The rugged beauty of Oregon’s coast is just absolutely stunning. One of the most incredible things about this place is the fact that you can stand on cliffs overlooking the ocean and feel as though you’re on the edge of the world. While it’s not actually the edge of the world, the Oregon Coast is home to the westernmost incorporated place in the contiguous U.S. Check out this charming town that claims that distinction, which also features a pretty state park, beautiful beaches, and local shops and restaurants that you’ll want to try.
Port Orford is a beautiful little town of just 1,200 or so residents. Located in the southern portion of the Oregon Coast, it’s the westernmost incorporated place in the lower 48 states.
City of Port Orford
Fishing is the main industry in this bustling little town, where you’ll find everything from fishermen on large vessels to longline fishermen making their living here.
Green Fire Productions/flickr
Pay a visit to the thriving port, where you’ll see fishermen, boats, and even a fish processing plant.
rebelxtned/flickr
Stop in and grab a bite at Griff’s on the Dock, where the seafood you’re eating was probably swimming around in the Pacific just mere hours ago.
Steve Atkinson/Google
Everything here is tasty, but the thick, clam chowder gets particularly high praise.
Realtyhank/Tripadvisor
You’ll find picturesque Nellie’s Cove at Port Orford Head’s State Park, and you can spend the day exploring there.
MandE2014/Tripadvisor
Stop in at the Port Orford Lifeboat State Museum to learn about the history of this place.
Lance N./Tripadvisor
From 1934 to 1970, the brave men of the U.S. Coast Guard rescued sailors who ran into trouble in turbulent Nellie Bay during fierce winter storms.
Lance N./Tripadvisor See one of the 37-foot rescue boats that they used and hear some of the rescue stories at this barracks-turned-museum. It’s open Wednesday through Monday from 10 am. to 3:30 p.m.
Drive north to stop in and tour the Cape Blanco Lighthouse, which was constructed in 1870.
pmerten3/Tripadvisor
Climb the spiral staircase to the top of the light for some incredible views and see what life was like for the keepers on this windy cape.
MTKKKF/Tripadvisor
The landscape here is absolutely stunning. It’s often quite windy, but tie your hair back and bring your camera… it’s worth spending some time here!
ROCruiser/Tripadvisor
Head south from Port Orford to find Humbug Mountain State Park to see the spot where one of the coast’s tallest mountains meets the ocean. This park has a beautiful campground, forested hiking trails, and gorgeous beaches.
BigDougy/Tripadvisor
In a town known for its freshly-caught fish, you’ll want to dine on seafood throughout your trip. One can’t-miss spot is The Crazy Norwegian’s.
runningcoachg/Tripadvisor
Diners rave about the fish and chips here, and you’ll definitely want to try them for yourself.
runningcoachg/Tripadvisor
When you visit Port Orford, make sure to set aside an entire day, so you don’t miss the spectacular sunset!
rebelxtned/flickr
For more information about the charming town of Port Orford and its amazing attractions and points of interest, check out the city’s website here.
City of Port Orford
Green Fire Productions/flickr
rebelxtned/flickr
Steve Atkinson/Google
Realtyhank/Tripadvisor
MandE2014/Tripadvisor
Lance N./Tripadvisor
See one of the 37-foot rescue boats that they used and hear some of the rescue stories at this barracks-turned-museum. It’s open Wednesday through Monday from 10 am. to 3:30 p.m.
pmerten3/Tripadvisor
MTKKKF/Tripadvisor
ROCruiser/Tripadvisor
BigDougy/Tripadvisor
runningcoachg/Tripadvisor
Have you visited Port Orford and explored this incredible region? Share your experiences in the comments below!
You could spend months exploring Oregon’s coast. Here’s an incredible beach that transforms with the seasons, and you might also want to check out this secluded waterfall beach that’s positively amazing.
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