Are you seeking an unforgettable summer adventure where you can immerse yourself in majestic nature and enjoy unique experiences? Come to Oregon, the beautiful coastal state of the United States, and discover enchanting sailing journeys. Oregon is not only famous for its rugged Pacific coastline, lush green forests, and rolling mountains, but also a paradise for yachting enthusiasts and sea explorers.
From romantic sunset sailing trips on the Columbia River to exploring the pristine Yaquina Bay, Oregon offers countless sailing experiences to suit every taste and level. Join “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel the World) to discover why summer sailing in Oregon is an excellent choice, bringing you unforgettable memories and unexpected discoveries.
1. Explore Oregon’s Magnificent Coastline by Sailboat
Oregon’s coastline stretches over 580 km, renowned for its unspoiled beauty, towering cliffs, mysterious black sand beaches, and charming coastal towns. There’s nothing better than admiring the panoramic view of this stunning coastline from a sailboat, feeling the cool sea breeze and the gentle sound of waves lapping.
Sailing along the Oregon coast will take you to famous destinations such as Cannon Beach with the iconic Haystack Rock, tranquil Tillamook Bay with its famous cheese factory, or vibrant Newport with the Oregon Coast Aquarium and the historic Yaquina Bay Bridge. Each stop offers unique experiences, from exploring diverse marine ecosystems to enjoying fresh seafood and learning about local culture.
Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock, a must-see destination for Oregon sailing trips.
2. Indulge Your Passion for Water Sports and Surfing
Oregon is not only an ideal destination for sailing but also a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. With powerful and consistent waves, the Oregon coast is one of the top surfing spots in the United States. You can try your hand at windsurfing, kitesurfing, or simply enjoy the waves at famous beaches like Seaside, Pacific City, or Lincoln City.
Besides surfing, you can also participate in many other water sports activities such as kayaking, scuba diving, fishing, or simply swimming in the cool Pacific waters. Local tour companies offer many sailing tours combined with water sports activities, helping you fully enjoy the joy of exploring the sea.
Surfing in Oregon, an exhilarating water sport experience for adventure lovers.
3. Discover Maritime History and Ancient Lighthouses
Oregon has a rich maritime history, associated with stories of explorer ships, mysterious shipwrecks, and ancient lighthouses. Sailing along the Oregon coast is a great opportunity to explore these historical relics.
You can visit the Columbia River Maritime Museum in Astoria to learn about the history of the region’s fishing and maritime transportation industry, or explore historic lighthouses such as the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse located on a rocky island offshore, or the Yaquina Head Lighthouse with its unique architecture and stunning ocean views. Each lighthouse tells its own story, a testament to Oregon’s maritime history and culture.
Yaquina Head Lighthouse, a historic landmark and unique architecture on the Oregon Coast.
Cape Meares Lighthouse, another historic lighthouse on the Oregon Coast with panoramic Pacific Ocean views.
4. Observe Rich Marine Wildlife
A sailing trip in Oregon is not just about exploring scenic beauty and history, but also a great opportunity to observe the rich marine wildlife. Oregon’s waters are home to many diverse marine animals such as gray whales, dolphins, seals, sea lions, and many rare seabirds.
You can join professional whale watching tours to witness giant gray whales migrating along the Oregon coast in the summer, or observe herds of seals and sea lions playing on the rocky shores. If you are lucky, you may even encounter playful dolphins swimming around the yacht, creating memorable moments on your trip.
Seals playing on an Oregon beach, common wildlife seen on sailing trips.
5. Explore Yaquina Bay and Yaquina Bay Bridge
Yaquina Bay is one of the most attractive sailing destinations in Oregon. This tranquil bay is surrounded by green hills and white sand beaches, creating a poetic natural setting. The highlight of Yaquina Bay is the Yaquina Bay Bridge, a famous architectural landmark with classic beauty and stunning views of the bay and the Pacific Ocean.
Sailing on Yaquina Bay will take you closer to the Yaquina Bay Bridge, admire the unique architecture of the bridge, and enjoy panoramic views of the bay from above. You can also explore the Newport Historic Bayfront district located on the bay shore, which is home to many fresh seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and art galleries.
Yaquina Bay Bridge and Yaquina Bay, iconic architecture and sailing destination in Oregon.
6. Visit Oregon’s “Graveyard of the Pacific” Museum
Oregon also has its own “Graveyard of the Pacific,” not in the Atlantic but in the Pacific. The waters off the Oregon coast, especially near the mouth of the Columbia River, are known for strong currents and dense fog, making it one of the most dangerous seas for ships.
Throughout history, hundreds of ships have sunk off the coast of Oregon, creating a “ship graveyard” on the seabed. You can visit the Columbia River Maritime Museum to learn about famous shipwrecks and Oregon’s turbulent maritime history. Some shipwrecks can even be seen from the shore on low tide days, offering an exciting historical exploration experience.
Columbia River Maritime Museum, preserving stories of Oregon's maritime history and shipwrecks.
7. Explore the Columbia River by Sailboat
The Columbia River is one of the largest and most beautiful rivers in North America, forming the natural border between Oregon and Washington. Sailing on the Columbia River is a unique experience, taking you through majestic canyons, stunning waterfalls, and lush green forests.
You can join Columbia River sailing tours from cities like Portland or Astoria, explore the Columbia River Gorge famous for the magnificent Multnomah Falls, or visit the charming town of Hood River, known as the “windsurfing capital” of the world. Sailing on the Columbia River offers a different perspective on Oregon’s diverse natural beauty.
Columbia River and Columbia River Gorge, beautiful sailing destinations in Oregon with waterfalls.
8. Cannon Beach and Legendary Haystack Rock
Although not actually an island, Cannon Beach is known for the famous Haystack Rock, an icon of the Oregon coast. At low tide, you can walk out to Haystack Rock and explore the rich marine ecosystem around it, with tide pools full of starfish, anemones, and other small marine creatures.
Sailing to Cannon Beach will give you the opportunity to see Haystack Rock from a different perspective, admiring its majestic beauty amidst the sea. Cannon Beach is also an ideal destination for relaxing, sunbathing, and enjoying the fresh sea air.
Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock from the sea, iconic Oregon scenery.
9. Oregon’s Version of Jockey’s Ridge: Oregon Dunes
Oregon has the largest coastal dune system in North America, stretching nearly 65 km along the central Oregon coast. The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is a unique destination where you can experience exciting activities such as off-roading on dunes, sandboarding, hiking, or simply watching beautiful sunsets over the dunes.
Sailing along the Oregon coast will take you close to the Oregon Dunes area, allowing you to admire the pristine and vast beauty of the golden dunes stretching to the horizon. You can also combine sailing with a dune tour, creating a diverse and rich nature exploration journey.
Oregon Dunes, largest coastal dune system in North America.
10. Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Similar to Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, Oregon also has many coastal nature reserves, which are havens for many migratory birds and rare wildlife. Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a prime example, located at the mouth of the Nestucca River, home to thousands of waterfowl, shorebirds, and other wildlife.
Sailing through the Nestucca Bay area will give you the opportunity to observe wild birds in their natural habitat, especially in spring and autumn when migratory birds stop here. You can rent kayaks or join eco-sailing tours to explore the reserve in a close and environmentally friendly way.
Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for bird watchers and nature lovers.
11. Historic Coastal Town of Astoria and Astoria Column
Astoria is an ancient coastal town located at the mouth of the Columbia River, where the river meets the Pacific Ocean. This town has a rich history, once a major trading center and a destination for explorers and early settlers.
The highlight of Astoria is the Astoria Column, a nearly 38-meter-high historical monument, decorated with reliefs depicting the history of the area. Climbing to the top of the Astoria Column, you will admire the panoramic view of Astoria, the Columbia River, and the vast Pacific Ocean. Sailing to Astoria is a great opportunity to explore the unique history and culture of this coastal town.
Astoria town and Astoria Column, historic destination with Columbia River views.
12. Fresh Seafood Cuisine and Local Seafood Markets
No coastal trip is complete without experiencing fresh seafood cuisine. Oregon is famous for its fresh seafood, especially salmon, Dungeness crab, shrimp, and clams. Oregon’s coastal towns have many excellent seafood restaurants where you can enjoy dishes made from the freshest seafood, from simple grilled dishes to sophisticated and refined dishes.
You can also visit local seafood markets to buy fresh seafood to cook yourself or take home as gifts. The seafood culinary experience is an indispensable part of a summer sailing trip in Oregon, bringing you distinctive and unforgettable sea flavors.
Local seafood market in Oregon, offering fresh seafood and local specialties.
Summer in Oregon is the ideal time for you to experience memorable sailing trips. From the majestic Pacific coast to the poetic Columbia River, Oregon offers countless options for exploring the sea and unspoiled nature. Plan your summer sailing trip today and discover the unique beauty of Oregon!