Have you always dreamed of visiting Oregon’s coast but never knew where to begin? We can understand your position since we felt the same way back when we first started to explore everything, down to every rock that came our way! By doing this, we discovered a lot more things than we expected, especially in the smaller towns. They are the ones that are at the top of our list nowadays, and we can’t wait to share all of them with you!

Today, we will talk about Depoe Bay, Oregon. Located between Newport and Lincoln City, this is the ideal spot for your weekend away. Depoe Bay can truly offer an amazing experience, so we are here to persuade you to give it a chance!

If you are looking for the ultimate summer treat, this is the place for you. From the rock formation to the most delicious ice cream you’ve ever tasted, this northern town provides an incredible experience for all those who visit it.

Since we have a lot of ground to cover, let’s start – these are the best things to do in Depoe Bay, Oregon.

1. Beach Walks

The absolute first thing you need to do once you get here is to take a walk along the beach! It is one of the best things to do in Depoe Bay, Oregon. We truly advise you to make this your first stop. Your expectations will probably not be as high since you are visiting a small town, but trust us – you will be mindblown! The waves will probably be too strong to swim, but there is a small creek there, where even children can splash around.

2. Boiler Bay State

When you come to this point, you will probably gasp because it is such an incredible sight to see. On your right, you will see a small waterfall that becomes one with the ocean. And as you make your turn, you will come face to face with one of the most stunning views ever! This is probably the most dramatic point in Depoe Bay, and it is even known for birdwatching. You have an opportunity to see all types of birds, including albatrosses, pelicans, and oystercatchers.

3. Depoe Bay Scenic Park

Since we are talking about some of the best things to do in Depoe Bay, Oregon, you should not miss out on the town’s scenic park. It is located in the town center, and it’s quite expansive. The park is the perfect rest area, especially because there are so many benches. You get to see a lot of wildflowers on your stroll there, and the rocky coastline makes the scenery that much better. This park is tucked away in an area that is filled with homes and vacation rentals. Sounds amazing? That’s because it is!

4. Depoe Bay Beach

Now, we wouldn’t particularly classify this as one of the weird things to do in Depoe Bay, Oregon, but it is a little bit “up there”. Why? Because it is a beach! A northern beach! Interestingly enough, it is the only beach you can find in this area. There isn’t a parking lot there, but street parking is a viable option. Also, it comes with a steep and ropey walk down, so if you are planning to visit this beach with children or pets, we recommend you think twice. Did we mention the beach is covered with black sand?

5. Grab a Local Bite

Moving on with some of the weird things to do in Depoe Bay Oregon – for such a small town, you will probably be as surprised as we were to find such an incredible place to sit down and have a meal. Believe it or not, this place is called Tidal Raves Seafood Grill, and it offers a unique fine dining experience! If you have been asking around about it and wanted to know something more – here we are! The truth is that you will not find a place that offers better views than this one, and the food is exquisite – definitely worth a try!

6. Arch Rock Café

For all those who want to enjoy a good cup of coffee, the Arch Rock Cafe is such a memorable place. It is a lovely, quaint spot that will instantly put a smile on your face. If you are visiting this town for a weekend getaway, this is exactly the mood you’re in for. It is a memorable experience; the coffee is delicious, and there is even an area outside where you can sit with your dog and enjoy the ocean view. The cafe is pet-friendly, and you can enjoy your beverage inside.

7. The Horn Public House & Brewery

If you are a beer lover, then you will not make a mistake with The Horn Public House & Brewery! This one is probably one of the best things to do in Depoe Bay, Oregon. Go for lunch or dinner there and enjoy the amazing clam chowder or salmon sandwiches. You can try amazing new types of beer there, and enjoy the atmosphere. Oh, and the brewery offers some of the most magnificent ocean views so don’t be too surprised if you lose yourself admiring the deep azure.

8. Whale Watching

Let’s face it, you have probably chosen this as your destination because you want to do a lot of outdoor activities. You want to step out of the ordinary and into the deep unknown. Well, you have chosen just the spot for that! Here, you can find the OPRD Whale Watching Center, the place where you can read about the migrations, learn about the grey whales, and make the most out of your overall Depoe Bay experience. When you are looking for whale wildlife, here is what you can hope for – orca, gray, and humpback whales, porpoises, blue whales, and dolphins. Yes, it is as breathtaking as it sounds! This truly is the whale-watching capital of Oregon!

9. Fogarty Creek

We have slowly come to one of the best things to do in Depoe Bay, Oregon, and that is Fogarty Creek. As we mentioned earlier, there is a large park that stretches along the rocky beach, but it’s located a bit higher. It always gets busy on a sunny day, and when you go up there, you can witness some incredible sights! The trickling creek is just what you need to see when you go there.

10. Devil's Punchbowl

We truly believe this is the perfect destination, no matter what the season. During the stormy season, you can witness some spectacular crashing waves. Because of this, Devil’s Punchbowl is typically filled with surfers with the biggest adrenaline rush. However, the waves can get pretty big, so we don’t recommend this area for rookies. On the flip side, when the tide is very low, you can walk inside that collapsed sea cave. Whichever option you opt for, you will have some unique and incredible sights!

11. Cape Foulweather

From all available activities, this will be one of the best things to do in Depoe Bay, Oregon. This cape offers a spectacular view of the Pacific, and it is an excellent gray whale-watching spot. You can go and sit there, relax on the beach, and watch the waves crash onto the shore.

12. Otter Crest Beach

We mentioned Devil’s Punchbowl earlier, and Otter Crest Beach is a little bit on the north side of it. This is a magnificent destination and with good reason! In the sandstone cliffs, you can find some amazing small caves like you’ve never seen before. On top of that, the ocean view in the background only makes up for a wonderful experience.

13. Gleneden Beach

Even though Glenden Beach is found a little bit north of Depoe Bay, if you are a nature lover in every sense of the word, then this is just the right spot for you! This piece of coastal paradise is actually a developed state park, and it is a public space, even though the rest is a residential area.

14. Depoe Bay Harbor

This is actually the world’s smallest navigable harbor, but it is a wonderful sight! It is located in the town center, and it is visible from the Deboe Bay Bridge. If you want to take a closer look, you can always take a whale-watching boat or fishing charter.

15. The Sealife Museum

The last on the list for today is probably one of the most fun things to do in Depoe Bay, Oregon. The Whale, Sealife, and Shark Museum is an excellent choice for all who want to learn a little bit more about marine life and see some artifacts such as bones, shells, and birds! Check the opening hours and visit this museum!
There is a lot more to see and do when you are in this quaint town. We are hoping that our list of things to do in Depoe Bay, Oregon, has made you want to visit it immediately! To make things even better, download our Oregon travel guide. Pack your bags and arrange your next trip – and have a lovely time!