While we wholeheartedly believe visiting this area is lovely all year round, however, the best time to visit the Oregon Coast is just around the corner! This is the sweet spot when warm Spring weather hits, but the crowds of summer haven’t quite yet arrived. With the off-the-beaten-path destination of Arch Cape, Oregon, as your home base, you’ll be in the perfect location on the Coast to head out and explore Cannon Beach, Manzanita, and Ecola State Park.
When choosing the best time to visit the Oregon Coast, it’s essential to envision your trip and what you want it to look like. The timeframe will be different for everyone. While the peak of summer is traditionally known as the best time to visit the Oregon Coast, some may prefer the sleepy storm season over the bright sunny days. There really are great things to discover all year long.
The key to a successful trip to the beach is your lodging, and our stunning Castle on the Coast is one of the best places for romantic getaways, friend group trips, or solo retreats. As an adults-only bed and breakfast-style property, you’ll always have a quiet and peaceful place to return to in the evenings after your adventures. With only ten luxurious guest rooms, even in the peak season, our Inn and retreat is a haven of relaxation. Book your lodging at the Arch Cape Inn & Retreat today!
Best Time to Visit the Oregon Coast: Beat the Summer Crowds
There are a few factors to consider when planning your getaway to the beach. What is the main focus of your trip: beach walks? Nature viewing? Romance? Below, we’ll profile what to expect in each season, and then you can decide when the best time to visit the Oregon Coast is for you!
Visiting the Oregon Coast in the Spring
While springtime is considered shoulder season, there is something charming about the crisp sunny days, quiet small towns, and the freshness of nature’s awakening on the horizon. This is the best time to visit the Oregon Coast for whale watching and birding, especially for those who are interested in seeing the Puffins in Oregon at the iconic Haystack Rock.
Summertime on the Oregon Coast
For apparent reasons, summer is known as the best time to visit the Oregon Coast, as the weather is most consistent and temperate. This time of year is ideal for tide pooling, hiking coastal trails, kayaking, and whale watching; the migration continues until June. This does tend to be the busiest season on the coast, but our charming small town of Arch Cape stays mellow all year round.
Plan a Fall Getaway on the Coast
If you’re looking for romance, fall is one of the prettiest seasons on the coast for couples to cozy up and spend some quality time together. This time of year is known for crisp, clear days and beautiful sunsets. The drive along the historic 101 will be vibrant with fall foliage. This is truly the best time to visit the Oregon Coast for a romantic trip.
Visiting During Winter
If you’re a fan of storm watching, winter on the Oregon Coast is a beautiful season where you watch the clouds roll in on the horizon and maybe even catch a bolt of lightning from the warmth of your guest room, curled up by the fire.
The Best Things to do on the Oregon Coast this Spring
For those joining us this spring, there’s so much to discover on the stunning Oregon Coast. From birdwatching and rainy day hikes to bonfires on the beach and exploring the art galleries, there’s no shortage of fantastic things to do. As the bounty of spring starts popping up on menus around town, you’ll love dining out at the restaurants in Cannon Beach and the surrounding areas.
Here are the top five things to do on the Oregon Coast this Spring:
- From April through early July, tufted puffins nest on iconic Haystack Rock, creating one of the most unique wildlife sightings in the Pacific Northwest. Spring is the prime season to catch them—they are colorful, charismatic, and photogenic. Look for them early in the morning or around low tide, with local interpreters from the Haystack Rock Awareness Program often on-site.
- Don’t let a little drizzle stop you—Ecola State Park is magical in the rain. Lush ferns glisten, the forest feels ancient, and misty views of the coastline stretch for miles. Try the Clatsop Loop Trail for a moderate hike with panoramic overlooks and deep, mossy woods that come alive in spring. It’s Oregon at its misty best—pack your rain jacket and waterproof boots.
- Spring is a quieter season to wander through the galleries of Cannon Beach, often called “the Carmel of the Northwest.” You’ll find everything from fine oil paintings to blown glass, sculpture, and coastal photography. The Spring Unveiling Arts Festival in May is a highlight when local artists showcase new work and host receptions throughout town.
- Spring whale watching along the Oregon Coast peaks in March and early April as gray whales migrate north with their calves. Head to Depoe Bay, Cape Lookout, or Cape Foulweather for some of the best views. And in between sightings? Stroll the beaches for agates and driftwood or to hear the waves—spring tides often reveal fascinating coastal treasures.
- Impeccable dining options are found all over the Oregon Coast. A few of our favorite restaurants near Cannon Beach that are not to miss are Anna’s Table, The Bistro, Castaways, and the Warren House Pub.
While the best time to visit the Oregon Coast changes based on what you’re looking for in a vacation, choosing the Arch Cape Inn & Retreat as your home base for exploring this spring is always the ultimate choice! You’ll feel like you’re stepping into a modern coastal fairytale. Located just five minutes south of Cannon Beach, our European-style château offers a luxurious and peaceful retreat surrounded by old-growth forests and ocean breezes. Our guest rooms are elegant, with touches like double jetted tubs, gas fireplaces, and ocean views. We can’t wait to host you; book our romantic Oregon Coast boutique hotel today!
