From the City of Angels to small beach towns like Cannon Beach, this road trip from Los Angeles to the Oregon coast hits all the best spots on the west coast.
Explore the city and the beach with this road trip from Los Angeles to the Oregon coast. Hit up spots like California’s capital, Big Bar, and tiny Tidewater,
As you drive from LA up the coast to Oregon, there’s plenty of places to sightsee, eat, and truly enjoy your time. Whether you’re a tourist or a west coast native, you’ll enjoy exploring the coast on this 16.5-hour road trip that you get from the car insurance comparison and broker app
Los Angeles, LA, the City of Angels—no matter what you call it, the heart of the entertainment industry is known for its aspiring actors, tropical climate, and great food and shopping. Starting in a big city gives you plenty to do!
What to do in Los Angeles
Hollywood Hills: If you love the outdoors, explore the famous Hollywood Hills during an easy hike. The San Gabriel Mountains and Baldwin Hills are also great options—but make sure you have your phone on hand for photos!
to have a non-Native American name. Now, it’s known as the home of the state’s oldest university and the starting place for people like musician Ace Andres, author Darrin Atkins, and MMA fighters Nick and Nate Diaz.
I-5 N will be your best friend for this trip. Hop on to get to Stockton.
: Consider planning your trip around events at the Stockton Arena. With 12,000 seats, the arena holds events like hockey games, movie premieres, music tours, and more.
($$): This is a local favorite in Stockton. With everything from noodle rolls and salads to rice bowls and desserts, this restaurant can satisfy a variety of Asian cravings with its curbside service.
Welcome to the capital of California! Filled to the brim with culture, history, and activities, Sacramento is ready to take you on a ride, in more ways than one!
You’re back onto I-5 N to get from Stockton to Sacramento.
What to do
For the history buffs: History enthusiasts will enjoy
: Culture enthusiasts should check out the Crocker Art Museum, which houses a collection of Californian art you won’t want to miss. Seeing the whole museum will take about three hours.
($$$$): On the opposite end of the spectrumMorton's Steakhouse offers fine-dining options for an elegant date night.
Sacramento to Redding, CA
162 miles, 2 hours and 26 minutes
Heading north from Sacramento, you’ll drive past Mendocino National Forest as you make your way to Redding, a relaxed city in the north end of the Sacramento Valley. Here you’ll find rivers, waterfalls, and parks galore!
: Redding is a great place to get outdoors, and nature enthusiasts will love exploring Castle Crags State Park. It boasts great above-ground swimming, hiking, and fishing, plus lots of ancient tales about its creation.
: To see some of the most beautiful limestone caves in the country, check out Lake Shasta Caverns National Natural Landmark. You’ll enjoy a scenic cruise across the lake before embarking on a tour of the 200-million-year-old caverns.
: And for the family, Turtle Bay Exploration Park and Museum offers year-round exhibits, plenty of educational and entertaining opportunities, and even an underground aquarium.
: After three hours in the car, it only makes sense to adventure. Visit Redwoods and Rivers Whitewater Rafting, which specializes in educational and spiritual river trips. Get the family racing along streams as you learn the history of Trinity River.
($$$): If the nature aesthetic matters more to you, Hearsay Restaurant, Lounge, and Garden offers great wedge salads, pulled pork sandwiches, and beautiful decor.
As a super small town on the coast, many overlook Tidewater in favor of some of the bigger areas. But if you’re looking for that hidden gem, the place that only locals know about—Tidewater is it.
: White Wolf Sanctuary and Educational Facility is a must-see in Tidewater. The sanctuary offers educational experiences intended to raise awareness and appreciation for wolves in the natural world. You can also take a private tour, though you’ll need to book an appointment.
($$): The towns around Tidewater offer lots in the way of diverse cuisines. If you’re in the mood for Mexican, check out Azul Mexican Restaurant.
Tidewater to Cannon Beach, OR
134 miles, 3 hrs 11 mins
This small coastal town is known for its long, sandy beach, big lighthouse, and iconic Haystack Rock. And if you get tired of looking at the ocean (it’s possible!), there’s plenty to do in the town, too.
: Haystack Rock is one of Cannon Beach’s most well-known attractions and was featured in The Goonies and Kindergarten Cop. Formed by lava flows, Haystack Rock is now home to diverse birdlife and is officially seen as one of Oregon's Marine Gardens.
: Ecola State Park is also worth a visit. Rent bicycles and follow the trail all the way to Crescent Beach or Indian Beach. Ecola State Park holds a deep history and is considered a segment of the Lewis and Clark National and State Historical Park.
After traveling over 1,000 miles, you’ve finally made it to Astoria! And trust us, the drive is worth it—Astoria is known for more than just its set in The Goonies!
and Astoria-Megler Bridge are two big attractions. While the column offers classic beauty and architecture, the Astoria-Megler Bridge is a more contemporary placement in the town.
($$): If you’re missing tacos and burritos, have no fear! Astoria Coffee House & Bistro offers tacos, curries, and other dishes that may or may not include more fish.
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When to go on a road trip from Los Angeles to the Oregon coast
Late spring through early fall is the most popular time to embark on this road trip. You’ll avoid the heaviest rains and miss out on any winter storms that could throw a wrench into your driving plans.
On the southern end of the west coast, a temperate, tropical climate awaits with beautiful beaches and endless tanning possibilities. Those beaches remain as you travel north—but the temperature changes, giving way for slightly colder and more rainy atmospheres.
Why you need roadside assistance
These road trips are fun! Keep them that way with added protection in case of emergency.
Traveling through mountains and cities has its hurdles, and leaving unprepared makes you vulnerable to flat tires, engine lights, or locking your keys in the car. Nothing will kill that road trip vibe faster!
includes everything you need for peace of mind while on the road: up to 10 miles of towing, jumpstarts, key replacement, fuel delivery, and more—all for just $6.99 for one car.
How to find cheap car insurance
You’ll also want to make sure your car insurance policy is up to date before you hit the road.
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