The Best Places for Storm Watching on the Oregon Coast
Nothing stirs the soul quite like witnessing the splendor and fury of a winter storm along Oregon’s rugged coastline– thunderous waves crashing against towering cliffs, an orchestra only Mother Nature could conduct. With unique vantage points, hidden gems, and bustling waterways, each storm watching location promises a different type of exhilarating experience. Here are our top 10 picks for the best storm watching spots along the Oregon coast.
1. Ecola State Park
Perched on the edge of Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park offers expansive cliffside views of the Pacific’s tumultuous waves. A popular route is the easy-going Clatsop Loop Trail, where you’ll swing by the historic Tillamook Rock Lighthouse. Pro tip: don’t forget to pack a thermos of hot coffee or tea to keep you warm!2. Cape Kiwanda State Park
Noteworthy for its sand dunes and towering sandstone cliffs, Cape Kiwanda State Park in Pacific City makes for another top storm watching spot. If weather permits, brave the ascent up the dunes, but be careful as conditions can change rapidly.
3. Neskowin Ghost Forest
An eerie spectacle during stormy weather, the Ghost Forest’s remnants date back 2000 years. Watch as the submerged stumps eerily protrude from the ocean during low tide at Neskowin Beach. The Hawk Creek Café, close by, serves a mean clam chowder to warm you up afterward.4. Yaquina Head Lighthouse
Newport’s Yaquina Head Lighthouse, Oregon’s tallest lighthouse, affords 360-degree panoramas of coastal beauty. It’s a mesmerizing experience watching the lighthouse beam cut through rain-heavy clouds while huge waves ripple around the rocky outcrop.5. Otter Crest Loop
Driving through the windy, forest-cloaked roads of Otter Crest Loop near Depoe Bay is an adventure in itself, all the better during a storm. Stop by the famed Devil’s Punch Bowl to witness ocean swells churn and roil in the bowl-shaped rock formation.6. Cape Foulweather
Ironically named but truly a treasure, Cape Foulweather near Depoe Bay gifts its visitors stunning, elevated views of the Oregon Coast. This spot’s especially popular among storm watchers for glimpses of migrating whales amidst surging waters.7. Shore Acres State Park
The wild waves that crash against the craggy cliffs of Shore Acres State Park near Coos Bay can reach dizzying heights. Don’t miss the beautifully lit Shore Acres Holiday Lights display if visiting during the festive period.8. Cape Blanco Lighthouse
Located near Port Orford, the Cape Blanco Lighthouse stands sentinel on the westernmost tip of Oregon. Enjoy watching the stormy seas from its comfort, ensuring you also appreciate its long-standing history.9. Cape Sebastian State Park
Known for its unobstructed views of the Pistol River Beach, Cape Sebastian State Park in Gold Beach is another storm watching must. Head to the cliffside trails to observe the winter storms lumbering ominously in from the sea.10. Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
This 12-mile corridor along Highway 101 is a storm watcher’s dream. Stop by Arch Rock and Thunder Rock Cove to see waves explode against the rocky formations to dramatic effect.Whether you’re an avid storm watcher or just a nature-lover feeling the pull of the wild, the Oregon coast offers a front-row seat to some of nature’s most awe-inspiring performances. So grab those waterproofs, pour that hot cup of coffee, and lose yourself in the beauty and fury of the Pacific Northwest’s stormy spectacle. Stay safe, respect the elements, and remember– there’s no such thing as bad weather, just different kinds of good weather. Here’s to the eye of the storm!