Unlike other popular coastal towns in Oregon, Depoe Bay isn’t centered around strollable, sandy beaches, but around a giant bay and the world’s smallest navigable harbor. You may not be able to put your toes in the sand, but you can whale watch, view a historical landmark and a natural phenomenon, enjoy delicious seafood, and stroll the sea wall.
Check out some of our favorite things to do in Depoe Bay:
Spouting Horn
Depoe Bay is the only town on the Oregon coast with a “spouting horn” located downtown. When the tidal conditions are right, waves make their way through the cracks in the lava beds, build pressure, and create geyser-like sprays as high as 60 feet into the air. During stormy weather, Depoe Bay’s spouting horn is known to spray across HWY 101, drenching cars and visitors alike!
Note: Please use caution when viewing these dramatic and impressive forces of nature.
Depoe Bay Bridge
This historical landmark is an iconic marker and a favorite stop for visitors and locals alike. The northern end of the bridge includes the Whale Watching Center. Just beneath the center is a whale watching platform with picnic benches and coin-operated telescopes – perfect for searching for a spout offshore.
Prefer to get up close and personal? Tradewinds Charter has been providing whale watching charters since 1938. Their experienced and friendly crew will make sure you have a whale of a time!
Note: Depoe Bay is known as the Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coast. Spring Oregon Whale Watch Week takes place March 28 – April 2, 2023.
Shop and Dine with a View
Depoe Bay’s huge sea wall runs the length of the downtown area, providing visitors with an ocean view while shopping and sampling the local cuisine. Celebrating a special occasion? We recommend Restaurant Beck. Craving seafood? Tidal Raves has a great menu serving classics dishes with a twist like Dungeness crab mac and cheese and fish tacos served with chimichurri rice, chipotle aioli and cilantro lime sour cream.
Looking for a souvenir or a keepsake? Enjoy browsing the charming and quirky shops. Don’t forget to stop by Ainslee’s for a sweet treat – they even have milk bones coated in a dog-friendly confectionary. Perfect for your favorite four-legged family member after a long day of exploring.
Hit the Trails
There are several hiking trails to explore near Depoe Bay. Some offer stunning views, while others guide you through lush forests and vast meadows. Popular hikes include Cape Foulweather, Devil’s Punchbowl, and Otter Crest Loop.
Come Discover Depoe Bay!
Book your next coastal getaway with Meredith Lodging. We have an impressive collection of Depoe Bay vacation rentals to suit all sizes and budgets. Many of our homes have ocean views, hot tubs, and allow pets, too! We hope to see you soon!
