The Ultimate List: Top 10 Best Places for Storm Watching on the Oregon Coast
Storm watching on the Oregon Coast is an invigorating experience, offering majestic scenes of nature’s raw power unfolding before your very eyes. Our Oregon coastline is dramatic and breathtaking, and when storms roll in, it is more so. For those who crave this visual thrill, we’ve compiled the top 10 spots up and down our coast where you can glimpse the best of Oregon’s stormy spectacle.
1. Tillamook Head, Ecola State Park
Immerse yourself in the beauty at Ecola State Park by hiking Tillamook Head trail; it’s worth the effort. The lookout points offer spellbinding panoramas of unyielding waves crashing into the rugged shoreline. Here, the sea and sky often merge in a tumultuous, beautifully confusing display.2. Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach
Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach offers a spectacular scene during storm season. Witness the seas thrashing against this iconic Oregon landmark from the comfort of a seafront rental, or bundle up and brave the sandy expanses for a closer view.
3. Otter Crest State Scenic Viewpoint
Providing sweeping views of the surf from high cliffs, Otter Crest gives you a bird’s eye perspective on the turbulent ocean. Don’t forget to drop by the legendary Devil’s Punchbowl nearby. During storm season, it fills with swirling surf, justifying its ominous name.4. Meteorological Observation Site, Cape Foulweather
Living up to its name, Cape Foulweather offers a scientific twist to the storm-watching experience. Here, you can watch storms approach from miles away and learn how the meteorologists track and predict these mighty sea storms.5. Coquille River Lighthouse, Bullards Beach State Park
For the history buffs, storm watching from the Coquille River Lighthouse presents a spectacular scene with a side of history. The lighthouse, although no longer operational, still offers safe harbor to storm watchers, atop the often turbulent mouth of the Coquille River.6. Sea Lion Caves, Florence
Located 11 miles north of Florence, the Sea Lion Caves grant an extensive view of the wild Pacific. During a storm, the crashing waves outside and the loud roars of the sea lions inside the cave make for an unforgettable symphony of nature.7. Cape Perpetua Scenic Area
Famed for its unique features like Thor’s Well and the Devil’s Churn, Cape Perpetua is a playground for storm watchers. From the safety of the visitor center, witness the oceans’ fury comfortably, as the sea creates nearly impossible water formations amidst the tempest.8. Bandon Beach Loop Drive
For a mobile storm-watching experience, take a slow drive down Bandon Beach Loop. This route offers stunning, uninterrupted views of the Pacific’s tantrums, right from the comfort of your car. Watch the storm but spare a moment for the beautiful Face Rock, too.9. Astoria Column, Astoria
Perched atop Coxcomb Hill, Astoria Column allows a 360-degree panoramic view of the Columbia River meeting the Pacific. During a storm, this point provides an unequaled vantage point to see the clouds gathering and rain sweeping across the estuary.10. Neskowin Ghost Forest, Neskowin Beach
Perfect for photographers, the centuries-old “Ghost Forest” at Neskowin Beach adds a hauntingly beautiful layer to your storm-watching outing. The ancient tree stumps against the stormy backdrop create a surreal spectacle, a testament to the relentless power and evolving nature of the ocean.The Oregon Coast is a grand canvas painted by the many storms that caress it. The beauty lies within the chaos. To truly appreciate it, one must venture out and witness the spectacle in person. So grab your rain gear, your adventurous spirit, and head out to one of these spots to experience the thrilling artistry of Oregon’s stormy seas. Remember, every storm brings a unique performance. Do come back to catch the encore!