8 Underrated Destinations on the Pacific Coast to Avoid Summer Crowds
The North American portion of the Pacific Coast stretches along the western sides of Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The states of Alaska, Washington, Oregon, and California are full of magnificent cliffs, sandy beaches, and redwood forests. From whale-watching to fishing, surfing, and sightseeing, there is no shortage of amazing activities to keep you busy on your vacation. Although many of the more popular areas become incredibly busy during the summer, there are still some hidden treasures where there are no lines, hiked-up prices, or crowds, so you can focus on adventure instead.
Bandon, Oregon
The beautiful, small coastal town of Bandon is full of natural delights and tons of opportunities for some delicious seafood meals.
Drop your bags off at one of the many resort options, including Windermere on the Beach, Table Rock Motel, and Sunset Oceanfront Lodging. if camping is more your style, reserve a sight at Bullards Beach State Park, or go glamping at Dew Valley Ranch Nature Retreat.
Once you're all settled, hit the outdoors and experience a wide range of activities. Play a game of golf at the Bandon Crossings Golf Course. Explore the trails and spot wildlife at places such as Bandon Marsh and Bullards Beach State Park and Lighthouse. Go crabbing or fishing either on the waves or along the Coquille River, which is also a prime spot for kayaking and boating. For a fun, unique activity, try out horseback riding along the beach at Bandon Beach Riding Stables. Depending on when you arrive in Bandon, you can also look forward to events such as Crab Fest in March, and the Cranberry Festival in September.
Going out to eat is a breeze with lots of restaurants to choose from. Grab some fresh catches at Bandon Fish Market, or sit down to a meal at Broken Anchor Bar and Grill. There is also Tony's Crab Shack for a quick bite. Keep the night going with hotspots like 7 Devils Brewing Co. and Bandon Brewing.
Avila Beach, California
The sunny destination of Avila Beach is perfect for a romantic getaway, girls' trip, or wedding.
Stay in gorgeous hotels and resorts like San Luis Bay Inn, which sits on a bluff overlooking the ocean. Avila Lighthouse Suites has all the amenities you could ask for, plus beach access and outdoor pools. And Avila La Fonda Hotel transports you back to a 19th-century Mexican village.
Dine on some of the best seafood California has to offer at Mersea's Restaurant, or enjoy French-inspired cuisine at Blue Moon Over Avila, which also serves as a wine bar. Hula Hut is great for a quick lunch, with smoothies, salads, and sandwiches.
Take part in activities like fishing charters, whale watching, sailing, rafting, and more. Walk popular trails such as Ontario Ridge and Pecho Coast. Cycle down the Bob Jones Trail. Stop in at the Avila Hot Springs, or check out the Point San Luis Lighthouse. There is also the Central Coast Aquarium. There are lots of rental options as well, with options for electric and regular bikes, paddlesport gear, and surfboards.
If you love wine, check out Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards, or stop at a cellar in town like Alapay Cellars or Peloton Cellars.
Yachats, Oregon
Experience the stunning beauty of the Oregon coast in Yachats.
Go beachcombing, tidepool hunting, and swimming at beaches such as the Yachats State Recreational Area, Smelt Sands State Recreation Site, Tillicum Beach, Beachside State Park, and Neptune State Park. There is also Cape Perpetua, which features lots of ways to learn about the coast.
Hike on popular trails like Amanda Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, Ya'xaik Trail, and Prospect Trail. Another popular activity here is foraging, where you can gather things like mushrooms, nettles, and wild onions.
In town, grab a quick pick-me-up at Village Bean before hitting the local shops. You can find stores selling used books, gems, stones, antiques and more. There is also a farmers market. In October, look forward to the Mushroom Festival.
After a day of exploring, stop in at the Adobe Restaurant and Lounge, which features incredible views of the ocean and sunset. Then rest your head at one of the resorts, including the Dublin House Motel, which is designed after a lighthouse. There is also Ambrosia Hardens Bed and Breakfast, and the more luxurious option, Overleaf Lodge and Spa.
Homer, Alaska
The quaint town of Homer, Alaska is surrounded by outdoor adventures.
Mainly known for its prime fishing waters, with opportunities to catch king salmon, halibut, and rockfish, Homer has endless charters and tours to choose from. Whether you're an expert fisher, or just picking up a rod for the first time, there's a boat leaving the harbor with your name on it. Other fun tours include bear safaris, seaplanes, helicopters, and sightseeing cruises.
Admire the beauty of the surrounding mountains from one of the main park areas around town. This includes Friends of Kachemak Bay State Park, and the Kachemak Bay Water Trail, which is perfect for canoeing and kayaking. Discover the wildlife and history around you with the Kilcher Homestead Living Museum, and the Alaska SeaLife Center.
In town, choose from dozens of restaurants, such as AJ's Old Town Steakhouse and Tavern, and Mike's Alaskan Eatery. There are also adorable coffee shops, bakeries, and places to grab some fresh seafood like Coal Point Seafood Co. Keep the night going with Grace Ridge Brewing, and Homer Brewing Company.
Retire to a picturesque lodge, or choose from a handful of other accommodation options. This includes yurt and cabin rentals. Bear Creek Winery and Lodging, and Kachemak Bay Wilderness Lodge are two popular options.
Friday Harbor, Washington
Friday Harbor is located on San Juan Island, and has connections to areas all over Washington, making it a great base camp for all your adventures.
The ferry terminal takes you to destinations such as Seattle, Anacortes, Port Townsend, and Sidney, British Columbia. The town serves as a touring hotspot, with excursions dedicated to sailing, hiking, kayaking, whale watching, and island hopping. You can also rent boats, bikes, mopeds, and paddleboards. Another fun activity is heading to Jackson Beach on Argyle Lagoon, or you can visit the farmers market in town for some local goodies.
Stop for coffee at popular spots such as Rocky Bay Coffee and Salty Fox Coffee. Sit down to a magnificent dinner at OYSTERTALE, or keep it casual with Friday's Crabhouse. At night, head down to San Juan Island Brewing Company for some local craft beers.
Check into many oceanside accommodations, and lodges surrounded by nature. Discovery Inn is surrounded by greenery, and Wharfside Bed and Breakfast is a unique option, with the rooms being on a historic yacht.
Fort Bragg, California
Enjoy warm weather, beaches, and California redwoods in the town of Fort Bragg.
Water-based activities include kayaking, surfing, fishing charters, crabbing, and swimming. Head to popular beaches like Babcock, Belinda Point, Hidden Beach, Pudding Creek, and Glass Beach, with endless chances to find unique sea glass. there are also plenty of nature areas, including Russian Gulch State Park, Jug Handle State Nature Reserve, MacKerricher State Park, and the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. You can also check out the farmers market, and the Skunk Train, a train tour through the redwoods.
When in town, grab something refreshing at Headlands Coffeehouse, or at A-Frame Espresso. Some prime dinner spots include KW's Saltwater Grill and Princess Seafood. For those who love craft beer, check out one of the local breweries such as North Coast Brewing Company, Tall Guy Brewing, and Overtime Brewing.
Call it a night and retire to accommodations such as Ocean View Lodge, Noyo Harbor Inn & Tavern, or stay out in nature at Casper Beach RV and Campground.
Oak Harbor, Washington
Explore dozens of nearby parks and beaches, all within a short drive of Oak Harbor.
If you love hiking, conquer popular trails like Ala Spit County Park Trail, Beach View Farm Trail, and Strawberry Point Trail. Splash in the waters, try to spot wildlife, or picnic at parks such as Deception Pass State Park, Del Fairfax Preserve, Joseph Whidbey State Park, West Beach County Park, Hastie Lake County Park, and Libbey Beach. Or experience history at Fort Ebey State Park. Other fun activities include the Gallery Golf Course, Cornet Bay Marina with public boat launch, clamming, crabbing, and bird watching at Swan Lake.
Try some delicious seafood at Seabolts Restaurant, or if you don't like seafood, try out Oak Harbor Cafe and Lounge. At night, catch a movie at the Blue Fox Drive-In before heading to your oceanfront hotel. Popular options include Navy Lodge, Captain Whidbey, and Auld Holland Inn, a Dutch-inspired accommodation with its own windmill.
Depoe Bay, Oregon
Known as the whale-watching capital of Oregon, Depoe Bay is full of amazing viewpoints, beaches, and parks.
To get the best views, hike to viewpoints such as Boiler Bay, Otter Crest, and Rocky Creek, or take the Graham Street Scenic Lookout Trail. Watch the waves crash into the cliffs at Scenic Park, or snap a picture with the iconic whale statue at Whale Park. Get out and explore with areas such as Devil's Punchbowl State Natural Area, or Fogarty Creek State Recreational Area. Head over to Pirate Cove, where you can grab a coffee and treat at Pirate Coffee Company before kayaking on the waters. Or spot some tidepools and sealife at Beverly Beach State Park or nearby Moolack Beach. For even more wildlife opportunities, check out the Whales Sealife and Sharks Museum.
In town, enjoy a magnificent sunset at Tidal Raves, a restaurant overlooking the sea. Gracies Sea Hag serves up excellent chowder, and the Horn Public House and Depoe Brewing Company is a great place to try some local drafts.
Enjoy the views at Whale Cove Inn, or camp right along the beach at Sea and Sand RV Park. For a more luxury experience, reserve a suite at Whale Pointe Resort.
Look forward to endless outdoor activities like kayaking, surfing, clamming, crabbing, and swimming, as well as the chance to try outstanding seafood, sleep right on the beach, and watch the beautiful Pacific Coast sunsets. Whether you're chasing thrills, or want to just kick back and relax, there's a secret little beach town calling your name, in whichever Western state you choose.
