la to portland oregon road trip

Road Trip From Los Angeles to Portland

Planning a road trip from Los Angeles to Portland is no small undertaking. You'll be in for a long drive whichever route you take, and you'd have to be really set on exploring to justify not going by plane. Thankfully, this is one of the most beautiful stretches of land in all of America, and you won't want to miss out by flying instead.

The road trip from Los Angeles to Portland can be done in about 15 hours of non-stop driving. The scenic route along the Pacific Coast Highway will take a week allowing for time to explore the beautiful scenery throughout California and Oregon.

Make sure you read to the end to get tips on the best places to stop and sights to explore on the way to Portland.

How far is Portland from Los Angeles and how long will the road trip take?

The drive from Los Angeles to Portland can be anywhere between 960 and 1,260 miles, depending on the route you take. The quickest route can get you there in just under 15 hours without accounting for stops, but the two scenic options will extend your drive to 19 or 28 hours spent on the road.

Whichever route you take, it's most definitely not a one-day road trip, but if you can only afford to stop for a single night, the shorter I-5 route would be your best bet.

You can split the trip in 2 roughly equal segments by stopping in Sacramento, but the catch is that day 1 will be fairly boring with the route only getting scenic once you're past the California capital.

With that said, if you're undeterred by lengthy trips and the coastal twists and turns, taking Highways 1 and 101 along the Pacific Coast will be one of the best travel experiences of your life.

Travel times will differ depending on traffic congestion at different points of the route, but an average drive along the Pacific Coast Highway would take about 28 hours if you hug the coastline the entire way from Los Angeles to Portland.

An alternative route through the deserts of California and Nevada offers a very different set of landscapes and views and clocks in at 1,150 miles that will take you around 19 hours to drive.

Best road trip route from Los Angeles to Portland

Ultimately, when driving from Los Angeles to Portland, choosing between the 3 routes comes down to personal preference. You can make the trip in a couple of days or enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime vacation exploring some truly remarkable landmarks.

To make the most of your trip, consider taking either of the scenic routes on the way to Portland and the other on the way back. It can be quite the investment, time and money-wise, but you get to explore the most beautiful coasts, parks, and forests along the West Coast across a few weeks of traveling.

If you simply don't have the time for all that adventuring, don't feel bad about taking the I-5, as the Sacramento-Portland stretch of this itinerary is quite lovely in its own right and there's still amazing places to stop along the way.

Whether you're flying into Los Angeles, or you simply don't have your own transport in the city, renting a car for your road trip is something you'll want to take care of ASAP.

For an easy-to-compare view of rental options for your road trip from Los Angeles to Portland, take a look at our partner site, RentalCars.com .

How to drive from Los Angeles to Portland

The map above shows our suggestions for the best road trip routes between Los Angeles and Portland. Keep reading for detailed descriptions of all three routes, where to stay overnight, and the best things to do on the way.

Fastest Route (via I-5)

Take the I-5 north out of Los Angeles, cutting through Santa Clarita. Continue along the I-5 past Bakersfield, and just keep following the interstate all the way to Sacramento – there will be plenty to do in this quirky city to offset the somewhat dull drive up to this point.

Continuing north on the I-5, the route starts to get more interesting – right out of Sacramento, you'll see a long line of forests on either side. You'll drive right through Shasta-Trinity National Forest, and past many others like Klamath, Umpqua, and Williamette National Forests.

At the home stretch, you'll have Mt. Hood National Forest and Tillamook State Forest flanking you as you drive through Eugene and Salem and into Portland.

Pacific Coast Highway Route

Leave Los Angeles through Santa Monica and follow Highways 1 and 101 through Ventura to Santa Barbara. From Santa Barbara, take the CA-154 shortcut past Cachuma Lake, then continue north along Highway 101 through Santa Maria and San Luis Obispo.

From there, ignore your navigator and continue along Highway 1 northwest along the coast. Pass through Morro Bay and enjoy the twists and turns through Big Sur and past Carmel-by-the-Sea.

After passing through Santa Cruz and reaching San Francisco, the route goes over the Golden Gate Bridge and then take the turning back onto Highway 1 to drive through the Point Reyes National Seashore and along Tomales Bay.

After crossing the Russian River, continue through Salt Point State Park and the scenic town of Mendocino. Separate briefly from the shore along Humboldt Redwoods State Park and then rejoin Highway 101 headed north.

The remaining stretch of the journey will have the rugged Pacific coastline to your left and stunning forests to your right. You'll pass through Rogue River-Siskiyou and Siuslaw National Forests and make sure you don't follow the signs for Portland until you reach the famous Cannon Beach . From here, make a right onto Highway 26 and follow into Portland.

Desert Route (via Death Valley and Nevada)

Leave LA going north and take Route 14 east from Santa Clarita. Follow the road north through Lancaster and Red Rock Canyon State Park until you merge onto US-395.

Follow this stunning highway along the length of Death Valley to your right, and the Sierra Nevada mountains to your left with some of the country's finest National Parks. Depending on time, you really should drive into Death Valley and Kings Canyon or Sequoia National Parks.

Follow US-6 out of Bishop and then continue north along Nevada State Route 376 that will become Route 305 after Austin. A short stint along the I-80 will get you to US-95 that will take you up into Oregon.

Oregon 78 and US-20 will take you towards the city of Bend, Oregon. Look out for George Millican Road north to Prineville 25 miles before you get to Bend and from there US-26 will take you all the way into Portland.

Best places to stop between Los Angeles and Portland

Whichever route you choose, there are countless great places to stop when driving from Los Angeles to Portland. The best way to round off a day of epic adventuring is with a luxurious resort, and these are some of the best ones along the way:

Experience the beauty of Lake Tahoe

To stand out among so many amazing locations is quite the feat, but Lake Tahoe is genuinely one of the best vacation spots in all of West America and beyond.

The best spot to stop over in South Lake Tahoe is the boutique Black Bear Lodge . The rooms combine effortless charm, cozy natural wood and that relaxing alpine feel.

You can choose to stay in one of the luxurious rooms in the main lodge or one of the cabins that also have their own kitchenettes complete with the coffee machine you will be grateful for in the morning.

Located right between Lake Tahoe and Heavenly ski resort, you're right in the middle of everything and within an easy walk of some great restaurants.

After a day of water sports or exploring the mountains, put your feet up and enjoy the crackle of the fireplace that is fitted into every room in the hotel.

READ MORE - Click here for more great hotel options

Take in the views in Big Sur

The Big Sur's unparalleled landscapes make it one of the crowning jewels of the Pacific Coast route, and that's saying a lot. Whether you're sleeping in a small bungalow or a luxury suite, exploring this area will give you the experience of a lifetime.

With that said, every tourist hub has its accommodation highlights, and Big Sur's champion would have to be Ventana Inn and Spa.

If you thought driving through Big Sur was a treat, wait until you've seen the ocean from Ventana Inn and Spa's balconies . What little time you're not spending outside exploring, you'll be relaxing by the outdoor pool (and yes, the pool overlooks the ocean too!), the beautiful Sur House Bar, the spa area, or your top-of-the-line room equipped with everything you need and so much more.

Exploring the premises of the resort alone is a treat – with 160 acres of land to check out, you'll find no shortage of beautiful spots mere minutes from your room. On top of all that, you can very easily get to Andrew Molera State Park and Pfeiffer Beach from here.

Things to see on a road trip from Los Angeles to Portland

The three routes listed here cover over 3,000 miles in total, so it would be impossible to list all the beautiful spots along the way- this is the kind of itinerary that keeps you coming back for more, year after year. Here are a few absolute must-sees to get you started:

• Malibu Coastline - A string of parks and perfect sand beaches just outside Los Angeles.
• Los Padres National Forest - An expansive, mountainous forest and home to Cachuma Lake.
• Big Sur : a one-of-a-kind stretch of cliffs, mountains, forests, beaches and perfect driving roads.
• Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea - Two charming oceanside town that epitomize what California is all about. We highly recommend visiting Monterey State Beach while here.
• Pinnacles National Park - This park is named after the massive rock formations formed by ancient volcanic erosions.
• Big Basin Redwoods State Park - California's oldest state park is home to redwood forests and plenty of unique birds.
• San Francisco - Unique architecture, pleasant temperatures, and plenty of lovely landmarks are just a fraction of what makes The City the metropolis that it is.
• California wine regions - Napa, Sonoma, Mendocino, Russian River and others are all to be found in northern California.
• Humboldt Redwoods State Park - This gorgeous park houses Rockefeller Forest, the largest of the world's so-called virgin forests.
• Redwood National and State Parks - Amazing redwood forests that are home to the tallest trees on the planet.
• Death Valley National Park : known as one of the hottest places on earth, this desert's mountains and salt flats need no introduction.
• Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks - These two parks are home to epic mountains and the world's tallest trees.
• Yosemite National Park - Between the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Sequoia trees, and the beautiful Tunnel View, this place alone warrants days, if not weeks of exploration.
• Lake Tahoe - Incredible both in winter and summer, this is one of California and Nevada's biggest attractions for a reason.
• Crater Lake National Park - Oregon's only national park is home to the crystal-blue Crater Lake, and beautiful forest and mountain terrain.
• Haystack Rock near Cannon Beach - Unique rock coming out of the ocean just off the coast with creature-filled tide pools.

Best time to go on a road trip from Los Angeles to Portland

Thanks to California and Oregon's great weather and the countless routes and locations to choose from, there's virtually no wrong time of year to go on a road trip from Los Angeles to Portland.

Views are a big part of long road trips, so keep in mind that the Pacific coastline often gets enveloped by heavy fog in early-to-mid summer. Although this is mostly a morning phenomenon, you can get around it completely by traveling in late summer or early fall, ideally in September.

If you're driving along Highway 395, many of the parks and forests will be at their most beautiful between spring and early fall. On the other hand, access to certain roads and areas might be restricted in the winter and many of the passes over the Sierra Nevada are closed for the entire winter season.

Summer is the best time to experience Portland, thanks to the abundance of activities and pleasant summer temperatures, which peak in August and average at around 81 degrees.

Portland isn't called the City of Roses for nothing – the International Rose Test Garden is in full bloom in the summer, and it's one of the city's major tourist attractions.

If you're planning a thriftier trip, September is great for out-of-season visits, as you get to enjoy near-summer temperatures for a fraction of the price.

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Happily Ever Adventures

Los Angeles to Portland: Road Trip Guide

California · North America · Oregon · Travel · USA

Los Angeles to Portland Road Trip Guide

A few months ago, I saw a photo of the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival in Woodburn, Oregon  and told Bassam we HAVE to go so that I can frolic in a field of tulips. I had always wanted to visit the tulip fields in the Netherlands and had no idea there was one closer to home. I immediately started looking up flights and found that each of the weekends we were available the flights were $400 per person rather than $90. Undeterred, we decided to rent a car and go for an impromptu road trip from Los Angeles to Portland. We left Friday afternoon and got back Monday morning, without missing any work time. We fit so much adventure into that short time frame that we still can’t believe it. We were majorly exhausted for the rest of the week, but it was so worth it.

Along the way to Portland from LA, we made sure not to make any pit stops unless it was a fun location. This strategy paid off. Even thought we drove 3,000 miles in the span of about 3 days, we didn’t really feel it because we were having so much fun. Here’s our guide to road trip from Los Angeles to Portland. You can be crazy and do it in 3 days like we did, but if you have more time, we think this itinerary will be a lot more fun!

LA to Portland:

Stop 1: morro bay.

Heading from Los Angeles to Portland, there are SO many fun places to stop almost right away. There’s Ojai, Santa Barbara, SLO, and much more. We decided to stop in Morro Bay, mainly because we were starving and really needed a pit stop at that point. We had never been to Morro Bay and so it seemed like a great option. Morro Bay is an idyllic waterfront town. It’s very quiet with friendly residents and beautiful views. We spent about an hour exploring the shops, feasting on freshly caught fish and eating salt water taffy.

Stop 2: San Francisco

San Francisco is a must stop on your LA –> Oregon journey. It’s also a good spot to sleep for the night if you’re not planning on driving in one straight shot. We’ve been to San Francisco many times and usually do the more typical SF things like Little Italy, Chinatown, and Union Square. This time, we wanted to get a bit more of a nature fix and I was itching to check out a spot I had seen on Instagram.

We hiked the mild 2 mile Kirby Cove trail which leads to a cove on the beach with a view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Locals will often hang a swing there and people line up to swing over the Golden Gate Bridge and take an Instagram worthy shot. Park rangers will take the swing down whenever they discover it’s there, so it’s not guaranteed it’ll be there if you go. We got very lucky and the swing was there, but we heard it was taken down later that day. To find the swing for yourself, go to the Marin Headlands and park wherever you find parking. Walk down to Battery Spencer and look for the “Kirby Cove” trail sign. Follow the trail to the beach. If the swing is there, you’ll find it on the left side of the beach.

Although we originally hiked Kirby Cove for an Instagram photo, it ended up being our favorite thing we’ve ever done in SF. The entire walk was lined with the tallest trees you can imagine and views of the Golden Gate Bridge. The air smelled so piney and fresh with just a hint of sea salt. Ahh we couldn’t get enough of that air. We felt so alive! This is why we love Instagram. We are often motivated to go places we might not necessarily go and we end up having beautiful experiences in the process.

Stops 3 and 4: Olive Pit in Corning, California and In-N-Out in Redding, California

At this point we were determined to make it to Oregon without any stops. This of course didn’t happen as we needed a restroom break and more food. These stops were perfect for us because they met our needs, were very clean, and still on the fun side.

• Olive Pit in Corning, California: there are not a lot of options along this stretch of the road. Olive Pit was perfect for us because it’s open late and has VERY clean restrooms. {This is an important requirement for me}. They also have tons of flavored olive oils and vinegars. As we were stretching our legs, we had fun trying out the different oils and vinegars, as well as perusing their other gourmet pantry foods and kitchen supplies.
• In-N-Out in Redding, California: This is the last In-N-Out you’ll find on the way to Portland. We absolutely love having In-N-Out on road trips and refuse to eat any other fast food. If you’ve never had In-N-Out, it’s a California MUST!

Arrival at destination:

Portland, oregon.

Whoohoo, we made it to Portland! There’s SO much to do in Portland that it would be ideal if you had a few days {more time than we had}. Here are the top 4 things we enjoyed:

1. The food

• Tasty n Alder {best breakfast we’ve ever had}
• SuperBite {especially amazing if you love making a dinner out of tapas}
• Ava Gene’s {try all the salads and the fresh cocktails!}

2. Powell’s City of Books:

This bookstore is every book lover’s dream! I could have spent a whole day in here if we had time. It’s probably a good thing that I didn’t have more time to spend here because I probably would’ve spent an entire paycheck. The store is 1.5 acres!! Can you imagine how many books are stuffed in here? It’s no wonder they call it a “city”. Each genre has a giant section dedicated to it and it’s pretty amazing how large each section is. I love bookstores that provide bookseller recommendations and Powell’s has recommendations all over the store in every single section. There’s also a whole section of recommended new books that are being sold at used prices. There’s also a used books section. And there’s a floor where you can publish your own book and sell it! Basically anything book related you can dream of! I seriously could live here.

3. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden:

Oh this garden is so serene and so pretty. It’s 9 acres of beautiful flowers, ponds, and bridges. It’s so pretty that many people get married here. We could not stop taking pictures, everywhere we looked was just so pretty. It’s such a perfect spot for a romantic walk or just to come and sit for some alone time reflection.

4. Forest Park

This probably isn’t the BEST hike near Portland, the Multnomah-Wahkeena hike probably is, but we didn’t have much time and so this is what we did. Even though it wasn’t our first choice, we absolutely loved it! Forest Park is 5,100 acres of forest in the middle of a city. We thought this was so cool! You’re right in the middle of a city and yet it feels like you’re in the middle of nowhere. At certain points of the hike you can actually see the city and it’s surprising because it feels so unexpected. The forest is so lush and green. I felt like little fairies were going to come dancing out of the trees at any given moment.

Where to Stay in Portland:

3 Star: Residence Inn Downtown/Pearl District

4 Star: Kimpton River Place Hotel

5 Star: The Nines

Dog Friendly: Mark Spencer {we stayed here}

Search all Portland hotels for your date

Portland to los angeles:, stop 1: eugene, oregon.

On our way back to LA, we stopped a bit earlier in the journey and grabbed dinner in Eugene. We ate at the Board Restaurant and loved everything we tried.

Stop 2: California Coastline

We decided to drive along the California coastline on our way home, even if it did add a bit extra time to our journey. The views were so beautiful the whole way that it made it so worth it. Here’s where we stopped:

1. Pigeon Point Lighthouse

We had never seen a lighthouse in real life, so this was high on our list. It was extremely windy when we stopped, so it wasn’t too enjoyable, but it was still cool to see a lighthouse. There’s a working hostel in the lighthouse, so you can spend the night if needed. Super cool!

2. Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a fun and laid back beach town. We probably spent too much time here that we didn’t have, but it was so fun and we really want to go back. Here’s what we did:

Mystery Spot:

Mystery spot is a gravitational anomaly located in the middle of a forest. The 45 minute tour takes you though a few real life optical illusions. It was a bit silly, but fun. Not worth it if you’re limited on time.

Downtown Santa Cruz

Downtown Santa Cruz was really fun to walk around. There are tons of cafes, restaurants, and shops. We had coffee, checked out a few stores, and grabbed a bite to eat.

Hidden Peak Teahouse

Hidden Peak Teahouse is in Downtown Santa Cruz, so maybe it’s a little redundant to list it on it’s own, but that’s how much we enjoyed it. The tearoom is strictly digital free. That means no phone, under any circumstances. This was initially really difficult for us, but after awhile we relaxed, enjoyed our tea, and had great conversation with each other. Tea is served in a traditional  style. It was very meditative to pour the tiny cups of tea and brew it in the ceremonial style. The whole experience made us want to learn more about tea traditions.

For more great places to stop, check out these 12 must see places on PCH

Arrival at destination: Los Angeles, California

Well, we made it back home! Can you believe how much we fit into our short trip? We still can’t believe it! We had a wonderful adventure and can’t wait for the next one.

We hope our experience inspires you to go on your own road trip and try to fit as much adventure as possible into one weekend!

Don’t forget to check out our post on the Tulip Festival ! {aka, the whole reason for this crazy trip!}

Save this post for later!

May 4, 2017 at 6:48 pm

Sounds like a whirlwind trip, but a very fun one! Thanks for sharing the fun.

May 5, 2017 at 1:26 am

Such a whirlwind! But isn’t that sometimes the most fun? I’m glad you enjoyed the post!

May 5, 2017 at 8:34 pm

Looks like so much fun! I love road trips especially up the California coast! You guys are so cute!

May 5, 2017 at 8:48 pm

Aw thank you Keegan! We looove California Coastline road trips too! There is so much to do in this amazing state. You can never get bored!

May 6, 2017 at 12:06 pm

Gorgeous shots and what a fun trip!!! I haven’t even been to Kirby cove myself yet 😫😫 I need a swing pic! Also haven’t driven up to Oregon from SF. I’ve gotta!! Thanks for sharing!

May 6, 2017 at 12:13 pm

Oh you gotta do an SF to Oregon road trip! It’s not that far from you and so gorgeous! You would take incredible photos I’m sure!

May 6, 2017 at 12:48 pm

Your photos are incredible! This sounds like such a fun road trip, I think I’ll have to recreate it at some point!

May 6, 2017 at 4:31 pm

Thank you! You totally should, it was so much fun! If you can swing an extra day or two, it’ll be a little less exhausting!

May 6, 2017 at 3:48 pm

I am going to have to do that hike and search for the swing the next time I am in SF. I wish the rangers would just leave it alone! Your pictures there are amazing!

Thanks Anisa! I know, right? They spoil all the fun! I think they worry it’ll be a liability for them. Let me know if it’s there when you go!

May 6, 2017 at 6:24 pm

This is incredible! I’ve always wanted the road trip the California coast, but I never really thought about anything north. This sounds like the perfect itinerary.

May 6, 2017 at 7:48 pm

Road trips along the California Coast are always a good idea! There’s so much to do in California that you really can’t go wrong, but we did really love driving up North and experiencing a bit of PNW.

May 7, 2017 at 7:32 am

Thanks for sharing such a detailed post. Loved all your pictures, especially the one in Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden; That’s so romantic.

May 7, 2017 at 10:14 am

Thank you, I’m glad you enjoyed it! The garden is definitely a must!

May 9, 2017 at 10:06 am

Great run down of your trip, Lena and Bassam! I may have to steal this itinerary for a future trip. Never been to Portland and now I’m excited about the food!

May 12, 2017 at 10:51 am

Glad you enjoyed it Alex! Steal away! You’re going to die over the food!

May 13, 2017 at 11:05 am

This seems like an exceptional and worthwhile experience! Thanks a bunch for the motivating post!

May 31, 2017 at 1:19 pm

It was so much fun! We hope you get the opportunity to visit Portland soon.

May 23, 2017 at 6:25 pm

So glad you stopped at San Francisco, I love this city! And thank you for this itinerary idea, will definitely take it into consideration.

May 31, 2017 at 1:20 pm

I’m so glad you found it helpful! We had a lot of fun in SF and are also glad we stopped there!

August 7, 2017 at 4:45 am

Whoaaaa 1.5 acre bookshop??? 😍 This sounds like such a great road trip, even if that many miles in one weekend is a bit too much for my liking!

August 7, 2017 at 10:17 am

Isn’t that INSANE?! It was my heaven!! And yes, it was a bit too ambitious for one weekend. We were exhausted!

May 4, 2018 at 1:53 pm

Cool blog post, but where are the tulips??!

May 4, 2018 at 1:57 pm

Glad you liked it! There’s a full post on just the tulips since we had so many photos! https://www.happilyeveradventures.com/photos-inspire-visit-tulip-field/

July 3, 2018 at 12:39 pm

I am planning on doing this next week. I am stealing you itinerary. I was planning on leaving on Wed. from Long Beach and coming back on Saturday. I do have some questions and I hope you can help me. How long did it take you to get to Portland? Approximately how long did you spend during your stops and did you have to drive through the night. Did you spend one night or two in Portland? Sorry for the amount of questions, but I want to visit all the places, I love the pictures. I just want to make sure I plan it correctly.

July 3, 2018 at 3:28 pm

Hi Yvette! How exciting, I hope you have a great time! Feel free to ask any questions and of course steal the itinerary! It took us about 32 hours round trip. I think you will be just fine with 4 days, but keep it mind it will be very rushed. We did drive through the night because we wanted to maximize the daylight hours at the stops. We stopped very briefly in Morro Bay and Santa Cruz (around 2-3 hours), just 30 minutes at the lighthouse, and stayed in San Francisco for a night on the way there and a night on the way back. We only stayed in Portland 1 night. You have one more night than we did, so you may be able to stay 2 nights! Definitely let us know how it goes and if you have any more questions! If you need an immediate response feel free to email us: [email protected]

July 9, 2018 at 6:41 am

Thank you! One more question, do you have any hotel recommendations in San Francisco or near San Francisco?

July 9, 2018 at 10:35 am

We stayed at Stanford Court because we found a good deal on hotels.com. It was a really nice hotel in a great area. I recommend seeing what you can get a good deal on and avoid Union Square, it’s so crowded and touristy and we’ve never been happy with our hotel there. If you are just staying for a quick night and not doing much (so you don’t need anything to be walking distance), you can find some good budget hotels near the airport.

December 27, 2019 at 7:19 pm

How did you take a photo of your tea at the teahouse if no phones are allowed?! Haha

December 27, 2019 at 9:09 pm

We used a camera, not a phone!

July 9, 2020 at 10:46 pm

Hello! I’m so glad I found this page, looks like you planned the perfect trip! Question though – seems like you gave recommendation for lodging just for Portland. I’m curious where you guys stayed? Camping? Car camping? Trying to plan this out for myself 🙂

December 6, 2020 at 11:00 pm

We stayed in random hotels along the way! We would just use hotels tonight to see what a good deal was for the night. I didn’t recommend any because we weren’t that into anywhere we stayed.

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The Ultimate West Coast Road Trip, from Los Angeles to Portland

Olivia Lopez has been documenting her life as a creative freelancer for over 10 years on her site, Lust for Life . She spent six days uncovering the unique coastal destinations of the Pacific Northwest through a road trip from Los Angeles to Portland—and captured it all on her Canon EOS M50 .

I love road tripping, I think it’s a huge part of growing up in Los Angeles. I spent a lot of my childhood weekends road tripping to Palm Springs and Ojai in California, and in the summers my family did cross country routes like Route 66 or driving up the Eastern seaboard. Now, I spend most of my summers touring sleepy coastal towns along the Mediterranean.

Travel has played a huge part in who I am, it feeds my curiosity and it constantly informs and evolves my work and perspective. I’ve shot photos every day since I was 14, and being able to make a career out of it still feels surreal because documenting the world around me feels like an extension of breathing. I’m inspired by g reat architecture, vibrant cities, and also the most remote places.

Everything you need to know to plan the perfect road trip →

I was most excited about going up north, especially because it’s always hot in L.A. I wanted a change of landscape. The beaches are always packed in SoCal.

We spent a week researching beautiful beach rest stops and some under-the-radar design and architectural sites we could visit along the way. I also spent a week curating some songs for the road—a mix of Alt-J, Neil Young, and HONNE. We took also the trip as an opportunity to bring out all our dusty coats, sweaters and thick socks from the back of the wardrobe.

I was glad that we had prepared such a concrete idea of where to go. We mapped out every detail, which saved us time to do more stops on the trip—we preselected the coffee shops and cafes along the route. Driving allowed us to see more of each place we came across, more time to enjoy some of the wilderness.

We loved the beaches up North, despite the cold and windy weather conditions. The beaches were so beautiful and untouched. The fall/winter season is much less crowded on the West Coast in general—it’s a very serene time to be there. I loved having each place to ourselves.

The Itinerary

Day 1: Venice Beach, California

Stay: Rose Hotel, Venice Beach. I live on the east side of town so staying overnight by the beach was a completely different perspective of the city.

Eat: One of my favorite west side restaurants in L.A. is Gjusta Bakery, a casual all day eatery that sells everything from fresh baked sourdough bread to banh mi.

Do: We wanted to kick off our road trip on the Pacific Coast Highway, so we did a sunny stop at Venice Beach. It’s the best beach for people watching—one of the most eccentric places with almost a carnival feel on the busy boardwalk.

Day 2: Big Sur, California

Stay: We stayed at Glen Oaks Big Sur, a lodge located inside the forest by the river stream. The air is so fresh; it has a distinct taste and quality there.

Eat: We stopped by Big Sur Bakery for dinner, which was a restaurant which offered fresh fare from the area. The space was rustic, romantic, and incredibly cozy – and quite surprisingly attracted an international crowd with travelers from all over.

Do: Big Sur is one of the most beautiful places in California, and its heavily alluded by many great American writers who ventured here in seek of solitude and inspiration. I read Big Sur by Jack Kerouac before I came. It has such a special energy. We hiked around the river by the hotel and the air smelled like clean pine. It really felt like we were inside a wilderness novel, especially because your phone service cuts off!

Day 3 and 4: San Francisco

Stay: San Francisco doesn’t have many design-driven boutique hotels, but the Proper Hotel located on Market Street is a beautiful new property centrally located near Union Square.

Eat: We visited Tartine Bakery for their famous toasts and later snagged seats at a well-loved Japanese eatery named Rintaro, which feels like a classic Japanese home with modern fixtures.

Do: We seriously lucked out with weather on this road trip, and spent the day strolling through all the different neighborhoods. We strolled down Valencia street, a trendy SF neighborhood packed with vintage shops and concept stores, and purchased books at the storied City Lights Bookshop in historic Chinatown.

On our way up to Oregon the next day, we stopped at one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s last projects—the Marin County Civic Center, a beautiful, citrus and sunset-toned building that is so stunning in detail, it’s hard to believe that it’s an operating government building for public facilities, housing everything from a courthouse to a large library. It’s also jus an hour outside of the city.

Day 5: Gold Beach, Oregon

Stay: The Tu Tu Tu’n Lodge. This charming hotel is located along a beautiful river bend. Try to arrive on the earlier end of the day, because they have a ton of social hours and activities, a spa, and other amenities to take advantage of.

Eat: There weren’t a ton of options food-wise on this route, but we subsisted on your average roadside amenities. The views, however, made up for this.

Do: The drive from San Francisco to Portland is one of the longest in terms of time and distance, but also the most scenic, so we stopped at Gold Beach to break up the drive. The stretch of beaches on this drive are completely serene and quiet, and we stopped along Humboldt Bay and Cape Blanco where we were often the only people on the lookout points. Catching the sunset on Humboldt Bay – there are no words to capture how beautiful the light and the mist were.

Day 6: Portland, Oregon

Stay: We stayed at the Ace Hotel in Portland, which is very centrally located. Constructed in a 1930s building, it has a very vintage-modern feel—classic Americana mixed with the rustic Portland vibe. I felt like I was in an episode of Portlandia.

Eat: We had appetizers at a beautiful diner called Doug Fir, and ordered Portland’s signature cold brew cocktail—vodka and local cold brew coffee—followed by dinner at an artisanal pizza shop called Lovely’s 50/50, which I would highly recommend—it’s such a Portland experience, so artisanal. The menu even featured local flowers!. In the evening we shared brews at the Ace which is great for people watching.

Do: In the morning we explored Alberta Street, where we picked up some art books and apothecary items before our flight home. There are some amazing vintage stores off this street as well—definitely check out House of Vintage.

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Los Angeles to Portland Road Trip: Experience the Sights and Sounds of the West Coast

Our Los Angeles to Portland road trip lets you travel from the center of entertainment to some amazing cities and towns in California before visiting two iconic destinations in Oregon.

Go from one of the best-known cities in the world all the way up the West Coast of the United States to a hip and trendy city in Oregon on this Los Angeles to Portland road trip. Along the way, you will visit three cities in California that many people consider “bucket-list” destinations and you will stop in two cities in Oregon that will have you exploring the great outdoors.

1. Los Angeles 2. Monterey, CA 3. San Francisco 4. Napa, CA 5. Bend, OR 6. Portland, OR

Info at a glance

• A 2-week trip
• Type of route: Nature
• 6 stops along the route
• 1,128 miles of driving
• Explore a beautiful and serene town on California’s central coast.
• Visit a city where you can famously “leave your heart”.
• Wander through some of the most famous wineries in the world.
• See a combination of rugged mountain beauty and vast desert landscapes.
• Experience the culture of one of the hippest cities on the West Coast.

Getting to the start

This road trip begins in Los Angeles, CA. If you are coming from another part of the world, the flight options into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) are abundant. Several Amtrak routes can get you from almost any point in the United States to Los Angeles including the Southwest Chief and the Coast Starlight.

CAR RENTAL IN LA

When to Visit

Spring, summer and autumn are the best times to take a road trip from LA to Portland so you can avoid the potentially icy and snowy roads as you pass from California into Oregon. Because you will be visiting a couple of spots that are known for fickle weather at any time of the year, pack everything from shorts to heavy jackets for the trip. Don’t forget a great pair of shoes and some good hiking boots for all of the outdoor adventures you will be on.

Driving tips

A good portion of this journey will be along Interstate 5 in both California and Oregon. In urban areas, you may find speed limits of 55 miles per hour but this can increase to 80mph on some parts of the journey. An SUV for such journey can be a perfect fit. You will also be on some narrow and winding mountain roads in both California and Oregon so slow down, take care and enjoy the amazing scenery.

What to know about the route

You will begin this 1,126-mile road trip by starting in the heart of Los Angeles. As you begin to head north you will see huge changes in the terrain as you move towards the towns of Monterey and San Francisco in Northern California. During this part of the journey, you have the choice to either drive through the wide-open San Joaquin Valley or make the trip up the coast through towns like Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo on Highway 1. From there you will pass by the many bodies of water near San Francisco that give the Bay Area its name as you head into the beautiful Napa Valley area. Once you leave Napa you will make the climb over the mountains from California to Oregon to the rustic and beautiful town of Bend. Finally, you will make the drive in the valley of the western part of Oregon before arriving in the beautiful riverfront city of Portland. A great vehicle for this trip is a large van or a large SUV so you can take all of your outdoor gear with you for all of your adventures on this road trip.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is the second-largest city in the United States and offers visitors plenty of things to see and do on their trip here. The city also offers diverse geography giving visitors access to many different climates and landscapes letting you experience the beach and the foothills and mountains in the span of one day. Our guide to outdoor adventures around LA may help you plan the best trip.

Points of interest

A great way to spend an afternoon is to take a tour of both Warner Brothers and Universal Studios to see movie and television production up close. To get an amazing view of Los Angeles, take a hike in Griffith Park.

Where to eat, drink and sleep

Because Los Angeles has such a rich tapestry of cultures that make this city home, there are plenty of food choices you can experience while you are here. If you are looking for a classic American choice that is uniquely Los Angeles make the trip to Pink’s Hot Dogs right in the heart of Hollywood.

Sixt Insider Tip

A unique place to visit in Los Angeles is the Griffith Observatory, perched on Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park. Not only is this a great place to learn about all sorts of space and science-related matters the views you will see of the entire Los Angeles area from here are simply amazing. And the best part is it’s free of charge!

From Los Angeles to Monterey (320 miles)

You have two choices as you make the trip north to Monterey. For a faster route, you can stay inside of the San Joaquin Valley and take Interstate 5. Or if you want to take more time and see some amazing coastal scenery, take a combination of Highway 101 and Highway 1 up the coast.

Monterey, CA

Monterey sits on the rugged central coast of California. Cannery Row, in the heart of Monterey, was at one point the center of the robust sardine-packing industry that existed here. Today it is a popular strip of gift shops and restaurants.

A destination for many visitors when they are in Monterey is the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Old Fisherman’s Wharf is a quaint location that offers shopping and dining. Del Monte Beach offers a boardwalk and dunes to explore.

One unique feature of Monterey is that there are several tree houses that you can rent and stay in for a night or two that make for a wholly unique lodging experience. Most of these houses are located in the beautiful Santa Cruz Mountains that surround the city of Monterey.

When most people think of wineries in California, they tend to focus on those that are further north in the Napa Valley or Sonoma County; however, there is actually a bustling wine scene in Monterey as well as a couple of wineries that you can visit while you are here.

From Monterey to San Francisco (119 miles)

Just as when you left Los Angeles to head north, you have the choice of either going up Highway 101 to get to San Francisco, which will take you through cities like San Jose. Or you can travel up Highway 1 that once again will give you scenic views but will add quite a bit of time to your trip.

San Francisco

San Francisco has a unique mix of sight and sounds. It has cool and unpredictable summers, frequent fog rolling in off the ocean and iconic locations like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman’s Wharf and Chinatown. All together they make San Francisco a unique destination.

One of the most famous spots to visit in the city is the winding brick-lined Lombard Street. To get out in nature, Muir Woods National Monument is just a short drive north out of the city and a great place to see giant redwood trees. The Exploratorium is a hands-on science museum that kids of all ages will love.

Two of the foods that San Francisco is famous for are seafood and crusty sourdough bread; you can try them together with a sourdough bread bowl filled with clam chowder. One local favorite is something called Joe’s special, which is a mix of spinach, onions, mushrooms, ground beef and eggs that is popular with the locals and found at many restaurants.

While visiting Alcatraz Island is a popular choice for visitors to the city, it is important to remember that you need to take a boat to get there and these can fill up rather quickly. If you do want to make the trip to the island it is best to book your trip at least two weeks prior to arriving in San Francisco.

From San Francisco to Napa (50 miles)

A trip to the next stop in Napa will be a short one although it will be through the cities of Oakland and Richmond, so your drive time may vary based on the time of the travel. The good news is that you will get amazing views of San Francisco Bay and San Pablo Bay along the way.

The town of Napa is at the heart of the Napa Valley wine region. The downtown area of Napa has interesting architecture that dates to the late 19th century and early 20th century. The town features a riverfront promenade with plenty of shops and restaurants plus a bustling art scene.

While visiting wineries in the area is a popular pastime for visitors, another great option is to visit the Oxbow Public Market. The di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art is the home to a large collection of art from the Bay Area.

If you really want to get a feel of days gone by that existed in Napa then book a room at a classic bed and breakfast here called Hennessey House. The location of the house is far enough away from the action to give you a quiet experience, but great dining and wine tasting options are just a short walk away.

Since wine tasting is often a part of everyone’s visit to Napa, you can find a unique experience at Domaine Carneros. This winery offers immaculate and lush grounds, and at the center of the property is a French-inspired mansion with impressive architecture.

From Napa to Bend (464 miles)

While this will be the longest leg of your trip between LA and Portland, it may offer some of the most beautiful scenery you will see along your route. As you pass through the mountains in Northern California you will travel just to the west of the magnificent Mount Shasta that is a sight you will not soon forget.

Bend is a small city located right on the Deschutes River in Oregon. Just to the west of the town are the many lakes and peaks of the Cascade Mountains that offer ski resorts that you can use well into springtime and multi-use trails for hiking and biking.

Just as you enter Bend from the south on Highway 97 you will see the High Desert Museum, which is worth a stop. Drake Park is a scenic riverfront park that is a great place for a walk or a picnic. If you love to hike, then the Deschutes River Trail is an ideal spot for you to visit.

With its location right on a large river, it should come as no surprise that fish such as trout, steelhead and salmon are a staple of many of the menus you will find in Bend. Greg’s Grill is a great stop to try some local fare.

Bend is often referred to as the Palm Springs of the North because of the fact that there are so many golf courses that call Bend home. In fact, the Tetherow Golf Course has a rating as one of the 10 best golf courses in Oregon.

From Bend to Portland (175 miles)

As you make the final leg of this journey, you will head back down the mountain ranges of central Oregon, again joining I-5 and heading into Portland. As you leave the mountains you will get great views of Mt. Washington and Mt. Jefferson and drive through the Santiam State Forest.

Portland, OR

Portland is Oregon’s largest city, sitting at the junction of the Columbia and Willamette rivers and offering views of snowcapped Mt. Hood to the east. The city is well known for its thriving music, theater and art scenes, plus an extensive trail network that is great for long walks or bike rides.

One unique place to visit is the Portland Japanese Garden, which is in Washington Park next to the International Rose Test Garden. The Portland Art Museum has a great mix of American, Asian and Native American Art. The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry offers several hands-on science exhibits, plus there is a submarine that you can tour.

A secret about the food scene in Portland is that some of the best foods you will find come from the many food carts throughout the city. There are several locations throughout downtown Portland that offer clusters of food carts selling Korean tacos, Mexican food, Italian dishes and even breakfast options.

The city of Portland prides itself on being very pedestrian and bike-friendly. That is why we recommend spending an afternoon in Portland going on a bike tour. There’s even a bridge that crosses the Willamette River called the Tilikum Crossing that is car-free.

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Los Angeles to Portland Road Trip Highlights

It’s been just over one year since I took this road trip with my mom. It was originally supposed to be a solo 14-day road trip from Los Angeles to Seattle and back, but to my surprise, my mom wanted to join! It had been ages since I went on vacation with her (she’s a bit of a workaholic) so of course I took this chance.

Except she didn’t have 14 days of vacation, she had 7.

So what was a mother and daughter to do?

Well, we had to cut the trip’s length to Portland as its final destination. We (and by we, I mean me) also had to drive roughly 6 hours a day to make it round-trip in time. Along the way, we rested in affordable and uninteresting hotels, and mostly ate Thai food (seriously, we visited something like 6 Thai restaurants during the 7 days ), so I will be skipping those details in this report.

Here are the stops we made on our Los Angeles to Portland road trip:

1. 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach

Pebble Beach is known as one of the best places for golfing, and is located in northern California. Unfortunately we don’t golf. But there’s a gated road called 17-Mile Drive that goes through some residential area and onto Pebble Beach. Admission is $11.25 per vehicle. It can get pretty busy to the point that you’re behind a solid line of cars. But the drive is pleasant nonetheless. There is a limited parking lot by the beach so you can stretch your legs or have a little picnic.

2. San Francisco

We spent two nights in San Francisco, which was the only location to have gotten such an extended stay (otherwise, we hopped to a new hotel every night). I made a dedicated blog post — the San Francisco Photo Diary — that visually chronicled our trip there. But to quickly paraphrase it, we toured one of the largest Chinatown in the States, wandered our way to Fisherman’s Wharf, and woke up early to see the sunrise over the Golden Gate Bridge.

3. Glass Beach

A little over 3 hours north, we stopped at Glass Beach. Some decades ago, this place used to be a dumping ground. It wasn’t until the 1960s that the revival of the beach happened, and people found that the trashed glass, after constantly being tumbled on the shore by the ocean water, turned into smooth glass pebbles.

There are plenty of photographic evidence that at one point, this beach was full to the brim with glass pebbles. But these days, as you can see from the photo above, there’s not many left.

Because of this, I don’t recommend stopping by this beach for the glass pebbles, but that does not stop the beach itself from being breathtaking.

The tall grasses, the small cliffs, the ocean crashing into the scattered rocks – it’s a beautiful scenery. We found a small pond (I’m sure this is the wrong terminology. Marine biologists, feel free to correct me on this!) on the beach where we can watch tadpoles darting about. We went hunting for seashells. And in general, just enjoyed feeling the cool breeze against our skin.

4. Chandelier Tree

There’s a few of these novelty drive-your-car-through-this-big-ol-tree in California, and we serendipitously passed by one on the way to the Redwood National Forest. So of course, we had to stop by. It absolutely is amazing how some trees can get so massive. This particular tree has a maximum age of 2400 years!

5. Redwood National Forest

The Redwood National Forest is a national treasure, and for good reason. These trees are so old, and so tall (the tallest in the world), it is something else to be walking amongst them like little ants. By the way, can you spot my mom?

The weather was nice and brisk when we visited, as if fresh rain had just fallen. We didn’t stay long in the park, but we were able to make through the shorter trail with little effort.

6. Views of Northern California

You know the saying “it’s the journey, not the destination”? That sentiment was felt strongly starting around Redwood National Park. We tried to stick as much as possible to the Pacific Coast Highway (though, frustratingly, the gps would constantly try to revert us on the 101). The more north we went, the windier the roads, and in some parts, were not quite for the faint of heart.

But, oh my, was it beautiful. Like I said, I was driving so I have no photos of this part of the trip. But imagine a two-lane road winding up and down hills full of trees (such as the photo above), and all of a sudden, you’re met with miles of the Pacific Coast to your left – untouched by people. And then, you’re back into the forest, and then back into views of the ocean.

All I can say is, northern California has such natural beauty that has been so well preserved, and I would absolutely take that drive again anytime.

7. Portland, Oregon

Portland was the farthest point on our trip, before we were meant to turn back around. This was my first time to Portland, and I had no idea what to expect.

Our only stop, really, was to the Downtown area. We walked around, visited a few local stores (some very cool ones selling handmade artisanal goods), a luxury Goodwill store, and the art museum.

I have to admit, many of the things that I would find neat would not be what my mother finds neat, and I really tried to focus on her for this trip. It wasn’t long before we headed back to the hotel to call it a day.

8. Multnomah Falls

The next morning, we made a pitstop to the famous Multnomah Falls just outside of Portland. We went around 7am, when the sun was hardly out. It was also foggy, which got me even more excited (I love those moody foggy-filled nature photos), and during the drive, I kept hoping the fog would stick.

I got my wish, because when we got there, we were presented with quite the dramatic photo above. It was so foggy, you couldn’t even see the start of the waterfall. There was also hardly anyone there so early in the morning, making this photo opportunity even sweeter.

9. Sacramento

As we headed south, we went inland, taking the 101 instead so that we can hit up new locations. Sacramento was a place my mom had not been yet. We stopped by the State Capitol building and roamed around for an hour or so, and then walked around downtown. I was surprised at how quiet Downtown was, with many stores boarded up, but then again, it was still during the pandemic.

We made our way to the Tower Bridge, then ate some really good pizza in Old Sacramento. Oh, and of course, some Thai food for dinner.

10. Yosemite National Park

Our final stop on this grand road trip was to Yosemite National Park. As you can see, there was quite a bit of snow at the park, so hiking wasn’t really an option for us personally. At one point, my mom did slip on ice, fell flat on her back, and hit her head on the ground. So we just drove around the park and got out in a couple of places.

Yosemite is a park that is constantly crowded, and that day was no exception. But that didn’t stop us from admiring the scenery all around us.

This was definitely a trip of a lifetime for me, not just because it was my first time to a few of these places, but because I had it with my 65 year old mother. I learned so much about her because of this trip — because we were isolated from the everyday noise. How did my parents meet? What was it like immigrating to the United States and leaving their whole family, their whole life , and starting fresh? Why did they even leave Indonesia? How did she get by as a single mother when I was just 7 years old, after the passing of my dad?

Like I said, we drove roughly 6 hours each day, and that left us with a lot of time to talk and get to know each other on a different level. My mom was also constantly trying to talk to me so that I was alert on the road. I don’t know when I will get that opportunity again in the future, and because of that, I will be forever grateful for this road trip.

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Portland to Los Angeles road trip

•  KM /   miles

Take an extraordinary journey from Portland, Oregon to Los Angeles, California. This west coast adventure will immerse you in stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and unforgettable cultural experiences.

Begin in Portland, known for its verdant parks, bicycle paths, and eco-friendliness. A city that’s as famous for its artisanal coffee as it is for its laid-back, quirky vibe. As you drive south, you’ll traverse the Willamette Valley, Oregon’s wine country, with vineyards that invite you for tastings and picnic lunches.

Continue along the Pacific Coast, where you’ll enjoy scenic ocean views, rugged cliffs, and charming coastal towns. A detour to Crater Lake National Park is worth your time for its deep blue waters and stunning panoramas. Next, pass through northern California’s Redwood National Park, where you can marvel at the towering ancient trees.

Your road trip concludes in Los Angeles, a bustling city that combines the glamour of Hollywood, the beauty of sandy beaches, and the history of Olvera Street, the birthplace of Los Angeles. The city’s vibrant art scene, diverse food options, and sunny weather provide the perfect cap to your journey.

Known as the “City of Roses,” Portland offers a unique blend of natural beauty and hip urban culture. Stroll through Washington Park, which houses the International Rose Test Garden and Oregon Zoo, or discover the city’s thriving coffee and food cart culture. With an array of independent bookstores, art galleries, and music events, Portland radiates an unmistakably indie vibe.

Things to do in Portland

• Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
• Forest Park
• Hoyt Arboretum
• iFLY Indoor Skydiving – Portland
• International Rose Test Garden
• Oaks Amusement Park
• Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)

Great hotels in Portland

The Benson Portland, Curio Collection by Hilton

Royal Sonesta Portland Downtown

The Hotel Zags Portland

Things to do in san francisco.

• Alcatraz Island
• Aquarium of the Bay
• Fort Point National Historic Site
• Golden Gate Bridge
• Golden Gate Park
• Japanese Tea Garden
• Mission Dolores Park

Great hotels in San Francisco

Hyatt Regency San Francisco

Inn at the Presidio

Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco

The sprawling city of Los Angeles boasts an array of attractions, from its world-renowned entertainment industry and glamorous Hollywood neighborhood to cultural hubs like The Getty Center and The Broad. Explore the historic downtown area, relax on the sun-soaked beaches of Santa Monica or Venice, and savor the city’s diverse food scene. With its mix of natural beauty and city attractions, Los Angeles offers something for every type of traveler.

Things to do in Los Angeles

• Angels Flight Railway
• Exposition Park
• flutter – a one-of-a-kind immersive experience
• Griffith Observatory
• Griffith Park
• Hollywood Bus Tours
• Hollywood Walk of Fame
• La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

Great hotels in Los Angeles

Fairmont Century Plaza

Kimpton Hotel Wilshire

Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills

roadtripfrom.com

Portland To Los Angeles Road Trip: Top 21 Tips

Portland to Los Angeles road trip is one of the best journeys you can experience in the USA . The 964 miles of Portland to Los Angeles drive takes around 14 hours and 48 mins without stops.

This article includes 21 top tips that turn your Portland to Los Angeles drive into an unforgettable journey. So if you’re looking for the best hotels, restaurants, and places to visit on the road trip from Portland to Los Angeles, take your coffee and keep reading!

Table of Contents

7 Best Hotels On The Road Trip From Portland To Los Angeles

On the Portland to Los Angeles road trip, you may want to stay at some points. Here are the top seven hotels on the Portland – Los Angeles route!

• Best Western Plus Mill Creek Inn: Best Western Plus Mill Creek Inn is one of the best hotels where you can stay on the Portland to Los Angeles road trip. Driving from Portland to Best Western Plus Mill Creek Inn might take around 50 mins . The rooms in the hotel come with mini-fridges, which are perfect for storing drinks and snacks. The hotel is always kept clean, and the rooms are large and spacious with updated decor. Check the Best Western Plus Mill Creek Inn, one of the best hotels in Salem, Oregon, on TripAdvisor and Booking.com for recent reviews, prices, and availability.
• Inn at the 5th: Another top hotel where you can choose the stay on the road trip to Los Angeles from Portland is Inn at the 5th. Located in Eugene, Oregon, the hotel is 110 miles away from Portland, and it would take 1 hour and 47 mins to drive. The Inn at the 5th is a boutique hotel located in the heart of Eugene, Oregon. The hotel room is well-planned and comfortable, providing the perfect place to relax after a long day exploring the city. If you want to learn more about the Inn at the 5th, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Booking.com .
• Oak Hill Bed and Breakfast: Didn’t our first two hotel suggestions interest you? So we would like to introduce you to the Oak Hill Bed and Breakfast. Oak Hill Bed and Breakfast is located in Ashland, Oregon, and it’s 288 miles away from Portland. You can arrive there in 4 hours and 29 mins of non-stop driving. The Lavender Room at the Cozy Corner Cafe offers a beautiful breakfast experience with creative and delicious dishes. The relaxed atmosphere and outstanding hospitality make it an excellent choice for groups or individuals. Guests can enjoy culinary delights, including coffee, tea, lattes, cappuccinos, and afternoon snacks. The bed, linen, and pillows in the Lavender Room are incredibly comfortable, and all the little extras that guests need are thoughtfully provided. Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Oak Hill Bed and Breakfast for more information.
• Courtyard by Marriott Sacramento Cal Expo: If you are taking the road trip from Portland to Los Angeles, Sacramento, California, it must have a place you should visit. Plus, Courtyard by Marriott Sacramento Cal Expo is one of the best hotels in town. It is Courtyard by Marriott Sacramento Cal Expo, 581 miles from Portland, and it would take 9 hours to drive. The Courtyard is a clean, up-to-date hotel. It features comfortable beds, thick towels, a decent TV, ample space, and nice extras like a mini fridge, good coffee, and high-quality mini toiletries. If you need more info about the price and availability of Courtyard by Marriott Sacramento Cal Expo, check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages.
• Hotel Valencia Santana Row: Our next hotel is Hotel Valencia Santana Row, San Jose, California. It will take 10 hours, and 21 mins of car ride o reach this hotel from Portland. Hotel Valencia Santana Row in San Jose, CA, offers luxury and solitude. It is the only hotel located on Santana Row! Hotel Valencia features include 24-hour room service, over 4000 sq ft of meeting space, two restaurants, a full-service bar, and a seasonal rooftop bar. Check the Hotel Valencia Santana Row on TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Hotel Valencia Santana Row for reviews, prices, and availability.
• Chateau Coralini: Another hotel you can accommodate on the road trip from Portland to Los Angeles is Chateau Coralini. It’s possible to arrive at this hotel in Salinas, California, within 11 hours and 16 mins drive from Portland. Château Coralini, a luxurious historic mansion, offers guests a taste of European elegance in one of the world’s most desired destinations. Some rooms boast views of the lush gardens, while upstairs, the wide hallways provide a comfortable and open space for guests to move between the bedroom suite wings. Before making the reservation, we suggest you read the latest reviews on TripAdvisor and Booking.com .
• Harbor House Inn: Another hotel that deserves to be on the list is Harbor House Inn. It’s located in Santa Barbara, California, and is 568 miles from Portland. However, you can arrive there within 10 hours and 33 mins of car drive. The Harbor House Inn is a boutique hotel located one block from West Beach, nestled between Stearn’s Wharf and the Santa Barbara Harbor. Room amenities include wireless internet access and complimentary use of 3-speed cruising bicycles. Beach chairs, towels, and umbrellas are also available at no charge. If you need further information, you can check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Harbor House Inn.

In this part, we explained seven hotels you can stay at on the road trip from Portland to Los Angeles. You can pick one of them that suits your taste. Don’t forget to share your experience by commenting on this post. It will help people who will take the exact Portland to Los Angeles route.

Now, it’s time to discover the best restaurants from Portland to Los Angeles. We have seven restaurant recommendations worth your attention.

7 Best Restaurants On The Portland To Los Angeles Road Trip

If dining is a pleasure, some restaurants will please you on your Portland to Los Angeles road trip. This section lists the seven restaurants to dine at on the road trip from Portland to Los Angeles. Stay hungry and enjoy!

• Word Of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro: We would like to start our restaurant recommendation list on the Portland to Los Angeles road trip with Word Of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro. Word Of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro is located in Salem, Oregon, 46.9 miles from Portland. It would take 52 mins of driving. The portions are large, and everything is delicious, especially the homemade biscuits with homemade jam. The Bloody Mary is also excellent. The staff is great and friendly. The Creme Brule French Toast and the fries were both delicious. For more information about Word Of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro, visit the TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of Word Of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro.
• King Estate Winery: Another top restaurant you can choose to eat at on the road trip to Los Angeles from Portland is King Estate Winery. Located in Eugene, Oregon, King Estate Winery is 134 miles from Portland and would take 2 hours and 15 mins to drive. We had a great time on the terrace with great weather and food. The smoked Champoeg chicken was perfect. If you’re into fine dining, we highly recommend King Estate. If you want to learn more about King Estate Winery, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Alchemy Restaurant and Bar: Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who are fond of food is Alchemy Restaurant and Bar. It will take 4 hours and 29 mins of car drive to take 285 miles from Portland to Alchemy Restaurant and Bar, Ashland, Oregon. Alchemy is a speculative science and philosophy that encompasses and enfolds many different theorems and beliefs. However, its core is simple: transforming familiar elements into something more significant. You can check Alchemy Restaurant and Bar on TripAdvisor or Google Maps for more information .
• Mikuni, Sacramento: Mikuni, Sacramento deserves to be on our list. It is one of the most recommended restaurants in Sacramento, California. The food at the Japanese Mafia was excellent, with fresh sashimi and delicious warm appetizers. The atmosphere was great, and the service was beautiful. I highly recommend the Japanese Mafia and Carmen rolls if you enjoy sushi. Mikuni, Sacramento is 580 miles away from Portland and would take 9 hours of non-stop car driving. If you want to learn more about Mikuni, Sacramento, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Bill’s Cafe, San Jose: If you enjoy dining, Bill’s Cafe, San Jose, would be an excellent choice in San Jose, California. It’s 667 miles from Portland and would take 10 hours and 19 mins of car driving. The food served at the restaurant is hearty and of good quality, with fresh ingredients and friendly service. You’ll find all the regular breakfast and lunch fare here. If you want to learn more about Bill’s Cafe, San Jose, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Rancho Cielo: Rancho Cielo, Salinas, California, is another restaurant we recommend on the road trip from Portland to Los Angeles. It will take 11 hours and 6 mins of driving to reach Rancho Cielo from Portland. Rancho Cielo is a unique restaurant that offers a great dining experience while supporting a worthy cause. The restaurant is staffed by student trainees, providing them with valuable work experience and skills development. By dining at Rancho Cielo, you can help make a difference in the lives of these young people. For more information about Rancho Cielo, you can check the TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of the restaurant.
• Toma Restaurant and Bar: Ranked seventh on our list, Toma Restaurant, and Bar appeal to those who want to turn their Los Angeles vacation into a memorable experience. It is located in Santa Barbara, California, 940 miles from Portland, and it’ll take 14 hours and 29 minutes to drive. Toma Restaurant & Bar has been serving a unique array of classic dishes with a contemporary twist since 2013. Toma has a charming waterfront facade in an old-world, historic building on West Cabrillo Boulevard. With over 70 years of experience in the culinary industry, Toma is a beautiful restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. If you want to learn more about Toma Restaurant and Bar, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .

This section lists our seven restaurant recommendations for your road trip from Portland to Los Angeles. We hope these suggestions will help you turn your 964 miles journey into a feast of taste. Of course, you can choose a suitable restaurant according to your preference. Remember, like you, people planning a Los Angeles road trip need your opinion. Therefore, we kindly ask you to share your experience with us in the comment field at the end of the blog post.

In the next section, we list the destinations worth seeing along the route from Portland to Los Angeles. Keep reading.

7 Places To Visit On The Portland To Los Angeles Drive

A unique experience awaits you in Los Angeles. However, on your road trip, there are also some unique destinations, like Salem, Oregon. We want to explain the top seven destinations we recommend on the Los Angeles route.

• Enchanted Forest Theme Park: Enchanted Forest Theme Park will be the first destination we recommend you stop on your Portland to Los Angeles road trip. Located in Salem, Oregon, Enchanted Forest Theme Park is 53.7 miles away from Portland, and it would take 55 mins to drive. A theme park in Oregon’s forest offers many activities for visitors, including the log ride, the haunted house, and the water show. This family-friendly destination is perfect for a day of fun. If you want to learn more about the Enchanted Forest Theme Park, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .
• Cascades Raptor Center: Cascades Raptor Center, Eugene, Oregon, is one of the destinations we recommend you stop by on the Portland to Los Angeles route. It’s 118 miles from Portland, and it’ll take about 1 hour and 57 mins of driving. The center houses 40 resident birds of 30 native species, including owls, falcons, hawks, to bald and golden eagles. It was awe-inspiring to see these majestic creatures up close. The staff was helpful and friendly. It was worth making a stop! If you want to learn more about Cascades Raptor Center, you can check it on TripAdvisor or their website .
• Oregon Shakespeare Festival: Ashland, Oregon, is one of the stops you should not neglect to stop by when you take the road trip from Portland to Los Angeles. And if you visit Ashland, Oregon, we suggest you visit the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. You can arrive Oregon Shakespeare Festival after 4 hours and 28 mins of driving. Angus Bowmer founded the Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF) in 1935. The festival has grown from a three-day event featuring two plays to a nationally renowned theatre arts organization that presents an eight-month season of up to 11 plays. This lineup includes works by Shakespeare and a mix of classics, contemporary plays, musicals, and world premieres. You can visit TripAdvisor and the official site of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival for more information.
• Old Sacramento: Do you also like to travel and experience new things? Then, it would be best to visit Old Sacramento, Sacramento, California, on the Portland to Los Angeles road trip. Old Sacramento is 579 miles from Portland, and you can arrive there after the 9 hours of drive. The area around the river is a popular destination for wine lovers and those who enjoy spending time outdoors on a patio. The area features restored buildings, museums, and novelty shops that give it a unique charm. In addition, visitors can find this historic area’s souvenirs, restaurants, and other amenities. In addition, you should check TripAdvisor and the official website of Old Sacramento before going there.
• Winchester Mystery House: Located in San Jose, California, Winchester Mystery House ranks fifth in our list of tourist destinations on the road trip from Portland to Los Angeles. You must take 10 hours and 21 mins of driving to arrive at Winchester Mystery House. Construction of the Winchester Mystery House began in 1884 and continued for 38 years. The mansion is said to be haunted by the spirits of people killed by Winchester rifles. Mrs. Winchester designed the mansion to have many odd and mysterious features. If you want to learn more about Winchester Mystery House, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .
• The Steinbeck House / Best Cellar Gift Shop: Another attraction you can visit on the road trip from Portland to Los Angeles is The Steinbeck House / Best Cellar Gift Shop, Salinas, California. The Steinbeck House / Best Cellar Gift Shop is 721 miles from Portland, and it would take 11 hours and 6 mins to drive. The Queen Anne style Victorian, where author John Steinbeck was born and spent his boyhood, is now home to The Best Cellar, a gift shop featuring unique items, vintage and new books by Steinbeck, and original furniture from the Steinbeck family. Among the treasures on display is the headboard of the bed in which John Steinbeck was born. For more information about The Steinbeck House / Best Cellar Gift Shop, you can check their TripAdvisor page or official website .
• Santa Barbara County Courthouse: You can visit many destinations on your Portland to Los Angeles journey. One of these destinations is Santa Barbara County Courthouse, located in Santa Barbara, California. You can arrive at Santa Barbara County Courthouse after 14 hours and 30 mins of driving. The Santa Barbara Courthouse, renowned for its iconic Spanish Colonial Revival style, has been called “the most beautiful government building in America.” Visitors are welcome during regular business hours, but they should note that access is not permitted after 4:45 p.m. If you want to read the reviews of previous visitors about Santa Barbara County Courthouse, you can visit Santa Barbara County Courthouse’s TripAdvisor page or their website .

FAQ of the Road Trip From Portland to Los Angeles

Here we are answering the frequently asked questions about the Portland to Los Angeles drive.

How Long Is The Road Trip From Portland To Los Angeles?

• With ideal traffic and weather conditions, the Portland to Los Angeles road trip takes approximately 14 hours and 48 mins to drive. The driving distance between Portland to Los Angeles is 964 miles.
• If you want to make the Portland to Los Angeles road trip by bike , the time you spend on the road will be three days and 13 hours .
• If you are crazy enough and plan to walk the Portland-Los Angeles route, you will have to walk for 13 days and 11 hours .

Where Do You Stop On Driving From Portland To Los Angeles?

There are many beautiful pit stops along the way to Los Angeles. On the road, you can visit Salem, Oregon; Eugene, Oregon; Ashland, Oregon; Sacramento, California; San Jose, California; Salinas, California; and Santa Barbara, California. Here we list seven places to visit for you. For more information about the best places on the Portland to Los Angeles journey, you can check the 7 Best Places To Visit On The Portland To Los Angeles Road Trip.

• Enchanted Forest Theme Park: 53.7 miles / 55 mins to drive from Portland | 910 miles / 13 hours and 57 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Cascades Raptor Center: 118 miles / 1 hour and 57 mins to drive from Portland | 859 miles / 13 hours and 14 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Oregon Shakespeare Festival: 285 miles / 4 hours and 28 mins to drive from Portland | 679 miles / 10 hours and 30 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Old Sacramento: 579 miles / 9 hours to drive from Portland | 385 miles / 5 hours and 52 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Winchester Mystery House: 666 miles / 10 hours and 21 mins to drive from Portland | 345 miles / 5 hours and 25 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• The Steinbeck House / Best Cellar Gift Shop: 721 miles / 11 hours and 6 mins to drive from Portland | 305 miles / 4 hours and 47 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Santa Barbara County Courthouse: 940 miles / 14 hours and 30 mins to drive from Portland | 95.4 miles / 1 hour and 43 mins of driving to Los Angeles.

Where Should You Stay On The Road Trip From Portland To Los Angeles?

There are many excellent hotels during your road trip from Portland to Los Angeles. We have selected seven hotels for you. These hotels are listed below. Remember, you can find detailed information about these hotels in the 7 Best Hotels On The Road Trip To Los Angeles From Portland section.

• Best Western Plus Mill Creek Inn: 47.7 miles / 50 mins to drive from Portland | 917 miles / 14 hours of driving to Los Angeles.
• Inn at the 5th: 110 miles / 1 hour and 47 mins to drive from Portland | 859 miles / 13 hours and 12 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Oak Hill Bed and Breakfast: 288 miles / 4 hours and 29 mins to drive from Portland | 677 miles / 10 hours and 23 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Courtyard by Marriott Sacramento Cal Expo: 581 miles / 9 hours to drive from Portland | 389 miles / 5 hours and 56 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Hotel Valencia Santana Row: 666 miles / 10 hours and 21 mins to drive from Portland | 345 miles / 5 hours and 24 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Chateau Coralini: 727 miles / 11 hours and 16 mins to drive from Portland | 304 miles / 4 hours and 48 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Harbor House Inn: 568 miles / 10 hours and 33 mins to drive from Portland | 524 miles / 8 hours and 27 mins of driving to Los Angeles.

Where To Eat Between Portland to Los Angeles?

If you are thinking of taking a break and having a nice meal on your Portland to Los Angeles drive, you can consider the seven restaurants we have chosen. In addition, you can read detailed information about the restaurants in the section titled 7 Best Restaurants On The Portland To Los Angeles Road Trip .

• Word Of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro: 46.9 miles / 52 mins to drive from Portland | 919 miles / 14 hours and 6 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• King Estate Winery: 134 miles / 2 hours and 15 mins to drive from Portland | 838 miles / 12 hours and 59 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Alchemy Restaurant and Bar: 285 miles / 4 hours and 29 mins to drive from Portland | 679 miles / 10 hours and 30 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Mikuni, Sacramento: 580 miles / 9 hours to drive from Portland | 386 miles / 5 hours and 55 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Bill’s Cafe, San Jose: 667 miles / 10 hours and 19 mins to drive from Portland | 341 miles / 5 hours and 21 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Rancho Cielo: 718 miles / 11 hours and 6 mins to drive from Portland | 308 miles / 4 hours and 54 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Toma Restaurant and Bar: 940 miles / 14 hours and 29 mins to drive from Portland | 95.5 miles / 1 hour and 41 mins of driving to Los Angeles.

So, there you have it- a complete guide to planning a road trip from Portland to Los Angeles. We have listed seven hotels, seven restaurants, and seven places to visit on the Portland to Los Angeles drive. We have also given you detailed information about each place so that you can make an informed choice about where to stay, eat, and what to see. We hope this guide has helped make your road trip from Portland to Los Angeles as enjoyable as possible.

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Have you ever taken the Portland to Los Angeles road trip? So, it would be perfect if you shared your experience with other travelers who want the same experience. You can share your thoughts about the road trip from Portland to Los Angeles and your recommendations about this route by using the comment field below.

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Los Angeles to Portland drive

Los angeles to portland road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Los Angeles to Portland. If you're planning a road trip to Portland, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Traveling with a dog or cat? Find pet-friendly stops . Camping along the way? Search for RV campgrounds . Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

11:00 am  start in Los Angeles drive for about 2 hours

12:54 pm   Bakersfield stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:54 pm drive for about 2 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 4 hours

10:00 am  leave from Coalinga drive for about 3.5 hours

1:31 pm   Sacramento stay for about 1.5 hours and leave at 3:01 pm drive for about 2.5 hours

day 2 driving ≈ 6 hours

10:00 am  leave from Redding drive for about 2.5 hours

12:19 pm   Ashland (Oregon) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:19 pm drive for about 3 hours

4:11 pm   Eugene stay for about 1 hour and leave at 5:11 pm drive for about 2 hours

7:08 pm  arrive in Portland eat at Voodoo Doughnuts stay at Ace Hotel Portland

day 3 driving ≈ 7 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Bakersfield   (23 answers)     questions about Bakersfield:         Best free things to do in Bakersfield? Harris Ranch Inn & Restaurant   (5 mentions) Sacramento   (73 answers)     California State Railroad Museum   (6 mentions)     California State Capitol Museum   (3 mentions)     58 Degrees & Holding Co.   (2 mentions)     restaurants around Sacramento:         Ella Dining Room & Bar         Rick's Dessert Diner         Delta King Hotel         The Rind         Mulvaney's B&L     questions about Sacramento:         What is your favorite restaurant in Sacramento?         Things to do and see in Sacramento         Hidden gems in Sacramento?         Me want food in Sacramento!         Question about location for USA Outdoor Nationals Redding   (16 answers)     restaurants around Redding:         Wilda's Grill         Market Street Steakhouse     questions about Redding:         Best free things to do in Redding?         What is your favorite restaurant in Redding? Ashland (Oregon)   (31 answers)     Ashland   (15 mentions)     Oregon Shakespeare Festival   (3 mentions)     Lithia Park   (2 mentions)     questions about Ashland (Oregon):         Best free things to do in Ashland (Oregon)?         Spas in the Ashland area? Eugene   (24 answers)     questions about Eugene:         What is your favorite restaurant in Eugene?

Where's the best place to stay in Portland?

Are you going straight to a hotel, or looking for a vacation rental or Airbnb?

The best resource on neighborhoods, areas, and hotels is the Trippy page on where to stay in Portland .

If you're looking for a quick answer, you can check out Ace Hotel Portland , which was mentioned 8 times on Trippy.

Here are some more hotels people talk about:

Want to research more popular hotels in Portland? Click the blue button below.

Where's the best place to eat in Portland?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

Trippy members suggest Voodoo Doughnuts , which was mentioned 27 times.

Here are some more restaurants people talk about:

Want to research more popular restaurants in Portland? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in Portland?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Portland. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Portland.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Portland to Los Angeles drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Los Angeles to Portland . Or get a full Los Angeles to Portland flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend. Maybe try typing in a faraway location like London, Hong Kong, or Sydney, and get inspired for your dream trip around the world.

And if you know Los Angeles well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Los Angeles!

More info on this route:

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• Stockton, CA
• Sacramento, CA
• Big Bar, CA
• Ashland, OR
• Tidewater, OR
• Cannon Beach, OR
• Astoria, OR

What to do in Los Angeles

• Hollywood Hills : If you love the outdoors, explore the famous Hollywood Hills during an easy hike. The San Gabriel Mountains and Baldwin Hills are also great options—but make sure you have your phone on hand for photos!
• The Strand Santa Monica : If you’re into faster action, bike the Strand from Rogers Beach to the Marina Del Rey.
• Hollywood Forever Cemetery : You could also choose a more relaxing, spiritual path for the trip. Pay your respects to past legends at the Hollywood Cemetery .
• Beach Yoga SoCal : Want to get away from the hustle of touring? Center your qi with Beach Yoga SoCal bright and early.

Where to eat in Los Angeles

• Cafe Gratitude ($$): Fuel up more than just your car on this trip. Stop by Cafe Gratitude for a plant-centered bowl and hippie-themed dishes.
• Azala ($$): Hit up Azala , an Ethiopian restaurant known for its vegan and gluten-free specialties.
• Meat dishes galore : If you like meats, consider Aqui es Texcoco’s barbacoa taco for a savory delight. Ahgassi Gopchang offers pork jowls.

What to do in Stockton

• Stockton Arena : Consider planning your trip around events at the Stockton Arena . With 12,000 seats, the arena holds events like hockey games, movie premieres, music tours, and more.
• Pixie Woods Amusement Park : For more interactive fun, the Pixie Woods amusement park near Louis Park has boating, baseball fields, and cool rides for the whole family.
• Stockton 99 Rusty Park Raceway : Adults can ride to the extreme by taking a lap at the Stockton 99 Rusty Park Raceway , though you’ll have to book it first.

Where to eat in Stockton

• Slim’s Noodles ($$): This is a local favorite in Stockton. With everything from noodle rolls and salads to rice bowls and desserts, this restaurant can satisfy a variety of Asian cravings with its curbside service.
• Market Tavern ($$): For something different, try the Market Tavern , a contemporary foodie option with American-style pizzas, pastas, burgers, and more.

• For the history buffs : History enthusiasts will enjoy Old Sacramento State Historic Park and the California State Railroad Museum , both of which will take you back in time to older California.
• Crocker Art Museum : Culture enthusiasts should check out the Crocker Art Museum , which houses a collection of Californian art you won’t want to miss. Seeing the whole museum will take about three hours.
• B Street Theatre : If you can plan your trip to include a show at the B Street Theatre , you’ll get an extra dose of live California culture.
• Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail : For road trippers who really want to stretch their legs, the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail has a lovely bike route.

Where to eat in Sacramento

• Dog-friendly restaurants : Spots like Broderick Roadhouse Midtown ($$) and Kru ($$) have space for even the four-legged members of the family.
• Morton’s Steakhouse ($$$$): On the opposite end of the spectrum Morton's Steakhouse offers fine-dining options for an elegant date night.

What to do in Redding

• Castle Crags State Park : Redding is a great place to get outdoors, and nature enthusiasts will love exploring Castle Crags State Park . It boasts great above-ground swimming, hiking, and fishing, plus lots of ancient tales about its creation.
• Lake Shasta Caverns National Natural Landmark : To see some of the most beautiful limestone caves in the country, check out Lake Shasta Caverns National Natural Landmark . You’ll enjoy a scenic cruise across the lake before embarking on a tour of the 200-million-year-old caverns.
• Sundial Bridge : If you’re interested in other gorgeous views, the Sundial Bridge is a glassy marvel with active sundials and beautiful scenery.
• Turtle Bay Exploration Park and Museum : And for the family, Turtle Bay Exploration Park and Museum offers year-round exhibits, plenty of educational and entertaining opportunities, and even an underground aquarium.

Where to eat in Redding

• Cedar Crest Brewing : Don’t miss this spot for local flavors. It also offers exceptional craft beers (and sometimes live entertainment!).
• Le Testimony Organic Bistro ($$): Then, head to Le Testimony Organic Bistro for meals that are just as beautiful as they are delicious.
• Donut House ($): And for dessert, check out Donut House , which offers a variety of cream-filled and sugar-coated donuts.

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What to do in big bar.

• Redwoods and Rivers : After three hours in the car, it only makes sense to adventure. Visit Redwoods and Rivers Whitewater Rafting , which specializes in educational and spiritual river trips. Get the family racing along streams as you learn the history of Trinity River.
• Get moving : If you prefer land activities, the Waters Gulch trail has ample space for walks and mountain biking, while Mt. Shasta Wilderness offers mountain climbing.

Where to eat in Big Bar

• Mamma Llama Cafe ($$): For affordable, quick eats, Mamma Llama Cafe has great chicken strips and many vegetarian options.
• Strawhouse Cafe ($): There’s also Strawhouse Cafe for amazing chai to keep you awake for your next stretch.

What to do in Ashland

• Oregon Shakespeare Festival : From February to October, those meant to be born in the Elizabethan era can enjoy the Oregon Shakespeare Festival across much of the city.
• Lithia Park : Several fantastic theaters that put on shows in Lithia Park and downtown Ashland.
• Explore the outdoors : For outdoor adventure, hit up Crater Lake National Park for some white-water rafting. For less intense pursuits, there’s the scavenger hunt walking tour to get a taste and touch of history and the Rogue River scenic route for calm cruising on the river.

Where to eat in Ashland

• Irvine & Roberts Vineyards ($$$): Enjoy classy wine tasting at the Irvine & Roberts Vineyard , a spot with a gorgeous view of the Cascade and Siskiyou mountains.
• Alchemy Restaurant and Bar ($$$): The Alchemy Restaurant and Bar has high-end dining that fits with the elegant atmosphere.
• Hearsay Restaurant ($$$): If the nature aesthetic matters more to you, Hearsay Restaurant, Lounge, and Garden offers great wedge salads, pulled pork sandwiches, and beautiful decor.

What to do in Tidewater

• White Wolf Sanctuary : White Wolf Sanctuary and Educational Facility is a must-see in Tidewater. The sanctuary offers educational experiences intended to raise awareness and appreciation for wolves in the natural world. You can also take a private tour, though you’ll need to book an appointment.

Where to eat in Tidewater

• Azul Mexican Restaurant ($$): The towns around Tidewater offer lots in the way of diverse cuisines. If you’re in the mood for Mexican, check out Azul Mexican Restaurant .

What to do in Cannon Beach

• Haystack Rock : Haystack Rock is one of Cannon Beach’s most well-known attractions and was featured in The Goonies and Kindergarten Cop . Formed by lava flows, Haystack Rock is now home to diverse birdlife and is officially seen as one of Oregon's Marine Gardens.
• Ecola State Park : Ecola State Park is also worth a visit. Rent bicycles and follow the trail all the way to Crescent Beach or Indian Beach. Ecola State Park holds a deep history and is considered a segment of the Lewis and Clark National and State Historical Park .

Where to eat in Cannon Beach

• The Bistro ($$): The Bistro is a delicious restaurant that’s popular in Cannon Beach. Eat your heart out with burgers or desserts—your choice!
• Seafood stops : You’ll find ocean-to-table food at many of the restaurants in town. Try Ecola Seafoods or The Local Grill and Scoop , and don’t forget your tartar sauce!

What to do in Astoria

• See the big attractions : The Astoria Column and Astoria-Megler Bridge are two big attractions. While the column offers classic beauty and architecture, the Astoria-Megler Bridge is a more contemporary placement in the town.
• Astoria Riverfront Trolley : If you’re tired after all those miles, the Astoria Riverfront Trolley will gladly give you a tour around with low hassle.
• Columbia River Maritime Museum : Continue the sightseeing with a trip to the Columbia River Maritime Museum that teaches you about storms and living on the water.

Where to eat in Astoria

• Seafood stops : Its station along the river means that Astoria has plenty of seafood eateries on or near the water to give you a fresh take on life. Portway makes a mean fish and chips (waffle fries, to be exact) and the South Bay Wild Fish House has a seafood banh mi to drive you crazy.
• Astoria Coffee House & Bistro ($$): If you’re missing tacos and burritos, have no fear! Astoria Coffee House & Bistro offers tacos, curries, and other dishes that may or may not include more fish.

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road trip to portland from los angeles

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Are you considering taking a road trip from Los Angeles to Portland? If so, you've made an excellent decision. The trip offers a scenic drive through California, Oregon, and Washington State, as well as countless attractions and activities en route. In this article, we'll provide you with all the information you need to plan the perfect road trip from Los Angeles to Portland, from choosing the best time of year to travel to locating budget-friendly accommodations and making the most of your time in Portland.

Planning Your Road Trip to Portland from Los Angeles

Before embarking on your road trip, it's essential to plan it out. Consider the time and distance involved and decide how many days you want to spend traveling to and from Portland. It's generally advisable to take at least a week to enjoy the trip fully. This timeframe allows you to stop and explore various attractions along the way, making the journey as satisfying as the destination.

When planning your road trip, it's also important to consider the weather conditions. The best time to travel from Los Angeles to Portland is during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, the weather is mild, and the roads are generally clear. However, if you plan to travel during the winter months, be prepared for snow and icy conditions, especially in the mountainous areas.

Another important factor to consider when planning your road trip is your budget. Gas, food, and accommodation costs can add up quickly, so it's essential to plan your expenses carefully. Consider packing your own food and snacks to save money, and look for affordable accommodation options such as camping or budget motels. With careful planning, you can enjoy a memorable road trip to Portland without breaking the bank.

Best Time of Year to Take a Road Trip to Portland from Los Angeles

The best time to take a road trip to Portland from Los Angeles is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner. Summer months are a busy time in the Pacific Northwest, leading to more significant crowds at attractions and higher accommodation prices. Winter also has the potential for harsh weather conditions, making travel less predictable and slightly more dangerous.

During the spring, the Pacific Northwest is in full bloom, making it an ideal time to take a road trip to Portland. The vibrant colors of the flowers and trees create a picturesque landscape that is perfect for scenic drives and outdoor activities. Additionally, springtime temperatures are mild, making it comfortable to explore the city and its surroundings.

In the fall, the Pacific Northwest is known for its stunning foliage, making it another great time to take a road trip to Portland. The changing colors of the leaves create a beautiful backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. The cooler temperatures also make it a great time to enjoy the local cuisine and craft beer scene that Portland is famous for.

Choosing the Right Vehicle for Your Road Trip from Los Angeles to Portland

Your choice of vehicle for the road trip from Los Angeles to Portland is crucial. Opt for a comfortable car, SUV or van, or even an RV, depending on your budget. Ensure that the vehicle is mechanically sound and able to handle the long drive. Don't forget to check tire pressure, oil, and car fluids before you begin your journey.

Another important factor to consider when choosing a vehicle for your road trip is the size of your group and the amount of luggage you will be carrying. If you are traveling with a large group or have a lot of luggage, a van or SUV may be a better option as they offer more space for both passengers and cargo. On the other hand, if you are traveling solo or with just one other person, a smaller car may be more fuel-efficient and cost-effective.

It's also important to consider the terrain and weather conditions you may encounter on your road trip. If you plan on driving through mountainous areas or areas with harsh weather conditions, such as snow or heavy rain, you may want to opt for a vehicle with four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive to ensure better traction and handling. Additionally, if you plan on camping or spending time in remote areas, an RV or camper van may be a better option as they offer more amenities and the ability to sleep comfortably on the road.

Mapping Out Your Route to Portland from Los Angeles

It's vital to have a rough idea of your route before beginning your road trip from Los Angeles to Portland. There are several options to explore, from coastal drives to mountain passes and national parks routes. Consider including stops at iconic landmarks such as Mount Shasta and Crater Lake, which are both must-sees along any road trip in the Pacific Northwest.

If you're looking for a scenic coastal drive, consider taking the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) from Los Angeles to San Francisco, then heading inland towards Portland. This route will take you through charming coastal towns such as Santa Barbara and Monterey, and offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

If you're more interested in exploring national parks, consider taking the route through Yosemite National Park and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. This route will take you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in California, including the iconic Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. From there, you can head north towards Crater Lake and Mount Shasta before reaching Portland.

Must-See Attractions Along the Way

Along your drive from Los Angeles to Portland, several must-see attractions should top your list. Yosemite National Park, located a few hours north of Los Angeles, is a popular destination for nature lovers. You will also pass through San Francisco, which offers fantastic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf, and Alcatraz Island. Make sure to visit the Redwoods National and State Parks and the Multnomah Falls while you're in the area. These are stunning places that cannot be missed.

Another must-see attraction along the way is the Crater Lake National Park, located in southern Oregon. This park is home to the deepest lake in the United States, with crystal-clear blue waters that are simply breathtaking. The park also offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and camping opportunities for visitors. If you're a fan of outdoor adventures, make sure to add Crater Lake National Park to your itinerary.

Best Places to Stop for Food on Your Road Trip to Portland

It is essential to fuel up by eating well along your journey to Portland. Pack snacks and drinks in a cooler and make stops along the way to indulge in regional cuisines such as clam chowder, cronuts, and oysters. Some popular places along the way that you should stop by include In-N-Out, Voodoo Doughnuts, and Salt & Straw.

Aside from the popular food stops mentioned above, there are other hidden gems that you should consider visiting. One of them is the Tillamook Cheese Factory, which offers a variety of cheese products and ice cream. You can also take a tour of the factory and learn about the cheese-making process. Another must-visit spot is the Pok Pok restaurant in Portland, which serves authentic Thai cuisine. Their signature dish, the fish sauce wings, is a must-try.

When planning your road trip, it is also important to consider dietary restrictions. If you are a vegetarian or vegan, you can still enjoy delicious food along the way. The Blossoming Lotus in Portland offers plant-based meals that are both healthy and tasty. They also have gluten-free options for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Tips for Budget-Friendly Road Tripping from Los Angeles to Portland

A road trip from Los Angeles to Portland can be affordable if you know where to look. Opt for budget-friendly accommodationssuch as hostels, Airbnbs, or camping sites. It may also be possible to save money on meals by packing a cooler and cooking in a campsite or rental. Make sure to plan your budget ahead of time, and avoid frivolous spending.

Another way to save money on a road trip from Los Angeles to Portland is to plan your route carefully. Avoid toll roads and take advantage of free attractions along the way, such as national parks or scenic viewpoints. Consider carpooling with friends or family to split the cost of gas and rental fees.

Additionally, research local events and festivals in the areas you will be passing through. Many of these events are free or low-cost and can provide a unique and memorable experience. Don't forget to bring reusable water bottles and utensils to reduce waste and save money on disposable items.

Finding Affordable Accommodations on Your Road Trip

It's important to find affordable accommodations during your road trip from Los Angeles to Portland. Research campgrounds, RV parks, hostels, and budget-friendly hotels along your route before you leave. Booking sites such as Airbnb, Expedia, and Booking.com may also offer competitive pricing for your accommodation needs.

Another tip for finding affordable accommodations is to consider staying in smaller towns or cities along your route. These areas may have lower prices compared to larger cities and tourist destinations. Additionally, consider traveling during the off-season or weekdays, as prices may be lower during these times. Don't forget to also check for any discounts or promotions that may be available, such as AAA or military discounts.

Preparing for the Weather on Your Road Trip to Portland

Since the Pacific Northwest is known for its unpredictable weather, it's essential to prepare for different weather conditions. Pack plenty of layers, rain jackets, and umbrellas, especially if you're traveling in late fall, winter, or early spring. Check local weather conditions along your route before hitting the road to ensure safe travel conditions.

It's also important to note that the weather in Portland can vary greatly depending on the time of day and location within the city. For example, the west side of the city tends to be more rainy and cloudy, while the east side is often sunnier. Additionally, temperatures can drop significantly at night, so be sure to pack warm clothing for evening activities. Keep an eye on weather forecasts and plan your activities accordingly to make the most of your trip to Portland.

Safety Tips for Driving Long Distances on a Road Trip

Driving long distances can be tiring, and safety is crucial. Take frequent breaks, switch drivers if possible, and limit driving to reasonable and comfortable hours. Avoid drinking and driving and obey all traffic laws. Make sure to pack an emergency kit that includes jumper cables, flares, flashlights, blankets, and first aid kits.

Another important safety tip is to keep your vehicle well-maintained. Before embarking on a long road trip, make sure to have your car serviced and checked for any potential issues. This includes checking the brakes, tires, and fluid levels. It's also a good idea to have a spare tire and the necessary tools to change it in case of a flat.

In addition, it's important to stay alert and focused while driving. Avoid distractions such as texting, eating, or using your phone while behind the wheel. If you feel drowsy, pull over and take a nap or switch drivers. Remember, the safety of you and your passengers should always be your top priority.

Enjoying the Scenery on Your Drive from Los Angeles to Portland

Driving from Los Angeles to Portland is a fantastic opportunity to soak up the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Drive through pristine forests, along rugged coastlines, and past towering volcanic peaks. Take your time to explore the flora and fauna of the region and enjoy the stunning scenery along the way.

One of the highlights of this drive is the opportunity to visit some of the charming small towns along the way. Stop in Ashland, Oregon, for a taste of the local arts scene and some delicious farm-to-table cuisine. Or, take a detour to the quaint coastal town of Cannon Beach, Oregon, to see the iconic Haystack Rock and browse the unique shops and galleries.

Another must-see attraction on this drive is Crater Lake National Park. This stunning natural wonder boasts the deepest lake in the United States and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Take a hike along one of the park's many trails or simply relax and take in the beauty of this awe-inspiring destination.

Making the Most of Your Time in Portland Once You Arrive

After all those hours on the road, you'll finally arrive in Portland, Oregon. Portland boasts numerous attractions such as Powell's City of Books, the iconic Voodoo Doughnut, the Portland Art Museum, and the Japanese Garden. Additionally, there are many fantastic restaurants, bars, and breweries to check out. Make sure to spend at least a few days exploring Portland and the surrounding areas.

Discovering Hidden Gems and off-The-Beaten-Path Attractions en Route to Portland

While the Pacific Northwest boasts many famous attractions, it's also home to many hidden gems waiting to be explored. Take a turn off the main road and explore unique sites like the Hollyhock House in Los Angeles, the Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses in Connecticut, or the Battery and White Point Gardens in South Carolina. Delve into the local communities and learn about their unique history.

Taking Advantage of Outdoor Activities Along the Way

Lastly, the Pacific Northwest is home to a wide variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, kayaking, and rock climbing. Take advantage of the many opportunities for adventure along your road trip from Los Angeles to Portland. Pack appropriate gear and take on a challenge, or opt for more relaxed activities like birdwatching, beachcombing, or exploring nature reserves.

Whether you're an adventure-seeker or a nature lover, a road trip from Los Angeles to Portland has something for everyone. With a little planning and preparation, you'll be on your way to exploring the Pacific Northwest's stunning landscapes, sampling its regional cuisine, and discovering its hidden treasures.

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Are you ready for a Road Trip? Explore these eleven incredible cross-country road trip routes across the U.S.!

Pacific Coast

Border to Border

The Road to Nowhere

The Great River Road

Appalachian Trail

Atlantic Coast

The Great Northern

The Oregon Trail

The Loneliest Road

Southern Pacific

Home / Pacific Coast

The Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

For some reason, when people elsewhere in the country refer to the Pacific Coast, particularly California, it’s apparent that they think it’s a land of kooks, an overbuilt suburban desert supporting only shopping malls, freeways, and body-obsessed airheads. All this may be true in small pockets, but the amazing thing about the Pacific Coast—from the dense green forests of western Washington to the gorgeous beaches of Southern California—is that it is still mostly wild, open, and astoundingly beautiful country, where you can drive for miles and miles and have the scenery all to yourself.

Planning a West Coast Road Trip

Road Trip USA’s Pacific Coast route begins at the northwest tip of the United States at Port Townsend near Olympic National Park, and remains within sight of the ocean almost all the way south to the Mexican border. This 1,650-mile (2,655 km), mostly two-lane route takes in everything from temperate rainforest to near-desert. Most of the Pacific Coast is in the public domain, accessible, and protected from development within national, state, and local parks, which provide habitat for such rare creatures as mountain lions, condors, and gray whales.

Heading south, after the rough-and-tumble logging and fishing communities of Washington State, you cross the mouth of the Columbia River and follow the comparatively peaceful and quiet Oregon coastline, where recreation has by and large replaced industry, and where dozens of quaint and not-so-quaint communities line the ever-changing shoreline. At the midway point, you pass through the great redwood forests of Northern California, where the tallest and most majestic living things on earth line the Avenue of the Giants, home also to some of the best (meaning gloriously kitsch) remnants of the golden age of car-borne tourism: drive-through trees, drive-on trees, houses carved out of trees, and much more. The phenomenally beautiful coast-line of Northern California is rivaled only by the incredible coast of Big Sur farther south, beyond which stretches the beachfronts of Southern California. The land of palm trees, beach boys, and surfer girls of popular lore really does exist, though only in the southernmost quarter of the state.

Along with the overwhelming scale of its natural beauty, the West Coast is remarkable for the abundance of well-preserved historic sites—most of which haven’t been torn down, built on, or even built around—that stand as vivid evocations of life on what was once the most distant frontier of a new nation. While rarely as old as places on the East Coast, or as impressive as those in Europe, these diverse sites include the Spanish colonial missions of California, Russian and English fur-trading outposts, and the place where Lewis and Clark first sighted the Pacific after their long slog across the continent.

Last but certainly not least are the energizing cities— Seattle and Portland in the north, San Francisco in the middle, and Los Angeles and San Diego to the south—that serve as gateways to (or civilized respites from) the landscapes between them. Add to these the dozens of small and not-so-small towns along the coast, with alternating blue-collar ports and up-scale vacation retreats, and you have a great range of food, drink, and accommodations options. Local cafés, seafood grills, and bijou restaurants abound, as do places to stay—from youth hostels in old lighthouses to roadside motels (including the world’s first, which still stands in lovely San Luis Obispo, California) to homespun B&Bs in old farmhouses.

10 Best Pacific Coast Highway Stops

For more insight into each stop along a West Coast road trip, our content is arranged by state, with California’s coastline broken into its northern, central, and southern sections. Here are ten major sights along the Pacific Coast Highway where travelers aiming to follow only a section of the full cross-country route may wish to use to plan their drive:

• Olympic National Park, Washington – Combines the features of Maine’s rocky coast, the snowy peaks of the Rocky Mountains, and the unique rainforests of the Pacific Northwest
• Astoria & Fort Clatsop, Oregon – Part of the extensive Lewis and Clark National Historic Park, Fort Clatsop is just outside the oldest American city west of the Rockies
• “Dune Country,” Oregon – Hop out of the car and into a dune buggy to travel through some of the tallest sand dunes in the world
• Redwood National Park, California – Stretch your legs with a walk through Lady Bird Johnson Grove
• Mendocino, California – One of the prettiest towns on the California coast, and extra fun for fans of the TV show Murder, She Wrote
• San Francisco, California – Easily one of the most enjoyable cities in the US and a great place to start, end, or spend a weekend along the Pacific Coast Highway
• Monterey, California – Home to the excellent Monterey Bay Aquarium and the internationally famous Monterey Jazz Festival
• San Simeon, California (Hearst Castle) – One of the truly unique attractions to see on a classic Highway 1 road trip
• San Luis Obispo, California – A lively college town with a beautiful 18th-century Spanish mission to tour, and the Madonna Inn, one of the quirkiest places to spend a night
• Los Angeles, California – Hollywood, Sunset Boulevard, and an intersection with another storied road trip: Route 66
• San Diego, California – Beautiful beaches, grand buildings, and home to the San Diego Zoo, one of the largest and most popular zoos in the world

Related Travel Guides

• Barnes & Noble
• Books-A-Million
• Indigo (Canada)
• Powell's Books
• Apple Books

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The Complete Oregon Road Trip Itinerary (50 Stops & 4 Unique Routes!)

Post Summary: The Ultimate Oregon Road Trip Itinerary According To A PNW Local

Oregon. That magical spot in the corner of the United States where roaring waterfalls, epic coastlines, and mysteries in the forest all thrive next to each other. 

It’s an incredible place that requires the guidance of PNW experts (that’s us!) to divulge all the best stops in the state. We’ve been exploring Oregon for years , so you can count on us to provide well-rounded tips to give you the best experience!

In this post, we’re sharing the most epic Oregon road trip route , including our favorite stops and custom trips of 2-weeks, 10-days, and 1-week to cater to your specific needs. Scroll all the way to the bottom to find a free Oregon road trip itinerary download , too!

Okay, enough talking, let’s get exploring!

The Ultimate Oregon Road Trip Itinerary (Exactly Where To Find The Best Spots!)

First of all, where is oregon.

Oregon is located in a region called the Pacific Northwest , which is located in the northwest corner of the contiguous United States.

Fixed between its northern neighbor, Washington , and its southern neighbor, Northern California , Oregon is a unique mix of giant redwood trees, raging waterfalls, high desert, and beautiful coastal wilderness.

It’s got a little bit of everything , which is why taking an Oregon road trip will probably be the most incredible thing you will do this year!

Here’s a little bit about Oregon to start…

Oregon is broken down into seven distinct regions, each with its own unique spin on Oregon culture and iconic destinations . Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect from each:

• The Oregon Coast: 363 miles of accessible beaches, historic lighthouses, sea stacks, and gorgeous little Oregon beach towns . 
• Central Oregon: A High Desert escape including popular spots like Sisters, Bend, and Smith Rock State Park . 
• Eastern Oregon : Lonely vast desert with incredible geological features scattered across the area. Known for the Alvord Desert, Pendleton, and the Painted Hills. 
• Portland Region: The urban center for creatives, makers, and foodies. Known for its epic food culture, bridges, and accessibility to nature.
• Mt. Hood & The Columbia River Gorge: Home to the highest mountain in Oregon (Mt Hood), and some of the most famous Oregon waterfalls like Multnomah Falls. 
• Southern Oregon: Home to Crater Lake National Park, this region also boasts adventurous caves, gorgeous forests, and hidden hot springs (Umpqua Hot Springs). 
• The Willamette Valley: Known for its amazing wine, tulips, and orchards, this farming community is a hub for a perfect weekend getaway.

Great…So Where Do I Start My Oregon Road Trip?

The easiest place to start your Oregon road trip is in Portland . This is the biggest city, where you will find the most options for car rentals, flights into the state ( Portland International Airport – PDX ), and stores to pick up any last-minute supplies.

Our Oregon road trip itinerary has you starting in Portland and heading east, but you can always fit the route to suit your own needs and desires! Keep scrolling to see all the stops so you can make your decision.

How Do I Get Around On My Oregon Road Trip?

The easiest way to get around on an Oregon trip is to drive in a car . It’s unreasonable to believe that you can fly from place to place. The biggest major airport is in Portland (PDX) and the rest are smaller local airports.

It’s easiest to get around Oregon in a car , and we highly suggest this mode of transportation! If you are hoping to do some camping along the way, we recommend checking out the company Outdoorsy to rent a campervan . It’s like having your transportation AND accommodations all in one place.

Outdoorsy does local recreational vehicle rentals (kind of like Airbnb but for cars!) so you can travel around Oregon in style with a cool vintage VW bus or cute teardrop trailer!

Where Do I Stay During My Oregon Road Trip?

The good thing about Oregon road trips is that they are completely customizable! You can stay at some of the coolest lodges and hotels in Oregon, explore backcountry roads for camping, or do a little mix of both!

Finding Epic Campsites in Oregon: There are so many amazing campsites in Oregon that the topic requires its own blog post! However, one of our most coveted tools for finding the best camping spots is through The Dyrt . The Dyrt is a campground finding app , and one of the best ones we’ve used! It’s got great reviews with photos, offline maps, road trip routing tools, and more! Our readers get to try it free for 30-days by using our code Mandagies !

Our favorite lodges & resorts in Oregon: Some amazing accommodations stand out among the others, and we think that some of these places deserve their own recognition! Here are some of our favorite lodges in Oregon that we recommend checking out!

FivePine Lodge – Sisters, OR (Central) Bay Point Landing – Coos Bay, OR (Southern Coast) Headlands Lodge – Pacific City, OR (Northern Coast) The Independence Hotel – Willamette Valley (Northwest/Central ORegon)

The Mega Oregon Road Trip Itinerary (All The Best Stop In Oregon)

This two week Oregon road trip will bring you to all the best spots!

Stop 1: Portland, Oregon

Before departing the city, spend some time visiting Portland’s coolest locations! Some of the most popular outdoor places to visit in the city include the Portland Rose Garden, Washington Park, the Pittock Mansion (with its view of the city!), and Forest Park.

Grab a bite to eat at one of the several food truck communities around town. Click here to locate all the food truck pods around Portland!

From here, make sure to stock up with snacks at your favorite grocery store, fill up with gas, and hit the road!

Stop 2: Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway

Begin your Oregon road trip in Portland and head to Interstate 84 East to start your Columbia River Gorge Scenic Drive . This is a great start to any Oregon road trip itinerary for its iconic stops like Multnomah Falls, Latourell Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. 

If you want to go hiking in this area, consider Wahclella Falls Trail (only 1.9-miles long) or Munra Point Trail for incredible panoramic views.

To spend more time checking out cool waterfalls in Oregon , consider taking the Historic Columbia River Highway (that parallels I-84), which provides easy access to many of them. Don’t forget to drive a little farther than Hood River to check out Rowena Crest , that famous hairpin road!

Note: The Eagle Creek Fire of 2017 devastated much of this area, and hikes/waterfall trails are slowly opening after restoration efforts. Click here to be updated on real-time trail openings in the Columbia River Gorge . 

Extra Stops Between Portland and Hood River:

• Vista House – A museum, observatory, and rest stop
• Bridge of the Gods – Many of the Pacific Crest Trail Hikers cross here!
• Beacon Rock State Park (on the Washington side)
• More than 25 Columbia River Gorge waterfalls to see!

Stop 3: Hood River, Oregon

Hood River, Oregon is the perfect place to stay after a day of planning fun things to do in the Columbia River Gorge ! Placed conveniently on the river’s edge, there is easy access to Mount Hood directly south, water activities like windsurfing , and Washington waterfalls right across the river in the Gifford-Pinchot National Forest to the north.

If you want a little more adventure, consider crossing the toll bridge ($2) to Washington and venturing on nearby trails to Falls Creek Falls , Panther Creek Falls, or Lower Lewis Falls.

Cool Places To Stay in Hood River, Oregon

Modern Townhome in White Salmon, WA (just across the river) MtAdamsView in Hood River (TONS of gorge and mountain views, sleeps 6) Best Western Plus in Hood River (great value, free breakfast)

Stop 4: Mount Hood

Route your Oregon road trip from the river’s edge to the mountains, more specifically to all the cool things to do in Mount Hood !

Watch a sunrise at  Trillium Lake – one of the easiest lakes to reach on Mount Hood. On a clear day, you will be able to see the reflection of the picturesque Mount Hood beautifully framed in the distance! Other Mount Hood lakes include Frog Lake,  Lost Lake,  and  Mirror Lake –  each with their own unique reflection of the mountain. 

If you are interested in discovering some cool hiking trails around Mout Hood, consider  Ramona Falls trail. This gorgeous horsetail falls is hidden deep in the forest, but the payoff is huge once you see it with your own eyes. Care for a short waterfall hike for your Portland day trip? Consider  Tamanawas Falls , an easy 3.3-mile trail with a gorgeous view!

Want to challenge yourself? Here are some other longer hikes in the Mount Hood area.

• Tom Dick and Harry  (9 miles out and back)
• Bald Mountain  (6 miles out and back)
• McNeil Point Trail  (9.6 miles out and back)

Stop 5: The Painted Hills

After stopping at Mount Hood (overnight or just for a day trip) take the 3.5-hour drive from Mount Hood to the Painted Hills to catch a gorgeous sunset in the Oregon desert. 

The Painted Hills gets its name from the exposed layers of colorful soil that are revealed in the rolling hills of the John Day Fossil Beds . Make sure to stay on the boardwalks as you explore the Painted Hills. The hills are extremely fragile!

In the morning, return to the John Day Fossil Bed units and see the Painted Hills as the sun rises! This is a gorgeous time of day in the hills, and you’ll likely get it all to yourself in the early hours of the morning. 

Need a place to sleep? Consider these nearby campgrounds (or click here to discover FREE campsites nearby too! )

Stop 6: Smith Rock State Park

From the Painted Hills through the Ochoco National Forest , take the 1.5-hour drive to Smith Rock State Park . Smith Rock is a hub for climbers , but there are several other things to do here, including hiking, biking, and taking photos!

To stretch your legs on this Oregon road trip, take the short but *very* steep Misery Ridge Trail . This 0.68-mile trail climbs 600 feet giving even the most experienced hiker a run for their money! The views at the top are worth it though, especially during sunrise or sunset!

Stop 7: Bend, Oregon

The city of Bend is an excellent stop on any good Oregon road trip! It’s an outdoor-loving town that connects Western Oregon and Eastern Oregon, making it a great pit stop to pick up last-minute gear, groceries, and maybe even tune ups for your car.

For a little relaxation from the road, grab a beer in town at any of the iconic stops on the Bend Ale Trail . If you are visiting in the summertime, floating the Deschutes River is a popular activity on a hot day. Make sure to bring your PFDs, water sandals, and a garbage bag!

In the morning, grab breakfast in Bend at The Sparrow Bakery, (their ocean rolls are famous!), and some to-go coffee at Spoken Moto and make some fun stops around Bend on your way south. Lava Island Falls and Lava River Cave are both easy and accessible places to see along your Oregon road trip route going out of town.

More adventures near Bend, Oregon

• Hiking to Tumalo Falls (6.5 miles out-and-back)
• Go backpacking in the Three Sisters Wilderness
• Take a road trip detour on the Cascades Lake Highway

Read More: How to Spend 4 Days In Bend, Oregon

Oregon Road Trip Bonus Route – Eastern Oregon!

Psst…want to spend a lot more time in Eastern Oregon? Check out our Eastern Oregon Road Trip route right here !

From Bend, you have the option of extending your Oregon Road trip going east , or continue south and west towards the coast! Either option is great, it really just depends on how much time you have.

Stop 8: Oregon Waterfalls

The drive from Bend to Crater Lake National Park is pretty short, about 1.5 hours. This gives you plenty of time to make some fun stops along the way , most notably, to waterfalls in Oregon !

For longer Oregon waterfall hikes, make your way west on Highway 58 for a fun hike at Salt Creek Falls and Diamond Creek Falls . Continue your drive south and divert north on Highway 138 for a stop at Watson Falls before making your way to the Crater Lake North Entrance. 

More Oregon Waterfalls Near The Area:

• Proxy Falls (Highway 242 – North of Bend)
• Chush Falls (Near Sisters, Oregon)
• Dillon Falls
• Benham Falls

Stop 9: Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park is one of the most iconic stops on an Oregon road trip, and the ONLY national park stop in the state. Spend sunset capturing the iconic Wizard Island on Crater Lake, and top it off by spending the night at the historic Crater Lake Lodge .

In the morning, spend an entire day hiking around Crater Lake on Watchman Peak Trail, Cleetwood Cove Trail, or Cloudcap Overlook.

At Crater Lake , you can spend the morning driving the Rim Drive , which takes about 2 hours to go all the way around. Hike to Plaikni Falls in the afternoon and in the evening watch the sunset at Garfield Peak or Sinnott Memorial Observation Station.

Bonus Oregon Road Trip Stop: Oregon Hot Springs

Now, this is the part of your road trip route in Oregon where you can choose where you’d like to spend your time! You can opt to continue driving east to explore some of the famous Eastern Oregon hot springs . 

If you decided to check out some hot springs in Oregon , we highly suggest booking an overnight stay (Summer Lakes Hot Springs and Crystal Crane have lodging available!) or bringing your camping gear to find some free camping nearby . 

Here are some Oregon hot springs you should be checking out on this leg of your Oregon road trip itinerary:

• Crystal Crane Hot Springs – Hot spring pond and private soaking tubs
• Summer Lakes Hot Springs – Communal bathhouse
• Hart Mountain Hot Springs – Structured underground pool and open springs, both natural
• Have an extra day? Drive farther east and check out Alvord Hot Springs , and Willow Creek Hot Springs !

Stop 10: Umpqua National Forest

Another iconic destination on your Oregon road trip is an adventure in Umpqua National Forest . You’ve probably seen pictures of those cliffside hot springs pools, or the rushing waterfall flanked by towering basalt cliffs. Well, these places are Umpqua Hot Springs and Toketee Falls !

Both places are easy to reach, each with a short hike to the final destination. Come with a national forest pass to hang in your car’s rearview mirror. You can pick one up at the Diamond Lake Ranger Station nearby if you need one. See the difference between Pacific Northwest forest passes here to find the correct one.

Leave No Trace Notes: Umpqua Hot Springs is notorious for garbage . Please pack out your trash, and consider taking other garbage with you, too. Hiking to the base of Toketee Falls is prohibited , no matter how many pictures you see of people doing so. It is possible to get cited for climbing down to the bottom, so don’t risk it!

Stop 11: Southern Oregon Coast

Finally, the first ocean stop on your Oregon road trip!

The Southern Oregon Coast is arguably the most beautiful area of an Oregon road trip. If you love seaside cliffs, hidden coves, and gorgeous beaches, this is the place for you!

Spend some time exploring the 12 miles of protected coastline at Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor . This part of your road trip in Oregon will take an entire day, between stops, viewpoints, and even a hike to a place called Secret Beach .

Finally, end your day in Gold Beach for the evening. Here, you can find tons of amenities, hotels, and beach rentals for a quiet and relaxing evening. Make sure to stop at our favorite beach, Myers Creek Beach to enjoy a beautiful Oregon coast picnic to end the day!

Read More: The 25 best beaches in Oregon (From North to South!)

Stop 12: Central Oregon Coast

Central Oregon is full of adventurous destinations and unique curiosities. If you like thrills, try renting an ATV to ride across the Oregon Dunes, stretching 40 miles across the coastline.

You can also check out incredible places like Cape Perpetua , which is filled with churning coves, sea spouts, and lots of tide pools along the Oregon Coast .

Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area is another great place to explore, with a giant sea cave and surfing opportunities!

In the evening, splurge to go glamping and one of Coos Bay’s coolest spots – Bay Point Landing ! This luxury camping resort has plenty of pull-in sites for RVs and trailers. You can also rent a standalone cabin , airstream , or renovated RV of your own to enjoy upscale camping. The grounds have amenities like a pool, lounge room, upscale bathrooms, and a cute camp store.

Stop 13: Eugene, Oregon

If you wanted to go inland to explore the Cascade Mountains, this is the part of your Oregon road trip to make that decision! Drive away from the Oregon coast to go inland to Eugene, Oregon, and explore this upbeat college town.

But before leaving the coast, consider stopping by Heceta Head Lighthouse and Cape Perpetua for one last adventure by the water. The lighthouse can be seen up close with a short hike, which is incredible at sunrise and sunset!

Cape Perpetua is best explored during low tide, where you can access the many tide pools and curiosities that dot the shore. If you do come during high tide, don’t fret! You can see the waves push up through Thor’s Well for a dramatic display, and the Devil’s Churn to watch the waves crash around this small cove. 

Stop 14: Willamette National Forest

Heading inland from Eugene, there are a ton of beautiful places to see in the Willamette National Forest . The first stop is Terwilliger Hot Springs (often called Cougar Hot Springs) for a lovely natural soak. Keep driving to choose a waterfall adventure – Proxy Falls , Sahalie and Koosah Falls , The Blue Pool , and Tamolitch Falls .

You’ll want to spend at least a full day in this area (or even go camping overnight!) because the trails here are packed with adventure! Keep driving on Highway 126 as it continues on Highway 22 north to Silver Falls State Park and Salem, Oregon to continue on your epic Oregon road trip.

Stop 15: Salem and The Willamette Valley

If you like good food, you’re going to love this stop on your Oregon road trip. The Willamette Valley is full of wineries, farms, and beautiful vineyards! There are lots of options to enjoy farm-to-table dinners, wine tastings, and all-day experiences. Consider staying nearby at the Independence Hotel .

For a little adventure, head to Silver Falls State Park where you can hike the Trail of Ten Falls . This Oregon hike is exactly what its name entails – ten beautiful falls in an 8.7-mile trail. Come enjoy this condensed version of many iconic Oregon waterfalls all in one place!

Stop 16: Northern Oregon Coast

Refueling in Salem, it’s time to get back to the coast! The final stops on your Oregon road trip include classic North Oregon Coast stops and beautiful Oregon beach towns , hikes, and plenty of dreamy overlooks.

Beginning in Cape Kiwanda , spend the day hiking up the sand dunes to watch the dory boats dock onshore and paragliders sail down to the beach. Make sure to stop and eat lunch at Pelican Brewing . They have incredible beer and pub food, with an outdoor patio overlooking Pacific City’s own Haystack Rock.

Continuing north to another iconic “Haystack Rock” (arguably the most popular one too) Cannon Beach is the best place to grab a coffee and take a walk along the beach. During low tide, you can get close to the rock and spot puffins in their natural habitat!

If you want a little more adventure in your day, drive up to Ecola State Park to hike Crescent Beach Trail , the trail to Indian Sands, or Tillamook Rock Lighthouse Viewpoint. These lush Oregon Coast hikes are sure to leave you breathless!

Stay either at the Headlands Lodge in Pacific City , Oregon Coast Modern Cabin in Manzanita , or affordable hotels in Cannon Beach !

Stop 17: Finish Your Oregon Road Trip Back to Portland, Oregon 

On your way back to Portland to finish your Oregon road trip, you can take the short way on Highway 26, or the long way through Astoria, Oregon, and heading back to the city on Highway 30.

The detour through Astoria won’t disappoint! Filled with great restaurants, antique and vintage shops, and lots of history, it’s a perfect final stop on the Oregon coast road trip section of your drive.

For outdoorsy activities, stop by Fort Steven’s State Park to check out the historic military installation, as well as the famous Peter Iredale shipwreck . For hiking, stay close to town and check out the Cathedral Tree Trail and the Astoria Column .

And you’ve done it! You’ve completed the coolest Oregon road trip to see all the best highlights, hikes, and iconic locations in the state.

Oregon Road Trip Itinerary Examples

Below, we’re sharing some Oregon road trip itinerary examples to help you customize it exactly to fit your needs. For even more resources, we created this road trip itinerary in Oregon to print out and take on your journey!

(We’re running some email maintenance – this download will be back soon!)

Two Week Oregon Road Trip

See the detailed breakdown of our two-week Oregon road trip itinerary above!

10 Day Oregon Road Trip

You can see a lot with 10 days in Oregon! This route is a compressed version of our two-week road trip, with just a little less time in each spot but plenty of stops for an epic and interesting route!

• Day 1: Portland to Hood River
• Day 2: Hood River to Bend, Oregon
• Day 3: Bend, Oregon to Crater Lake National Park
• Day 4: Crater Lake to Umpqua National Forest
• Day 5: Umpqua National Forest to Samuel H. Boardman
• Day 6: Samuel H. Boardman to Coos Bay
• Day 7: Coos Bay to Eugene, Oregon
• Day 8: Eugene, Oregon to Salem, Oregon
• Day 9: Salem, Oregon to Cannon Beach
• Day 10: Cannon Beach to Portland, Oregon

One Week Oregon Road Trip

One week for an Oregon road trip will introduce you to Oregon’s vast and diverse landscape! From Crater Lake to Bend, Coos Bay to Cannon Beach, this route will bring you to some of the best of Oregon photography locations. 

• Day 1: Portland to Hood River
• Day 2: Hood River to Bend, Oregon
• Day 3: Bend, Oregon to Crater Lake National Park
• Day 4: Crater Lake to Samuel H. Boardman
• Day 5: Samuel H. Boardman to Coos Bay
• Day 6: Coos Bay to Cannon Beach
• Day 7: Cannon Beach to Portland, OR

5 Day Oregon Road Trip

With 5 days in Oregon, you can see the highlights! This quick trip averages about 3-4 hours of driving per day, and takes you through mountains, by waterfalls, and meets up with some of the most scenic views along the Oregon Coast.

• Day 1: Portland to Bend
• Day 2: Bend to Eugene
• Day 3: Eugene to Samuel H. Boardman
• Day 4: Samuel H. Boardman to Yachats
• Day 5: Yachats to Portland

Have you ever experienced an Oregon road trip? What Oregon itinerary is your favorite? Tell us in the comments below!

Amazing! I know nothing about traveling all over the country, what a wonderful looking place to explore.

I’m really glad you liked our Oregon road trip route! I hope you et a change to travel across this beautiful state!

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How to Plan the Perfect Weekend Road Trip Through Oregon

While unpaved roads and covered wagons are (thankfully) a thing of Oregon Trail past, you’ll still find bucolic wineries, charming stays, and impressive scenery worth the drive. Here’s how to see it all in a weekend.

An avid Italophile, Laura is always on the hunt for the next great travel trends, luxury hotels, best places to eat and drink, and hidden gems. Her writing has appeared in dozens of publications. She also co-wrote "New York: Hidden Bars and Restaurants," an award-winning guide to the city's speakeasy scene.

See recent posts by Laura Itzkowitz

Day 1: Portland

MORNING Start your trip in Portland, one of the Pacific Northwest’s most dynamic destinations known for its enterprising chefs, local artists, surplus of microbreweries and coffee shops, and laid-back sensibility that extends to its best hotels. The Ace is an obvious choice, though the vibe is more college dorm than chic hotel. For something a bit more grown-up but still fun, stay at the Sentinel . The grand lobby retains details from the building’s historic past, while rooms are done up in tweed and evergreen.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Portland, OR hotels

AFTERNOON After you check in, head to Pine Street Market for lunch—it’s a collection of stalls by up-and-coming chefs and producers as well as some of Portland’s most beloved restaurants. We loved the green falafel pita at Shalom Y’all and salted caramel soft serve at Salt & Straw’s Whiz Bang Bar . Walk or bike your lunch off along the Willamette River, then head a few blocks west to check out the famous Powell’s Books (JS Tip: A tote bag from Powell’s makes a great souvenir) and quirky boutiques like Tender Loving Empire and Woonwinkel . Or visit the International Rose Test Garden , where you might feel like Alice in Wonderland frolicking around the hedges blooming with brilliantly colored and striped roses. The nearby Japanese Garden is worth a stop if you have time.

EVENING For happy hour, book a table at the Multnomah Whiskey Library , a speakeasy that looks like an old-school library except whiskey bottles line the shelves instead of books. The bartenders serve more than their fair share of Old Fashioneds, but if you ask them for a recommendation (and you should), they’ll geek out over obscure whiskey cocktail recipes. While “farm-to-table” may be a buzzword, Portland chefs take it very seriously, and there are so many standout restaurants here that you really can’t go wrong. One of our favorites is  Pok Pok , which truly lives up to the hype with its multi-flavor, Chaing Mai-style dishes and famous chicken wings. If you’re in the mood for a nightcap, head to Pépé Le Moko , the Ace Hotel’s barrel-vaulted underground cocktail lounge for an espresso Martini made with Stumptown coffee.

Photo by Torsten Kjelistrand, Photo by Lincoln Restaurant

Photo courtesy of Jamies Francis and Travel Portland

Photos by Chris Hornbecker

Day 2: The Columbia Gorge and Willamette Valley

MORNING Fuel up in the early hours with Stumptown coffee and a donut. Skip the long lines at Voodoo and head straight to Blue Star Donuts , which makes creative flavors like blueberry bourbon and PB&J. Portlanders love having nature so easily accessible from the city, so do as the locals do and take a detour to see the majestic Columbia Gorge and Multnomah Falls, about 30 minutes east of Portland. A drive along the winding Columbia River Highway takes you passed several other waterfalls, some of which you can hike right up to.

AFTERNOON When you’re ready to vineyard-hop, drive 90 minutes to Carlton, your first stop in the Willamette Valley. Figuring out where to start among the region’s 500 individual wineries can be a bit daunting, but a few stand out from the pack—including Sokol Blosser . Founders Bill Blosser and Susan Sokol Blosser planted their first vines in 1971, and they’re still leaders when it comes to sustainability and organic farming. Stop by to taste their excellent Pinot Noirs and Rieslings in the modern tasting room that looks out over the surrounding valleys. After the wine tasting, you’ll need to fill your stomach. We recommend lunch at The Horse Radish, a casual café that serves great salads and sandwiches on freshly baked bread.

RELATED: 7 Gorgeous Wine Country Hotels Around the World

When you’re ready for another round, head to the Stoller Family Estate in nearby Dundee Hills. Many wineries buy grapes from other vineyards, but not Stoller. In addition to Pinot Noir, they produce Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Syrah using grapes grown on their 373 acres of vineyards. Fun fact: the airy, modern tasting room runs on solar panels and features reclaimed wood from Powell’s bookstore. If you can, snag one of the Adirondack chairs on the patio for sips with a view.

EVENING Check into the award-winning Allison Inn & Spa , the Willamette Valley’s most luxurious hotel. Of course, this is Oregon, so the property isn’t just beautiful; it’s also LEED Gold-certified. Drop off your bags in one of the 85 spacious rooms and unwind with a walk around the sculpture-dotted gardens or a dip in the pool before dinner at the hotel’s restaurant Jory, where chef Sunny Jin (an alum of the French Laundry and El Bulli) whips up mouthwatering seafood and veggies grown in the property’s garden.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Newberg, OR hotels

Photo courtesy of Travel Oregon

Photo by Carolyn Wells Kramer, Photo by Andrea Johnson

Stoller Vineyard by Mike Haverkate

Day 3: The Pacific Coast

MORNING If you haven’t fully explored the Allison yet, you’ll want to spend some time there this morning—perhaps to indulge in a treatment at the renowned spa, work out in the fitness studio, or request a tour of the chef’s garden, which is dotted with rows of hazelnut trees (Oregon is the country’s largest producer of hazelnuts).

AFTERNOON Stop for a quick bite at Red Hills Market in Dundee before hitting the road. You’ll drive about two hours northwest through the Tillamook State Forest before reaching Cannon Beach on the Pacific Coast. The beach is known for its giant Haystack Rock and the quaint shingled houses lining the shore. Don’t expect to swim, though: even in summer, it can be cold, so bring a warm jacket.

RELATED: The Dreamiest Beaches to Hit Up in Fall

EVENING There aren’t a lot of hotels in town, but if you want to stay overnight, the Waves is a good option. What the place lacks in style it makes up for in location—right on the oceanfront just minutes from Cannon Beach village with easy beach access. Otherwise, make your way back to Portland on the US26 for one last night in this wild, wonderful state.

Explore More: See all Cannon Beach hotels

Photos courtesy of The Allison Inn & Spa , Photos courtesy of Travel Oregon

Photos courtesy of Travel Oregon and Christian Heeb

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• 7 Awesome Fall Road Trips for a Girls’ Getaway
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Your Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip – All the Best Stops

• In the City / North America / Oregon / Oregon Coast / Outdoors / Portland / USA
• 170 Comments

Everything you need to know for an Oregon Coast Road Trip!

Last week, we did the ultimate Oregon Coast road trip with Travel Oregon – all 363 miles of it. It was epic! This year, the People’s Coast is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Oregon beach bill, which made all of the Oregon coast public. We always love a good road trip and were so happy to celebrate their anniversary by exploring the entire coast.

Thank you Travel Oregon for hosting our trip and thank you Toyota for letting us test drive the new Prius Prime . We can’t believe we only had to fill up one and a half times when we logged 1000 miles on this trip. As opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: March 17, 2024

− − Content Menu

• North Coast (from north to south)
• Central Coast (from north to south)
• South Coast (from north to south)

Best Places to Stay on the Oregon Coast

• Oregon Coast Map of Best Stop

Essential Tips for First Timers

Oregon coast itinerary, heading south you will find these posts helpful:.

• Your Ultimate California Coast Road Trip
• 15 Epic Things to Do in Redwood National Park

If this road trip is part of a larger trip, check out:

• Your Epic Eastern Oregon Road Trip Guide
• The Ultimate Oregon Bucket List

North Oregon Coast Attractions

Not only did we love their rugged coast and getting to witness the power of the Pacific ocean, but we also loved the diversity in activities. We enjoyed the beaches, tried crabbing for the first time, sandboarded where sandboarding was invented, and hiked to waterfalls. Today, we’re sharing the best things to do on the Oregon Coast and the best beaches to visit.

The North Coast has longer stretches of sandy beaches and is the most touristy part of the Oregon Coast. It’s most well known for Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock, but did you know there are three Haystack Rocks along the Oregon Coast?

See More: Your Ultimate Eastern Oregon Road Trip

Astoria – Mile 0 →

• Astoria Column
• Astoria-Megler Bridge
• Oregon Film Museum
• Columbia River Maritime Museum

See More: 15 Unique Things to Do in Astoria Oregon

Where to Stay

Cannery Pier Hotel   ( read our full review ) We loved our stay here right next to the bridge.

Warrenton – Mile 6.5

• Fort Stevens State Park  – Peter Iredale Shipwreck was nice during sunset.
• Lewis and Clark   National and State Historical Parks / Fort Clatsop  – it’s a  National Park unit .
• Sunset Beach State Recreation Site

Seaside – Mile 20

• Seaside Aquarium – feed the seals! You get a small tray of fish for $2 after entry into Aquarium.
• Seaside Promenade – this goes along the Seaside Aquarium.
• Dig for razor clams  – You can do this at the beach next to Seaside Aquarium too.
• Play at game of Fascination at the Funland Arcade

ECOLA STATE PARK – Mile 26.5

• Ecola Point to Indian Beach Hike – 1.5 mi, easy – The Indian Beach Trail and viewpoints were closed due to mudslides (April 2017). Check the conditions of the trails  before you go.
• Clatsop Loop Hike – 3 mi loop, 700 ft, easy, you’ll see the Tillamook Rock Light aka Terrible Tilly and Indian Beach.
• Crescent Beach Hike – 3.6 mi, 310 ft, easy – can see caves at Ecola Point, Sea Lion Rocks at Ecola Point, and Bird Rocks at Chapman Point.
• Tillamook Head Traverse Hike – 6.3 mi, 1350 ft, moderate –  see Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, clifftop views, strong hikers continue 1.3 mi to the Ecola State Park Trailhead then down to Cannon Beach.

CANNON BEACH – Mile 28

• Haystack Rock – You can see them from Haystack Hill State Park and Tolovana Beach State Recreation Site is just south of it. This is a great spot for sunrise and sunset. If you’re lucky, you may see some tufted puffins on Haystack Rock (April – August)
• Castaways – moderately priced Cajun-Creole food
• Cannon Beach Hardware and Public House – hardware store that serves food. Get the fish and chips.
• Public Coast Brewing   – try a flight and the burgers.
• Wayfarer Restaurant and Lounge  – Had a beautiful view of the beach, and the halibut cheek (a special) and the scallops were great.

Surfsand Resort   (mid-range – luxury) – Really popular spot and in high demand. I was so excited to see Haystack Rock from our balcony!

Local Tip: The locals usually stay in Manzanita 30 minutes south of Cannon Beach since it’s much quieter and much less touristy.

HUG POINT STATE RECREATION SITE – Mile 34

• Hug Point Hike – 0.5 mi RT, 20 ft, easy, go only at low tide (Check the tide charts here ). Hike to the caves, a seasonal waterfall, and old stage coach trail.

OSWALD WEST STATE PARK – Mile 43

• Hike to Short Sand Beach and on the way see a suspension bridge too. We got lost in the park, so we didn’t end up doing any of the official hikes.
• Neahkahnie Mountain Loop Hike – 8 mi lollipop loop, 2300 ft moderate difficulty. It has nice coastal views and you go under a natural tunnel formed by tree roots. If you just want to hike to Summit Viewpoint, it is 3 mi RT and moderate.
• Arch Cape to Short Sand Beach – 15.9 mi RT, 990 ft, difficult. If you want a longer hike and want to avoid the crowds, this is the hike for you. Arch Cape to Cape Falcon is the least traveled part of Oswald West State Park.

ROCKAWAY BEACH – Mile 50.8

• Kelly’s Brighton Marina  (Nehalem Bay) – We love it so much we’ve gone back three times. You need 1-2 hours to go crabbing, and the weather can affect the excursion. We ate some of the freshest oysters and crab. Kelly taught us so much about the art of crabbing, and his enthusiasm was contagious.
• Emily Reed Shipwreck – This is not always visible. Every so often, the sands shift and reveal the 102-year-old shipwreck.
• Pronto Pup – where the original corndog was invented. They were too salty for my taste, but hey… it’s the original!

See More: How to Treasure Hunt for the Famous Lincoln City Glass Floats

GARIBALDI – Mile 55.6

• Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad
• Pier’s End – 700-foot long pier. It’s Oregon’s longest pier.

TILLAMOOK – Mile 65

• Tillamook Cheese Factory Tour – Mmmm… cheese. Take the free and self-guided tour. Currently, only a portion of it is open. Check their site for updates.
• Cape Meares and Cape Meares Lighthouse – Oregon’s shortest lighthouse. You can also see the Octopus Tree and the Big Spruce here (Oregon’s largest Sitka spruce).
• Lost Boy Cave – You can only go at super low tide (-1.5 or lower, see tide charts here ). There are 3 points of entry. The easiest and safest is from Short Beach from the North . The other entry point is through Tunnel Beach on the South. Legend calls it Lost Boy Cave because a boy drowned here. From the cave, you can see Three Arch Rocks and Lost Boy Beach. We were bummed that we had to skip this since the tide wasn’t low enough.
• Jacobsen Salt Co. – Do a salt tasting of the salt harvested right at Netarts Bay. It’s famous for their texture, taste, and appearance and is used by chefs all over the world. You can also do a Bee Local honey tasting, their sister company.
• Cape Lookout State Park – Popular for beachcombing, glass floats, and hiking. There are more than 8 miles of trails through lush, old-growth forest. You get amazing ocean views, easy access to the beach, and you might spot whales.
• Munson Creek Falls – 0.6 mi, 95 ft, easy hike to the highest waterfall along the Oregon coast  (three-tiered 319 ft)
• Tillamook Air Museum

Local Tip: See many of the attractions via the Three Capes Scenic Loop ( map ). This 40-mile scenic byway takes you to all three Capes: Cape Meares, Cape Lookout, Cape Kiwanda. Other stops: Munson Creek Falls, Nestucca Bay, Bob Straub State Park, Clay Myers State Natural Area, and Lost Boy Cave.

Pacific City – Mile 87.4

• Cape Kiwanda  – This is where you see the second Haystack Rock. It looks similar to the one Cannon Beach, and the area doesn’t have as many tourists.
• Pelican Pub & Brewery is a craft beer industry leader. They are well known for pairing their food and beer well and have been doing it for over 20 years.
• Horseback Riding (fall and winter hours are on Friday-Saturday only)

We stayed at Inn at Cape Kiwanda (mid-range) – located just off Highway 101, in relaxed and uncomplicated Pacific City, Oregon. All 35 deluxe guest rooms feature private balconies with beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and Haystack Rock, air conditioning, cozy gas fireplaces. It also has Tripadvisor’s Certificate of Excellence.

Central Oregon Coast Attractions

The Central Coast is similar in appearance to the North Coast but has fewer sandy beaches and more sea cliffs, terraces, and bays. This is where the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area starts.

See More: Everything You Need to Know About Thor’s Well

Lincoln City – Mile 112 →

This is one of the bigger cities on the coast, which will give you more food and lodging options. Portlanders like to come here to cool off during the summer.

• Drift Creek Falls Hike – Takes you over a suspension bridge to a beautiful waterfall.
• Seven Miles of Smiles – the beaches from Roads End to Siletz Bay. This is famous for their Finder’s Keepers glass float hunt . Each year from mid-October to Memorial Day, “Float Fairies” will hide glass treasures along the Seven Miles of Smiles. We found a couple from the SW 51st Street Beach Access.
• D-River  – this river was once named the shortest in the world! It is measured to be 440 ft (130 m) and 120 ft (37 m) at extreme high tide.
• Roads End Hike   – 2.6 mi, 15 ft, easy
• Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area – quick stop and you can see it from the parking lot. It doesn’t look all that special unless you go at sunset.

Depoe Bay – Mile 128

• The Whale Watching Center at Depoe Bay

Newport – Mile 141

• Marine Discovery Cruise – the Sealife cruise takes ~2 hours, where they look for gray whales, harbor porpoise, seals, sea lions, pelicans, and bald eagles (depending on the time of year).
• Yaquina Head Lighthouse at Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area (BLM) – Oregon’s tallest lighthouse at 93 ft. The structure was completed in 1874 and is Oregon’s second-oldest continuously operating lighthouse. The area is amazing for tide pooling. I’ve never seen such a huge concentration of creatures in one spot.
• Historic Newport Bayfront – See the sea lions on the public piers and private docks. It has a nice view of the Yaquina Bay Bridge and has some nice souvenir shopping.
• Rogue Ales Brewery / Brewer’s on the Bay   – this was named one of the top 50 American breweries by Beer Advocate  and is on the Newport Historic Bayfront.
• Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site   – Not to be confused with Yaquina Head, but this also has a lighthouse, the Yaquina Bay lighthouse. You also get a nice view of Yaquina Bay Bridge from here.
• Agate Beach State Recreation Site – beachcombing is popular here. If you’re lucky, you will find an agate.
• Nye Beach – A great place to escape to. Colorful buildings fill this seaside community, and you can shop, eat, or spend time on the beach.
• Oregon Coast Aquarium – one of Oregon’s top tourist attractions. It brings in over 40,000 students each year for its excellent educational programs.
• Hatfield Marine Science Center

Sylvia Beach Hotel (luxury) – 21-room themed bed & breakfast with a homey charm. Each room is based on an author and is perfect for unplugging since there are no telephones, TVs, or wi-fi in the rooms. We stayed in the Hemingway room. 

Don’t forget to check out their Tables of Content Restaurant where it’s communal style and you get to meet the other guests. Also, say hi to Shelley the resident cat for us! Call for reservations at 541.265.5428 or Toll-Free 888.795.8422.

Yachats / Cape Perpetua Scenic Area – Mile 164.4

• Cape Perpetua Scenic Area – this is where you’ll find Thor’s Well , Spouting Horn, Devil’s Churn, and Cook’s Chasm. There are also plenty of tide pools to explore too. Be sure to check the tide charts here . Go at high tide for Thor’s Well (you will get soaked, but the photos are worth it!).
• Yachats Brewing – Located in an old bank building, it is now a center for food, beer, and culture.

Florence – Mile 190

• Heceta Head Lighthouse – This is the brightest light on the Oregon coast and the most photographed lighthouse in the state.
• Sea Lion Caves  – This is America’s largest sea cave inhabited by sea lions. Take in the sounds (and smells)! There are the most seals in the cave during Winter and Spring, they then head out for mating during the Summer, and are in and out feeding during the Fall.
• Sand Master Park – We first went sand boarding in Great Sand Dunes in Colorado, but on this trip, we met Lon Beale who invented sand boarding and made the world’s first sand board park!  If you’ve never done it before, you can also get lessons.
• Bridgewater Fish House – Sip elegant cocktails and dine on delicious seafood, steaks, pasta, and more in the heart of Florence’s Historic Old Town at this classic coastal spot.
• Guided Sand Rail Tour – ride through the amazing sand dunes on a guided tour.
• Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area – Riding Dune Buggies – Enjoy an exciting guided Sand Rail Tour or a Professionally guided Interpretive Scenic Tour on one of the famous big purple buggies driven by a skilled driver.
• Historic Old Town

Driftwood Shores Resort and Conference Center – amazing oceanfront rooms with private balconies. You can even get rooms with kitchens or fireplaces.

South Oregon Coast Attractions

The South Coast is more rugged and mountainous. It’s generally known to be warmer and sunnier than the North and Central coast (maybe because it’s closer to California). You will start seeing more redwoods, cedar, Douglas-fir forests, and plenty of sand dunes.

See More: The Ultimate Guide to Samuel H Boardman State Scenic Corridor

Reedsport – Mile 211.5

• Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area – the elk stay pretty far back. If you want a photo, bring your longest lens.

North Bend – Mile 235

• McCullough Bridge – passed by and saw it but didn’t stop
• Oregon Dunes NRA – If you didn’t get enough of the sand dunes, you can stop here for more!

Coos Bay – Mile 237.5

This is the largest city on the Oregon Coast

• Coos History Museum & Maritime Collection
• Shore Acres State Park – a great place to storm watch and see huge crashing waves.
• Cape Arago Beach Loop – includes Bastendorff Beach, Sunset Bay State Park, Cape Arago Lighthouse Viewpoint, Shore Acres State Park and Botanical Gardens, Simpson Beach, Shell Island Interpretive Stop, Cape Arago State Park
• The 7 Devils Brewing Company

Bandon – Mile 270

• Bullards Beach State Park   – Coquille Lighthouse
• Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint – great sunset or sunrise spot. Also, look for Wizard’s Hat / Howling Dog Rock.
• Washed Ashore  – trash washed ashore turned into art.
• Face Rock Creamery
• Coastal Mist Chocolates
• Stillwagon Distillery

Port Orford – Mile 301

• Cape Blanco State Park and Cape Blanco Lighthouse – Oregon’s most southern lighthouse and is the westernmost point in Oregon.
• Port O rford Heads State Park
• South Coast Tours  – adventure paddle tours! Try kayaking or SUP.

WildSpring Guest Habitat is such a cute glamping spot! It’s a small eco-friendly resort overlooking the ocean with 5 luxury cabins and beautiful grounds to enjoy.

Gold Beach – Mile 328

• Rogue Jets   – open May 1 to Oct 15
• Barnacle Bistro – great casual spot servicing fresh and local seafood and burgers.
• Arch Rock Brewing
• Turtle Rock – a rock formation just off the highway (west of the 101) that looks like a turtle. You can map to Turtle Rock Resort.
• Cape Sebastian State Scenic Corridor – just a few steps down the trail to the west, you can see Humbug Mountain. You can hike through thick Sitka Spruce rainforest to Hunters Cove (3 mi out and back).
• Meyers Creek Beach – there is a large shark fin rock formation and it a popular spot for windsurfing.

Tu Tu Tun Lodge (luxury) – This was our favorite place to stay on the Oregon coast. There are regular rooms or you can rent out one of the amazing homes. It’s such a relaxing place and a great way to end a trip. We were in the River House and didn’t want to leave! Call 1.800.864.6357 for reservations or email [email protected] .

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor + Brookings – Mile 357 →

Hiking trails connect all the viewpoints along Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, or you can hop in a car and go to the most popular viewpoints.

• Arch Rock Picnic Area – short walk to a couple viewpoints
• Natural Bridges   – viewpoint or hike down closer to the water
• Thomas Cr eek Bridge – hike down to the beach to get a view of the bridge
• Whaleshead Beach Picnic Area – quick stop and viewpoint
• House Rock Viewpoint – quick stop and viewpoint
• Thunder Rock Cove – short hike
• Secret Beach Hike + Miner Creek waterfall flows into Secret Beach – unmarked stop on the road with a short hike to the beach
• Harris Beach State Park   – south of Samuel H Boardman there is a feature that looks similar to the keyhole at Pfeiffer State Beach in Big Sur!
• Chetco Point Park

Local Tip: There’s so much to see! We recommend spending more than one day here.

• Astoria:  The Cannery Pier Hotel ( see full review here ).
• Cannon Beach: Surfsand Resort (mid-range – luxury) – most popular hotel in Cannon Beach. You can see Haystack Rock from your balcony.
• Pacific City: Inn at Cape Kiwanda (mid-range) – you can see Haystack Rock #2 from your balcony.
• Newport: Sylvia Beach Hotel (luxury) has different rooms with an author theme. We stayed in the Hemingway.
• Florence:  Driftwood Shores Resort and Conference Center (mid-range) has amazing oceanfront rooms.
• Port Orford: WildSpring Guest Habitat (mid-range) is such a cute glamping spot.
• Gold Beach: Tu Tu Tun Lodge (luxury) was our favorite place to stay on the Oregon coast.

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Oregon coast map.

• When to Go – October – May is considered rainy season. You will have the least rainy days in July and August, but the summer is also when you’ll get the crowds. September is a good month to go because it’s shoulder season. You still get a bit of the nice weather but less crowds.
• Be flexible – the weather can change dramatically day to day. Some activities will not be possible in the rain, storm, or choppy waters. Have a plan B and a plan C.
• Park Passes to Bring:  Your Oregon State Park Pass is good for Ecola State Park, Fort Stevens, Cape Lookout, Heceta Head, Shore Acres (otherwise $5 per day per park). America the Beautiful Pass  gets you into Lewis and Clark NRA, Yaquina Head, Cape Perpetua, Oregon Dunes NRA, and any other National Parks or BLM lands you may want to visit. There is also an Oregon Coast pass that gets you into any state and federal parks, but not the parks if you want to venture more inland.
• If you want to end your trip with a shorter drive back to Portland, start from South to North, which is what we will probably do next time.
• Download Alltrails+ : If you plan on doing hikes, download Alltrails+ so that you can have the trail maps offline.
• Lesson Learned – Planning your photo stops with Instagram and Pinterest is nice in theory, but we learned how many things were mislabelled. We spent a lot of time getting lost (and not in a good way since we were packing in so much to do all 363 miles of coast).

What to Pack for Your Oregon Coast Trip

• Pack a Raincoat :  We had one partly cloudy day, and all the other days were rainy and stormy.
• Clothes to Get Dirty In: Wear clothes you don’t mind getting muddy especially on hikes. It also helps if you also wear quick-dry clothes underneath your waterproof layers. It’s not necessary, but we even wore waterproof pants on one of the stormy days where it was raining sideways and we were still completely soaked. Also might not recommend going out when it’s that stormy.
• Solid Hiking Boots : We love these Danner ones because they’re so comfortable and waterproof. If you prefer sneakers, check out these to keep you dry.

Planning Checklist

• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .

Have you done an Oregon Coast road trip? Anything else we missed? What’s the last road trip you’ve been on?

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

Follow on Instagram (E + J) , YouTube , TikTok , and Pinterest.

This Post Has 170 Comments

I’m really glad I came across your site! I’m hoping to go on a road trip Oregon Coast next summer and have been looking for this kind of resource. The info is clear, succinct, and easy to follow.

This post was soooo helpful. Thanks for the itinerary and links!

Very Helpful article of the Oregon Coast.

wow great photos and stories. fantastic blog. i really enjoyed :)

Thanks for sharing such a great post and amazing images……

Thanks for the amazing guide! Really enjoyed reading the post and images are great!

Thanks, Aaron!

Awesome article

Awesome Blog. One note; don’t forget Cascade Head (just north of Lincoln City). 850 feet straight up to one of the most spectacular views on the Oregon Coast! We are currently training for Macchu Picchu trek for this September.

Thank you, Michael. I’m glad you enjoyed them. :)

Most coasts are amazing, but the Oregon coast is some else! =)

Agreed! So pretty. :)

I am so happy to read your blog. It’s really fantastic. I am so thankful to you.

I absolutely adore your blog, and especially the breathtaking photos! I live in Orange County myself, and driving up to Oregon has been my dream for years now. Especially the more mountainous south looks dreamy. I think the Southern Oregon coast will be the destination for my next travel!

Thank you so much Ivy. :) It’s such a beautiful drive doing the entire PCH!

This is just too gorgeous! Would love to take a road like that. It reminds me of my Great Ocean Road trip in Australia.

Thanks, Renuka! Definitely need to make a trip out to the Oregon Coast if you haven’t yet!

The way you guys write these blog posts are really user-friendly. I mean: no wonder you got so much attention and comments compared to any other travel blogger. Probably one of the most useful resources if I would ever want to go to Oregon.

As I am living in Asia, it is quite far for me to travel to US (unfortunately). However, I will keep following your blog from now on!! =)

Thanks, Amund!

The trip definitely mist have been amazing and Thank you for the tip as well!!

Good job… nice blog

Thanks, Kavleen!

I absolutely loved Oregon! Portland was by far my favourite, but it was all beautiful. wish I ha seen this post beforehand

Hey, Ashley! We love Portland, too!

One of the best days of my life was a road trip along the Oregon Coast. Our family spotted a great beach, and an impromptu beach day ensued! Love the Oregon Coast, great article capturing it’s essence!

Thank you so much!

I have been through your video and i can say this blog really inspired me deeply. The Oregon coast road trip can be unforgettable and it would be dream for any traveller. Thanks for sharing such a mesmerising blog.

Wow! This post is making me think of hurriedly packing my things and going to Oregon to see and try everything for myself. The coast looks amazing, Esther and Jacob! It’s the perfect summer trip with lots of picturesque views and a lovely trip with nature. What places would you recommend for a shorter trip? Thanks for sharing!

I am considering doing a 5-6 day trip to Oregon flying in from New Orleans, Louisiana! Do you have any recommendations for some must sees that would not require a road trip per say? I am open to driving of course, but also want some R & R :)

We’re taking a trip to the coast in a couple weeks for our 25th anniversary. This is our first time – coming from Minnesota – and we’re so excited! I’m going to follow along with your post as we leave Portland and travel to our rental in Pacific City. Thanks so much for all the great info!

You’re so welcome, Carol. I hope you have a wonderful trip!

Halfway through our family vacay of the Oregon coast and this post has been invaluable! Spent 4 nights at Rockaway Beach then 2 at Yachats then moving on to Portland for another 2 nights all the while checking off the sites to see on your list. Thank you so much!

So glad to hear you found this helpful, Cristy! Hope you fully enjoyed your trip in Oregon. :)

We cannot wait to see all of these places one day! Thank you for this amazing post!

Thanks for giving us the overview of the place, at least we can have the idea on where we can go next and what to prepare…

These coasts are the most peaceful places . You feel so relaxed when you reach there. Thanks for sharing your experience . looking forward for more latest blogs.

Hello Esther and Jacob! This article is very informative! I can’t wait to visit some of those places you mentioned. I’m just wondering how much would it cost to do the whole trip as my family are also planning to explore Oregon Coast anytime this year?

The perfect eco-friendly and camping destination is hands down Oregon!!

Oregon is the perfect summer trip! So much to do and soo many beautiful sights! Thank you for sharing xx

The scenery is breathtaking, Esther! Keep up the good work!

Thank you, Joanne! :)

Road Tripping through such a breathtaking scenery seems like a dream, Esther! Oregon Coast seems to offer it all, from wonderful views to astonishing landscapes. How long would this kind of road trip last?

It’s so beautiful! You have to see it for yourself. We did this road trip in one week – 7 days. We stopped briefly at several spots because there were landslides that closed off some areas, and we had previously done the area around Astoria, but other than that we were able to cover a lot. I would not say that we went at a leisurely pace though. We were constantly going somewhere. If you want to go at a more relaxing pace, I would only do either north, central, or south coast by itself.

I see you recommend doing perhaps one coast at a time. I would like to experience nature, good food, the coast & wineries if possible! Which would be a great coast to start?

Hi! I would suggest North – it’s more established and has a wider range of options to check out. I’m not too sure about wineries along the coast – I know that the Willamette Valley is better known for wine. Happy adventuring!

WOW REALLY AMAZING BRO. I REALLY LIKE ROAD TRIP AWESOME POST REALLT LIKE YOUR WORK.

Nice idea of the road trip to Oregon Coast, This will be a lifetime adventure for any person. Hope I will also enjoy this road trip in next few years.

We’re visiting family in Kirkland,WA in June. Plan to do a 4 day loop road trip of Oregon from Kirkland. Any suggestions.

I never knew Oregon could be so interesting. Might have to plan a road trip there.

How much do you think that this trip may have cost you guys? Road tripping is so much fun! So much beauty and natural beauty! Thanks for sharing. Happy traveling! Be safe!

Informative post.I have been to various places in United States but never been to Oregon. Thanks for the post.I would love to visit here in my coming vacation.Keep sharing.

There are few stretches of the Pacific coastline as stunning, as diverse and as iconic as the Oregon coast. Thanks for sharing this.

Brilliant article… Nice information & tips about the oregon coast road trip…

Hi there! If I just want to do a day trip on the coast from Portland, which places do you recommend to see and and think are doable time wise. We would be dedicating 1 full day to the coast. Thanks in advance :)

I would focus on one region (i.e. North, Central, or South) and pick what interest you. Most people do the North because it’s the closest. If you’re a photographer and timing works out, I would suggest Central so you can see Thor’s Well.

I usually travel to different countries for photography and I thought to myself why not take a three month road trip around the US and capture my moments. So I was doing research and I came across your website. Thank you thank you thank you for sharing your experiences and tips!!! (It has made the planning much easier!) Im currently 18 years old and I have had the amazing opportunities to travel to different countries. I am very passionate about photography and am trying to make this into my profession, however I am struggling with trying to actually get out there. I have no idea where to start! If you have any tips I would appreciate it’s very much! But again thank you for sharing your experiences. Safe travels!

Wow, I am speechless! First off, I love your photos. I am planning to visit. How many days did it take to complete the trip?

It sounds like an incredible trip!

We are planning on visiting Oregon next year and we will definitely need to consult this when we go. Thank you so much for sharing.

Wow looks really lovely. And some great Oregon photos too. How long did this trip take?

The way of capturing the views are stunning. Thanks for Sharing information about Oregon

Thank you Chris! We’re so happy to. It’s a beautiful state that I hope more people get to explore.

This trip looks fantastic and so informative! What time of year were did you take this trip?

Thank you, Mary. We’ve been to the Oregon coast a few times throughout the year, but this specific trip was in early April.

I have been to the Oregon 4 months back and it was an amazing experience. I would recommend everyone to visit this place if you are a beach lover.

Thank a ton for sharing this stuff. Oregon has been in my bucket list since long and I hope my dream comes true soon. I would love to share my story with you.

Wow! Your pictures are so fascinating. I loved your road trip plan and wish to travel to Oregon once. Thank you so much for the information.

I love roadtrips! My family and I drove along the Oregon Coast many years ago, but we did not spend nearly enough time stopping and exploring! It was the first time we ever saw ‘Tsunami’ warning signs! haha!

I would love to go back and drive the 101 all the way down through California. Your tips here are definitely a ‘save it for later’ post! I have had others also interested, so this will definitely come in handy!

I’ll also be investigating local eateries along the way. Have you any tips there?

I noticed those too! haha So interesting they call them tsunamis in Oregon. That would be an amazing trip. I really want to drive from Mexico to Canada! :D The only food place I absolutely loved was Kelly’s Brighton Marina for really fresh seafood (I’m not even a seafood person), everything else was fine but nothing like you would find in bigger cities.

Oregon is a lovely place. Thanks for sharing such information. Keep it up!

Thanks for reading, Andy!

Does anyone have a recommendation for touring the Oregon coast without having to change lodging so frequently? My husband and I will have a week (plus if needed) to tour. We enjoy doing the outdoor stuff, parks, hiking, etc. vs. towns, shopping. However, we will want to experience as much as time allows. I realize we may have to do some back tracking and more driving this way but thought I would ask about the possibility. We are trying to plan a coastal road trip in September. We will be flying into Portland from Nashville, Tn.

Try one of the central locations like Lincoln City or Newport. The coast isn’t that big and you can fan out from there. Although it might be worth finding one spot further south and one further north just to make the daily trips a bit easier.

Wow – this is an incredible guide! My husband and I lived in Portland for 11 years and we never made it much more south on the coast than Newport. Sylvia Beach Hotel is one of our all-time favorite places to stay—the warm spiced wine they serve at night is so lovely. Now we’re road tripping around the country in a van and thinking of driving down 101 to California later this year. We’ll definitely use your guide! Thanks so much for putting this together!

Thanks so much, Liana. So glad that you found this helpful. We loved Sylvia Beach Hotel too. So much character! That sounds like such an epic trip! I miss living on the road. Wishing you many incredible adventures ahead :)

Wow – a very detailed itinerary with some great photos to whet the appetite!

Thank you, Linzi!

Hi Esther and Jacob!

Awesome list! This seems to be the perfect getaway for travelers who crave for a different and exhilirating kind of adventure!

Glad you added some tips for first timers, I want to come prepared!

Thanks, Emily! There is so much to do on the Coast. I hope you get to experience it all soon. :)

Keeping my fingers crossed! :)

I can’t wait to go to Oregon this summer! Thanks for sharing your itinerary!

Oregon is on my list of places to visit. Thanks for sharing this exhaustive post which I have bookmarked to plan my trip. The photos are really enticing.

Wow, beautiful photos. Beautiful adventures. Keep on rocking!

Thank you, Elin! :)

Fantastic article with Vibrant Images… Should be on your bucket list for 2018…

Great work, very informative. Plus Oregon Coast is just amazing, it gotta be on our wish list.

Hi! I could have sworn I’ve been to this blog before but after browsing through some of the post I realized it’s new to me. Anyways, I’m definitely delighted I found it and I’ll be bookmarking and checking back frequently!

Oregon is the great wish of my life. Spending some time beneath Mount Hood and then go to the shore. Well, I’m stuck in Croatia for now, but just wait. I’ll get there.

haha Doesn’t sound like a bad place to be stuck, but hope you make your way out to Oregon.

Omg, a roadtrip like sounds incredible!! I would love to make it myself. Thanks for sharing the details!

Thanks for reading, Kelly. I hope you get to do the road trip soon!

Oregon looks stunning! I like the way you given everything in detail for anyone contemplating a trip there. Will check out the video when I have better internet. :-)

Great place! Great vibes!

Very informative and detailed article. The whole of Oregon coast covered in one blog, perfect for a scenic road trip.

Thanks Kanika! I know it’s a lot of info. :D

Wow, that is a lot of great information. Sounds like an amazing trip! My husband and I will hopefully be there next Sept or October. Hopefully we will have some nice weather still. Then again, is in the Northwest, lol. Thank you for sharing all this great information.

Really nice post. I hope that next year I will make finally US trip. This is one of the places I want to stop for couple days :-)

I don’t know how it’s road trip, there even no road! (Just Kidding). Pictures are so beautiful, Oregon coast is truly a heaven.

It is very enlightening and useful post. I am not in U.S. but I love to visit this place with my family. My mom definitely loves this place because she always wants to live near the sea-shore. The information of hotels and restaurant helps us while traveling.

I don’t live in the US, but Oregon is the one place I’d like to go to to enjoy some crazy hiking adventures. Thanks for the detailed guide, it will come in handy when that time comes :-)

Where do you currently live? If you love the outdoors, Oregon is definitely the place to visit. Thanks for reading!

Photographs are really very nice. A debt of gratitude is in order for imparting this data to us.

Thanks for giving such a wonderful information. It is very helpful for every traveler.

Great guide to go the OREGON COAST. I like your essential trips. My & Hubby will go there the beginning of next year. Thanks

Thanks, Nakisha! Hope you have a great trip and good weather then! ☺️

Great guide! My girlfriend and I are going to Oregon later this year. Thanks for the inspiration:-)

Thanks, Jakob and you’re so welcome. I hope you have an amazing trip!

Thank you SO much for this post. It is shaping a huge part of my trip. I really appreciate you sharing your knowledge and experience. Thank you thank you!!!

You’re welcome! So glad you’re finding it helpful. The Oregon Coast has SO much to offer ☺️

Thank you very nice point of view. Great images.

Thank you, Tiago

This is so much beautiful. I can feel that you had awesome adventure!

Thank you Rose. It’s one of our favorite road trips to date. I hope you get to experience it too!

wow..great information and an amazing article

Thanks, Ravi

I have to say this is one of the best posts I have come across in a while. Very informative, and well put together. By sister and brother-in-law just moved up to the Seattle area and my wife and I are planning a visit. This Oregon road trip may just become part of our plans. After seeing these pictures and the great itinerary you have put together, it will no doubt make the planning much simpler. Thanks

Love this! I am on the east coast and have had a northwest road trip on my to-do list for so long. I did make it to Lake Tahoe CA this past July for an overnight relay race, but thats it for my west coast exploration.

Yes you definitely have to do an Oregon coast road trip! We love the cali coast too but some of the best parts (like big sur) have been destroyed and roads still need to be rebuilt. Washington also has tons to explore!

We were just in Oregon this July as part of an epic drive from Seattle to Santa Cruz along the 101. We loved the whole state and the people were incredibly friendly especially in Astoria. Your post is so insightful. I want to return and take in your suggestions.

Thanks, Joe! We did LA to Seattle before too. It’s such a great drive but seriously far too much to see. I think we need a full year to properly explore it all. Haha I hope you come back to see more of Oregon though.

I would absolutely love to visit Oregon! I love a good road trip too, so now I need to combine it!

Wish you could have visited while we were there! Regardless though you should definitely experience it.. with or without us

Just took my first trip to Oregon. We were in Hood River and Portland but I see I still have so much more to go! Can’t wait to return! Stunning photos, thanks for sharing.

Thanks, Haley! There is so much to explore in Oregon. We’ve been here a year, and I still feel like we haven’t scratched the surface. We just posted up our Eastern Oregon road trip too if you want to check that out for even more ideas. ;) http://localadventurer.com/eastern-oregon-road-trip/

Wow this post makes me want to pack my bags immediately! I live in NorCal, so I feel like a road trip like this is a must while I live here. Also, you guys packed so much into this trip – it’s amazing.

Keep up the amazing work. I’m always excited when I spy a new blog post :)

Thank you so much, Juliet. I hope you get to do it soon. The PCH up Norcal is beautiful too. It’d be amazing to do that stretch and then all the way up the Oregon Coast. ;)

speechless. oregon very amazing

Thank you, Marina. The coast always has us coming back for more. :)

Oregon road trip looks really beautiful! The beaches are exceptionally scenic! Love the video. I’d love to run on these beaches, sit with a glass of wine in the evenings… :-)

We love it out there! And that sounds like the perfect way to spend the evening.

Wow great photos and stories. I haven’t been to Oregon in 10 years. Maybe it’s time to go back!

Thanks, Andy. You’re definitely due for a trip back. :) Where did you visit when you were last in Oregon?

Thanks! This was very informative. We plan on doing a Oregon trip in August with our two dogs. Hopefully the experience is good.

I hope it’s an amazing time! Have you road tripped with your dogs before?

All the coast have their own charm and beauty. It is just magnificent .

The PNWhas been on our short list for a while now. Lots of good tips and destinations in this post. Thanks!

Thanks for stopping by. I hope you make your trip out here soon!

A very informative article. Totally agree with you. There is nothing more exciting than a road trip. Will plan on doing the same. Good work and keep it up.

Thank you, Muhemmed!

Awesome photos and great trip, thanks for sharing! (PS: your bloom optin plungin doesn’t seem to work, I keep seeing the shortcodes instead of actual optin forms)

Thanks, Vio. Yeah, we noticed that the plugin has been glitchy, so we disabled it for now. We’re trying to see if they have any bug fixes before we enable it again. Hopefully soon! :) Thanks for letting us know. Sometimes we don’t catch things like that.

Holy cow! You guys packed so much into your trip! This guide is awesome – totally thorough! We’re heading up to Canada soon and are planning on driving down through BC, Washigton, Oregon and California. I knew there was a lot to see in Oregon but not THIS much. It all looks and sounds so incredible. Thanks for educating me on the beauties of the Oregon coast :) now I can hardly contain my excitement!

Thank you, Kristin! You need to spend some time in Oregon for sure. We just came back from an Eastern Oregon road trip, and there’s so much more to see!!

Wow, this blog really is informative. One of my friends is planning to visit Oregon Coast by the end of this year. I’m sure that this is going to be very helpful, Thank you for sharing. :) And by the way, the images included are also beautiful.

Thank you, Ratheesh. You should come visit too!

This is an amazing blog post. I’m planning on a holiday to the USA next year and I’m considering visiting Oregan. Thanks for sharing your incredible experience.

Thanks, Alex. It is beautiful here!! :) There are so many different types of landscapes to see too depending on what area of Oregon you want to visit.

Thanks for the information! I haven’t made it this far up the West Coast yet, but I plan on covering this ground next year. However, I did make it to Canon Beach! NOTHING like the beaches of California…south of San Francisco anyway! Love all the amazing driftwood you find and the forest coming to touch the ocean

You are so welcome, Lexi! Love the coast of California, but PNW coast has a different charm all on its own. :) I hope you get to visit again soon and see more of it.

I had no idea that Oregon had this much to visit! I’ve heard lots about Portland, but very little about the rest of the state, which is really a shame since it’s apparently gorgeous! We really, really need to do a PNW road trip–we’ll be incorporating as much of this itinerary into ours as possible. :)

There’s so much outside of Portland. You really should!! I’ll send you an itinerary. ;)

I’m carried away by the view. Thanks for sharing these places.

Esther this is stunning! One of my best blogging buddies lives in this region. His backyard used to be the Pacific. Like watching a Twilight movie LOL. One gorgeous area in the US I need to see.

Thank you, Ryan! That must have been amazing living right on the coast. We actually visited the beach from the movie in Washington, and it really does look very similar haha

It sounds like an amazing trip! We are planning on visiting Oregon next year and will definitely incorporate some of your recommendations. Thank you so much for sharing.

Greetings from Ireland :)

It was amazing!! I hope you get to experience as many of them as possible. Enjoy your trip!

Your Photographs are stunning, Thanks for Sharing information about Oregon

Thank you so much! I hope you get to see these places in person. :)

We recently traveled down the entire Oregon Coast. Left from Portland and drove up to the Washington/Oregon border. There is a strong Swedish influence in the Northwest corner of Oregon! (We are a Swedish family. I think the terrain, trees, etc. are reminiscent of Sweden!). Took 3 days to drive down the entire coast to the California border, Such an amazing and memorable trip. If you have the time, the trip is so worthwhile!

I definitely did see a lot of the Scandinavian influence in Astoria! :) I’ve always wanted to do the entire California coast too. We’ve only done bits and pieces. What are your favorite stops on the California coast?

Nice idea of road trip to Oregon Cost, This will be a life time adventure for any person. Hope I will also enjoy this road trip in next few years, Currently I am planning to visit Asia. How many days did it take to complete the trip?

Thanks, Scott! We did this trip in 7 days. I hope you get to do the road trip. Enjoy Asia!

Hi! We will be staying in Cannon Beach in July for a week. If you had to pick the one or two things that are a must see, what would that be? It all sounds amazing! Thanks!

Hi Jeannine! I’m sure you already know that Haystack Rock is what’s most well known in Cannon Beach, but I also recommend doing some hikes in either Oswald or Ecola State Park. :) There are hikes for every level. They also give you great views of the rock features.

There´s nothing better than a road trip in the USA – especially when it involves so much breathtaking nature and scenic viewpoints. The United States has so much to offer in terms of natural beauty; I was amazed at the vastness of the sea and mountains when I was cruising around Alaska.

We haven’t been to Alaska yet, but we keep hearing how beautiful it is. The US really has so much to offer. We should definitely appreciate it more rather than always trying to hop off to other countries first. :)

Wonderful overview! The one place I miss on the North Oregon Coast is Manzanita Beach, a small friendly town packed with neat little stores, art galleries, nice coffee spots, friendly pubs, and great restaurants. If you haven’t been there and are looking for a place to stay, check out the Beach Front Caretakers Bungalow of The Houses on Manzanita Beach

How many days did you take to do the trip?

We took 7 days. The last day we explored for a few hours in the morning, but it was mostly driving back to Portland.

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Top 5 Stops Along Your Pacific Northwest Road Trip

I f you’re looking to add some adventure to your life, one of the best ways to spice things up is by taking an impromptu road trip. When traveling by car, you get the chance to have complete control of your itinerary and explore a variety of sights and sounds.

One of the most scenic routes out there is through the Pacific Northwest, starting in Portland, Oregon and making your way through Washington state and is the perfect Pacific Northwest road trip.

Anytime you travel by car, you should consider renting a vehicle. By renting, you might be able to save some money on gas by picking something with great fuel efficiency.

You can also avoid putting an excessive amount of miles on your personal car. If you do opt to rent, first look into purchasing car rental damage insurance from a reputable source.

5 must-see stops throughout the Pacific Northwest

Portland, oregon.

Whether you’re from the nearby area or you are flying into Portland International Airport, Portland is the perfect starting point for your journey. This city is known for its quirky atmosphere, friendly people, and overall charm that brings tourists from all over the country and the world.

Start off early by chowing down at one of the local breakfast hotspots, like Voodoo Doughnut in Old Town . Then wash it down with a fresh cup of coffee from the famous Stumptown Coffee Roasters.

Another Portland hotspot is Powell’s City of Books , which has over 2 million books lining its shelves. If you look at the book store’s pillars, you can see those famous writers from the past and present have signed their names.

So if you need some reading material for your road trip, definitely check it out. Other must-see spots throughout Portland are the Portland Saturday Market (only open from March to December), the Art Museum, Washington Park, and Portland Japanese Garden.

Willamette Valley in Eugene, Oregon

Willamette Valley is a spot where nature lovers and wine drinkers come together to experience Oregon’s most cherished vineyards. This area is known as Oregon’s Wine Country, and is home to the popular vineyard King Estate Winery .

You can either sign up for a tour of the winery and vineyards, or just hang out for a tasting. Tastings run from 11am to 8pm and tours start at the beginning of every hour until 5pm.

During your tasting, you’ll get the opportunity to try the classic King Estate wines as well as new creations, and you’ll learn about the history behind the estate during the tour.

Other notable wineries in Willamette Valley are Eyrie Vineyards , Evesham Wood , Brooks Wine , and Teutonic Wines . You could actually spend a good amount of time road tripping through Oregon’s wine country, so be sure to set expectations for how long you want to stay in Willamette – you might find it difficult to leave!

Once you are satisfied with the amount of wine you’ve tasted, it’s time to get back on the road. But before you leave the area, be sure to head to the Oregon Coast – just west of Eugene – to get in some beach time.

Mount Rainier National Park in Washington

Washington State is known for its many mountains and volcanoes that offer an abundance of hiking opportunities, and Mount Rainier National Park is a significant reason for this. Mount Rainier is an impressive 14,410 feet above sea level, and this active volcano is America’s most glaciated peak.

The park is a must-see stop for avid hikers and nature lovers, and camping should definitely be a part of your plan here (but keep in mind that camping overnight requires a permit). During the springtime, tourism peaks in the national park for the blooming season of the many species of wildflowers.

Seattle, Washington

Chances are Seattle is already on your list of destinations for you Pacific Northwest drive. It is Washington’s largest city, but it is an ideal spot for both city lovers and those travelers hoping to get in touch with nature.

Not only do you get to experience the hustle and bustle of Seattle’s downtown streets, there are plenty of opportunities for mountain and water sports. With the nearby mountains and waters of Puget Sound, Seattle caters to every kind of traveler.

For 360 degree views of the city, ride up the iconic Space Needle – this landmark is what comes to most people’s minds when they think of Seattle, and it has been featured in many photographs, television shows, and movies over time.

It was built in the 1960’s and continues to be the most visited spot in the city by tourists and locals alike. The observations deck is over 500 feet off the ground, and there is even a restaurant that rotates throughout your meal so your view is constantly changing.

Another spot you should check out before leaving the city is the Pike Place Market , which is one of the oldest farmers markets in the country. It is by far the best place in the city to find vibrant produce and fresh seafood. You can also leave with a handcrafted souvenir made by a local artisan.

After perusing through the market, grab a coffee at the original Starbucks just down the street. The city is home to many famous coffee roasters in addition to Starbucks, so make a day out of sipping coffee while exploring the downtown streets.

San Juan Islands in Anacortes, Washington

San Juan Islands National Wildlife Refuge is a wonderful ending point for your trip; it is a destination where you can easily enjoy some peace and quiet. Getting to the islands requires some effort, but it will be well worth it. San Juan is a chain of 172 small islands northwest of Seattle in the Salish Sea.

It is a protected area since it is home to a wide variety of marine life, birds, and mammals. When you take the ferry from the mainland to reach the islands, you might even see Orcas swimming near the boat, so bring your camera and a pair of binoculars.

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