The Best Places for Storm Watching on the Oregon Coast
There’s something mesmerizing about storm watching in Oregon. The saltwater spray, gusty winds, and the rhythmic drama of the waves against the rugged coastline. Oregonians don’t hide from the elements – they embrace them. Here are ten fantastic spots to savor the thrill of an Oregon coastal storm.
1. Shore Acres State Park
Nestled near Coos Bay, this viewpoint offers a breathtaking display of the Pacific’s strength during a storm. The waves crash against the ancient sandstone cliffs, creating a show that rivals a fireworks display. Don’t forget to visit in December, when the park hosts a holiday lights display amid the fury of winter storms.2. Cape Perpetua
Just south of Yachats, you’ll find the highest point on the Oregon Coast that’s accessible by car. Cape Perpetua’s cliff-top viewpoint is about 800 feet above the sea, offering up some seriously impressive storm viewing opportunities. In particular, don’t miss the Devil’s Churn and Thor’s Well geological formations performing their oceanic ballet during stormy weather.
3. Ecola State Park
Wild and secluded, Ecola State Park near Cannon Beach provides sweeping vistas ideal for storm watching. The local Tillamook tribe called the area Ekoli – meaning whale – so it’s also the perfect spot to watch for migrating whales during a break in the storm.4. Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint
Located just north of Depoe Bay, this spot offers a front-row seat to nature’s performance during a severe storm. For the history buffs, the name refers to the remnants of an old ship’s boiler from a shipwreck visible at low tide – a symbolic reminder of the ocean’s power.5. Yaquina Head Lighthouse
Situated in Newport, the tallest lighthouse in Oregon is quite a sight during a coastal storm. The lighthouse’s flash piercing through the tumult is a testament to human tenacity amidst nature’s fury.6. Cape Lookout State Park
A linear peninsula projecting almost 2 miles out into the Pacific, Cape Lookout near Tillamook truly puts you in the heart of the storm. Brave the five-mile trail return trip along the cape for an unforgettable storm watching experience. Just remember to wear sturdy, waterproof boots – the trail can get a bit slippery.7. Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint
Head down to Bandon where Native American legend and storm-watching blend seamlessly together. From the viewpoint, you can observe Face Rock (which looks like a face peering out of the water) facing down the mighty storms amid the encircling sea stacks. Be sure to stick around for sunset when the storm clouds can make for a stunning display of color.8. Cape Meares Lighthouse
The dramatic headland cliff here serves up amazing views during winter storms. Combine the allure of an old, intriguing lighthouse with wild, stormy seas, and you have a recipe for truly enchanting storm-watching.9. Depoe Bay
Advertised as the world’s smallest navigable harbor, Depoe Bay is another prime storm watching spot. Grab a delicious seafood chowder from Gracie’s Sea Hag and watch the sea take center stage from the warm comfort of the restaurant.10. Heceta Head Lighthouse
Between Florence and Yachats, this historic lighthouse sits on a high cliff, sending alternating beams of light into the stormy darkness. Book a night in the keeper’s house (now a bed-and-breakfast) for a cozy front-row seat to the storm.In Oregon, we celebrate our changing seasons and appreciate the wild beauty of our coast. So, gear up, stay safe, and dive headlong into the drama and thrill of storm watching. No matter where you venture on the Oregon coast, to borrow from an old saying, there’s no such thing as bad weather, just different kinds of good weather.