The Prom
Seaside, Oregon

Seaside’s 2 miles of paved beachfront promenade, commonly referred to as “the Prom,” is the perfect place to take a refreshing stroll. Surrounded by spectacular ocean views and clean sea air, the Prom has long been a favorite of locals and visitors alike. The structure dates back to 1908, when it was originally a boardwalk, and since the 1920s the Prom and the Turnaround (the famous automobile roundabout) have remained virtually the same. Walking, jogging, roller blading, and biking are all popular activities along the Prom, and the fun doesn’t end with the setting of the sun. The prom is beautifully lit at night, and a peaceful walk under the stars offers a wonderful contrast to the bustle of daytime activity.

Neahkahnie Mountain Viewpoint
Manzanita, Oregon

Although a hike to the top of Neahkahnie Mountain from Oswald West State Park will reward you with unparalleled views of the local landscape, another excellent option is available for those traveling by car.  Just North of Manzanita along the scenic Highway 101 is a “must-see” roadside viewing area. The viewpoint overlooks miles of the vast Pacific Ocean and the coastal towns of Manzanita and Nehalem below.  This area is also a whale-watching hotspot.  Grey whales can be spotted during the spring and winter months as they migrate to and from their Alaskan feeding grounds, and the warmer waters of Baja Mexico where they give birth.

Castle Rock Sunset
Arch Cape, Oregon

Just North of Cape Falcon and Oswald West State Park, sits the small coastal community of Arch Cape. From this quiet beach one can enjoy spectacular views as the sun sets behind the offshore rock formation known as Castle Rock. Located about a mile offshore, and rising over 150 feet out of the water, this aptly named rock is home to a colony of over 12,000 Common Murres. These penguin-like sea birds nest in large numbers on the rocky sea cliffs. Populations of these birds are monitored, since their high suseptibility to the effects of oil spills, the fishing industry and other climactic changes make them a key environmental indicator.

Roosevelt Elk (Cervus elaphus roosevelti)
Ecola State Park
Cannon Beach, Oregon

Roosevelt Elk are the largest species of Elk in North America, averaging 5 feet at the shoulder and around 750-800 pounds, though capable of reaching over 1000 pounds in weight. Also known as “Wapiti” which means “white rump,” these large, powerful animals are also excellent swimmers. Roosevelt Elk are frequently seen at Ecola State Park, and often congregate in herds around the Circle Creek meadows in South Seaside. While they are most often seen during the winter months, Elk can be spotted year-round along the North Coast, especially during the dawn and dusk hours.

Skunk Cabbage (Lysichiton americanum)
Seaside, Oregon

Rising up out the streams, bogs and wetlands of the North Coast, the Skunk Cabbage is so named for the mild but pungent odor their blooms produce. During the early spring months, the bright yellow blooms emerge and appear to glow like lanterns in the dark. As the plant matures, the large, wide leaves continue to grow, often reaching 4 feet or more in length. In some areas, dense groups of Skunk Cabbage blanket the forest floor with beautiful lush, green leaves. Bears are also known to eat parts of the Skunk Cabbage after winter hibernation, as the crystals of calcium oxalate found within the plant act to clean their digestive system.

Youngs River
Astoria, Oregon

The Youngs River Falls area, located near Fort Clatsop, about 10 miles South of Astoria, is a scenic retreat and popular swimming hole during the summer months. Documented by the Lewis & Clark Expedition in 1806, Youngs River Falls drops approximately 65 feet into a pool surrounded by rocky walls and large boulders. Further downstream, the scene is just as beautiful, as dense vegetation surrounds the calm river. As Youngs River continues northwest, it widens into a large estuary known as Youngs Bay, where it eventually empties into the Columbia River.

Ecola State Park
Cannon Beach, Oregon

The breathtaking view from Ecola Point in Ecola State Park, is one that has been enjoyed and photographed for generations. Overlooking Crescent Beach, Chapman Point and Haystack Rock in the distance, this area is a popular scenic destination. The park is an excellent location for whale watching, hiking, wildlife viewing and picnicing. Also visible from Ecola Point are incredible views of the vast ocean, and the offshore Tillamook Rock Lighthouse and Sea Lion Rocks. Part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge, these offshore rock formations are home to large numbers of sea birds and other marine animals.

Arcadia Sunset
Arcadia Beach, Oregon

Just a few miles South of Cannon Beach along Highway 101, and a short walk through a forested parking lot, and you'll find Arcadia Beach . This area is a great place to hunt for beachcombing treasures and enjoy magical sunsets. Unique rock formations and beautiful sandy shores make this a wonderful place to spend the day. At low tide, it is even possible to walk North to Silver Point, and continue all the way to Cannon Beach.

Astoria-Megler Bridge and East Mooring Basin
Astoria, Oregon

Looking Westward from the East Mooring Basin in Astoria, one can watch the sun set behind the fishing and reacreational boats docked in this quaint little marina. The Astoria-Megler Bridge in the distance provides a stunning backdrop for this area. Built in the 1960s, the Astoria-Megler Bridge is over 4 miles long, spanning the mouth of the Columbia River from Astoria to Washington. At its highest point, the bridge is nearly 200 feet above the water, allowing massive cruise ships and cargo freighters to pass beneath it. The bridge also holds the record for being the longest continuous truss bridge in the world.

Hermit Crab (Pagurus sp.)
Cannon Beach, Oregon

Poke around the tidepools at the base of Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach, and you're likely to come across this delightful shoreline resident. Taking refuge in discarded gastropod shells, hermit crabs must constantly exchange their shell for a larger one as they grow. Properly fitting shells can be hard to find, so these resourceful creatures must work hard to find and secure their prize. Other common tidepool residents include Ochre Sea Stars, Green Anemones, Sclupin, Chiton, Barnacles and Mussels. These animals are highly specialized and adapted to their environment, so moving these facinating creatures from one tidepool area to another should never be attempted.

California Sea Lions (Zalophus californianus)
Astoria, Oregon

The East Mooring Basin in Astoria is known as a favorite hang-out of the local California Sea Lions. These massive animals can often be seen basking on the docks that they have managed to claim from the marina. With large males weighing upwards of 1,000 pounds, Sea Lions can be quite a sight as they bark, grunt and squabble amongst themselves for prime lounging rights. Despite their heft, these animals are quite graceful, quick and agile in the water. Although protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, for many years Sea Lions have endured an ongoing battle with fishermen, as they both compete for the dwindling supply of salmon.

Snow in the Cove
Seaside, Oregon

Throughout the year, temperatures are generally milder on the Oregon Coast than in the inland valleys, where hot summers and cold winters are more common. However, on rare occasions a cold winter storm will roll through and dust the shoreline with a blanket of snow. The sight of the bright white snow against the cool blue ocean is spectacular, especially in Seaside's Cove. The Cove is located at the South end of Seaside, where the beach curves Westward and meets the rocky shoreline of Tillamook Head. Fantastic waves, plentiful wildlife, and beautiful sunsets make this area a family favorite.