The Best of Oregon’s South Coast

On our West Coast road trip, we stopped at many points of interest along Oregon’s South Coast from Brookings to Port Orford. We also took the return route on I-5 between Portland and California, stopping in the historic town of Jacksonville, Oregon and stayed at Hummingbird Estate in the heart of the Rogue Valley. Sharing our favorites – where to go, stay & dine!

Good to note:  there are some activities included in this article that might be available after the covid-19 crisis.  Due to the ever-changing environment some things open up and then they close  (ie. spas, restaurants, shops, indoor activities, etc.).  There are ways to travel safely and enjoy responsibly. Check local restrictions and state mandates. Follow proper safety and health requirements. Visit websites for specific protocols and additional information.

Where to Stay

The ideal place to stay when driving between Portland and California is near the historic town of Jacksonville at the Hummingbird Estate located in the hub of the Rogue Valley wine scene and the gateway to the Applegate.

The Walk Family opened its doors last year and present an elegant bed and breakfast, along with a vineyard and tasting room. The perfect setting for a wedding, event venue, or a family reunion.

When we arrived, we drove up the estate’s main driveway, that meanders around the vineyards, to the stately white residence with its signature gables. The appointed guest suites are spacious and luxurious — each have a sitting room and a private bath.

Its a great place to stay for a few days and go wine tasting through the Rogue Valley, or stay a night on your drive south towards California. Be sure to make a reservation for the Hummingbird Estate wine tasting experience, and walk the elegant walled gardens and wide lawns surrounding the mansion.

Good to note: Starting Father’s Day, every Sunday (some breaks for the 4th of July), be sure to check out the outdoor Copper Door Concert Series featuring local artists and food trucks in the shady backyard at Hummingbird Estate. Club members get free or discounted tickets. Click here for more details.

Don’t Miss! Drive along the Old Stage Coach Road to historic Jacksonville, just a couple miles away and walk the main street.

What to Do

There are so many places and points of interest to explore in Oregon – we will be adding to this list as we take future road trips, but here are a few places we recommend for starters. Also we drove the coastal route heading north, and then took I-5 heading south.

Taking I-5 between Portland to California:

  • Explore Jacksonville and the Rogue Valley – shop along the historic main street or go wine tasting at Hummingbird Estate.
  • Take detours to visit Bend and Crater Lake.

Taking the coastal route and explore Brookings to Cannon Beach!

The following recommendations were shared by Kathleen Dickson, South Coast Agritourism Coordinator at Wild Rivers Coast Food Trail .

The Wild Rivers Coast Food Trail is a collaborative effort to connect locals and visitors to the bounty available on Oregon’s South Coast. Supporting local food is a way to support the local communities, producers & crafters that work hard to grow and use local ingredients. Pick up your passport for food stops along the Wild Rivers Coast Food Trail and once you get all your stamps, you’ll get a prize.

Vista Points along the Oregon Coast Trail: Click on this website for all the Oregon highway 101 milepost stops.

Trails, hiking (lower 20 miles of the OCT)

Eight miles up the Chetco River is Loeb State Park and the Redwood Trail loop (easy hike, 3/4 mile loop + the wild and scenic Chetco River – kayaking, swimming, fishing, rafting)

Within the Samuel Boardman Scenic Park (the Oregon Coast Trail connects all the viewpoints within the Sam Boardman): 

Cape Ferrelo – moderate, 1/2 mile to 1.7 miles – nice hike out to the point where a 1900’s geographical survey marker is located – this is one that I used to do often!)

House Rock – easy to the north; moderate trails to the south.

Natural Bridges (moderate, 1/2 mile – this is the one of the most photographed places along the coast. Stay on the hiking path and stay away from steep and slippery areas.

Indian Sands (moderate, 1 mile – a favorite along the OCT (Oregon Coast Trail) with sand dunes among the ocean cliffs – an easy way in and a hard way out).

Arch Rock – restrooms available, a large parking area, and is probably the most visited stops.

Lodging, camping:

Food:

Acknowledgements: Global Adventuress thanks Hummingbird Estate and also Kathleen for her invaluable local insights and also Wild Rivers Coast Food Trail for hosting us during our visit. Thanks to Joey for showing us some of her favorite trails along the Samuel Boardman Corridor.