Coastal Area

It’s a pretty quick trip from Portland to the Pacific Ocean—about 1 1/2 hours. Along the way, you’ll enjoy some lovely views, especially through the Coastal Mountains.  

Once you arrive, the Oceanside area is stunning. You can easily spot the Arch Rocks, which are truly a breathtaking sight. 

Coastal Mountains

West of Portland, coastal mountains formed by uplifted marine sediments and basalt rise from tectonic activity and subduction. Heavy winter rain in the temperate rainforest sustains Douglas fir, western hemlock, Sitka spruce, red alder, mosses, ferns, and dense undergrowth. Wildlife—black bears, Roosevelt elk, bobcats, river otters, pileated woodpeckers, and northern spotted owls—thrives. Rivers like the Nehalem, Wilson, and Tillamook provide salmon habitat, recreation, and support timber and fishing industries.