Cape Perpetua

Oregon's highest coastal point offering dramatic seascapes with the striking Thor's Well sinkhole and powerful wave formations in tide pools and rocky shores. The scenic drive and hiking trails provide spectacular views of the rugged central Oregon coast.

Things to do

• Thor's Well — Peer into this dramatic sinkhole where seawater appears to drain into the earth, creating an otherworldly optical illusion best viewed at high tide.
• Cape Perpetua Scenic Loop Drive — Drive the winding coastal highway with multiple pullouts offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and rocky headlands.
• Spouting Horn — Watch waves compress through narrow rock channels and shoot spectacularly into the air during high tide conditions.
• Tide Pool Exploration — Search the rocky intertidal zones for starfish, anemones, crabs, and other marine life in the natural pools along the shore.
• Thor's Well Hiking Trail — Hike the moderately challenging coastal trail through coastal forest and along dramatic cliff edges to reach the famous sinkhole viewpoint.
• Cape Cove Beach Walk — Stroll along the sandy cove sheltered by dramatic headlands, offering calmer waters and tide pools compared to the open coast.

Food to try

• Fresh Dungeness Crab — Sample locally-caught Dungeness crab prepared simply steamed or in creamy bisque at nearby coastal restaurants.
• Marionberry Pie — Taste this Oregon specialty made with sweet-tart berries native to the Willamette Valley, often served warm with ice cream.
• Fish and Chips — Enjoy battered local rockfish or halibut fried crispy and served with hand-cut fries at casual seaside establishments.
• Oyster Stew — Savor fresh Pacific oysters simmered in rich butter and cream, reflecting the region's strong shellfish harvesting tradition.

Local customs & good to know

• Check Tide Tables Before Visiting — High tide is essential for viewing Thor's Well and Spouting Horn at their most dramatic, so plan your visit accordingly and check local tide forecasts.
• Respect Wave Safety and Ocean Power — The Pacific coast here is deceptively powerful with sneaker waves and strong currents; stay behind barriers, never turn your back to the ocean, and avoid swimming.
• Preserve the Tide Pools — When exploring tide pools, observe creatures in their habitat without removing them and watch your footing to avoid damaging sensitive marine life.