If you’re planning a trip to the Oregon Coast with your family, there are endless places to explore – from hands-on science fun to tide pooling, hiking, and even whale watching. We recently traveled from Newport up to Astoria, stopping at some of our favorite spots along the way. With kids ranging from ages 3 to 13, we found plenty of family-friendly activities that worked for all of us (and fit the budget too!).
Hatfield Marine Science Center – Newport
The Hatfield Marine Science Center (part of Oregon State University) is one of Newport’s best-kept secrets. For just $30, our family of seven spent two solid hours exploring hands-on exhibits.
Highlights included:
- A ship simulator where kids could “captain” a vessel
- A tsunami station with a Lego town to wipe out
- A sand erosion table for making waves and testing structures
- A 3D topographic sandbox that projected maps, rain, and elevation changes right onto the sand
Our kids were fascinated and it was engaging for every age. If you want an aquarium-style experience without the higher price tag, this is a fantastic choice.
Oregon Coast Aquarium – Newport
We’ve loved the Oregon Coast Aquarium for years—it’s bigger, more elaborate, and always worth visiting. But it is on the pricier side.
Yaquina Head Lighthouse & Tide Pools – Newport
Just outside Newport, Yaquina Head Lighthouse is another must-see. Be sure to check tide pool times on their website before you go. During low tide, we discovered giant starfish, sea urchins, mussels, sea anemones, and even seals basking in the distance.
Parent tip: Wear shoes with tread! Flip-flops are a no-go on the slick rocks. The lighthouse grounds also have historical displays and a visitor center. Note that lighthouse tours are currently paused due to staffing.
Rogue Brewery – Newport
Right across from Hatfield is Rogue Brewery. Don’t let the warehouse look fool you—this is our new favorite spot to eat in Newport. Even the kids’ chicken nuggets were homemade, which instantly won me over. They also brew their own root beer, which was incredible!
Cape Perpetua – 30 Minutes South of Newport
A short drive south brings you to Cape Perpetua, a breathtaking overlook with family-friendly trails and tide pools. We could have spent hours here exploring.
Bayfront – Newport
For a slower-paced evening, stroll Newport’s Bayfront. Grab some saltwater taffy or ice cream, sit by the pier, and watch the harbor seals play.
Whale Watching – Depoe Bay
Known as the “Whale Watching Capital of Oregon,” Depoe Bay has a visitor center with binoculars and a live-streaming camera. We spotted humpback whales during our visit. If you’re adventurous, you can book a boat tour, but we stuck to dry land with our kids.
Lincoln City
We usually stay in Lincoln City for its affordable hotels and outlets. It’s beautiful but notoriously windy, so plan accordingly if you’re hoping for long beach days.
Tillamook Cheese Factory
A family road trip must-stop! The Tillamook Creamery is free to visit, with a self-guided tour showing the cheese-making process. Of course, we couldn’t resist their ice cream.
Rockaway Beach
This smaller coastal town has become one of our favorites. The beach is perfect for sandcastles, and there’s even a little “sand toy library.” We also recommend the Big Tree Trail, a stroller-friendly boardwalk leading to a massive cedar tree. Don’t miss the Rockaway Beach Train Ride, a 30-minute scenic ride along the coast.
Oswald West State Park
Oswald Beach is a magical cove that requires a 15–20 minute hike in, but it’s worth it. We spent the day boogie boarding, exploring tide pools, and even found a hidden cave when the tide went out. Pack wisely—you’ll be carrying everything in and out.
Cannon Beach
Home of the iconic Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach is one of the most photographed spots on the coast. Perfect for a beach day or quick stop.
Seaside
We love Seaside for its wide, warm beaches (less windy than most of the coast). While the small aquarium here wasn’t worth it, the beach, boardwalk, and arcade games make it a fun stop.
Fort Stevens & Lewis and Clark National Historical Park
Between Seaside and Astoria, Fort Stevens is a World War II fort that kids can explore. Nearby, the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park offers family-friendly trails and history.
Astoria
Astoria has a little bit of everything—historical homes like the Flavel House, the Astoria Column with panoramic views, and the Columbia River Maritime Museum, which is highly interactive for kids. Don’t miss dining at Baked Alaska, our family’s go-to spot in town.
The Oregon Coast is one of those places where you can plan a dozen activities—or simply sit and watch the waves roll in. Whether you’re looking for tide pools, hikes, science centers, or just a good ice cream stop, this stretch of the coast has something for every age and stage of family life.
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