaling. It is found in Cook’s Chasm at Cape Perpetua and best viewed at high tide.

Thor’s Well is found on the Oregon coast near Spouting Horn, a 20 foot diameter circular sinkhole alternately swallows the seawater around it and erupts like a geyser. According to some researchers, the Well probably started out as a sea cave dug out by the waves, before the roof eventually collapsed and created openings at the bottom and top through which the ocean sprays. We visited at high tide and mother nature put on a show for us, both Spouting Horn and Thor’s Well were spectacular.

Thor’s Well reloading, this is as close as I dared get. A sign in the parking lot warned that 3 people have been swept into the hole and died since 2020.

Thor’s Well got me wet with this geyser.

Ochre sea star is an important predator commonly found in rocky intertidal zones along the Pacific coast. They are known for their vibrant colors, including orange and purple, and typically have five arms covered in small, spine-like structures called pedicellariae. These sea stars play a crucial role in their ecosystem by feeding on mussels and other mollusks.

While traveling north along US 101 we stopped in Tillamook, Oregon and went to the Tillamook Creamery. We did the self guided tour of the cheese making process, had supper at their Cafe, and enjoyed a waffle cone. This is a very popular activity so if you go be prepared for crowds.

Pacific Northwest Marine Layer

More Redwoods