Oregon

Exploring the Oregon Coast: Canon Beach, Astoria, and Secluded Gems

If you’re looking for the perfect blend of stunning views, fun movie nostalgia, and peaceful nature escapes, the Oregon Coast has you covered! On our latest trip, we visited some iconic spots, starting with Canon Beach, made famous by its jaw-dropping Haystack Rock, and ended up stumbling upon some hidden treasures along the way.

Canon Beach: Where Haystack Rock Steals the Show

Our adventure kicked off at Canon Beach, a cozy little coastal town that feels like something out of a postcard. Haystack Rock, towering above the beach, was the undeniable star. With the waves crashing and seagulls circling, it’s impossible not to feel a sense of calm (and snap a few hundred photos, of course). Walking along the beach at low tide, we even found some tide pools filled with tiny sea creatures—pure magic!

Astoria: Goonies, History, and Breathtaking Views

Next up was Astoria, a must-visit for any ‘80s movie lover (especially if you’re a fan of The Goonies). We made our way to the iconic Goonies house and stopped by the old county jail where some of the movie’s famous scenes were filmed. Nostalgia overload!

But Astoria isn’t just for movie buffs. We ventured to the Astoria Column, a towering structure that offers sweeping 360-degree views of the town and the Columbia River. After climbing the spiral staircase (it’s a workout, but totally worth it), we were rewarded with views that seemed to stretch on forever.

Hiking Adventures: Hidden Trails and Secluded Beaches

To top it all off, we spent some time exploring the dense forests surrounding the coast. Oregon’s hiking trails are something else—lush, green, and almost otherworldly. As we meandered through the towering trees, we found ourselves stumbling upon quiet, secluded beaches. These hidden spots felt like private little retreats, where the only sounds were the rustling leaves and the waves gently rolling in. It was the perfect way to wrap up our coastal adventure.