Highs along the Oregon Coast in May reach the low 70s F and the monthly number of
rainy days decreases to 8 on average- it’s a wonderful time to visit! The
sun shines for 9 hours each day and the Pacific Ocean
water temperature is climbing to an average of 53°F. There can still be
lows of 48°F so it’s recommended to bring some warmer clothes too.
The weather is nice and the nature, views and landscapes are even better. Enjoy some of the state’s
best scenic drives looking at the coast, the mountains, the lovely lighthouses and much more. Art lovers will be in heaven at the
Annual Spring Unveiling Arts Festival and sport enthusiasts should check out the
Cannon Beach Fat Bike Festival.
Best Time to Visit Oregon Coast
If you are after some summery weather the best time to visit are the months between June and September when temperature highs can even reach the upper 80s F. Summer is also the least rainy time of year. The proximity to the sea makes sure that even winters are relatively mild with temperatures in the 40s F allowing you to explore the incredible, beautiful and untouched nature all around.
The weather in spring and fall is also ideal for hiking in the mountains and nature reserves along the coast - make sure to bring some rain gear though as it does rain quite a bit! If you’re looking to see some of the enormous waves that accompany the Pacific storms, the best time is between December and February.
Things to know about Oregon Coast
The Highway 1 in California from San Francisco to Los Angeles is famously one of the most scenic roads in the world. If you head a bit further north you will hit the
highway 101 along the Oregon Coast, which is much less known but might even top the highway 1 with its beauty! The highway 101 runs for a much longer distance than the highway 1 which means that you have to plan well ahead which parts exactly you want to see. The enormous advantage is that there aren’t any of the crowds that you would encounter in California.
The most beautiful part
starts somewhere around Cannon Beach in the north and runs all the way down to the Oregon Dunes or even Crescent City and Redwood National Park. Split those 300-400 miles over several days to make the most of the stunning coastal views and state parks.
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Starting in Cannon Beach you will find a beautiful town with a charming center which invites you to take a stroll around.
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The Ecola State Park offers beautiful hiking paths including the Tillamook Head Trail as well as wonderful views across the Haystack Rock. Best of all- the entrance is free!
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The next highlight is the Cape Meares State Park which is a fantastic cape with an even cuter lighthouse. In a best case scenario, you might be able to see whales from there. The park is also famous for the ‘octopus tree’ with its countless branches and roots.
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The Cape Meares State Park forms part of the Three Cape Scenic Drive which is really worth driving along. The drive further includes the Cape Lookout and the Cape Kiwanda with its magically white sand beaches, colourful cliffs and even a touch of rainforest. Nature at its best!
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