Oregon Coast Road Trip: A 4-Day Summer Itinerary I’m Saving (and Would Love to Book for You)
The Oregon Coast has been sitting on my “next great summer trip” list for a while now. I haven’t done this road trip yet—but it’s exactly the kind of trip I love to plan: scenic, flexible, a little wild, and full of moments that don’t need reservations to be meaningful.
If you’ve been wanting to explore the coast but only have a few days, this 4-day Oregon Coast road trip itinerary is one I keep coming back to. It’s a north-to-south drive that balances iconic stops with slower, breathe-it-in places—and it works beautifully for couples, families, or a friends’ trip.
Below is the itinerary as I’d plan it, with notes on where to stay and how to make it feel relaxed instead of rushed.
Day 1: Ecola State Park + Cannon Beach
Start strong with big views.
Begin at Ecola State Park, where forest meets ocean and the overlooks alone are worth the drive. From there, head into Cannon Beach.
This is an easy first day: walk the beach, see Haystack Rock, grab a coffee, wander the small shops, and stay for sunset. It’s one of those places that feels calm even when it’s popular.
Where I’d stay:
Surfsand Resort — beachfront, walkable, and perfect for easing into the trip.
Day 2: Tillamook + Cape Kiwanda
Day two is about contrast—cheese, dunes, and wide-open beaches.
Head south toward Tillamook Creamery for a casual stop (ice cream counts as road-trip fuel). Then continue on to Cape Kiwanda.
Spend the afternoon walking the sand dunes, watching the waves, and letting the wind do its thing. This is one of those places where you don’t need an agenda—just time.
Where I’d stay:
Day 3: Sea Lion Caves + Heceta Head Lighthouse
This day leans a little more adventurous.
Stop at Sea Lion Caves (yes, it smells—but it’s memorable), then drive on to Heceta Head Lighthouse.
Plan to be there near sunset. The views are classic Oregon Coast—dramatic, moody, and worth lingering for.
Where I’d stay:
Heceta Lighthouse B&B — historic, cozy, and very much part of the experience.
Day 4: Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor
End the trip with a bang.
The Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor is packed with short trails, viewpoints, and dramatic coastal formations. Don’t miss Natural Bridges, Arch Rock, or Secret Beach if conditions allow.
Finish with one last sunset—Harris Beach is a beautiful option—and then head home tired in the best way.
Where I’d stay:
Why This Is a Great Summer Trip
What I love about this Oregon Coast itinerary is that it’s flexible. You can stretch it, shorten it, swap stops, or slow it way down. It’s scenic without being overwhelming, active without being exhausting, and perfect for travelers who want nature and comfort.
It’s also an ideal road-trip style vacation—no constant packing and unpacking, just steady movement and incredible views.
Want Help Booking This?
Even though I haven’t done this exact route yet, it’s the kind of trip I love to help plan. I can:
Book hotels and lodges
Help adjust the route for families or slower travel
Build this into a longer Pacific Northwest itinerary
If this feels like your kind of summer adventure, I’m happy to help you make it happen through WildHer Travel.
