The Best Places for Storm Watching on the Oregon Coast
As the Pacific storms start to roll in and the leaves begin to rustle, there’s nothing quite like hunkering down to watch the spectacle unfold along Oregon’s rugged coastline. From the cozy comfort of a beachfront cafe to the raw beauty of a coastal cliff, here’s the local scoop on the top 10 spots for storm watching on the Oregon Coast.1. Cape Perpetua Scenic Area
Just south of Yachats, Cape Perpetua Scenic Area is a must-see. As the tallest point on the Oregon Coast, you’ll get panoramic views of churning waves and dramatic storm clouds. There’s also the famous Thor’s Well which churns and roars — more like Oregon’s rendition of a tempest in a teapot rather than actual Norse mythology, though still quite the spectacle.2. Coos Bay, Bastendorff Beach
Over in Coos Bay, you’ll want to check out Bastendorff Beach. This place offers great vantages for the way the winds whip off the ocean. Next to Yoakam Point, it’s an ideal spot for when a storm starts brewing up those towering waves.3. Cannon Beach
No storm-watching list would be complete without Cannon Beach, a quintessential town nestled right next to Haystack Rock. Savor a hot cocoa from Sleepy Monk Coffee Roasters while admiring the brutal beauty of the tempest from the comfort of a beachfront cottage.
4. Ecola State Park, Indian Beach
Within Ecola State Park, Indian Beach is not just a favorite amongst locals for storm watching, but also a prime surf spot. Spot the daring surfers hanging ten amidst the squall or hike up on the Clatsop Loop Trail for an elevated view.5. Neskowin
Head to Neskowin for an off-the-beaten-path storm purlieu. The Neskowin Beach State Recreation Site offers shelter by the Ghost Forest, where ancient tree stumps rise eerily during low tide – it adds a sense of dramatic flair to the storm.6. Pacific City, Cape Kiwanda
On a wild weather day, strike out for Pacific City and Cape Kiwanda. The Pelican Pub and Brewery serves as a perfect refuge from the tumult where the friendly staff can solace you with hot seafood chowder and local brews.7. Bandon
In Bandon, a sharp-eyed storm-lover can witness the clash between storm swells and iconic sea stacks. Working up an appetite? Head to Edgewaters, a local favorite, where you can stay toasty while watching the tempest rage from broad windows.8. Manzanita
Over in Tillamook County, lay your gaze upon a winter storm rolling in from the comfort of a cozy rental in Manzanita. Don’t miss the dramatic sight of Neahkahnie Mountain rising starkly against the backdrop of stormy clouds.9. Rockaway Beach
Rockaway Beach is another exquisite spot to watch Pacific storms. Seek out refuge in Old Oregon Smokehouse for some hearty clam chowder. It’s just the right meal to warm your bones on a stormy day.10. Cape Meares
Finally, venture to Cape Meares. The lighthouse there adds flavor to the storm-watching experience. Try to time your visit during high tide for an optimal tempest extravaganza and you may just see the Octopus Tree getting a wild saltwater shower.From beholding the ruthless might of the ocean to snug places of refuge where the storm is a show played out across window panes, Oregon’s coastline truly does it all. Gear up, stay safe, and remember: A pinch of respect for those Pacific squalls adds spice to the storm-watching adventure. No matter where on our glorious coastline you choose to behold the stormy spectacle, you’re in for an experience that is as unique as Oregon itself. Happy storm watching!