Oregon’s stretch of Highway 101 is one of the most breathtaking drives in the Pacific Northwest. Known for its rugged coastlines, windswept beaches, and charming seaside towns, this iconic stretch of highway offers far more than postcard views. Tucked along the way are the hidden gems of Highway 101 just waiting to be discovered. Keep reading for the lesser-known stops that are well worth the detour.
Start Your Adventure at Eagles Market and Gas
Leaving Eagle Point, you’ll head west on Highway 62 before joining Highway 199 or Highway 42. Both popular routes offer glimpses of Oregon’s diverse landscape – rushing rivers, thick groves of Douglas fir, and small towns exuding the Pacific Northwest’s pioneer spirit. Within a few hours, you’ll be greeted by the salty tang of sea air, a sure sign you’ve arrived at the coast and the beginning of your Highway 101 adventure.
Before you get that far, though, make a stop at Eagles Market and Gas for everything you need on the road. You can stock up on cold beverages, snacks, fresh deli items, and, of course, premium fuel for your vehicle. Starting your adventure with a full tank means you won’t have to worry about where to stop in remote stretches of the drive.
Six Hidden Gems of Highway 101
1. Hug Point State Recreation Site
Your first hidden gem of Highway 101 is Hug Point Recreation Site. Located just south of Cannon Beach, Hug Point is a lesser-known coastal stop with a fascinating past. At low tide, you can walk along the old stagecoach road carved into the headland, a reminder of how travelers once navigated the rugged coastline. You’ll find tide pools, sea caves, and even a small waterfall that trickles onto the sand. It’s the perfect spot to stretch your legs and feel transported back to another era.
2. Oswald West State Park
Not far from Hug Point is Oswald West State Park, home to Short Sand Beach – or “Shorty’s” as the locals call it. This hidden gem of Highway 101 is a sheltered cove framed by cliffs and lush greenery. It’s a quieter alternative to Oregon’s more famous beaches and is popular with surfers and picnickers wanting to enjoy a peaceful lunch as they watch the waves roll in.
3. Cape Meares
As you continue south on Highway 101, Cape Meares is your next hidden gem to explore. The historic Cape Meares Lighthouse offers sweeping ocean views, but the real hidden gem is the Octopus Tree. This centuries-old Sitka spruce is known for its massive branches that spread out like giant tentacles. Local legends surround the tree, with some believing it was once a ceremonial gathering place for Indigenous tribes. Whether or not the stories are true, the Octopus Tree is an unforgettable stop.
4. Yachats Hidden Trails
Further down the coast, the small town of Yachats proves that sometimes the best hidden gems of Highway 101 are found in the smallest packages. The 804 Trail winds along the rocky shoreline with tide pools, crashing waves, and stunning sunsets. Just inland, the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area offers some of the best coastal hikes in Oregon, including one to a viewpoint that towers 800 feet above the Pacific.
5. Bandon’s Boardwalk
Bandon may be known for its cranberry bogs and stunning beaches, but its old-town boardwalk is well worth a stop. Wooden sculptures crafted by local artists line the marina, lending a whimsical charm to the town’s working waterfront. Grab some cranberry ice cream or a plate of fish and chips before getting back on the road.
6. Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor
Your final stretch leads to one of the most spectacular hidden gems of Highway 101 and Oregon itself: the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. This 12-mile stretch of coastline near Brookings is packed with natural bridges, secluded coves, and dramatic sea stacks. Stretch your legs with a short hike to Secret Beach – tucked between the cliffs, it offers picture-perfect views that feel straight out of a fantasy novel.
Discover More at Eagles Market and Gas
A road trip from Eagle Point to the hidden gems of Highway 101 is a chance to slow down and soak in Oregon’s coast. From secret beaches and historic lighthouses to quirky small towns and awe-inspiring forests, every bend in the road reveals something new. Pick up everything you need for your road trip with a stop at Eagles Market and Gas.
From chips to candy to trail mix, Eagles Market carries all your favorite road trip snacks and cold beverages. You’ll also find fresh deli items and Scratch Dig-In-Chicken to stock your cooler for a picnic along the way. Beyond snacks, Eagles Market has first-aid kits, personal items, and other everyday and on-the-go essentials. And, of course, Eagles Market is your stop for low prices on premium fuel. So pack your bags, fuel up, and hit the road – the hidden gems of Highway 101 are waiting.