The Ultimate Guide to Storm Watching on the Oregon Coast
Welcome, fellow storm chasers and cloud watchers! When it’s time for those much-anticipated tempestuous tantrums of Mother Nature, the best stage to witness the drama is the beautiful Oregon Coast. From idyllic lighthouses to rugged cliff vantage points, the play of thunderous clouds, playful rain, and the mighty Pacific Ocean offers a spectacle like no other. Here are the best places to be when the storms roll in.
1. Cape Disappointment
Don’t let the name fool you. Located at the mouth of the Columbia River, Cape Disappointment is anything but disappointing for storm watchers. Its high bluffs provide a perfect panoramic view of the fierce ocean storms. Just remember, safety is paramount, so respect the power of the ocean and always stay behind the railing.2. Ecola State Park
Close to Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park offers miles of rugged coastline views. It’s perfect to watch storms rolling in from the comfort of your parked vehicle, preferably with a thermos of hot local Sleepy Monk coffee to keep you warm.
3. Oswald West State Park
With a forest backing up onto the ocean, Oswald West State Park lets you watch the storm from under the protective canopy of Sitka spruces. Take the Courtyard Restaurant’s famous clam chowder with you for an unforgettable storm-watching picnic.4. Shore Acres State Park
Perched on a cliff, Shore Acres State Park lets you safely watch waves crashing against rocks. The park’s garden is also enchanting for a stroll during calmer moments, just ensure to carry your rain gear.5. Heceta Head Lighthouse
What’s more romantic than watching a storm from the shadows of a historic lighthouse? Heceta Head Lighthouse offers a dramatic view of the waves and wind, especially from the porch of the keeper’s cottage, now the Heceta Lighthouse B&B.6. Cape Blanco Lighthouse
An iconic Oregon landmark, Cape Blanco Lighthouse braves some of the heaviest storms with its position jetting out into the ocean. Be aware that access can be difficult in particularly harsh conditions, so be sure to check conditions ahead of time.7. Depoe Bay
Depoe Bay, known as the world’s smallest harbor, is also a favorite among storm watchers. The Whale Watching Center is a great stop to learn about marine life, and then step outside to the rock wall for a front-row seat to the storm.8. Cape Perpetua Overlook
Any local will tell you, don’t miss the sight of the sea swirling ominously in Devil’s Churn or the Spouting Horn at Cape Perpetua. Just take the three-mile hike up to the overlook for an unobstructed view of the advancing tempest.9. Bob Straub State Park
Bob Straub State Park in Pacific City is ideal for those seeking a bit of serenity with their storm. You can appreciate nature’s drama from the sandy shore while sipping on a brew from the nearby Pelican Brewing Company.10. Coquille River Lighthouse
Lastly, the Coquille River Lighthouse in Bandon offers a serene scene for storm watching. Stay at the comfortable Bandon Bill’s Sea Stack Loft to be closer to the storm but still enjoy the cozy indoors.In each rumble of thunder and gust of wind, there’s a thrill, a spectacle, an underlying beauty that only the Oregon Coast can deliver. Each spot holds its unique charm and perspective for those who seek the storms. So bundle up, stay safe, and embrace all that Oregon’s wild weather has to offer.