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GizmosMom's avatar
GizmosMom
Explorer
Jun 30, 2016

Oregon/California coast--best time of year?

A few years back we were dreaming about taking a trip down the Oregon/California coast. I remember reading that the best views would be to travel south. There were also mentions of the best time of year. I think the early spring but now I can't remember for sure.

Now that we have retired and have more time we are thinking about making this trip in 2017.

Can someone suggest the best time of year for this trip?

Thanks!
  • Spring and Fall.

    Winter is stormy and cold. Summer has fog.
  • Although we are in Astoria now, and heading across the bridge to Long Beach WA tomorrow, August and September are pretty hard to beat. Traveling south gives you the best views and turn outs. We came north through Nevada, Utah and Idaho, but will head south along the coast.
  • In Astoria: Maritime Museum (all ages), waterfront trolly, Ft Stevens, Lewis & Clark fort, the Column and not to mention you are at the mouth of the Columbia River which is perhaps the most dangerous river entry in the world with about 300 large ship wrecks!

    Want a clue about the river? The cannon found at Cannon Beach sank at Astoria before being found at Cannon Beach years later.
  • We are leaving in about a week for our 5th trip to the OR Coast - we love it there. Have been to the whole Coast and also CA Coast. Our favorite area - which we are doing again - is Cannon Beach down to Bandon.

    Travel south.

    Do not go before mid July unless you like rain! :-) We go Aug to mid Sept.
  • Mid to late September is the best. The sun is out, the winds have died down, and the kids are back in school. Don't tell anyone though, we Oregonians like that time for ourselves.
  • September and October are great in Calif -- clear skies, fewer tourists. Good waves, too!
  • South in OR is best for large rigs due to ocean side view pullouts.

    Anytime schools are in session is better due to fewer travelers.