Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, Oregon provides a wide variety of outdoor experiences. A hidden gem, a quaint seaside hamlet known as the state’s whale-watching capital, is located along its gorgeous coastline.
Both nature lovers and adventure seekers will have a memorable time in this coastal paradise with its stunning views and plethora of marine life.
Come explore this fascinating location with us and learn why it’s a must-see for any traveler to Oregon.
Depoe Bay: Oregon’s Best Whale Watching Spot
Depoe Bay, situated directly on the Pacific Coast, is roughly 110 miles southwest of Portland.
There, a whale breaching in the distance adds to the somber majesty of the picturesque and untamed Oregon coastline, which is chafed by powerful waves and peppered with towering evergreen trees.
The area is home to roughly 40 gray whales that feed directly in Depoe Bay, making May through October the best time of year to go whale watching.
Apart from the opportunity to observe whales while on a cruise or on land, the region surrounding Depoe Bay is also endowed with some of the most stunning beaches in the nation.
Depoe Bay is only a short drive away from beach areas that are worth exploring for the afternoon.
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Observing whales on the water
This unusual perch, which was constructed in 1956 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2012, boasts breathtaking views of Depoe Bay. Informational films, signs, and pamphlets regarding the whale populations and their Pacific migration patterns may be found inside the center.
Both inside and outdoor viewing platforms offer binoculars for observing the whales in the distance.
Although whales can be observed there all year round, the Whale Watching Center says that between June and November, 5 to 15 gray whales per day are frequently sighted.
The facility is free and open every day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., though the hours may change in the winter.
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The beaches close to Depoe Bay
The Fogarty Creek State Recreation Area is a beautiful cove for tide pooling, fishing, and picnics, located five minutes north of Depoe Bay.
“Such a special place to visit and explore… follow the creek down to the beach and discover tide pools (during low tide), some seals, unique rocks, and ocean waves,” wrote one reviewer on Tripadvisor, praising the beach.
Located six miles north of Fogarty, Gleneden State Beach is another popular beach. It offers beach walks, the chance to surf the huge waves, and the chance to see sea lions swoop in and out of the foamy surf.
Return to Depoe Bay and eat at Whale Bites Café, which is located directly across the harbor bridge.
Whale Bites, the only eatery in Depoe Bay with a patio outside that looks out to the bay and the port, is open Thursday through Monday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and serves fresh smoothies and hearty sandwiches and burgers.
During the summer, you might even see a whale while having lunch or breakfast!
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