It’s almost here, you can feel it in the air — SPRING BREAK! March 24-28, 2025, is Spring Break for most Oregon schools and during that week the Central Oregon Coast blooms into action. Wondering where to go for unforgettable outdoor adventures, unique galleries and gift shops, and the freshest catch on the Central Coast?
Our Spring Break guide has you covered. Book one of our beautiful oceanfront or ocean view Sweet Homes as the perfect backdrop to your Spring Break getaway.
- Depoe Bay – Known as the “Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coast” thanks to a resident pod of gray whales, Depoe Bay is the perfect place to scout for whale tails on your Spring Break vacation (which also happens to be Spring Whale Watch Week!) Learn all about Oregon whales at the Whale Watching Center or book an excursion with one of several wonderful guide services such as Dockside Charters for an up-close experience.
- Otter Rock – Spend the day exploring the unique and picturesque natural features known as Devil’s Punchbowl and Otter Rock Marine Reserve as well as the tiny village of Otter Rock. Feeling adventurous? Work up an appetite during a surfing lesson through Pura Vida Surf Shop then grab a bite to eat at Mo’s West to fuel up for your next escapade.
- Newport – Stretch your legs exploring the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area and don’t miss iconic photo opps at the historic Yaquina Head Lighthouse. The Oregon Coast Aquarium is always a family-friendly activity (especially on a rainy day) and the shops and galleries nearby along Newport’s Historic Bayfront promise something for everyone. Be sure to stop and listen to the Newport Sea Lions on the docks! There’s always incredible fresh catch at Local Ocean on the bayfront or, for a more casual, family-friendly vibe, head to Newport Cafe to round out an action-packed day.
- Seal Rock – Of course, your first stop must be Seal Rock State Park for easily accessible and incredible views of its namesake: Seal Rock! If you’re in an outdoorsy mood, rent kayaks from Coastal River Adventures and visit Brian Booth State Park to make a day of kayaking Beaver Creek. For the artistic traveler, take in live glass blowing at Ocean Beaches Glassblowing Gallery then stock up on sweet snacks for the whole family at nearby bakery Chubby Lil Mermaid. Nearby, the Luna Sea Fish House boasts a hearty menu of fresh seafood and grass-fed beef burgers and often hosts live music to add flavor to a delicious meal.
- Waldport – Governor Patterson State Recreation Area is a great place to hunt for shells on long beach walks. Call on Dock of the Bay to get clamming with equipment rentals and boat launch access. Getting hungry yet? Get your Skosh on at this Hwy 101 favorite serving finely crafted burgers, sandwiches and more or drop into Hilltop Cafe Bistro for a delicious brunch or lunch.
- Yachats – Cape Perpetua Scenic Area is an outdoor lover’s paradise — from Neptune State Scenic Area to Thor’s Well you’ll be spoiled by natural wonders to explore. Absolutely plan time to wander the shops and cafes in the picturesque coastal village of Yachats — music lovers can drop by Midtown Guitar Company to try out a ukulele or guitar pedal and browse the vinyl stacks in the record shop upstairs. Ona Restaurant has a fantastic view for you to enjoy along with their award winning food.
- Florence – Further South on the Central Oregon Coast, Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is your spot for epic dune adventures. Check out Sandland Adventures for dune buggy rental (as well as mini-golf and go-karts!) Historic Old Town is bustling with shops, cafes and galleries to explore for a little retail therapy. Novelli’s Crab & Seafood is a great bet for authentic Oregon Coast flavors after an action-packed day.
These just scratch the surface of all the goings on during Spring Break on the Central Oregon Coast. Whatever path your adventures take, Sweet Homes Vacation Getaways can help you get there! Call our friendly Vacation Planners in our Yachats office at 800-519-0437 if you’d like help planning your itinerary. Our team is local and full of great ideas!