Oregon Coast

Explore the piece of the Pacific Northwest that most people don't, mixing wild beaches, whale-watching, wine, cheese, trees, explorers and arguably America's hippest city

- Aaron Millar

Oregon is perhaps the least well-known and least-visited corner of America's dramatic Pacific Northwest. But don't be fooled: it may be an enigma to most, but for wine, untamed beaches and good times Oregon is hard to beat. Especially on its wild west coast where giant dunes, endless surf, fresh seafood and deserted sands await.

The star of the state is Portland, rightly deserving of its reputation as one of the country's coolest, greenest and most creative cities. It's where most Oregon trips begin and end and it is, without doubt, one of the country's best left-of-center city breaks.

Soak it up, but don't get stuck. Because just outside Portland, where crashing waves meet temperate rainforests and rocky headlands afford uninterrupted views of the Pacific Ocean, there are other stars too. Hop in a car, drive from the top of the state to the bottom, hugging the ocean the entire way, and you'll find them. This is what roadtrip dreams are made of. This is Oregon's spectacular Pacific coast. Here's how to see it best.

HIGHLIGHTS

PORTLAND

The hit comedy series Portlandia, which parodies the city to hilarious effect, describes it as the place 'where young people go to retire'. They're joking, of course, but they're also spot on. This is a place to have fun.