Known for having the World’s Smallest Navigable Harbor- Depoe Bay, is home to a small 6-acre bay where Depoe Creek enters the Pacific Ocean through a narrow channel in basalt rock and is known for Depoe Bay Whale Watching. Present day finds this narrow channel at 50 feet wide, but the original entry point used to be only 30 feet wide. Basically, it takes some serious skill to navigate a boat through the narrow passage. The cute small town of Depoe Bay sits above the channel, between two of the Oregon Coast’s most visited spots–Lincoln City to the north and Newport to the south, which may be why it’s often overlooked by travelers. But what we discovered by visiting this old fishing village several times over the last few months, is that they are plenty of reasons to stop and stay awhile. Depoe Bay is just plain charming! Today, I’m excited to share with you this Depoe Bay Travel Guide, complete with the best hotels in Depoe Bay to the best whale watching to help you on your journey of exploring the Oregon Coast.
DEPOE BAY TRAVEL GUIDE
SEE
Depoe Bay Whale Watching
Depoe Bay’s Whale Watching Center is on the National Register of Historic Places and is a wonderful place to begin your whale watching adventure. Most people do not know that you can whale watch year-round on the Oregon Coast, but that Depoe Bay is a premier spot to catch a glimpse of this amazing sight. You can even charter a whale watching tour for a once in a lifetime opportunity to see whales close up in their natural habitat.
Spouting Horn
Smack dab in the middle of downtown Depoe Bay, you can witness a natural oceanic spouting horn, which is a geologic feature formed from ancient basalt. The Spouting Horn is a must-see, often abruptly firing seawater into the air 20-40 feet without notice. Just be careful you don’t get soaked!
Visit Shops + Galleries
Spend an afternoon leisurely strolling Depoe Bay’s bayfront, stopping into art galleries, and fun little kitschy beach shops, just don’t forget to grab some salt water taffy before you leave! Ainslee’s has some of the best taffy along the coast, and you can even watch them make it through their glass window kitchen. Founded in 1947, it’s one of the oldest taffy shops in Oregon.
STAY
Hotels in Depoe Bay
Whale Point Depoe Bay
Each time we visit Depoe Bay we stay at Whale Point Depoe Bay. It’s difficult to book, and almost always sold out, but if you’re lucky this place is the best! Walking distance from downtown Depoe Bay, this property boasts ocean front views from every room and offers one, two, or three bedroom condo style rooms. The perfect place to escape with the whole family, enjoy Depoe Bay whale watching from your living room, or listening to the sounds of the ocean curled by the fire.
SCP Depoe Bay
This eco-friendly surf lodge nestled in down in the charming harbor of Depoe Bay is also walking distance to downtown, and city parks. I’ve personally never stayed here, but on a recent trip to the area we strolled through the lobby and enjoyed the ambiance. It has good reviews and you can book harbor view rooms which is a plus!
Whale Cove Inn
Located outside of Depoe Bay, on an isolated stretch of 101 this Inn is rated one of the most exclusive luxury boutique inns in Oregon. Each room features jaw dropping views, with a private deck and hot tub. Perfect for a romantic getaway.
EAT
Bay View Thai Kitchen
Some of the best Thai food I’ve ever had comes from this family-owned little hidden gem in Depoe Bay. It’s so good, we crave it and whether you decide to eat in or grab food for take out, it’s fresh, authentic and delicious. We’ve tried everything from the drunken noodles to the Pa-nang curry, and everything is amazing. With a view of the bay, you cannot go wrong with a stop here!
Tidal Raves
A long standing favorite along the Oregon coast, some of our favorites include their Cioppino, Dungeness Crab and Shrimp Mac and Cheese, and their delicious smoked salmon chowder! Oceanfront dining at it’s finest!
Horn Brewing
With a dramatic view of Depoe Bay, this place not only brews up some of the best beer along the coast, they also serve some of the best chowder! We love stopping here as soon as we arrive into town to pick up steaming bowls of chowder, and an order of their fish and chips to split for dinner. Yum!
I hope you enjoyed this Depoe Bay Travel Guide! If you’re looking for another weekend getaway along the coast, consider reading my Travel Guide to Pacific City for a little inspiration!
XO,
M
Thank you to Discover Depoe Bay All opinions are honest and my own and I truly appreciate your support that makes this blog possible! As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases as well as other affiliate links found in this post. Please see my Disclosure for more information.
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